FCC Clarifies Narrowbanding Rules

The FCC has issued a fourth Report & Order that clarifies its almost 10-year effort to reduce the amount of spectrum used for voice communications in the spectrum below 512 MHz. The FCC issued rules in 1999 that set in motion a slow transition from using 25 kHz of bandwidth on systems that include public safety agencies, to systems that use just 6.25 KHz of spectrum, with an intermediate goal deadline of 12.5 kHz by Jan. 1, 2013. In its last Order, the FCC declined to set a final 6.25 KHz deadline, but made statements that seemed to discourage system operators from installing 12.5 kHz systems even if they were in-progress. In this fourth Order, the FCC says a final 6.25 kHz narrowbanding deadline will be set with public input, and that they never intended to, “dissuade migration to 12.5 kHz technology by licensees that have already begun the process.” Download (pdf) the Order here.