The FCC is hard at work trying to whittle away lots of new spectrum, 500MHz by 2020, for new mobile broadband connectivity. Wireless spectrum is the best way to get rural Americans online and to support the quickly growing demand for bandwidth.
The FCC has announced that it has opened 90MHz of wireless spectrum previously allotted to MSS (mobile satellite service) in the US for wireless broadband. The spectrum was blocked for broadband use before due to a stipulation in the rules that only allowed owners of the spectrum to install terrestrial towers in support of satellites.
With that rule banished, the spectrum is now open for other use. A company called Harbinger Capital Partners already plans to install a LTE network on the spectrum at a cost of billions of dollars.
The Importance of Wireless Spectrum
Wireless spectrum is a critical resource in the modern digital age. It refers to the range of electromagnetic frequencies used to transmit data wirelessly. This includes everything from radio and television broadcasts to mobile phone signals and Wi-Fi. As more devices connect to the internet and demand for data increases, the need for additional spectrum becomes more pressing. The FCC’s initiative to free up 500MHz of spectrum by 2020 is a significant step towards meeting this demand.
The availability of more spectrum can lead to faster internet speeds, better connectivity, and more reliable service, especially in rural areas where traditional broadband infrastructure may be lacking. For rural Americans, who often face limited internet options, wireless broadband can be a game-changer. It can provide access to online education, telehealth services, and other essential resources that are increasingly moving online.
Challenges and Opportunities
While the opening of 90MHz of spectrum for wireless broadband is a positive development, it also presents several challenges. One of the main challenges is the cost of building the necessary infrastructure. Harbinger Capital Partners’ plan to install an LTE network on the newly available spectrum will require billions of dollars in investment. This includes the cost of building new towers, upgrading existing ones, and developing the technology needed to make the most of the spectrum.
Another challenge is ensuring that the spectrum is used efficiently. The FCC will need to carefully manage the allocation of spectrum to avoid interference between different users and to ensure that it is used in a way that maximizes its potential. This may involve setting rules and guidelines for how the spectrum can be used and working with different stakeholders to coordinate its use.
Despite these challenges, the opening of new spectrum also presents significant opportunities. For example, it can spur innovation in the telecommunications industry, leading to the development of new technologies and services. It can also create new business opportunities for companies that can develop and deploy the necessary infrastructure.
In addition to Harbinger Capital Partners, other companies may also be interested in using the newly available spectrum. This could lead to increased competition in the telecommunications industry, which could benefit consumers by driving down prices and improving service quality.
Furthermore, the availability of more spectrum can support the growth of emerging technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT) and 5G. These technologies rely on high-speed, reliable internet connections, and the additional spectrum can help provide the necessary bandwidth to support their growth.
The FCC’s initiative to free up 500MHz of spectrum by 2020 is a significant step towards meeting the growing demand for wireless broadband. While there are challenges to be addressed, the opening of new spectrum presents significant opportunities for innovation, competition, and improved connectivity, especially in rural areas. As the telecommunications industry continues to evolve, the availability of additional spectrum will be a critical factor in supporting its growth and development.
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