DSRC is a two-way short-to-medium range wireless communications capability
that permits very high data transmission critical in communications-based active
safety applications. In Report and Order FCC-03-324, the Federal Communications
Commission (FCC) allocated 75 MHz of spectrum in the 5.9 GHz band for use by
intelligent transportations systems (ITS) vehicle safety and mobility applications.
DSRC-based communications is a major research priority of the ITS Joint Program
Office (JPO) at the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) Research and
Innovative Technology Administration (RITA). The cross-modal program is conducting
research using DSRC and other wireless communications technologies to ensure
safe, interoperable connectivity to help prevent vehicular crashes of all types and to
enhance mobility and environmental benefits across all transportation system modes.
The USDOT’s commitment to DSRC for active safety communications contributes to
safer driving. Vehicle safety applications that use vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) and vehicle-
to-infrastructure (V2I) communications need secure, wireless interface dependability
in extreme weather conditions, and short time delays; all of which are facilitated by
DSRC.
Who Can Develop DSRC Technologies?
DSRC developers could include device manufacturers; application developers;
and representatives from the automotive, telecommunications, consumer
electronics, and other industries whose products communicate alerts to vehicles, the
infrastructure, or traveler’s personal communication devices.
How Is DSRC Being Used?
V2V and V2I applications utilizing DSRC may have the potential to significantly
reduce many of the most deadly types of crashes through real-time advisories
alerting drivers to imminent hazards (such as veering close to the edge of the road,
vehicles suddenly stopped ahead, collision paths during merging, the presence of
nearby communications devices and vehicles, sharp curves, or slippery patches of
roadway ahead).
Convenience V2I services like e-parking and toll payment are also able to
communicate using DSRC. Private information from electronic sensors in vehicles
and devices can also be transmitted over DSRC to provide better traffic and travel
condition information to travelers and transportation managers.
DSRC enables the most reliable, high-speed, vehicle-based technology for crash prevention
safety applications
