Commission Proposes To Reconfigure the 900 MHz Band To Facilitate Broadband Services

Resumo

In this document, the Federal Communications Commission (Commission) proposes and seeks comment on facilitating broadband deployment in the 896-901/935-940 MHz band (900 MHz band) currently configured for narrowband operations. Specifically, the Commission proposes to realign the band to create a paired \3/3\ megahertz broadband segment, licensed on a geographic basis, while reserving two remaining segments for continued narrowband operations. The Commission proposes to authorize a market-driven voluntary exchange process that would allow existing licensees in the band to mutually agree to a plan for clearing of the broadband segment by relocating site-based incumbents to narrowband spectrum. The Commission also seeks comment on two other transition methods--an auction of overlay licenses and an incentive auction, options that might be needed to effectuate 900 MHz band realignment in certain markets. This proposed action is consistent with the Commission's ongoing recent efforts to increase access to flexible-use spectrum.