Dynamic spectrum access — concepts and future architectures

New trends and developments in radio technology are enhancing the future capabilities of devices to access electromagnetic spectrum using the full range of dimensions associated with the spectrum. This increased capability, together with current developments towards liberalisation of spectrum management regulations, are opening up opportunities to exploit an emerging paradigm in wireless communications and networking known as dynamic spectrum access (DSA). The key characteristic of DSA networks is their ability to exploit knowledge of their electromagnetic environment to adapt their operation and access to spectrum. Their key promise is that they open the possibility of highly efficient (re)use of spectrum. This paper introduces the main concepts behind DSA, reviews the proposed architectures for future DSA systems, and outlines some of the key research challenges associated with this new paradigm. Particular emphasis will be given to autonomous cognitive radio DSA. [PUBLICATION ABSTRACT]