Google Concerned About CTIA Proposals for Spectrum Sharing Band

Rules proposed by CTIA for the 3.5 GHz band, which the FCC is considering as a band to test spectrum sharing, could undermine the usefulness of the band, Google said in a filing last week in docket 12-354. The FCC is moving toward final rules for spectrum sharing in the 3.5 GHz band and tweaking its rules after several rounds of comment (see 1502050049). “CTIA appears to be suggesting that (1) devices may rely on spectrum sensing alone, rather than [spectrum access system] management, and (2) service providers should not be required to exchange information about the usage of Citizens Band Radio Service devices on their networks,” Google said. “Accepting either of these premises would greatly compromise utilization” of the band, Google said. Assigning static frequencies for priority access licenses in the 3.5 GHz band, or permitting spectrum access systems to reside within a carrier’s network without protective conditions or restrictions are among the kinds of protections sought by CTIA that could undermine shared use of the band, said Federated Wireless, commenting in the docket. Interoperability is critical for the band and the FCC should make it a requirement, the company said.