Better Phase II Accuracy

FCC chair Kevin Martin has told an Associated Press reporter the agency will issue a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking within the next few weeks to require improved accuracy of Phase II cellular 911 systems. Martin said the rules would address the technical methods that now measure the accuracy of Phase II systems used by cellular carriers, but would not change the accuracy level itself. Phase II must now pinpoint a caller within from 50 to 300 meters, depending upon the type of system used. Carriers now measure their accuracy compliance on a large, regional basis, instead of a smaller metro area, which could decrease accuracy in high-traffic areas where 911 calls are critical.