Deployment of aerial communications architecture (DACA) raises interference concerns that...
Deployment of aerial communications architecture (DACA) raises interference concerns that have never been fully addressed by proponents, CTIA said in reply comments filed at the FCC. The commission approved a DACA notice of inquiry at its May meeting (CD May…
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25 p 3), exploring the use of balloon-mounted systems and other aerial base stations that could be quickly dispatched to disaster areas to keep communications alive when other systems falter. “The record demonstrates that both public safety interests and commercial mobile licensees have significant concerns regarding the interference to wireless users that may result from a DACA deployment,” CTIA said (http://xrl.us/bnkykv). “No DACA proponent offers an operational description or sufficient specificity as to how an aerial solution could overlay a terrestrial network in the aftermath of disaster and avoid interference to the underlying licensee’s ongoing (albeit possibly limited) operations and restoration efforts. Instead, DACA proponents sweepingly proclaim that unproven technologies will solve all concerns. Otherwise, they make high-level assertions that interference risks can be managed easily or, remarkably, they simply ignore interference management concerns.” Oceus Networks, which is conducting a trial demonstration to assess the technological capabilities of DACA for emergency use, encouraged the FCC to launch a rulemaking now that comments are in on the NOI. “Oceus Networks recommends that the FCC focus a rulemaking to govern permissible DACA use under two scenarios: (1) after an event cripples communications, to supplement communications while terrestrial networks are being restored; and, (2) as primary communications in areas of the country where fixed public safety broadband infrastructure has not been built,” Oceus said (http://xrl.us/bnkymh). “Oceus Networks recognizes the need to avoid harmful interference. With proper coordination and planning, modern networking techniques can effectively mitigate interference. Giving first responders broadband capabilities is a key goal for modern public safety incident response. Broadband can support high-definition video, sensor platforms, and mapping functionality for first responders, as well as advanced messaging applications."