The Wireless Internet Service Providers Association (WISPA) and the CBRS Alliance have agreed to cooperate to advance innovation in the Citizens Broadband Radio Service (CBRS) spectrum band. Under the new agreement, the organizations will work together to address technical challenges and business opportunities in the 3550-3700 MHz band.
Both say they will collaborate on standards, testing, and equipment certification. They intend to hold joint workshops and meetings; share roadmaps and planning schedules; and nominate members to sit on committees of mutual interest. The two groups aim to reduce redundant efforts, create better end products, and accelerate commercialization of the CBRS band.
The FCC last month proposed increasing the length of licenses and geographic areas of specific licenses in the CBRS band, Inside Towers reported. Proponents believe the changes will spark investment and development in the band, while detractors believe the changes will only benefit large carriers.
“Members of WISPA and many other businesses and nonprofit organizations are making substantial investments in this band, and are strongly committed to further commercialization,” said WISPA President Chuck Hogg. “The FCC’s current policy framework is an excellent opportunity to bring broadband services to unserved and underserved parts of America.”
“More than 50 companies from a broad range of wireless industry sectors have joined the CBRS band,” said Michael Peeters, president of the CBRS Alliance and head of innovation portfolio management at Nokia. “We’re looking forward to exploring ways to coordinate our common interests in the CBRS band and maximize cooperation on services offered both by members of the Alliance and WISPA.”
November 21, 2017
Reader Interactions