The FCC’s efforts to clear more spectrum for mobile broadband took another step Tuesday. The agency began a proceeding to further examine the feasibility of opening up 3.7 – 4.2 GHz for commercial wireless use.
Specifically, the agency seeks public input on whether or how it could allow licensed or unlicensed wireless providers to use or share the frequencies between 3700 MHz and 4200 MHz. In a Notice, the Commission asks how the Commission should assess the operations and possible impacts of sharing on federal and non-federal users already operating in the band. It also wants to know how sharing might be achieved without causing harmful interference to incumbent users.
FCC Commissioner Michael O’Rielly has repeatedly called for freeing up the band for commercial use. He said: “I am pleased to see this important step forward in our process, as it will complement and not delay the Commission’s ongoing work on the matter.”
The Mobile Now Act contained in the FY 2018 omnibus spending measure recently signed into law, requires the FCC to submit a report (3.7-4.2 GHz Report) to Congress and the Secretary of Commerce by September 29, 2019. Information submitted to the FCC by the public will be included in the report. Comments to GN Docket 18-122 are due by May 31.
May 2, 2018
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