Advanced Wireless Services (AWS) in the 2 GHz Band
This Notice of Proposed Rulemaking involves proposals to make up to 40 MHz of spectrum available for terrestrial mobile broadband service in the 2 GHz band at 2000 – 2020 MHz and 2180 – 2200 MHz. Currently, this spectrum is assigned to the Mobile Satellite Service (MSS). This proposal would carry out a recommendation of the National Broadband Plan that the FCC enable stand-alone terrestrial services in this spectrum.
The Notice of Proposed Rulemaking refers to the 40 MHz of spectrum as “AWS-4” or “AWS-4 spectrum” because of the close proximity of these spectrum bands to other spectrum bands previously identified as Advanced Wireless Services (AWS) spectrum bands. The Notice of Proposed Rulemaking addresses numerous issues and requests comment on, among other things:
- The AWS-4 Band Plan
- Technical Issues
- Protection of MSS Operations
- Assignment of AWS-4 License(s)
- Performance Requirements
- Regulatory Issues; Licensing and Operating Rules
- Relocation and Cost Sharing
- Ancillary Terrestrial Components in the 2 GHz MSS Band
In addition to the Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, there is also a Notice of Inquiry where the FCC seeks comment on potential ways to free up additional valuable spectrum to address the increased demand for mobile broadband spectrum.
Related Information
- Notice of Proposed Rulemaking: Word | PDF
- News Release: Word | PDF
- Genachowski Statement: Word | PDF
- McDowell Statement: Word | PDF
- Clyburn Statement: Word | PDF
