CTIA changed its strategy on H-block, refocusing on calls for fur...

days and ask for a short delay in the release of an H-block order while the testing takes place, sources said Mon. The FCC is expected to hand down an order allocating H-block spectrum and a rulemaking on service rules at its Sept. 9 meeting (CD Aug 16 p1). CTIA will likely ask for at least a month’s delay for testing. Carriers have until Sept. 2 to make their case to the FCC. “With regard to the filter overload issue, you can’t answer the question unless you do testing,” a carrier source said Mon.: “What is the extent of the problem and how do you resolve it?… We still have significant concerns about how an H-block PCS service could impact incumbents. If those issues are addressable we'd like to find out.” The possibility of overload interference is “undisputed,” CTIA told the FCC in a filing Fri., providing additional information requested by the Office of Engineering & Technology: “CTIA believes that testing is required to confirm the scope and nature of such interference and to allow for reasoned decision-making on this crucial issue. The importance that PCS customers place on reliable communications and the importance that these communications play in our nation’s economy and in public safety demand no less.” CTIA said it has developed a test plan “and is in the process of securing independent test services to ensure that the overload… interference potential is fully understood.” Nextel filed in support of offering H-block spectrum at auction. A carrier source said on this issue Nextel and other carriers may not be far apart.