RCC Public Safety Communications Blog: December 2010

Thursday, December 30, 2010

Outreach News - 12/30/2010

1. FCC CONSIDERS EXPANDING ROLE OF TRAVELERS INFORMATION STATIONS TO BROADCAST ADDITIONAL PUBLIC SAFETY AND OTHER INFORMATION TO PUBLIC. News Release PSHSB . Contact Eric Ehrenreich at (202) 418-1726, email: Eric.Ehrenreich@fcc.gov.
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DOC-303890A1.doc
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DOC-303890A1.pdf
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DOC-303890A1.txt

TRAVELERS INFORMATION STATIONS. FCC Considers Expanding Role of Travelers Information Stations To Broadcast Additional Public Safety and Other Information to Public. (Dkt No. RM-11531 09-19 RM-11514 ). Action by: the Commission. Adopted: 12/29/2010 by ORDER. (FCC No. 10-203). PSHSB
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/FCC-10-203A1.doc
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/FCC-10-203A1.pdf
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/FCC-10-203A1.txt

2. PUBLIC SAFETY AND HOMELAND SECURITY BUREAU EXTENDS 800 MHZ REBANDING NEGOTIATION PERIOD FOR WAVE 4 BORDER AREA NPSPAC AND NON-NPSPAC LICENSEES ALONG THE U.S.-MEXICO BORDER. (DA No. 10-2442). (Dkt No 02-55 ). PSHSB . Contact: Brian Marenco at (202) 418-0838, email: Brian.Marenco@fcc.gov
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DA-10-2442A1.doc
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DA-10-2442A1.pdf
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DA-10-2442A1.txt

IMPROVING PUBLIC SAFETY COMMUNICATIONS IN THE 800 MHZ BAND. Granted in part, or held in abeyance the requests for waiver of the June 26, 2008, deadline submitted by the licensees listed in Appendix A. (Dkt No. 02-55 ). Action by: Chief, Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau. Adopted: 12/30/2010 by ORDER. (DA No. 10-2431). PSHSB
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DA-10-2431A1.doc
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DA-10-2431A1.pdf
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DA-10-2431A1.txt

IMPROVING PUBLIC SAFETY COMMUNICATIONS IN THE 800 MHZ BAND. Postponed the 800 MHz rebanding financial reconciliation "true-up" date from December 31, 2010 to June 30, 2011, and required the 800 MHz Transition Administrator (TA) to file a report by May 15, 2011. (Dkt No. 02-55 ). Action by: Chief, Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau. Adopted: 12/30/2010 by ORDER. (DA No. 10-2432). PSHSB http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DA-10-2432A1.doc
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DA-10-2432A1.pdf
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DA-10-2432A1.txt

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Wednesday, December 29, 2010

Outreach News - 12/29/2010

1. Dynamic spectrum access technologies and techniques have the potential to enable more efficient utilization of our nation’s precious spectrum resource. While Industry is now seeing the emergence of technologies that enable “dynamic” sharing – that is, the ability of devices to identify slices of spectrum that are available at that location, whether for a few seconds, a few minutes, a few hours, or a few days. The need to undertake long term spectrum planning poses a vital strategic and economic challenge for our nation. As the FCC take steps in other proceedings to make more spectrum available, the Commission must ensure that any available spectrum is used as efficiently and productively as possible. In the attached Notice of Inquiry (NOI), the FCC seeks to promote and facilitate wireless innovation, taking additional steps to ensure that the promise of these advanced radio technologies – as well as the new models of spectrum management techniques that they make possible – can be fully realized and applied across more of the radio spectrum. Specifically, the Commission seeks comment on the variety of ways in which dynamic spectrum access radios and techniques can promote more intensive and efficient use of the radio spectrum, and the potential that these technological innovations have for enabling more effective management of spectrum.

2. PUBLIC SAFETY AND HOMELAND SECURITY BUREAU SEEKS COMMENT ON REGION 5 (SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA) 700 MHZ REGIONAL PLAN AMENDMENT. (DA No. 10-2430). (Dkt No 02-378 ). Comments Due: 01/18/2011. Reply Comments Due: 12/28/2010. PSHSB . Contact: Jeannie Benfaida at (202) 418-2313, email: Jeannie.Benfaida@fcc.gov
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DA-10-2430A1.doc
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DA-10-2430A1.pdf
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DA-10-2430A1.txt

3. Please see an important reminder below.

FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION TO HOLD WORKSHOP ON JANUARY 26, 2011 ON VHF/UHF NARROWBANDING

Washington, D.C. – The Federal Communications Commission’s Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau (Bureau) today announced it will hold a workshop on VHF/UHF narrowbanding to assist licensees in completing the transition to narrowband radio communications by January 1, 2013. The event will be held on Wednesday, January 26, 2011, from 1:00 p.m.-4:30 p.m. in the Commission Meeting Room (TW-C305).

The Commission’s rules have set January 1, 2013 as the deadline for all VHF and UHF Public Safety and Industrial/Business land mobile radio (LMR) systems in the 150-174 MHz and 421-512 MHz bands to migrate from 25 kHz channel bandwidth to 12.5 kHz or narrower technology. Timely completion of narrowbanding will ensure more efficient use of spectrum, relieve congestion, and result in increased channel availability for LMR systems.

The workshop will provide Public Safety and Industrial/Business licensees with information regarding the narrowbanding transition path, and will include input from federal agencies, equipment manufacturers, and public safety organizations to help ensure timely compliance with the deadline across the nation. The Commission will release a complete agenda closer to the event date.

The workshop will be open to the public; however, admittance will be limited to the seating available. Individuals interested in attending this event must pre-register on-line at http://www.fcc.gov/pshs/event-registration.html, where they will be asked to provide their name, title, organization affiliation, and contact information. Individuals may also contact Deandrea Wilson at Deandrea.Wilson@fcc.gov or via phone at 202-418-0703 regarding pre-registration. The deadline for pre-registration is Monday, January 24, 2011.

Audio/video coverage of the meeting will be broadcast live with open captioning over the Internet from the FCC's web page at www.fcc.gov/live. The FCC’s webcast is free to the public. Those who watch the live video stream of the event may email event-related questions to livequestions@fcc.gov. Depending on the volume of questions and time constraints, the panel moderators will work to respond to as many questions as possible during the workshop.

Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities are available upon request. Please include a description of the accommodation you will need. Individuals making such requests must include their contact information should FCC staff need to contact them for more information. Requests should be made as early as possible. Please send an e-mail to fcc504@fcc.gov or call the Consumer & Governmental Affairs Bureau: 202-418-0530 (voice), 202-418-0432 (TTY). For additional information about the meeting, please contact Susan McLean at (202) 418-7868 or by email: Susan.McLean@fcc.gov. For information on narrowbanding please visit: www.fcc.gov/narrowbanding.

Outreach News - 12/29/2010

1. Dynamic spectrum access technologies and techniques have the potential to enable more efficient utilization of our nation’s precious spectrum resource. While Industry is now seeing the emergence of technologies that enable “dynamic” sharing – that is, the ability of devices to identify slices of spectrum that are available at that location, whether for a few seconds, a few minutes, a few hours, or a few days. The need to undertake long term spectrum planning poses a vital strategic and economic challenge for our nation. As the FCC take steps in other proceedings to make more spectrum available, the Commission must ensure that any available spectrum is used as efficiently and productively as possible. In the attached Notice of Inquiry (NOI), the FCC seeks to promote and facilitate wireless innovation, taking additional steps to ensure that the promise of these advanced radio technologies – as well as the new models of spectrum management techniques that they make possible – can be fully realized and applied across more of the radio spectrum. Specifically, the Commission seeks comment on the variety of ways in which dynamic spectrum access radios and techniques can promote more intensive and efficient use of the radio spectrum, and the potential that these technological innovations have for enabling more effective management of spectrum.

2. PUBLIC SAFETY AND HOMELAND SECURITY BUREAU SEEKS COMMENT ON REGION 5 (SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA) 700 MHZ REGIONAL PLAN AMENDMENT. (DA No. 10-2430). (Dkt No 02-378 ). Comments Due: 01/18/2011. Reply Comments Due: 12/28/2010. PSHSB . Contact: Jeannie Benfaida at (202) 418-2313, email: Jeannie.Benfaida@fcc.gov
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DA-10-2430A1.doc
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DA-10-2430A1.pdf
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DA-10-2430A1.txt

3. Please see an important reminder below.

FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION TO HOLD WORKSHOP ON JANUARY 26, 2011 ON VHF/UHF NARROWBANDING

Washington, D.C. – The Federal Communications Commission’s Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau (Bureau) today announced it will hold a workshop on VHF/UHF narrowbanding to assist licensees in completing the transition to narrowband radio communications by January 1, 2013. The event will be held on Wednesday, January 26, 2011, from 1:00 p.m.-4:30 p.m. in the Commission Meeting Room (TW-C305).

The Commission’s rules have set January 1, 2013 as the deadline for all VHF and UHF Public Safety and Industrial/Business land mobile radio (LMR) systems in the 150-174 MHz and 421-512 MHz bands to migrate from 25 kHz channel bandwidth to 12.5 kHz or narrower technology. Timely completion of narrowbanding will ensure more efficient use of spectrum, relieve congestion, and result in increased channel availability for LMR systems.

The workshop will provide Public Safety and Industrial/Business licensees with information regarding the narrowbanding transition path, and will include input from federal agencies, equipment manufacturers, and public safety organizations to help ensure timely compliance with the deadline across the nation. The Commission will release a complete agenda closer to the event date.

The workshop will be open to the public; however, admittance will be limited to the seating available. Individuals interested in attending this event must pre-register on-line at http://www.fcc.gov/pshs/event-registration.html , where they will be asked to provide their name, title, organization affiliation, and contact information. Individuals may also contact Deandrea Wilson at Deandrea.Wilson@fcc.gov or via phone at 202-418-0703 regarding pre-registration. The deadline for pre-registration is Monday, January 24, 2011.

Audio/video coverage of the meeting will be broadcast live with open captioning over the Internet from the FCC's web page at www.fcc.gov/live . The FCC’s webcast is free to the public. Those who watch the live video stream of the event may email event-related questions to livequestions@fcc.gov . Depending on the volume of questions and time constraints, the panel moderators will work to respond to as many questions as possible during the workshop.

Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities are available upon request. Please include a description of the accommodation you will need. Individuals making such requests must include their contact information should FCC staff need to contact them for more information. Requests should be made as early as possible. Please send an e-mail to fcc504@fcc.gov or call the Consumer & Governmental Affairs Bureau: 202-418-0530 (voice), 202-418-0432 (TTY). For additional information about the meeting, please contact Susan McLean at (202) 418-7868 or by email: Susan.McLean@fcc.gov . For information on narrowbanding please visit: www.fcc.gov/narrowbanding.

Monday, December 27, 2010

Outreach News - 12/27/2010

Wednesday, December 22, 2010

Outreach News - 12/22/2010

Tuesday, December 21, 2010

Outreach News - 12/21/2010

1. The next NPSTC meeting will be held in San Antonio, Texas on February 28 and March 1. Please click here for details.

2. FCC TAKES FIRST STEP TO HELP REVOLUTIONIZE AMERICA’S 9-1-1 SERVICES FOR CONSUMERS, FIRST RESPONDERS
Rapid Sharing of Videos, Photos and Data to Improve Emergency Response

Washington, D.C. -- The Federal Communications Commission today took an important step to revolutionize America’s 9-1-1 services for consumers and first responders by adopting a Notice of Inquiry (NOI) seeking public comment on how Next Generation 911 (NG911) can enable the public to obtain emergency assistance by means of advanced communications technologies beyond traditional voice-centric devices.

The FCC has undertaken this proceeding in response to a recommendation in the National Broadband Plan seeking to harness the life-saving potential of text messaging, email, video and photos from mobile and landline broadband services. Despite the fact that there are more than 270 million wireless consumers nationwide and that approximately 70 percent of all 9-1-1 calls are made from mobile hand-held devices, today’s 9-1-1 systems support voice-centric communications only and are not designed to transfer and receive text messaging, videos or photos. In some emergency situations -- especially in circumstances where a call could further jeopardize someone’s life and safety -- texting may be the only way to reach out for help. In addition, many Americans, particularly those with disabilities, rely on text messaging as their primary means of communication.

The sharing of timely and relevant videos and photos would provide first responders with on-the-ground information to help assess and address emergencies in real-time. For example, these technologies could help report crimes as they are happening thus giving law enforcement officials an increased advantage when responding.
The NOI asked a comprehensive set of questions that address a number of issues related to the deployment of Next Generation 9-1-1 services, including, but not limited to:

The technical feasibility and limitations of text messaging video streaming and photos;
Consumer privacy issues, particularly related to the sharing of personal electronic medical data;
Development of technical and policy standards;
Consumer education and awareness; and
Inter-governmental coordination and coordination within the public safety community.

Action by the Commission, December 21, 2010, by NOI (FCC 10-200). Chairman Genachowski, and Commissioners Copps, McDowell, Clyburn and Baker. Separate statements issued by Chairman Genachowski, and Commissioners Copps, McDowell, Clyburn and Baker. PS Docket No. 10-255.

3. PUBLIC SAFETY AND HOMELAND SECURITY BUREAU ANNOUNCES REGION 45 (WISCONSIN) PUBLIC SAFETY REGIONAL PLANNING COMMITTEES TO HOLD 700 MHZ AND 800 MHZ NPSPAC MEETINGS. (DA No. 10-2361). (Dkt No 02-55 ). PSHSB
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DA-10-2361A1.doc
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DA-10-2361A1.pdf
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DA-10-2361A1.txt

Wednesday, December 15, 2010

Outreach News - 12/15/2010

1. PUBLIC SAFETY AND HOMELAND SECURITY BUREAU ANNOUNCES REGION 28 (DELAWARE, EASTERN PENNSYLVANIA, AND SOUTHERN NEW JERSEY AREA) PUBLIC SAFETY REGIONAL PLANNING COMMITTEES TO HOLD 700 MHZ AND 800 MHZ NPSPAC MEETINGS. (DA No. 10-2359). (Dkt No 92-287 ). PSHSB http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DA-10-2359A1.doc
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DA-10-2359A1.pdf
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DA-10-2359A1.txt

2. FCC TO HOLD OPEN COMMISSION MEETING TUESDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2010
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DOC-303625A1.doc
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DOC-303625A1.pdf
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DOC-303625A1.txt

3. Links below to comparative articles in Mission Critical magazine related to the D Block are below.

Public-Safety's Quest for the D Block: Point/Counterpoint
Two industry insiders offer different opinions on whether public safety should continue to pursue the 700 MHz D block spectrum.
Joe Hanna says public safety should follow the FCC's plan to auction the D block... READ MORE
Harlin McEwen says public safety needs the D block for an effective nationwide network... READ MORE

Tuesday, December 14, 2010

Outreach News - 12/14/2010

1. As was recently reported, the 4G Coalition, an organization of some carriers advocating the auction of the D Block, has changed their name to “Connect Public Safety Now (CPSN).” While the name has changed, the message remains the same. On Monday, CSPN held a press event in Washington in an attempt to develop support for their cause. In the event, the CPSN had a number of their consultants hired to advocate their case to auction the spectrum to commercial carriers instead of reallocating it to public safety, speak to the media.

In response, Bill Carrow, President of APCO stated, “By their actions this week, it is clear to us that T-Mobile, Sprint-Nextel and a narrow coalition of well financed business interests have made a conscious decision to oppose the professional judgment of an overwhelming majority of our nation’s first responders and state and local government officials.” He continued, “[and] we are more determined than ever to expose this disingenuous marketing effort.”

Attached are press releases issued by some of the public safety organizations continuing to advocate for the transfer of the D Block to public safety.

PSA Press Release
IACP Press Release
NASEMSO Press Release

2. ERRATUM - 700 MHZ INTEROPERABLE PUBLIC SAFETY WIRELESS BROADBAND NETWORKS. Issued an Erratum correcting Order DA 10-2342 released December 10, 2010. (Dkt No. 06-229 ). Action by: Chief, Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau by ERRATUM. PSHSB
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DOC-303567A1.doc
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DOC-303567A1.pdf
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DOC-303567A1.txt

3. IMPLEMENTING A NATIONWIDE, BROADBAND, INTEROPERABLE PUBLIC SAFETY NETWORK IN THE 700 MHZ BAND. Granted the waiver request. (Dkt No. 06-229 ). Action by: Chief, Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau. Adopted: 12/13/2010 by ORDER. (DA No. 10-2348). PSHSB
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DA-10-2348A1.doc
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DA-10-2348A1.pdf
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DA-10-2348A1.txt

Monday, December 13, 2010

Outreach News - 12/13/2010

1. FCC TAKES ACTION TO ADVANCE INTEROPERABILITY FOR PUBLIC SAFETY BROADBAND COMMUNICATIONS. News Release PSHSB . Contact Robert.Kenny@fcc.gov, 202-418-2668
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DOC-303467A1.doc
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DOC-303467A1.pdf
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DOC-303467A1.txt

REQUESTS FOR WAIVER OF VARIOUS PETITIONERS TO ALLOW THE ESTABLISHMENT OF 700 MHZ INTEROPERABLE PUBLIC SAFETY WIRELESS BROADBAND NETWORKS. FCC Takes Action to Advance Interoperability for Public Safety Broadband Communications. (Dkt No. 06-229 ). Action by: Chief, Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau. Adopted: 12/10/2010 by ORDER. (DA No. 10-2342). PSHSB
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DA-10-2342A1.doc
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DA-10-2342A1.pdf
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DA-10-2342A1.txt

2. PUBLIC SAFETY AND HOMELAND SECURITY BUREAU APPROVES REGION 4 (ARKANSAS) 700 MHZ REGIONAL PLAN. (DA No. 10-2343). (Dkt No 02-378 ). PSHSB
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DA-10-2343A1.doc
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DA-10-2343A1.pdf
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DA-10-2343A1.txt

Revised Plan status Report is attached

Friday, December 10, 2010

FCC Takes Action to Advance Interoperability For Public Safety Broadband Communications

The Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau of the FCC has issued an Order relative to public safety broadband early deployers. In this order, the Bureau approves an initial set of technical requirements for those public safety jurisdictions who filed interoperability showings pursuant to the May 12, 2010 order. These Petitioners will be permitted to proceed with deployment of their networks upon certification to the Bureau of their compliance with the technical requirements imposed in the (attached) order and those set forth in the Waiver Order. Additionally, Petitioners who declined to file an interoperability showing within the time window specified in the Waiver Order will have a renewed opportunity to submit a showing and move forward with network deployment.

Please see the Press Release of the Commission below.

FCC TAKES ACTION TO ADVANCE INTEROPERABILITY FOR PUBLIC SAFETY BROADBAND COMMUNICATIONS

Washington, D.C. -- The FCC’s Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau (PSHSB) today adopted an Order that establishes a technical framework to ensure interoperability in the public safety mobile broadband networks states, counties and cities approved for early deployment are planning to construct. These regional broadband networks must be technically compatible and fully interoperable with one another, as well as the nationwide network envisioned for America’s first responders.

James Arden Barnett, Jr., Rear Admiral (ret.) and Chief of the PSHSB, said, “There are many forces that pull against interoperability, this is why it is critical that we have an iron rule of interoperability for America’s public safety mobile broadband networks. Our goal is to make sure that nationwide interoperability is built into these networks from the beginning, and we will continue to work with public safety to make sure their immediate and long-term communications needs are met.”

Jennifer Manner, Deputy Bureau Chief, PSHSB, and Acting Director of ERIC, said, “Interoperability for America’s first responders is crucial to ensuring effective broadband communications nationwide. The technical framework we’ve set forth will help ensure that these regional public safety mobile broadband networks are interoperable and capable of seamlessly evolving and integrating into a nationwide network as it is constructed. We look forward to our continued work with public safety on the technical and policy considerations necessary to achieve this.”

The FCC requirements for a baseline technical framework address core aspects for interoperable communications, such as roaming capabilities, system identifiers, service coverage and secure communications, to ensure that public safety officials can communicate effectively and seamlessly with one another regardless of what network they are operating on. The Order is based on recommendations made by the FCC’s Emergency Response Interoperability Center (ERIC) to ensure that public safety broadband communications are interoperable nationwide.
Under the baseline technical framework, waiver recipients will:

Construct networks that support Long Term Evolution (LTE) interfaces that support roaming and interoperability;
Construct networks that provide outdoor coverage at minimum data rates of 256 Kbps uplink and 768 Kbps downlink for all types of devices throughout the cell coverage area;
Provide 95 percent reliability of signal coverage for all services and applications throughout the network;
Conduct conformance testing on devices to ensure compliance with technical requirements associated with 3GPP Release 8 (LTE) and higher release standards;
Perform interoperability testing of the LTE interfaces to determine their roaming capabilities and make sure that these capabilities are sufficient;
Build security and encryption features into their networks based on certain optional features of the 3GPP security features for LTE Network Access Domain;
Allow to use permanent fixed point-to-point and point-to-multipoint stations only on an ancillary basis and on a non-interference basis to the primary mobile operations; and
Coordinate with one another when their networks overlap or operate adjacent to one another to avoid signal/spectral interference or disruption to communications.

For additional information about the Order please contact Jennifer Manner, Deputy Bureau Chief, PSHSB and acting Director of ERIC, at 202-418-3619 or via email: jennifer.manner@fcc.gov.

-FCC-

For more news and information about the Federal Communications Commission
please visit: www.fcc.gov

Thursday, December 9, 2010

Outreach News - 12/9/2010

1. Our Canadian colleagues are now addressing broadband issues. A number of articles relative to this are provided below.

CANADIAN RESPONDER ASSOCIATIONS UNITE TO MOVE FORWARD ON 700 MHz BROADBAND FOR MISSION CRITICAL PUBLIC SAFETY DATA. (Victoria) — On Wednesday, December 8, 2010 during the Fourth Canadian Public Safety Interoperability Workshop, ...

EMS Chiefs of Canada

CATA Alliance: Canada Must Say Yes to Broadband for Public Safety: Urgent call for Appropriate Spectrum Allocation

Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police: Canadian Responder Associations Unite to Move Forward on 700 MHz Broadband for Mission Critical Public Safety Data

2. COMMISSIONER ROBERT M. MCDOWELL CONGRATULATES REP. FRED UPTON ON HIS ELECTION AS CHAIRMAN OF THE HOUSE ENERGY AND COMMERCE COMMITTEE. News Release. News Media Contact: Angela Giancarlo at (202) 418-2066 CMMR. This appointment is particularly important as the House Energy and Commerce Committee has jurisdiction over the D Block transfer from the auction to public safety.
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DOC-303444A1.doc
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DOC-303444A1.pdf
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DOC-303444A1.txt

Wednesday, December 8, 2010

Outreach News - 12/8/2010

1. Federal Register page75814, December 6, 2010.

Unlicensed Operation in the TV Broadcast Bands
AGENCY: Federal Communications Commission.

ACTION: Final rule.
SUMMARY: This document finalizes rules to make the unused spectrum in the TV bands available for unlicensed broadband wireless devices. This particular spectrum has excellent propagation characteristics that allow signals to reach farther and penetrate walls and other structures. Access to this spectrum could enable more powerful public Internet connections—super Wi-Fi hot spots—with extended range, fewer dead spots, and improved individual speeds as a result of reduced congestion on existing networks. This type of ‘‘opportunistic use’’ of spectrum has great potential for enabling access to other spectrum bands and improving spectrum efficiency. The Commission’s actions here are expected to spur investment and innovation in applications and devices that will be used not only in the TV band but eventually in other frequency bands as well.

DATES: Effective January 5, 2011
except for amendments to §§ 15.713, 15.714, 15.715 and 15.717, which contain information collection requirements that are not effective until approved by the Office of Management and Budget. The Commission will publish a document in the Federal Register announcing the effective dates for those amendments.

2. PUBLIC SAFETY AND HOMELAND SECURITY BUREAU SEEKS COMMENT ON REGION 37 (SOUTH CAROLINA) 700 MHZ REGIONAL PLAN. (DA No. 10-2322). (Dkt No 02-378 ). Comments Due: 12/28/2010. Reply Comments Due: 01/07/2011. PSHSB
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DA-10-2322A1.doc
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DA-10-2322A1.pdf
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DA-10-2322A1.txt

Status Report of 700 MHz Regional Plans is attached.

3. Please see http://urgentcomm.com/policy_and_law/commentary/public-safety-spectral-flexibility-unwanted-20101207/ for an article related to the FCC 700 MHz narrowband channel flexibility Public Notice.

4. The major organization advocating the auction of the D Block was known as the 4G Coalition. As you will note in the attached, the 4G Coalition has changed their name to Connect Public Safety Now (“CPSN”).

5. Click here to read continued activity by carriers seeking the D Block spectrum.

Monday, December 6, 2010

Outreach News - 12/6/2010 - Special Edition - 700 MHz Narrowband Flexibility Submissions

On September 28, 2010, the FCC’s Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau released Public Notice DA 10-1877. The Public Notice (attached) stated, “the Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau seeks comment on the feasibility of allowing for flexible use of the 700 MHz public safety narrowband spectrum. Specifically, we seek to explore whether allowing public safety the option of using 700 MHz narrowband spectrum for broadband services would be operationally feasible and technically compatible with existing and future public safety narrowband operations. We also seek comment on potential conditions or restrictions on flexible use that might be required to prevent harmful interference to narrowband operations or impairment of narrowband interoperability”.

Comments to PN DA 10-1877 were due on December 3, 2010 and to date, forty-eight entities submissions to the Public Notice have been posted on the FCC’s Electronic Comment Filing System (as of 4PM 12-6-2010). Sprint-Nextel and T-Mobile, supported the flexible use of the 700 MHz narrowband channels. Forty-six of the respondents expressed various levels of opposition relative to “flexible use” of the 700 MHz narrowband channels. The organizations filing in opposition to “flexible use” are:

1. State of Delaware
2. State of Maryland
3. Commonwealth of Virginia
4. State of Oregon
5. State of Colorado
6. State of Idaho SIEC
7. Commonwealth of Kentucky
8. State of New York
9. Arkansas Wireless Information Network
10. California Statewide Interoperability Executive Committee
11. State of Michigan
12. State of Minnesota
13. Utah Communications Agency
14. Virginia Department of Emergency Management/Virginia Information Technologies Agency
15. Region 12 (Idaho)
16. Region 5 (Southern California)
17. Region 13 (Illinois except Chicago metro area)
18. Region 54 (Chicago Metro area)
19. Region 35 (Oregon)
20. Region 6 (Northern California)
21. Region 39 (Tennessee)
22. Region 43 (Washington state)
23. Region 49 (South Central Texas)
24. Region 8 (New York City Metro area)
25. Riverside County (California)
26. City of Phoenix (Arizona)
27. Tennessee Valley Regional Communications System
28. Tri-County Metropolitan Transportation District of Oregon
29. King County (Washington)
30. Denver Regional Transportation District
31. Ocean County, NJ
32. Prince George’s County (Maryland)
33. Portland Regional Radio System Partnership
34. Miami-Dade County (Florida)
35. AASHTO
36. APCO
37. National Public Safety Telecommunications Council (“NPSTC”)
38. Telecommunications Industry Association (“TIA”)
39. Joint Council of Transit Wireless Communications
40. Public Safety Spectrum Trust (“PSST”)
41. Big 7 (National Governor’s Association, etc.)
42. AT&T
43. Harris Corporation
44. Motorola
45. Andrew Seybold
46. Ron Haraseth

To read individual comments, please click on http://fjallfoss.fcc.gov/ecfs/comment_search/input?z=nif0e and enter Docket number 06-229.

Outreach News - 12/6/2010

1. FCC'S PUBLIC SAFETY AND HOMELAND SECURITY BUREAU LAUNCHES NEW WEBPAGE DEDICATED TO NARROWBANDING PUBLIC SAFETY COMMUNICATIONS. The Commission is Committed to Helping UHF/VHF Licensees Migrate to Narrower Bandwidth Communications by the January 1, 2013 Compliance Deadline.
PSHSB. Contact Roberto Mussenden at (202) 418-1428, email: Roberto.Mussenden@fcc.gov
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DOC-303242A1.doc
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DOC-303242A1.pdf
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DOC-303242A1.txt

2. THE OFFICE OF ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGY, WIRELESS TELECOMMUNICATIONS BUREAU AND PUBLIC SAFETY AND HOMELAND SECURITY BUREAU REMIND LICENSEES, FREQUENCY COORDINATORS, AND EQUIPMENT MANUFACTURERS OF NARROWBAND MIGRATION DEADLINES. (DA No. 10-2294). (Dkt No RM-9332 99-87) IN THE 150-174 MHZ AND 421-512 MHZ BANDS. PSHSB . Contact: Melvin Spann at (202) 418-1333, email: Melvin.Spann@fcc.gov or Roberto Mussenden at (202) 418-1428, email: Roberto.Mussenden@fcc.gov, or Andrew Leimer at (301) 362-3049, email: Andrew.Leimer@fcc.gov
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DA-10-2294A1.doc
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DA-10-2294A1.pdf
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DA-10-2294A1.txt

3. PUBLIC SAFETY AND HOMELAND SECURITY BUREAU ANNOUNCES REGION 30 (NEW YORK - ALBANY) PUBLIC SAFETY REGIONAL PLANNING COMMITTEES TO HOLD 700 MHZ AND 800 MHZ MEETINGS. (DA No. 10-2292). (Dkt No 90-394 ). PSHSB
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DA-10-2292A1.doc
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DA-10-2292A1.pdf
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DA-10-2292A1.txt

Wednesday, December 1, 2010

Outreach News - 12/1/2010

1. Attached is important information regarding developments with “intrinsically safe” radios.

2. Please see the attached Presidential Proclamation honoring America’s First Responders.

ELECTRONIC MAIL NOTIFICATION

RCC Public Safety Communications Blog

Thursday, December 30, 2010

Outreach News - 12/30/2010

Wednesday, December 29, 2010

Outreach News - 12/29/2010

Outreach News - 12/29/2010

Monday, December 27, 2010

Outreach News - 12/27/2010

Wednesday, December 22, 2010

Outreach News - 12/22/2010

Tuesday, December 21, 2010

Outreach News - 12/21/2010

Wednesday, December 15, 2010

Outreach News - 12/15/2010

Tuesday, December 14, 2010

Outreach News - 12/14/2010

Monday, December 13, 2010

Outreach News - 12/13/2010

Friday, December 10, 2010

FCC Takes Action to Advance Interoperability For Public Safety Broadband Communications

Thursday, December 9, 2010

Outreach News - 12/9/2010

Wednesday, December 8, 2010

Outreach News - 12/8/2010

Monday, December 6, 2010

Outreach News - 12/6/2010 - Special Edition - 700 MHz Narrowband Flexibility Submissions

Outreach News - 12/6/2010

Wednesday, December 1, 2010

Outreach News - 12/1/2010

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