New metrics for RF spectrum occupancy

Different driving forces are pushing the research community to investigate methods and techniques for estimating the RF spectrum utilization [1,2,5]. Such methods are needed either for spectrum sharing, assessing harmful interference within licensed frequency bands or for assessing the radio environment before commissioning new access nodes. The paper addresses spectrum clearance estimation and defines the associated metrics. A study case pertaining to a spectrum clearance campaign in the 2.5 GHz is included also revealing radio propagation phenomena usually overlooked by prediction models.