FCC Alters 800 MHz Pay-Out Schedule

On Christmas Eve, the FCC postponed the date by which the 800 MHz transition administrator (TA) must “true-up” the costs for the transition and the value of the 1.9 GHz spectrum the FCC allocated to Sprint/Nextel. Originally, the date was to have been Dec. 26th. The true-up involves comparing the transition costs and the spectrum value, and then determining if Sprint owes a so-called “windfall payment” if the transition cost is less. In its latest Order, the FCC acknowledged the delays in implementing the 800 MHz transition, and moving certain broadcast transmitters in the 1.9 GHz band. They ordered that the financial reconciliation now occur by June 1, 2009. Download (pdf) the full Order here.