FCC Wants Opinions on Radio Gear Competition

On the heels of a June inquiry from Congress on how much competition there is among radio equipment providers for public safety sales, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is now asking for public comment on the question. “It is imperative that we explore all potential barriers to achieving nationwide interoperability for both broadband and narrowband communications,” the FCC said in its announcement, “and determine what, if any, actions the Commission should take in this area.” A House subcommittee heard testimony in June about constructing a nationwide public safety broadband network, and that the cost of public safety radio gear is often more expensive than comparable commercial equipment. As a result, some have suggested using less-expensive commercial gear to build the public safety network. Noting this, the subcommittee leadership then asked the FCC to provide information on the top four radio equipment providers, and if proprietary solutions have affected cost, interoperability, innovation or competition in the marketplace. The commission filed a response to the original Congressional inquiry in July, but is now giving the public a chance to answer the same questions electronically until Sept. 20th. Download (pdf) the FCC’s request for public comments here.