To help support the further deployment of broadband technologies and services, the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has amended its spectrum rules to facilitate access to broadband services on aircraft and on ships.
The updated rules were codified in a Report and Order adopted by the Commission in late January and authorize certain point-to-point links to “endpoints in motion” in the 70 and 80 GHz bands. The updated rules also allow for the use of smaller and lower-cost antennas to support backhaul services in these bands.
Finally, the Commission has changed the link registration process in the 70/80/90 GHz bands to require certification of registered links. The Commission says that this change will promote more efficient use of the applicable spectrum while also improving the accuracy of the link registration database.
In addition to its Report and Order, the Commission has also adopted a Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, seeking public comment on a proposal to add another type of link for maritime operations, as well as a proposal to include Fixed Satellite Service earth stations in the revised light-licensing process for the 70/80 GHz bands.
Read the FCC’s Report and Order and Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking on expanding access to the 70/80/90 GHz bands.
