In a departure from its original public safety mandate, the 4.9 GHz band is the latest mid-band spectrum being eyed for public and private network use. Escalating demand for high-speed, low latency broadband connectivity is the main reason. In 2002, the FCC allocated 50 MHz of spectrum in the 4.9 GHz (4940-4990 MHz) band for fixed and mobile services, specifically for public safety support. Non-traditional public safety entities such as utilities and federal agencies could negotiate 4.9 GHz band sharing agreements with eligible public safety entities. However, restricting usage to public safety entities was intended to enhance 4.9 GHz transmission reliability and avoid potential interference experienced in other unlicensed, heavily used bands like 5 GHz or 900 MHz.
Key questions: Should 4.9 GHz be shared for non-public safety uses? If so, how should spectrum sharing be managed? The ‘Yes’ argument is that 4.9 GHz band usage has not evolved as originally envisaged and remains underutilized. Commercial wireless operators could leverage part of the 50 MHz bandwidth for mobile data use. New or established entities could manage the spectrum allocations. The ‘No’ argument is that public safety communications, especially for in-building applications, is too important for both first responders and building occupants, to be shared, even on a priority or pre-emptive basis. Continue Reading |
|
No comments:
Post a Comment