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3rd February 2003

The Federal Communications Commission has reallocated spectrum that can be used to provide a variety of new wireless services, including advanced wireless services (AWS), commonly referred to as “Third Generation” or “IMT-2000.”

Inset is FCC Chairman Michael K. Powell

The Commission reallocated 30 megahertz of spectrum from the 2 GHz Mobile Satellite Service (2 GHz MSS) to fixed and mobile services. The Commission also sought comment on potential uses of an additional 15 megahertz of spectrum previously identified for new wireless services and on increased flexibility in the Unlicensed Personal Communications Service (UPCS) band. These actions will facilitate more efficient use of existing spectrum and enable an expanded array of innovative products and services for consumers.

In a Third Report and Order (“Order”), the Commission allocated for fixed and mobile wireless services the 1990-2000 MHz, 2020-2025 MHz, and 2165-2180 MHz bands. The Commission concluded that 2 GHz MSS – which is currently authorized to operate in the 1990-2025 MHz and 2165-2200 MHz bands – can operate in less than the 70 megahertz of spectrum it had previously been allocated. The Commission’s action retains 40 megahertz of spectrum for 2 GHz MSS in the 2000-2020 MHz and 2180-2200 MHz bands. MSS providers are also operating elsewhere below 3 GHz.

In a Third Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (“Notice”) the FCC sought further comment on use of the 1910-1920 MHz band. This band is currently available for UPCS asynchronous (generally data) applications, but at present is unused. This band – or a portion thereof – could be paired with the 1990-2000 MHz band to support the development of AWS, or could be used to support the relocation of other wireless licensees. The Commission concluded that the 1920-1930 MHz band should be retained for UPCS use and sought comment on whether it should provide for additional flexibility in that band, as well as any additional spectrum retained for UPCS use in the 1910-1920 MHz band. In the Notice, the Commission also sought additional comment on potential uses for spectrum in the 2155-2160/62 MHz band that is currently used by the Multipoint Distribution Service (MDS), and the 2160-2165 MHz band identified for emerging technology use. The Commission also sought comment on suitable relocation spectrum for MDS licensees currently operating in the 2150-2160/62 MHz band, and asked what portions of the 2155-2180 MHz band could be suitable for AWS use.
In a Second Memorandum Opinion and Order, the Commission denied a petition for reconsideration seeking reallocation of the entire 2 GHz MSS band for terrestrial wireless use.

Action by the Commission on January 29, 2003, by Third Report and Order, Third Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, and Second Memorandum Opinion and Order in ET Docket No. 00-258 (FCC 03-16). Chairman Powell, Commissioners Abernathy, Martin, Adelstein with Commissioner Copps approving in part, dissenting in part. Chairman Powell, Commissioners Copps and Adelstein issuing statements.