wireless access system become possible. Thus, the MIC has been developing the relevant regulations and expanding eligible areas for a nationwide registration system (except for some regions) from December 1, 2007.

### B. Advancement of independent mobile communications system

Low-power 950MHz band active wireless systems and 950 MHz band passive tag systems are expected to play an important role in a wide range of areas including production, distribution, medicine and transportation. The MIC has developed relevant regulations at the advice of the Information and Communications Council concerning the Technological Conditions for Low-power 950MHz Band Active Wireless Systems and Technological Conditions Necessary to Advance 950 MHz Band Passive Tag Systems.

In recent years, independent mobile communications, such as MCA wireless and simple wireless stations, have been used in wide areas since they involve inexpensive and easy systems tailored for users' needs. At the advice of the Information and Communications Council, the MIC developed relevant regulations in August 2008 concerning the digitization of simple wireless stations, animal position detection/reporting systems using radio waves. These regulations aim to further the utilization and advancement of small-scale systems used mainly for medium- and small-sized corporations and individuals.

In March 2009, the MIC developed relevant regulations in response to discussions by the Information and Communications Council concerning the high-quality digital sound systems for specified wireless radio microphones often used in theaters.

### C. Promotion of ITS

The MIC established the Study Group on Advancement of ITS Wireless System in October 2008 to deliberate its vision for the utilization of the Wireless ITS Safe Driving Support System, its functions and required specifications and technological issues and promotional measures for its realization.

In order to achieve the goal of creating the world’s safest roads, which is listed in the New IT Reform Strategy, the ITS Promotion Council, comprising ITS-related ministries and agencies (Cabinet Office, National Police Agency, MIC, Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, and Ministry of Land, Transport, Infrastructure and Tourism), Nihon Keidanren, and ITS-Japan, conducted large-scale demonstration experiments in FY2008 at nine sites throughout the country for the purpose of technological development envisioning commercialization and verification of operational compatibility of systems. At the end of February 2009, the safe driving support system was taken for a test drive on public roads and exhibitions and symposiums were held, mainly in the new Tokyo waterfront sub-center (Odaiba).

## (3) Development of radio usage environment

### A. Efforts concerning effects of radio waves on the human body and medical equipment

The MIC has conducted research on the effect of the radio spectrum on the human body to protect the human body from the effect of the radio spectrum. Using the research results and international guidelines as a reference, the MIC has established safety standards (Safety Guidelines for Use of Radio Waves) to be applied in Japan. The MIC also evaluates and analyzes domestic and international research on the effects of the radio spectrum on the human body, promotes studies by extracting research themes to be addressed by Japan and has held meetings of the Committee on Bioelectromagnetic Environment since June 2008 with the aim of creating a society where people can use radio spectrum safely. Furthermore, since concerns about the effects of radio waves on implantable medical devices, such as cardiac pacemakers, have increased in recent years, the MIC has conducted studies on the effect of radio waves on medical equipment since FY 2000, and has amended the Guidelines to Prevent Effects of Electromagnetic Waves from Various Types of Equipment on Implantable Medical Devices (established in August 2005, revised in May 2009).

### B. Measures for unnecessary radio waves

As electrical and electronic equipment become more widespread, there are growing concerns that the use of wireless is affected by electromagnetic interference from unnecessary radio waves emitted by various types of equipment and facilities.

The MIC has set up the International Special Committee on Radio Interference (CISPR) within the Information and Communications Council, and through national discussions that also have a bearing on discussions on international standards at the CISPR, has established Electro Magnetic Compatibility (EMC) Standards.

### C. Appropriate surveillance and supervision of radio waves and correct management of wireless stations

The MIC conducts investigations to immediately remove spectrum interference caused by illegal wireless stations that is affecting wireless communication designated as critical wireless communication, including communication related to telecommunications activities, broadcasting activities, the protection of life and property, the maintenance of order, meteorological activities, electricity supply and rail trans-