FCC Approves Use of Smaller Antennas in 11 GHz Band
The FCC Monday adopted an order approving a proposal by FiberTower to allow smaller antennas for 11-GHz transmissions (CD Aug 13 p1). Supporters said use of the 2-foot antennas will help carriers expand their networks as they offer 3G and 4G services, especially after the pending 700 MHz auction.
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The 10.7 to 11.7 GHz band is being used more often for backhaul, tying carrier facilities into their networks. The order requires companies that install the smaller antennas to work closely with satellite operators that also use the spectrum and to consider risks of aggregate interference. “If an MSS licensee raises aggregate interference concerns in the coordination process, we expect the licensee and the FS applicant to work to resolve those concerns in the coordination process,” the order said.
An attorney for FiberTower said the order was a major win for his client. “FiberTower and the fixed services community are delighted that the commission appreciated the need for smaller antennas in the band to improve the ubiquity of service and to have less of an impact on the visual environment,” said the lawyer, Mitchell Lazarus.
“Our actions today should make it easier for the last- mile delivery of wireless broadband services to buildings that may currently be difficult or expensive to reach with antennas allowed under our prior rules,” Commissioner Jonathan Adelstein said. “I am also pleased that the item endorses principles to address aggregate interference concerns in a manner that protects incumbent licensees while not disrupting the use and expansion of terrestrial microwave services in the band.” Commissioner Robert McDowell said the order is important because of the need to improve wireless backhaul. “We have enabled these new entrants to compete with each other, as well as with landline backhaul providers, on an equal footing; thus increasing competition and lowering costs throughout the entire backhaul market,” he said.
The FCC pulled the order from Tuesday’s agenda meeting after it was adopted on circulation by commissioners. FiberTower asked the FCC to change its rules to allow use of the smaller antennas in a July 2004 petition for rulemaking. The FCC started a rulemaking in March. - Howard Buskirk