[Satnews] The Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA) has filed comments with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in support of the Commission’s efforts to make higher frequency spectrum available for commercial wireless broadband use in bands above 24 GHz.
In its filing, TIA urged the FCC to provide for flexible use in the 28, 37, and 39 GHz bands by adopting rules that enable operation of both existing and new services, and to license these bands on an exclusive basis. TIA proposed that fixed-satellite service (FSS) be permitted to continue operating under existing rules, and that private arrangements or the acquisition of terrestrial spectrum rights through auctions or secondary market transactions would facilitate spectrum sharing without imposing one-size-fits-all requirements that could deter investment.
TIA also urged the FCC to use larger geographic areas for licensing, and to adopt technical rules that would provide maximum flexibility. In addition, TIA urged the Commission to continue its work towards updating radio frequency exposure rules and policies, and to avoid addressing network security issues solely within the context of the millimeter wave bands (above 24 GHz) since the bands will likely be used in conjunction with other services.
“The FCC’s Spectrum Frontiers proceeding is an important step towards enabling the technologies of the future, including 5G and the Internet of Things,” said TIA CEO Scott Belcher. “Other countries have been taking steps and it is critical that the United States act now to maintain our technological leadership in the next generation of wireless technology. TIA has proposed a path forward for the FCC to open higher frequency spectrum for multiple platforms and uses, including mobile, unlicensed and satellite. We believe co-existence of both existing and new services is possible with our plan. We applaud the FCC for its actions and look forward to working with the Commission in the coming months as these rules are finalized.”
