The U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has adopted new rules covering the operation of wireless broadband communications in the frequency spectrum above 24 GHz, paving the way for the introduction of advanced mobile technology and services.
Issued in July, the Commission’s Report and Order and Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking establishes service rules covering the use of four spectrum bands above 24 GHz. The action opens nearly 11 GHz of high frequency spectrum in an effort to speed the introduction of so-called 5G technologies. Historically, these frequencies have been reserved for satellite or fixed microwave applications, but the Commission has adopted a flexible framework designed to accommodate both current and future uses while minimizing the risk of interference.
According to the Commission, this rulemaking makes the U.S. the first country in the world to implement regulations that will permit the deployment of next generation wireless services in the designated spectrum bands.
Read the Commission’s Report and Order initiating the use of spectrum above 24 GHz is available.