 |
 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Telecommunication Activities: The DTM coordinates the telecommunication activities of the federal government. He is responsible for formulating telecommunications policies and standards and for providing policy direction for the National Communications System. The DTM also assists the Department of State in its international telecommunication activities. In assigning frequencies the DTM is assisted and advised by the Interdepartment Radio Advisory Committee. This committee is composed of representatives of major government users of radio, with liaison representation from the FCC.
The International Telegraph Union, founded in Paris in 1865, was created to coordinate telegraph operations between European countries. Subsequently, its name was changed to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU); under this name the scope of its coordinating activities was expanded to include radio and telephone communications as well as telegraph operations. The ITU now is the oldest of the intergovernmental organizations that form the specialized agencies of the United Nations.
The ITU, which has grown to include 137 member countries, including the United States, now has a greatly expanded set of international radio regulations. These include a comprehensive Table of frequency allocations as well as numerous other technical, operational, and procedural regulations to foster the orderly and efficient use of the radio spectrum, minimize radio interference, promote safety, and provide standardized radio communications essential to international transportation and commerce. These international regulations establish the framework for regulations adopted nationally by ITU member countries. In the United States, international telecommunication conference activities are under the aegis of the Department of State, with assistance from other organizations.
|
|
|
|
