November 25, 2014
Volume 8, Issue 17

 

EWA ON YOUR SIDE

900 MHz Private Enterprise Broadband Opportunity a Step Closer

EWA and Pacific DataVision have filed a joint Petition for Rulemaking proposing the development of a 3/3 MHz Private Enterprise Broadband (PEBB) allocation at 900 MHz, while at the same time, retaining a 2/2 MHz block for incumbent narrowband operations. The Petitioners will continue working with API and UTC, as well as individual members of both organizations, to secure additional support for the proposal.  More 

EWA Defends the Accuracy of its 800 MHz Coordination

EWA responded to an opposition filing from Smartcomm requesting the dismissal of several 800 MHz applications certified by EWA, pointing out that the opposition was based on a misinterpretation of an earlier FCC Public Notice governing the availability of 800 MHz Guard Band channels. We are sure that they were disappointed, but EWA’s certification was in full compliance with the rules.

EWA Supports CII's Use of Spectrum

EWA supported the request of certain Critical Infrastructure Industry (CII) applicants who wish to secure access to spectrum from Maritime Communications/Land Mobile (MCLM). The applications have been on hold for several years while the FCC conducts a hearing to determine whether that company should be permitted to hold (or sell) any licenses. A recent FCC Order allowed MCLM to assign spectrum to a transit agency for use in a Positive Train Control (PTC) system but not to other CII entities engaged in petroleum and utility activities was a bit out of character for the FCC.

What Does it Take to be a Frequency Advisory Committee?

The LMCC recently filed a letter in the proceeding in which ACD Telecom, LLC asked the FCC to be certified to coordinate Part 90 Public Safety frequencies. The LMCC did not take a position on ACD’s qualifications but stated that FACs should “have a representative governance structure that directly oversees the development and implementation of all FAC-related policies and procedures.  More 

Getting Old - Another Filing from Spectrum Network Group/M2M Networks

SNG and M2M submitted a Supplemental Filing arguing that the grant of their waiver request to use 900 MHz B/ILT frequencies to provide a M2M system will not cause scarcity of that spectrum or for other PLMR uses, also questioning two applications coordinated and filed by EWA. EWA responded that “It may be that SNG has challenged the Alliance’s involvement in these applications because EWA questioned applications filed by SNG itself.”
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EWA Supports Simplified Licensing

EWA filed comments supporting the FCC’s efforts to minimize the issuance of paper copies of licenses while offering licensees the option of receiving their licenses via email or in paper form if requested. While outside the scope of the proceeding, the Alliance also recommended that the FCC eliminate the requirement to post paper copies of licenses at all control points.

Narrowband Enforcement - Somebody Has To!

The LMCC will be filing a letter with the FCC expressing concern about the failure to enforce narrowband requirements except, possibly in response to individual complaints of harmful interference. The LMCC will advise that the FCC’s certified frequency advisory committees intend to take a more active role in contacting licensees whose authorizations still reflect only wideband emissions to optimize spectrum utilization.


 

KEEPING THE PEACE
Years ago, EWA entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with the FCC’s Enforcement Bureau, establishing EWA as a first line of defense in matters of spectrum controversy. As part of this industry responsibility, and, depending on the severity of the interference, EWA educates, investigates, mediates and otherwise attempts to provide a reasonable solution to all participating parties.

As a new Insider feature, we will highlight cases of interference that have been brought to EWA’s attention for resolution. We will present both routine and unique cases of requests EWA has received for assistance and share the results of EWA’s involvement. We help some, we win some, and some just need to be referred to the FCC for direct enforcement assistance.

An STA in Grayling, Michigan

EWA was requested to investigate the source of interference to a 450 MHz radio system, and to file an official complaint with FCC Enforcement on their behalf. After researching the situation, EWA discovered the interference was from a local radio dealer who had received a Special Temporary Authorization (STA). STAs are granted on a secondary non-interference basis. EWA spoke to the radio dealer and the frequency was shut down within one hour.

Engine Noise in Meeker, Colorado

A ranch in Colorado was receiving interference that apparently sounded like a diesel engine running at maximum revolutions. EWA spoke with the radio system dealer who then paid a visit to the area stating there were no other systems in the general vicinity, just desert. Running out of options, the licensee decided to change frequencies. Days later, EWA received word from the rancher that his neighbor located over five miles away on an adjacent channel, was now hearing the exact same diesel engine.

Data System in Oaks Corners, New York

A volunteer fire department Deputy Chief reported to EWA that their officers were hearing someone talking on their frequency, complaining that “They walk right over us.” Unsure whether the interference was from a co-channel or an adjacent channel, EWA research discovered a user located 11 miles away licensed for a GPS/RTK wideband only data system. This information was reported to the Deputy Chief who said that he would handle it from here.

View all Keeping the Peace articles.

 

OTHER  NEWS

Jaklwan James Johnson Awarded 2014-15 Joseph B. Vestal Endowed Scholarship

Jakwan James Johnson is the latest recipient of the 2014-15 EWA-Joseph B. Vestal Endowed Scholarship at Old Dominion University (ODU), Norfolk, Virginia. This scholarship was developed by EWA and is administered by ODU’s Office of Development. The scholarship’s goal is to recognize and financially support students who plan to pursue careers in the wireless industry. At the recent 2014 Wireless Leadership Summit, Silent Auction bids and donations garnered nearly $5,000 for the scholarship fund. Learn more about the Joseph B. Vestal Endowed Scholarship.
   

 

WHAT YOU'RE SAYING ABOUT EWA

“Hi Ila, I want to thank you for your help for renewing my RCOM radio license after it had expired a few months ago. Your support was fantastic!”

Brian Pruner – RCOM Radio

 

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