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FCC to open satellite spectrum for broadband
16 July 2010
The Federal Communications Commission is trying to reduce restrictions on use of satellite frequencies for broadband internet
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US federal regulators are looking to ease restrictions on how some satellite companies use their frequencies to devote more spectrum to mobile internet services.
The Federal Communications Commission is considering leasing spectrum by companies that operate satellite services for customers using mobile equipment. It may also lift a requirement that customers’ handsets be able to communicate with the companies’ satellites.
The measures are aimed at opening the way to use the satellite companies’ frequencies for networks that rely on ground-based towers.
The proposal can affect about 90 megahertz of spectrum, held by companies, including SkyTerra Communications, TerreStar and Globalstar, that is particularly suited to broadband delivery.
The FCC’s National Broadband Plan is targeting to open up 500 megahertz of airwaves by 2020. On June 28, President Barack Obama had proposed to almost double the airwaves available for smartphones, laptop connections to the internet and new wireless devices. GTB