800 MHz Public Safety Spectrum

Public safety radio systems (such as those used by police, firefighters and emergency medical technicians) operate in several portions of the 800 MHz band, which consists of spectrum at 806-824 MHz paired with spectrum at 851-869 MHz. The 800 MHz band is also home to commercial wireless carriers and private radio systems.

800 MHz Band Reconfiguration

In 2004, the Commission reconfigured the band plan for 800 MHz to separate public safety systems in the band from commercial wireless systems using cellular architecture. As part of the rebanding process, most 800 MHz public safety licensees are reconfiguring their systems to operate on new channel assignments in the 800 MHz band, with the cost of reconfiguration being paid by Sprint Nextel Corporation. In this section you will find additional details regarding the Commission's band reconfiguration orders and the rebanding process.