Since the beginning of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games (July 26 – August 11), the Directorate of Platforms and Digital Resources (DPRN) – an entity of the Interministerial Delegation for Digital Transition – has been an integral part of the system set up by the National Frequency Agency to ensure the management and control of the radio frequency spectrum across all Olympic sites in France.
Throughout the duration of the world’s largest sporting event, Frédéric Rué and Hubert Phan have been assigned to the “Test & Tagging” office at the Allianz Riviera in Nice.
A tremendous organizational challenge
Managing the radio frequency spectrum is a major issue for host countries during major events due to the intense use of frequencies by organizers, security, and media. Every year, the DPRN sets up a large-scale operational system for the most important events in the Principality of Monaco, such as the Grand Prix, rallies, the Monaco Yacht Show, or more recently, the final stage of the Tour de France. Its role is to control all radio equipment, check wireless devices in use, and ensure the real-time availability of allocated frequencies (onboard cameras, walkie-talkie communication, field reporting, security vehicle radios, etc.).
It also handles the planning and coordination of frequencies for third parties throughout the year, in collaboration with public and private partners: Monaco-flagged boats, aircraft, building syndicates, Monaco’s DTT and DAB, FM radios, and mobile telephony.
The Radio Spectrum in Communities
The radio spectrum is vital to communities. It enables current and future services in a diverse range of areas, including broad band cellular phones and
• broadcasting, including news reporting, interviewing and theatrical productions (e.g. wireless microphones and cameras)
• intelligent transport systems, which vehicles to communicate with each other and with road infrastructure, giving drivers information critical for safety – and perhaps intervening to prevent or mitigate dangerous incidents
• communication networks for emergency services
• the Internet of Things (e.g. for smart grids, smart farming, smart cities, smart homes, industry 4.0)
• short-range devices based on sensors, spanning from simple garage door openers, alarm systems, to hearing aids and active medical implants, as well as smart health systems and telemedicine
The Olympic Games
The Monaco DPRN’s efforts ensure the smooth operation of communication systems, maintaining the integrity and efficiency of the radio frequency spectrum during the world’s largest sporting event.
