The FCC today issued a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) that proposes new rules for wireless broadband operating in frequencies about 24 GHz.
The NPRM proposes to create new flexible use service rules in the 28 GHz, 37 GHz, 39 GHz, and 64-71 GHz bands. The NPRM proposes to make these bands available using a variety of authorization schemes, including traditional wide area licensing, unlicensed, and a shared approach that provides access for both local area and wide area networks.
“In addition, the NPRM provides a path for a variety of platforms and uses, including satellite uses, to coexist and expand through market-based mechanisms,” the FCC wrote in a statement.
The Commission will be seeking comment on the service, licensing, and technical rules for facilitating flexible use in these bands, as well as on other bands above 24 GHz that may be considered in the future.
CTIA vice president of Regulatory Affairs Scott Bergmann called the NPRM an “important step” towards clearing additional spectrum.
“Today’s action also reminds us that the diversity of 5G applications will require a broad range of spectrum types, including low and medium band spectrum, below 3 GHz and between 3 – 6 GHz, as well as streamlined infrastructure siting and more backhaul,” Bergman wrote. “The move to bring to market high band spectrum in bands above 24 GHz offers the potential for increased capacity and speeds, lower lag time and high density connections to unleash the Internet of Things.”
Filed Under: Industry regulations
