RFSTUF

FCC technology chief clarifies 700 MHz video points

Jun 30, 2010 3:39 PM, By Donny Jackson

More cell sites — not more spectrum — is the driving factor when determining maximum data throughput per device at the edge of a cell in a broadband wireless network, such as the one proposed by the FCC in the 700 MHz band for first-responder use.

That’s the message that FCC Chief Technologist Jon Peha wants to make clear as the debate about the proposed network’s configuration, cost and spectrum assets — most notably, whether the D Block should be auctioned for commercial use or reallocated to public safety — continues to get more attention. …

…In other words, the amount of total capacity supported by the network needs to be determined, as well as the per-device target throughput rates, Peha said.

“Either we build out enough sites for 1.2 Mbps or we build out enough sites for 512 kbps or we build out enough sites for 256 kbps, and then we should talk about both aggregate and per-device throughput,” he said. …