LightSquared Requests New GPS Rules, AT&T Factors In

The controversial cellular start-up LightSquared requested Monday that the FCC create and implement rules clarifying the current "uncertainty" surrounding GPS devices and the adjacent spectrum they listen in on. 

LightSquared claimed impropriety last month in the tests performed by nine federal departments and agencies which summarized in a letter to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) there are "no practical solutions or mitigations that would permit the LigthSquared broadband service, as proposed, to operate in the next few months - or years - without significantly interfering with GPS."

Jeff Carlisle, Light Squared's executive vice president of regulatory affairs and public policy holds that because GPS devices are unlicensed, they should not be protected under FCC rules from interference from adjacent and nearby users. 

According to Urgent Communications, it is unlikely that this filing will change any part of the decision-making process.  GPS advocates claim that although the devices are not licensed, they are operating on authorized spectrum, and the real issue is LightSquared stepping beyond the normal use of satellite spectrum to terrestrial use.


Read LightSquared's filing for yourself here.

Narrowbanding: It really is black and white.

Public Safety communications officials cannot afford to be misinformed or underinformed about narrowbanding.  The fact is, the consequences of noncompliance to the narrowbanding mandate will be very costly and could possibly jeopardize the reliability of communications systems if the license falls between 150-512 MHz. 

If you have doubts about whether you're affected by this mandate, simply look at the frequencies on your license.  If any of them fall within the designated spectrum, you must narrowband.

Time is running out, and to avoid fines and loss of licenses, noncompliant agencies must file waivers on an individual basis. 

Visit the FCC's website to find more narrowbanding information, as well as an up to date countdown clock.

If you have questions or concerns regarding narrowbanding, contact EMR Consulting today to find out how we can help.

10 Things You Should Know About Narrowbanding

1. The deadline is approaching... very, very quickly.  The January 1st, 2013 deadline is right around the corner, and narrowbanding (formerly "refarming") is no small process.  Visit the FCC's website to find out if you fall within the affected spectrum.
2. What exactly are the requirements?  Straight from the FCC's Website:
   Any of the following meet the 12.5 kHz equivalent efficiency requirement:
   

   • One voice path in a 12.5 kHz channel
   • Two voice paths in a 25 kHz channel
   • Data operations on channels greater than 12.5 KHz must employ data rates greater than 4.8 kbps per 6.25 kHz channel, such as 19.2 kbps per 25 kHz channel
3. Some waivers will be granted.  The Commission is already gearing up to receive narrowbanding waivers, as many agencies are struggling to comply by the deadline.
4. Some waivers might NOT be granted.  Your waiver, if not subbmitted accurately and in a timely manner, and with appropriate content, could be dismissed.
5. Yes, your agency can be fined.  Up to $10,000 per day.
6. Yes, your communications system could be in jeopardy.  Especially if there are any breakdowns of communication in your agency.
7. Most Public Safety agencies cannot do it alone.  The fact is that a great deal Public Safety agencies have not been able to complete narrowbanding.
8. The good news is, you're not alone!  If you think you're the only one who is not ready, you're mistaken.  Budget cuts and rebanding have created a sparse funding environment for Public Safety.  Online resources abound for Public Safety agencies struggling with the narrowbanding process. 
9. EMR is here to help.  With 21 years of experience, and a never-give-up attitude, we will ensure your agency's safety and compliance so that you can continue to do what you do best, protecting the public.  Visit EMRConsults.com for info.
10. Time is running out.  Act today, because as the deadline approaches, and everyone scrambles to achieve compliance, resources will be diminishing.