FCC Seeks Comments on Best Use of 2155 to 2175 MHz Band
The FCC sought comment on proposed service rules for the 2155 to 2175 MHz band, the spectrum that had been sought by M2Z and NetfreeUS. Several options for the spectrum are possible, it said Wednesday, including an auction that would be the third in a series for advanced wireless services (AWS). Industry officials said they were reviewing the rulemaking.
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The rulemaking examines several proposals, including M2Z’s plan to use the spectrum to build a free, nationwide network. “Through this proceeding, we anticipate making further progress toward providing all Americans with universal, affordable access to broadband technology,” the FCC said. “Wireless broadband systems developed using the 2155-2175 MHz band may offer consumers another choice for broadband access, competing in price and features with existing landline offerings or reaching areas not currently served by landline networks.”
Commissioners Jonathan Adlestein and Michael Copps pushed for quick release of the rulemaking after the FCC’s rejection Aug. 31 of M2Z’s petition for forbearance. Adelstein said “unused spectrum is a lost opportunity” and the commission has taken too long to take up the band’s future. “It has been several years since the Commission designated this spectrum for use by advanced wireless services and over a year since parties first expressed specific interest in seeking authority to operate in the band,” Adelstein said.
Copps said he’s particularly pleased that the FCC is committing itself to issuing service rules for the spectrum within nine months of the rulemaking’s publication in the Federal Register. “I believe a general rulemaking -- in which interested parties from industry and the public interest community, as well as members of the public, are free to comment -- is plainly the right way for the Commission to decide among these various models,” he said.
Chairman Kevin Martin said several options for the spectrum remain open. “Opening this proceeding will allow the Commission to take full consideration of the many suggestions for use of this band, and facilitate full input by all parties and the public as to the best use of this spectrum,” Martin said. “For example, many have suggested that we should auction this spectrum band, while still others suggest that due to the high demand for this spectrum we should consider unlicensed use of the band… This NPRM will enable us and the public to give full attention to each of these suggestions, and enable the Commission to adopt flexible rules that will encourage the innovative use of this unique piece of spectrum.”