The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has adopted a ‘Notice of Proposed Rulemaking’ seeking comment on how to maximise efficient use of 500MHz of spectrum in the 12.2GHz-12.7GHz band. The watchdog explains: ‘This action will advance a conversation as to whether terrestrial mobile wireless service could coexist with existing operations in the band without causing harmful interference to incumbent licensees.’
In the US, the 12GHz band is currently licensed to Direct Broadcast Satellite (DBS) operators, non-geostationary orbit (NGSO) satellite systems and fixed service providers—all on a co-primary basis. DISH Network and DirecTV, the two DBS licensees, use this spectrum to provide video programming content to millions of American consumers.