Amateur Radio Operators Raise Early Concerns on Clearing 3.1-3.55 GHz Band
The FCC received comments through Monday asking that 3.3-3.5 GHz be retained for amateur use. Commissioners approved an NPRM 5-0 on clearing the 3.1-3.55 GHz band at their December meeting (see 1912120063). Amateur operators raised concerns before any comment deadline…
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in docket 19-348. “Reallocating Amateur services out of the 3.3 and 3.5 GHz sub-band will have a detrimental effect on the operation of these networks and a negative impact on the agencies being served,” said Allison Hollier, member of a radio club that provides communications for a number of agencies in the Johnson County, Texas, area. “We’re doing good here with our own money and volunteers. Commercial industries have nothing but their own interests at heart.” Hollier said. Nita Sanders, an amateur operator in Florida, raised similar concerns. “This is the only available band to do experimental work in weather pulse radar,” she said. Several commenters noted the Amateur Radio Emergency Data Network (AREDN) uses 3.3-3.55 GHz band. “AREDN utilizes the … spectrum to provide a high-speed mesh data network that bridges the gap between government and non-government organizations,” said Scott Underwood, a California operator: “This network, which exists today, provides invaluable video situational awareness, voice, and data emergency communications. Through the use of FCC-licensed amateur radio operators, these technologies bridge our Government emergency operations centers with hospitals, school districts, transportation, disaster relief, and faith-based organizations.”