FCC Commissioners Approve 900 MHz NPRM Before Meeting
FCC commissioners approved an NPRM proposing a reconfiguration of the 900 MHz band, creating a paired 3/3 MHz broadband segment while reserving two segments for continued narrowband operations. The NPRM was to be voted at Friday’s commissioners’ meeting (see 1902210048),…
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part of the 5G focus of the meeting. “In light of the continuing evolution of technology and the marketplace, and consistent with the Commission’s recent efforts to increase access to flexible-use spectrum, we propose to reconfigure the 900 MHz band to facilitate the development of broadband technologies and services as well, including for critical infrastructure,” said the draft NPRM. The approved version wasn’t released by our deadline. It closely tracks the draft circulated by Chairman Ajit Pai, officials said. The NPRM also seeks comment on alternate approaches to realigning the band proposed to license the broadband segment on a geographic basis. “Designating this valuable spectrum for broadband will allow innovation and investment to flow, bringing the benefits of broadband to a new range of private enterprise customers, including utilities and other critical enterprise entities,” said Robert Schwartz, president of pdvWireless, which sought the NPRM along with the Enterprise Wireless Alliance (see 1708160059). “Private, secure wireless networks, which are essential to securing our nation's grid and providing broadband to private enterprise, are a perfect fit for this block of spectrum." Earlier this week, a broadcast TV item initially slated for Friday was issued after it too was approved early on circulation (see 1903120048).