Motorola asked FCC Tues. to postpone 700 MHz auction now set for ...

uncertainties and “contradictions” involving process. “While the Commission has adopted voluntary mechanisms for relocating broadcasters through negotiated buyouts by new licensees, these voluntary mechanisms provide no certainty as to when or if the spectrum will actually be available,” Motorola wrote to FCC Chmn. Powell. Motorola Vp Richard Barth said Powell’s call last week for voluntary efforts by broadcast, cable and manufacturing industries to move quickly on initiatives that would accelerate DTV transition was “important step.” But he added: “With the spectrum auction looming, additional time is required to judge the full impact that your leadership will have in bringing certainty to the availability of this spectrum.” Motorola also cited current FCC proceeding to identify additional spectrum for 3G and to mitigate public safety interference at 800 MHz. In both proceedings, several options are under consideration for relocating incumbents, resolving interference and finding spectrum for new services, Motorola said. “The 700 MHz spectrum could play a significant role in resolving the difficult issues before the Commission in these proceedings,” letter said. “Therefore, it is our belief that the Commission should not squander an opportunity to assemble a comprehensive strategy, developed as a cooperative effort with NTIA and industry, by auctioning off this spectrum prematurely.” Letter noted that U.S. govt.’s study of 1710-1770 MHz and 2110-2170 MHz band for 3G and other advanced services wouldn’t wrap up until after June 19 auction. “It is not possible for mobile service providers to make accurate business judgments about the need to participate in the 700 MHz auction without knowing whether the 120 MHz of spectrum under consideration in the NTIA and FCC study will be available for commercial service,” Motorola said. It said uncertainties on availability of 700 MHz spectrum would have detrimental impact on prices those licenses fetched at auction and ability for carriers to use spectrum. Motorola said that in previous postponements of upper band of 700 MHz, FCC had weighed conflicting statutory mandates and found that public interest obligation favored delay.