Three two-way-radio licensing myths … busted

By the EWA Spectrum Operations Staff

Myth 1: Only a few specialists know how to secure exclusive land-mobile-radio channels in the 150-470 MHz band through little known analytical methods.

Reality: There are no secret methods or unique analytical processes that provide anyone an advantage in identifying the availability of exclusive channels in the primarily shared-use 150-470 MHz bands. The identification of exclusive-use channels in the bands below 470 MHz are the product of Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Part 90 rules compliance (Part 90 houses the rules for Private Land Mobile Radio) and industry recognized and documented co-channel and adjacent channel contour analyses. If someone advises you otherwise, be wary … very wary.  Rely on spectrum experts who are familiar with the applicable rules and the critical analyses that should be performed—like professionals at the Enterprise Wireless Alliance (EWA)—to have confidence that every possible solution has been explored to secure exclusive-use channels.

Anyone who invests in computer equipment and has access to the FCC’s licensing records can make assumptions on spectrum availability; however, only frequency advisory committees certified by the FCC can submit an application that will result in an FCC license, so it’s really a two-part process: preparing your application, then certifying it to be compliant with FCC rules. If you are currently using a licensing entity to prepare your applications, ask them which frequency coordinator they are using for certification. If they say that they are certifying the application for submission to the FCC, be concerned, as that cannot be the case.

Successfully securing exclusive channels may result from simple changes to the proposed system. Reductions of power, antenna height, emission and frequency band changes all play a significant role in the contour-analysis results. EWA has a history of success stories, because we think outside of the box and we don’t like to say “no” to customers.

Myth 2: You have only a few choices when it comes to selecting a public safety frequency advisory committee.

Reality: Actually you have multiple options. If you trust EWA to professionally handle your Industrial/Business licensing and spectrum requirements, why not trust us to handle your public-safety needs? In cooperation with Public Safety Coordination Associates, the unified effort of FCCA/IMSA—both of which are FCC certified public safety frequency advisory committees—EWA can provide the same level of service you have come to expect from EWA for your other work. If you think using EWA and PSCA will cost you more,  EWA will refund any fees that exceed alternative public-safety frequency coordination solutions … guaranteed.

Myth 3: It’s virtually impossible to keep up on all of the spectrum policies and rules.

Reality: Not keeping up on spectrum policies and rules—even something as simple as filing construction notices or keeping up with your renewals—can lead to fines, delays and other costly problems. One way to prevent this is to become a member of EWA. You will have access to an organization that is participating in every single spectrum and regulatory issue of importance concerning the use of Private Land Mobile radios. Want answers regarding rules, licensing requirements or interference assistance? Call EWA. Need spectrum solutions? Call EWA. EWA’s membership includes business enterprises, equipment manufacturers and representatives, communication service providers and sales/service providers. Many of your colleagues already trust EWA as their wireless advocate. So should you.