In a significant development, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has issued a Second Report and Order alongside a Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (FNPRM) and a Memorandum Opinion and Order (MO&O), aimed at broadening the unlicensed utilization of the 6 GHz band.
The Report and Order authorize very low power (VLP) unlicensed devices to operate within the U-NII-5 (5.925-6.425 GHz) and U-NII-7 (6.525-6.875 GHz) segments of the 6 GHz band. These VLP devices will enjoy the freedom to function both indoors and outdoors, without the need for frequency coordination, thus fostering greater flexibility in deployment.
Simultaneously, the FNPRM proposes extending VLP device operations across the entirety of the 6 GHz band and potentially allowing for higher power levels under the supervision of a geofencing system. This move promises to enhance the capabilities and versatility of VLP devices, opening doors for expanded applications and improved performance.
Addressing concerns raised about potential interference in the 2.4 GHz band from unlicensed devices, the MO&O concludes that unsubstantiated claims from broadcasters do not necessitate modifications to the 6 GHz rules. Consequently, VLP devices will operate at power levels compatible with incumbent operations in the band, ensuring efficient coexistence.
Key Highlights:
- VLP unlicensed devices now have clearance for operation within designated segments of the 6 GHz band, both indoors and outdoors, without frequency coordination.
- Proposed expansions in the FNPRM offer prospects for broader VLP device operations and increased power levels, subject to geofencing supervision.
- The FCC’s decision reinforces the regulatory framework for unlicensed spectrum usage, promoting innovation and enabling enhanced connectivity solutions.
Overall, these regulatory measures signify a significant stride toward unlocking the full potential of the 6 GHz band for unlicensed use, fostering innovation and bolstering connectivity across diverse applications.