As expected, FCC will take up two 3G-related agenda items at its ...

As expected, FCC will take up two 3G-related agenda items at its Nov. 7 open meeting, including rulemaking on service rules for 1.7 and 2.1 GHz bands. Earlier this year, Administration released report on how to clear total of 90 MHz for advanced wireless services, including 1710-1755 MHz used by military and 45 MHz of 2110-2170 MHz by nongovt. users. Commission also will consider order that would allocate spectrum in those bands for 3G. Separately, Spectrum Policy Task Force will report on its findings and recommendations on spectrum policy. FCC Chmn. Powell set up task force in June to examine Commission’s policy in that area, including use of unlicensed spectrum and interference issues. He gave broad preview building on some of findings of task force in speech at U. of Colo. late Wed. (CD Oct 31 p1). On other issues, FCC will: (1) Consider order on new broadcast and multichannel equal employment opportunity rules and policies as part of review of its broadcast and cable equal employment policies. (2) Hear report from International Bureau on outcome of recent ITU Plenipotentiary Conference in Marrakesh, Morocco. (3) Consider rulemaking and order on allocation and service rules for dedicated short-range communications services at 5.9 GHz. In 1999, Commission approved using 75 MHz of spectrum at 5.9 GHz for intelligent transportation systems, which cover operations such as traffic monitoring and traveler alerts. Spectrum at 5850-5925 MHz would be used for short-range wireless links to transfer information between vehicles and roadside systems.