FCC Expedites FirstNet Spectrum Rules

Citing an “urgent need” for certified equipment needed to create the FirstNet nationwide broadband network, today the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) issued technical and other rules for 700 MHz spectrum gear and made the rules effective immediately. The Commission directed its engineering office to immediately begin accepting and processing applications from equipment manufacturers for the new gear, which will provide wireless broadband service seamlessly across the country for public safety operations. The FirstNet project dates back to Feb. 2012, and is tasked with creating an interoperable wireless network for local agencies, to transport data of all types, including ordinary text, photos and video. Eventually, the network could carry voice, although that application is several years away. In its Report and Order today, the FCC set power and emission limits, declined to expand existing interference coordination rules, and maintained the existing guard bands for FirstNet spectrum. On the issue of equipment certification, FirstNet and several equipment manufacturers had asked the FCC to expedite the approval of radio gear without additional, band-specific rules, saying any delays would hamper “live-saving technologies.” The FCC agreed and grouped FirstNet spectrum under existing equipment certification rules. Lastly, the FCC waived the usual 30-day waiting period for its rules, saying there are already several “near-term” deployments of FirstNet systems. In a statement, acting FCC chair Mignon Clyburn recalled Hurricane Sandy one year ago. “It is fitting that the Commission is moving forward with yet another item that will help improve public safety communications.” She acknowledged “other outstanding issues” for FirstNet—without naming them—and said, “We will continue to work with all stakeholders to ensure that these issues are addressed.” Download (pdf) the Report and Order here.

In statement, FirstNet general manager Bill D’Agostino said: