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FCC: Broadband PCS
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Broadband PCS


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Universal Licensing System


Broadband PCS

 
Licensees use broadband Personal Communications Service (PCS) spectrum for a variety of mobile and fixed radio services, also called wireless services. Mobile broadband PCS services include both voice and advanced two-way data capabilities that are generally available on small, mobile multifunction devices. The Commission and other wireless industry representatives often refer to these services as "Mobile Telephone Services" and "Mobile Data Services." Many broadband PCS licensees offer these services in competition with existing cellular and SMR licensees. Examples of entities holding a significant amount of broadband PCS spectrum include AT&T Wireless and Sprint PCS. You can read more about broadband PCS including blocking & jamming and finding a service provider.

Finding a Service Provider

There are several issues to consider when searching for and selecting a mobile telephone service provider:

Licensing

The process of broadband PCS licensing begins with spectrum auctions, after which applications are filed, final payments provided, and granted licenses are announced. Once licensed, construction requirements must be met, and various methods exist for obtaining spectrum from existing licensees and secondary markets.

 Construction Requirements
 Obtaining Spectrum

  
   Service At A Glance
Broadband PCS
Broadband PCS is primarily used to provide a variety of services, such as digital mobile phones and wireless internet access. These services are also called mobile telephone services and mobile data services.
Established 1994
Service Rules C.F.R., Part 24
Related Services
Cellular
Narrowband PCS
Bandplan
Band 1850-1990 MHz
Blocks A-F, C1-C5
Block Size 10 to 30 MHz
Market Areas MTAs, BTAs
Licensing
System ULS
ULS Radio Service Codes
CW - PCS Broadband
Auctions
#4 - A & B Block PCS
  12/5/1994-3/13/1995
  Winning Bidders PN
#5 - C Block PCS
  12/18/1995-5/6/1996
  Winning Bidders PN
#10 - C Block PCS Reauction
  7/3/1996-7/16/1996
  Winning Bidders PN
#11 - D, E, & F Block PCS
  8/26/1996-1/14/1997
  Winning Bidders PN
#22 - C, D, E, & F Block PCS
  3/23/1999-4/15/1999
  Winning Bidders PN
#35 - C & F Block PCS
  12/12/2000-1/26/2001
  Winning Bidders PN

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Last reviewed/updated on 6/18/2002.


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Technical Support Issues
- Call (202) 414-1250 (TTY: (202) 414-1255)
- E-mail ulscomm@fcc.gov
Licensing Support and Form Issues
- Call (888) 225-5322 and select option 2
- Call (717) 338-2888 (TTY: (202) 414-1255)
- E-mail ulshelp@fcc.gov
Inquiries Related to Broadband PCS
- Contact Melvin Spann at (202) 418-1333 or mspann@fcc.gov

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Washington, DC 20554
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