Citizens Broadband Radio Service (CBRS)
In 2015, in the U.S., the FCC authorized the use of the 3.5 GHz band (3550 to 3700 MHz) for broadband wireless access. Previously limited to the 3.65 GHz, the new ruling opened up an additional 150 MHz of spectrum to be shared by operators and service providers. This portion of the band had previously been protected and limited to use by the US Navy and other DoD members.
The new ruling calls for the band to be shared, which means that new protocols and platforms needed to be developed in order to properly manage the use of the band. The band will use Dynamic Spectrum Allocation, which will help with more efficient use of the spectrum.
Citizens Broadband Radio Service (CBRS)
In 2015, in the U.S., the FCC authorized the use of the 3.5 GHz band (3550 to 3700 MHz) for broadband wireless access. Previously limited to the 3.65 GHz, the new ruling opened up an additional 150 MHz of spectrum to be shared by operators and service providers. This portion of the band had previously been protected and limited to use by the US Navy and other DoD members.
The new ruling calls for the band to be shared, which means that new protocols and platforms needed to be developed in order to properly manage the use of the band. The band will use Dynamic Spectrum Allocation, which will help with more efficient use of the spectrum.
Spectrum Allocation Server (SAS)
The spectrum will be dynamically allocated by Spectrum Allocation Servers (SAS). Each SAS will work with certified CBRS equipment vendors, such as Telrad. When an operator deploys new equipment, the units will first direct a request to the SAS for the proper amount of spectrum. In turn, the SAS will authorize the request and grant the use of the band by the operator, as well as continue to record and monitor the band use.
In addition, the SAS must comply with Environmental Sensing Capability (ESC) regulations so that priority access can be given to military and satellite operations where needed.
CBRS Type / Prioritization
The CBRS band will split into a three-tiered spectrum prioritization framework to accommodate a variety of commercial uses while sharing with incumbent federal and non-federal users of the band.
- Incumbent Access: Military, DoD, Sattelite, Utility and other governing bodies will retain first priority, in particular in certain coastal areas, in order to protect their operations from harmful interference
- Priority Access: These will be licensed as Priority Access Licenses (PALs) and will be auctioned in a competitive bidding process within the 3505-3650 GHz portion of the band. Each PAL will be defined for a period of time and specific locations based on single census tracts.
- General Authorized Access: The final priority goes to GAA users of the spectrum. This level will allow the widest possible group of potential users. GAA users are permitted to use, through dynamic allocation, any portion of the 3550-3700 MHz band not assigned to a higher tier user. They will also be able to operate in unused portions of the Priority Access channels.
Though the FCC is still working out the details of the PAL auctions, certifications for SAS and equipment vendors have already begun. Commercial deployments are expected to begin in 2019.
CBRS Type / Prioritization
The CBRS band will split into a three-tiered spectrum prioritization framework to accommodate a variety of commercial uses while sharing with incumbent federal and non-federal users of the band.
- Incumbent Access: Military, DoD, Sattelite, Utility and other governing bodies will retain first priority, in particular in certain coastal areas, in order to protect their operations from harmful interference
- Priority Access: These will be licensed as Priority Access Licenses (PALs) and will be auctioned in a competitive bidding process within the 3505-3650 GHz portion of the band. Each PAL will be defined for a period of time and specific locations based on single census tracts.
- General Authorized Access: The final priority goes to GAA users of the spectrum. This level will allow the widest possible group of potential users. GAA users are permitted to use, through dynamic allocation, any portion of the 3550-3700 MHz band not assigned to a higher tier user. They will also be able to operate in unused portions of the Priority Access channels.
Though the FCC is still working out the details of the PAL auctions, certifications for SAS and equipment vendors have already begun. Commercial deployments are expected to begin in 2019.
Telrad and CBRS
Telrad is currently serving on the board of the CBRS Alliance and has been instrumental in helping set the expectations and standards for equipment used in the band. OnGo™ Certified is a recognized seal of approval that indicates a product’s ability to meet a high set of quality, interoperability and security standards when tested by an independent, OnGo Certification Authorized Test Laboratory. The OnGo brand and the OnGo Certification Program are managed and maintained by the CBRS Alliance.
Telrad has already received OnGo certification for our flagship BreezeCOMPACT base station as well as two CPEs. We are ready to commercially deploy and have completed field tests to prove seamless operation with the Federated SAS system. Telrad is also cooperating with Google to ensure interoperability with its SAS.
Telrad and CBRS
Telrad is currently serving on the board of the CBRS Alliance and has been instrumental in helping set the expectations and standards for equipment used in the band. OnGo™ Certified is a recognized seal of approval that indicates a product’s ability to meet a high set of quality, interoperability and security standards when tested by an independent, OnGo Certification Authorized Test Laboratory. The OnGo brand and the OnGo Certification Program are managed and maintained by the CBRS Alliance.
Telrad has already received OnGo certification for our flagship BreezeCOMPACT base station as well as two CPEs. We are ready to commercially deploy and have completed field tests to prove seamless operation with the Federated SAS system. Telrad is also cooperating with Google to ensure interoperability with its SAS.
