99-30591. Dedicated Short Range Communications of Intelligent Transportation Services  

  • [Federal Register Volume 64, Number 227 (Friday, November 26, 1999)]
    [Rules and Regulations]
    [Pages 66405-66410]
    From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
    [FR Doc No: 99-30591]
    
    
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    FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
    
    47 CFR Parts 2 and 90
    
    [ET Docket No. 98-95, FCC 99-305]
    
    
    Dedicated Short Range Communications of Intelligent 
    Transportation Services
    
    AGENCY: Federal Communications Commission.
    
    ACTION: Final rule.
    
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    SUMMARY: This document allocates 75 megahertz of spectrum at 5.850-
    5.925 GHz to the mobile service for use by Dedicated Short Range 
    Communications (``DSRC'') systems operating in the Intelligent 
    Transportation System (``ITS'') radio service. ITS services are 
    expected to improve traveler safety, decrease traffic congestion, 
    facilitate the reduction of air pollution, and help to conserve vital 
    fossil fuels. DSRC systems are being designed that require a short 
    range wireless link to transfer information between vehicles and 
    roadside systems. We are also adopting basic technical rules 
    establishing power limits, and unwanted emission limits for DSRC 
    operations. These decisions will further the goals of the United States 
    (``U.S.'') Congress and the Department of Transportation (``DOT'') to 
    improve the efficiency of the Nation's transportation infrastructure 
    and will facilitate the growth and development of the ITS industry.
    
    EFFECTIVE DATE: December 27, 1999.
    
    FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Tom Derenge, Office of Engineering and 
    Technology, (202) 418-2451.
    
    SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: This is a summary of the Commission's Report 
    and Order, ET Docket 98-95, FCC 99-305, adopted October 21,1999, and 
    released October 22, 1999. The full text of this Commission decision is 
    available for inspection and copying during normal business hours in 
    the FCC Reference Information Center, Room Cy-A257, 445 12th Street, 
    S.W., Washington, D.C., and is available on the FCC's Internet site at 
    www.fcc.gov/Bureaus/Engineering_Technology/_Orders/1999/. This 
    document may also be purchased from the Commission's duplication 
    contractor, International Transcription Service, (202) 857-3800, 1231 
    20th Street, N.W. Washington, D.C. 20036.
    
    Summary of the Report and Order
    
        1. By this action, the Commission allocates 75 megahertz spectrum 
    at 5.850-5.925 GHz to the mobile service for use by Dedicated Short 
    Range Communications (``DSRC'') systems operating in the Intelligent 
    Transportation System (``ITS'') radio service. ITS services are 
    expected to improve traveler safety, decrease traffic congestion, 
    facilitate the reduction of air pollution, and help to conserve vital 
    fossil fuels. DSRC systems are being designed that require a short 
    range wireless link to transfer information between vehicles and 
    roadside systems. We are also adopting basic technical rules 
    establishing power limits and unwanted emission limits for DSRC 
    operations. The R&O defers consideration of licensing and service rules 
    and spectrum channelization plans to a later proceeding because 
    standards addressing such matters are still under development by the 
    Department of Transportation. Once such standards are developed, the 
    Commission could take whatever action is necessary to implement the 
    standards related to DSRC use. The decisions made here will further the 
    goals of the U.S. Congress and the DOT to improve the efficiency of the 
    Nation's transportation infrastructure and will facilitate the growth 
    and development of the ITS industry.
        2. On June 11, 1998, the Commission released the Notice of Proposed 
    Rule Making (``NPRM'') in ET Docket No. 98-95, 63 FR 35558, June 30, 
    1998, which proposed to allocate the 5.85-5.925 GHz band on a primary 
    basis to the mobile service for use by DSRC-based ITS operations. ITS 
    applications rely upon the integration of advanced communications 
    systems and highway infrastructure systems. Communications are an 
    essential component of the backbone of all ITS applications, which rely 
    on the swift and accurate flow of information. While many ITS 
    communications requirements are being met within the framework of 
    existing telecommunications systems, the NPRM stated that there is a 
    need for spectrum for reliable short-range wireless communications 
    links between vehicles traveling at highway speeds and roadside 
    systems, i.e., DSRC. Accordingly, the Commission proposed an allocation 
    of 75 megahertz of spectrum near 5.9 GHz for DSRC operations and 
    requested comment on various related matters.
        3. On June 9, 1998, the President signed the Transportation Equity 
    Act for the 21st Century. Section 5206(f) of this Act states that 
    ``[t]he Federal Communications Commission shall consider, in 
    consultation with the Secretary of Transportation, spectrum needs for 
    the operation of intelligent transportation systems, including spectrum 
    for the dedicated short-range vehicle-to-wayside wireless standard. Not 
    later than January 1, 2000, the Federal Communications Commission shall 
    have completed a rule making considering the allocation of spectrum for 
    intelligent transportation systems.''
        4. The R&O recognizes the substantial efforts by both Government 
    and non-Government entities to develop, in response to Congress' 
    transportation legislation, a National ITS Plan and Architecture 
    addressing ways of using communications technologies to increase the 
    efficiency of the nation's transportation infrastructure. While some 
    parties argue that other spectrum may be more appropriate for DSRC 
    operations, the Commission found that the 5.85-5.925 GHz band can 
    accommodate a wide variety of reliable DSRC applications without 
    significantly hindering other users of this spectrum.
    
    Spectrum Allocation
    
        5. Domestically, the entire 5.850-5.925 GHz band is currently 
    allocated on a co-primary basis for the Government's Radiolocation 
    Service (i.e., for use by high-powered military radar systems) and for 
    non-Government Fixed Satellite Service (``FSS'') uplink operations. 
    Industrial, Scientific and Medical (``ISM'') devices and unlicensed 
    part 15 devices are also permitted to operate in the 5.850-5.875 GHz 
    segment. Finally, the Amateur radio service has a secondary domestic 
    allocation in the entire band.
        6. The R&O concludes that the 5.9 GHz range is appropriate for DSRC 
    applications due to its potential compatibility with European and Asian 
    DSRC developments, the availability of radio technology, signal 
    propagation characteristics, and the available spectral capacity in 
    this spectrum range. After carefully reviewing the record, we conclude 
    that an allocation of spectrum in the 5.9 GHz region is the best 
    available choice for DSRC applications. The record also demonstrates 
    that the propagation characteristics of this region of the spectrum are 
    well suited to the short range comunications of up to a mile that will 
    typify DSRC operations. The ITS community has done research showing 
    that the 5.85-5.925 GHz frequency band provides adequate range for DSRC
    
    [[Page 66406]]
    
    communications and reasonable frequency reuse distances.
        7. First, we note that DSRC applications are a key element in 
    meeting the nation's transportation needs into the next century and in 
    improving the safety of our nation's highways. The record submitted for 
    DSRC deployment in the U.S. indicates a need for up to 32 different 
    DSRC transactions, many of which will require two-way capabilities, 
    wideband channels, and the need for multiple channels in a single 
    location. We also note that not all channels will be available for DSRC 
    deployment in all areas due to incumbent radar, ISM and FSS operations. 
    Therefore, we find that 75 megahertz of DSRC spectrum within the United 
    States is warranted due to the scope of the National ITS Architecture, 
    the incumbent operations in this band in the U.S. and consideration 
    DSRC developments domestically and internationally.
        8. The R&O also addresses, ITS compatibility issues with Canada and 
    Mexico and concludes that our allocation is sufficient to promise 
    interoperability with Canadian ITS developments. While discussions with 
    Mexico are on-going, the Commission does not anticipate spectrum 
    sharing problems with operations in Mexico. As service rules are 
    developed and operations in these bands are more clearly defined, the 
    need to develop coordination requirements in border areas will be 
    considered. Nevertheless, the R&O encourages any entities addressing 
    standards for ITS operations in the 5.9 GHz range to plan DSRC 
    applications with the least potential for interference with Canadian 
    operations for the 5.875-5.883 GHz and 5.908-5.925 GHz bands.
        9. The R&O concludes that the 5.85-5.925 GHz band is appropriate 
    for DSRC-based ITS applications due to the variety of operations to be 
    accommodated, the propagation characteristics of the band, the 
    significant efforts of the Federal and state governments paired with 
    industry to research ITS use in this band, and ITS developments 
    internationally. Accordingly, the R&O allocates the 5.850-5.925 GHz 
    band on a primary basis to the mobile service for use by DSRC-based ITS 
    operations. In order to insure that mobile operations in this range are 
    ITS related, the item adopts footnote NG160 to the Table of Frequency 
    Allocations to read as follows:
    
        NG160: In the 5850-5925 MHz band, the use of the non-Federal 
    government mobile service is limited to Dedicated Short Range 
    Communications operating in the Intelligent Transportation System 
    radio service.
    
    Spectrum Sharing
    
        10. Government Radar Operations. The National Telecommunications 
    and Information Administration (``NTIA'') urges the Commission to 
    require DSRC operations within 75 kilometers of 65 possible radar 
    locations to coordinate their operations through the Frequency 
    Assignment Subcommittee of the Interdepartment Radio Advisory Committee 
    (``IRAC''). DOT provides a study that indicates that DSRC operations 
    could operate in close proximity to most high powered Government radar 
    operations. The R&O concludes that sharing between DSRC and Government 
    operations is possible if proper coordination is performed, and thus 
    adopts the NTIA recommendation. Further, DSRC applications within these 
    coordination areas cannot claim protection from existing radar 
    operations, but new radar installations that may be deployed subsequent 
    to DSRC implementation would have to coordinate with incumbent DSRC 
    operations.
        11. FSS Operations. The R&O finds that DSRC applications would be 
    compatible with FSS uplinks because FSS earth stations typically use 
    highly directional antennas pointed towards the geostationary orbital 
    arc, and DSRC applications would typically be pointed towards a highway 
    and operate at relatively low power. It may be necessary in some cases 
    for DSRC systems to avoid an area near an incumbent FSS earth station 
    in order to avoid the high powered earth station transmission. 
    Nonetheless, because of the limited number of FSS earth stations and 
    their use of highly directional antennas, the R&O finds that spectrum 
    sharing is feasible. At this time, the Commission does not anticipate 
    that prior coordination is necessary between DSRC and FSS operations.
        12. Amateur Service Operations. The R&O concludes that DSRC 
    operations in the 5.85-5.925 GHz band are unlikely to receive 
    significant interference from or cause interference to amateur 
    operations. Further, the R&O notes that amateur operations are 
    secondary in this spectrum range. The R&O does not anticipate that a 
    formal coordination procedure will be necessary because amateur 
    operations are not extensively deployed, and due to the availability of 
    interference remedies if they occur. The R&O encourage any ITS entities 
    wishing to use the 5.85-5.925 GHz band to informally notify the ARRL or 
    the local amateur service community of its intended operation.
        13. Unlicensed Hearing Assistance Devices. Resound filed comments 
    stating that it is contemplating development of unlicensed low power 
    hearing assistance devices in the 5.85-5.875 GHz band under the FCC's 
    Part 15 rules. Even if the Commission were to preclude DSRC operations 
    in the 5.85-5.875 GHz segment, the incumbent operations in this band 
    already pose a significant interference environment for hearing 
    assistance devices. The R&O recognizes that Resound's hearing 
    assistance devices could be beneficial and encourage them to identify 
    other spectrum that may be more appropriate for these devices.
    
    Technical Requirements
    
        14. The Secretary of Transportation submitted, in satisfaction of 
    the June 1, 1999 statutory requirement, a report to Congress 
    identifying which standards are critical to national interoperability 
    or standards development and specifying the status of the development 
    of each standard identified. The R&O concludes that it would be 
    beneficial at this time to adopt basic technical requirements to 
    promote spectrum sharing and create a basic framework for the 
    development of DSRC operational standards by industry. The Commission 
    recognizes that the rules it adopts here may need to be reviewed at a 
    later time as it develops licensing and service rules for DSRC systems.
    
    Spectrum Channelization
    
        15. The R&O finds that a spectrum channelization plan would 
    facilitate the efficient use of this spectrum and interoperability 
    among various DSRC services. However, the record here is insufficient 
    to devise a specific channel plan that would adequately address the 
    spectrum requirements, both narrowband and broadband, of the various 
    potential DSRC applications. This action invites the ITS industry and 
    the DOT to consider the spectrum requirements of various DSRC 
    applications and recommend a spectrum channel plan. The Commission will 
    address this matter further in a future proceeding proposing licensing 
    and service rules.
    
    Power
    
        16. The Commission finds that it is important to establish some 
    power limits for DSRC operations so that they can achieve widespread 
    deployment, and typically power requirements need to be flexible enough 
    to allow various DSRC applications to be developed. Most DSRC 
    operations will use highly directional antennas to focus communications 
    in an intended
    
    [[Page 66407]]
    
    direction (e.g., along the lane of a highway) and to promote frequency 
    reuse. Therefore, the Commission has adopted the following power 
    requirements for DSRC operations in the 5.85-5.925 GHz band:
    
        The peak transmit output power over the frequency band of 
    operations shall not exceed 750 mW or 28.8 dBm with up to 16 dBi in 
    antenna gain. If transmitting antennas of directional gain greater 
    than 16 dBi are used, the peak transmit output power shall be 
    reduced by the amount in dB that the directional gain of the antenna 
    exceeds 16 dBi, i.e., the device's maximum EIRP shall not exceed 30 
    W EIRP. However, the peak transmitter output power may be increased 
    to account for any line losses due to long transmission cables 
    between the transmitter and the DSRC device's antenna, provided the 
    EIRP does not exceed 30 W.
    
    The Commission finds that this power limit is sufficient to satisfy 
    many DSRC applications, compensate for transmission line losses, 
    promote the deployment of various types of applications, and provide a 
    high degree of frequency reuse. Nonetheless, the rules will require ITS 
    licensees to use the minimal power necessary to achieve reliable 
    communications in order to promote frequency reuse.
    
    Unwanted Emission Limits
    
        17. The R&O states that it is necessary to limit the amount of 
    unwanted emissions, both those occurring outside of the DSRC spectrum 
    band and those emanating from one channel to the next within the DSRC 
    band. The unwanted emission limits proposed are appropriate and 
    necessary to promote spectrum sharing between DSRC applications in the 
    5.85-5.925 GHz band. Accordingly, the Commission adopts the emission 
    mask requirements of Sec. 90.210(k) for DSRC operations in the 5.9 GHz 
    band. The R&O recognizes that depending on the developing DSRC 
    applications, the licensing scheme adopted and the corresponding 
    spectrum channelization plan, the Commission may need to revisit the 
    emission limits between specific channels or applications, e.g., more 
    sensitive applications on specific channels may require additional 
    protection or a licensee with access to multiple consecutive channels 
    in a geographic area could benefit from additional flexibility 
    regarding unwanted emissions without affecting other operations.
    
    Frequency Stability
    
        18. The Commission proposed to apply to DSRC operations in the 5.9 
    GHz band the frequency stability requirement specified in Sec. 2.995 
    (Sec. 2.1055) of our rules in order to prevent DSRC operations from 
    causing interference to DSRC operations on other channels or to other 
    services in nearby spectrum. However, part 90 has more specific 
    frequency stability requirements in Sec. 90.213 which vary according to 
    the channel bandwidth of the operation. Since the R&O is not yet able 
    to establish a channelization plan for DSRC operations, the Commission 
    defers any decision on frequency stability requirements to a future 
    proceeding.
    
    RF Guidelines
    
        19. The Commission requires compliance with RF safety guidelines 
    for all applications to ensure the public's safety. Therefore, DSRC 
    operations must comply with the RF safety guidelines contained in the 
    Second Memorandum Opinion and Order (``Second MO&O'') in ET Docket No. 
    93-62, 62 FR 47960, September 12, 1997. The R&O finds that this level 
    of protection is appropriate and will not result in exposure to the 
    public of unsafe levels of RF energy.
    
    Unlicensed DSRC Operations
    
        20. Section 15.245 of the Commission's rules permits unlicensed 
    field disturbance sensors to operate in the 5.785-5.815 GHz band. While 
    these field disturbance sensors are not available for two-way 
    information communications, the rules would permit backscatter type 
    toll-tag operations in this band with a permitted average field 
    strength of 500 millivolts/meter at a distance of 3 meters (75 mW 
    EIRP). Additionally, Sec. 15.247 of the rules permits unlicensed spread 
    spectrum communications devices to operate in the 5.725-5.850 GHz band 
    with a maximum peak transmitter output power of 1 watt with antenna 
    gain of up to 6 dBi. Finally, Sec. 15.249 permits unlicensed 
    communications devices to operate in the 5.725-5.875 GHz band with a 
    maximum average field strength of 50 millivolts/meter at a distance of 
    3 meters (0.8 mW EIRP
        21. The R&O finds that a backscatter system that transmits an 
    unmodulated carrier signal to a mobile transponder which, in turn, 
    reflects a modulated signal, does not qualify as a conventional spread 
    spectrum system under the part 15 rules. Part 15 defines a spread 
    spectrum system as a system that conveys information by modulation of a 
    carrier by some conventional means and then deliberately widens the 
    bandwidth by means of a spreading function over that which would be 
    needed to transmit the information alone. Because backscatter beacon 
    stations do not modulate their carriers, they do not qualify as spread 
    spectrum devices. The R&O declines to modify the rules to allow 
    backscatter systems to qualify for use as spread spectrum systems under 
    Sec. 15.247. Nevertheless, the spread spectrum requirements of 
    Sec. 15.247 can likely accommodate a wide range of alternative 
    unlicensed DSRC communication systems.
    
    Other Issues
    
        22. The Commission adopts the following definition of DSRC services 
    for this mobile allocation in the 5.9 GHz range:
    
        The use of non-voice radio techniques to transfer data over 
    short distances between roadside and mobile radio units, between 
    mobile units, and between portable and mobile units to perform 
    operations related to the improvement of traffic flow, traffic 
    safety and other intelligent transportation service applications in 
    a variety of public and commercial environments. DSRC systems may 
    also transmit status and instructional messages related to the units 
    involved.
    
    Final Regulatory Flexibility Analysis
    
        23. As required by the Regulatory Flexibility Act (``RFA''),\1\ an 
    Initial Regulatory Flexibility Analysis (``IRFA'') was incorporated 
    into the Notice of Proposed Rule Making (``NPRM'') in ET Docket No. 98-
    95, 63 FR 35558, June 30, 1998. The Commission sought written comment 
    on the proposals in the NPRM, including the IRFA. The Final Regulatory 
    Flexibility Analysis (``FRFA'') in this Report and Order conforms to 
    the RFA.\2\
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        \1\ See 5 U.S.C. 603. The RFA, see 5 U.S.C. 601 et seq., has 
    been amended by the Contract With America Advancement Act of 1996, 
    Public Law 104-121, 110 Stat. 847 (1996) (CWAAA). Title II of the 
    CWAAA is the Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act of 
    1996 (SBREFA).
        \2\ See 5 U.S.C. 604.
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    A. Need for and Objective of This Report and Order (R&O).
    
        This R&O allocates the 5.850-5.925 GHz band to the Private Land 
    Mobile Service (``PLMS'') for use by Dedicated Short Range 
    Communications Services (``DSRCS'') in the provision of Intelligent 
    Transportation Services (``ITS''). DSRCS communications are used for 
    non-voice wireless transfer of data over short distances between 
    roadside and mobile radio units, between mobile units, and between 
    portable and mobile units to perform operations related to the 
    improvement of traffic flow, traffic safety and other intelligent 
    transportation service applications in a variety of public and 
    commercial environments. The objective of this action is to provide 
    sufficient spectrum to permit the development of DSRCS technologies to
    
    [[Page 66408]]
    
    improve the Nation's transportation infrastructure and bolster the 
    involvement of United States companies in this emerging industry. While 
    this R&O does adopt an allocation and some basic technical parameters, 
    the issues of licensing, channelization, and other complex technical 
    matters are being deferred to a later proceeding. Therefore, because 
    this present action will not result in the provision of these 
    operations, the IRFA certified that the NPRM would not have a 
    significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities. 
    Nevertheless, a full voluntary IRFA was performed. No comments directly 
    addressed the IRFA.
    
    B. Summary of Significant Issues Raised by the Comments in Response to 
    the IRFA
    
        No comments were filed in response to the IRFA.
    
    C. Description and Estimate of the Number of Small Entities to Which 
    the Rules Will Apply
    
        Under the RFA, small entities may include small organizations, 
    small businesses, and small governmental jurisdictions.\3\ The RFA, 5 
    U.S.C. 601(3), generally defines the term ``small business'' as having 
    the same meaning as the term ``small business concern'' under the Small 
    Business Act, 15 U.S.C. 632. A small business concern is one which: (1) 
    is independently owned and operated; (2) is not dominant in its field 
    of operation; and (3) satisfies any additional criteria established by 
    the Small Business Administration (``SBA''). This standard also applies 
    in determining whether an entity is a small business for purposes of 
    the RFA. The 5.85-5.925 GHz band is currently available to the U.S. 
    Federal Government for Radiolocation purposes, Fixed Satellite Service 
    licensees for international intercontinental links, amateur radio 
    operators and by various entities using part 18 Industrial, Scientific 
    and Medical (``ISM'') equipment and part 15 unlicensed device 
    equipment. We note that there are only 45 Fixed Satellite Service 
    (``FSS'') licenses issued for operation in 5.85-5.925 GHz band and most 
    if not all are held by large corporations. Further, amateur radio 
    operators and the Federal Government do not qualify as small entities. 
    We also note that part 18 ISM devices are protected in this band, which 
    only generate electromagnetic energy, are not used for communication 
    purposes and therefore cannot receive interference or be impacted by 
    this action. Finally, while part 15 unlicensed devices are permitted to 
    operate in the 5.85-5.875 GHz portion, they do so on an unlicensed, 
    unprotected basis. Further, the Commission has no means to determine 
    the number of small entities that might use unlicensed part 15 
    equipment that operates in the band at issue. SBA guidelines to the 
    Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act (``SBREFA'') state 
    that about 99.7% of all firms are small and have fewer than 500 
    employees and less than $25 million in sales and assets.\4\ There are 
    approximately 6.3 million establishments in the SBA database.\5\ The 
    R&O discusses means by which the potential DSRCS would be able to share 
    the spectrum with incumbent operations and concludes that harmful 
    interference can be avoided through coordination. Accordingly, we do 
    not believe this action would have a negative impact on small entities 
    that operate in the 5.85-5.925 GHz band.
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        \3\ See 5 U.S.C. 601(6).
        \4\ See A Guide to the Regulatory Flexibility Act, U.S. Small 
    Business Administration, Washington, DC, May 1996, at page 14.
        \5\ Id. at 15.
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        Regarding the Fixed Satellite Service licensees for international 
    intercontinental links, the Commission has not developed a definition 
    of small entities applicable to licensees in the international 
    services. Therefore, the applicable definition of small entity is 
    generally the definition under the SBA rules applicable to 
    Communications Services, Not Elsewhere Classified (NEC).\6\ This 
    definition provides that a small entity is expressed as one with $11.0 
    million or less in annual receipts.\7\ According to the Census Bureau, 
    there were a total of 848 communications services providers, NEC, in 
    operation in 1992, and a total of 775 had annual receipts of less than 
    $9,999 million.\8\ The Census report does not provide more precise 
    data. Regarding the future use of the 5.85-5.925 GHz band by DSRCS 
    equipment, we believe it is too early to make an determination on such 
    operations. A future rule making proceeding will propose further 
    technical standards, licensing and service rules and a separate 
    regulatory flexibility analysis will address all issues relevant to 
    that proceeding.
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        \6\ An exception is the Direct Broadcast Satellite (DBS) 
    Service, infra.
        \7\ 13 CFR 120.121, SIC code 4899.
        \8\ 1992 Economic Census Industry and Enterprise Receipts Size 
    Report, Table 2D, SIC code 4899 (U.S. Bureau of the Census data 
    under contract to the Office of Advocacy of the U.S. Small Business 
    Administration).
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    D. Description of Projected Reporting, Record Keeping and Other 
    Compliance Requirements
    
        In this proceeding, we are allocating this spectrum for a new 
    service. The licensing and technical regulations governing these 
    operations will be addressed in a separate proceeding. Therefore, this 
    action does not create any reporting or compliance requirements.
    
    E. Steps Taken To Minimize Significant Economic Impact on Small 
    Entities, and Significant Alternatives Considered
    
        The IRFA in this proceeding requested comment on ways to minimize 
    economic impact on small entities, but no comments were filed. 
    Nevertheless, the attached R&O discusses whether operational standards 
    should be adopted to facilitate nation-wide interoperability of DSRCS, 
    but deferred this issue to a later proceeding that will develop service 
    rules for these operations. The development of DSRCS operational 
    standards could delay the initial deployment of such equipment, but 
    could ultimately result in equal footing for all manufacturers, 
    including small entities, in producing equipment that meets uniform 
    standards.
    
    F. Report to Congress
    
        This Commission will send a copy of the R&O, including this FRFA, 
    in a report to be sent to Congress pursuant to the Small Business 
    Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act of 1996, see U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A). 
    In addition, the Commission will send a copy of the R&O, including 
    FRFA, to the Chief Counsel for Advocacy of the Small Business 
    Administration.
    
    List of Subjects in 47 CFR Parts 2 and 90
    
        Communications equipment, Radio.
    
    Federal Communications Commission.
    Magalie Roman Salas,
    Secretary.
    
    Rules Changes
    
        For the reasons discussed in the preamble, the Federal 
    Communications Commission amends 47 CFR parts 2 and 90 as follows:
    
    PART 2--FREQUENCY ALLOCATIONS AND RADIO TREATY MATTERS; GENERAL 
    RULES AND REGULATIONS
    
        1. The authority citation for part 2 continues to read as follows:
    
        Authority: 47 U.S.C. 154, 302, 303, 307, 336 and 337, unless 
    otherwise noted.
    
    
    [[Page 66409]]
    
    
        2. Section 2.106, the Table of Frequency Allocations, is amended as 
    follows:
        a. Revise the entry for the 5850-5925 MHz band to read as follows.
        b. Add footnote NG160.
    
    
    Sec. 2.106  Table of Frequency Allocations
    
    * * * * * * *
    
    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                     International table                        United States table          FCC use designators
    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                             Government        Non-
                          Region 2--        Region 3--    ---------------   Government
        Region 1--      allocation MHz    allocation MHz                 ---------------     Rule       Special-use
      allocation MHz                                         Allocation     Allocation     part(s)      frequencies
                                                                MHz            MHz
    (1)                (2)               (3)               (4)            (5)            (6)          (7)
    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
            *                  *                 *               *              *             *              *
    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    5850--5925         5850--5925        5850--5925        5850--5925     5850--5925
    FIXED              FIXED             FIXED             RADIOLOCATION  FIXED-         ISM
                                                            G2             SATELLITE      Equipment
                                                                           (Earth-to-     (18)
                                                                           space) US245  Private
                                                                                          Land
                                                                                          Mobile
                                                                                          (90)
                                                                                         Amateur
                                                                                          (97)
    FIXED-SATELLITE    FIXED-SATELLITE   FIXED-SATELLITE
     (Earth-to-space)   (Earth-to-        (Earth-to-
                        space)            space)
    MOBILE             MOBILE            MOBILE            .............  MOBILE NG160
                       Amateur           Radiolocation                    Amateur
                       Radiolocation
    S5.150             S5.150            S5.150            S5.150 US245   S5.150
    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
            *                  *                 *               *              *             *              *
    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
    Non-Government (NG) Footnotes
    
    * * * * *
        NG160: In the 5850-5925 MHz band, the use of the non-Federal 
    government mobile service is limited to Dedicated Short Range 
    Communications operating in the Intelligent Transportation System 
    radio service.
    * * * * *
    
    PART 90--PRIVATE LAND MOBILE RADIO SERVICES
    
        3. The authority citation for part 90 continues to read as follows:
    
        Authority: Sections 4, 251-2, 303, 309, 332, and 337, 48 Stat. 
    1066, 1082, as amended; 47 U.S.C. 154, 251-2, 303, 309, and 332, 
    unless otherwise noted.
        4. Section 90.7 is amended by adding a new definition for Dedicated 
    Short Range Communications Service to read as follows:
    
    Sec. 90.7  Definitions.
    
    * * * * *
        Dedicated Short Range Communications Services (DSRCS) The use of 
    non-voice radio techniques to transfer data over short distances 
    between roadside and mobile radio units, between mobile units, and 
    between portable and mobile units to perform operations related to the 
    improvement of traffic flow, traffic safety and other intelligent 
    transportation service applications in a variety of public and 
    commercial environments. DSRC systems may also transmit status and 
    instructional messages related to the units involved.
    * * * * *
        5. Section 90.205 is amended by redesignating paragraphs (m) and 
    (n) as paragraphs (n) and (o), respectively; and by adding a new 
    paragraph (m) to read as follows:
    
    
    Sec. 90.205  Power and antenna height limits.
    
    * * * * *
        (m) 5850-5925 MHz. The peak transmit output power over the 
    frequency band of operations shall not exceed 750 mW or 28.8 dBm with 
    up to 16 dBi in antenna gain. If transmitting antennas of directional 
    gain greater than 16 dBi are used, the peak transmit output power shall 
    be reduced by the amount in dB that the directional gain of the antenna 
    exceeds 16 dBi, i.e., the device's maximum EIRP shall not exceed 30 W 
    EIRP. However, the peak transmitter output power may be increased to 
    account for any line losses due to long transmission cables between the 
    transmitter and the DSRCS device's antenna, provided the EIRP does not 
    exceed 30 W.
    * * * * *
        6. Section 90.210 is amended by revising the ``APPLICABLE EMISSION 
    MASKS'' Table and by revising paragraphs (k)(3), (k)(3)(i), and 
    (k)(3)(ii) to read as follows:
    
    
    Sec. 90.210  Emission masks.
    
    * * * * *
    
                            Applicable Emission Masks
    ------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                      Mask for equipment  Mask for equipment
          Frequency band  (MHz)         with Audio low     without audio low
                                         pass  filter         pass filter
    ------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Below 25 \1\....................  A or B              A or C
    25-50...........................  B                   C
    72-76...........................  B                   C
    150-174 \2\.....................  B, D, or E          C, D, or E
    150 Paging-only.................  B                   C
    220-222.........................  F                   F
    421-512 \2\.....................  B, D, or E          C, D, or E
    450 Paging-only.................  B                   G
    806-821/851-866 \3\.............  B                   G
    821-824/866-869.................  B                   H
    896-901/935-940.................  I                   J
    902-928.........................  K                   K
    929-930.........................  B                   G
    5850-5925.......................  K                   K
    All other bands.................  B                   C
    ------------------------------------------------------------------------
    \1\ Equipment using single sideband J3E emission must the requirements
      of Emission Mask A. Equipment using other emissions must meet the
      requirements of Emission Mask B or C, as applicable.
    \2\ Equipment designed to operate with a 25 kHz channel bandwidth must
      meet the requirements of Emission Mask B or C, as applicable.
      Equipment designed to operate with a 12.5 kHz channel bandwidth must
      meet the requirements of Emission Mask D, and equipment designed to
      operate with a 6.25 kHz channel bandwidth Must meet the requirements
      of Emission Mask E.
    \3\ Equipment used in this licensed to EA or non-EA systems shall comply
      with the emission mask provisions of Sec.  90.691.
    
    * * * * *
        (k) * * *
    
    [[Page 66410]]
    
        (3) Other transmitters. For all other transmitters authorized under 
    subpart M that operate in the 902-928 MHz band and for Dedicated Short 
    Range Communication Services in the 5.850-5.925 GHz band, the peak 
    power of any emission shall be attenuated below the power of the 
    highest emission contained within the licensee's sub-band in accordance 
    with the following schedule:
        (i) On any frequency within the authorized bandwidth: Zero dB.
        (ii) On any frequency outside the licensee's sub-band edges: 55 + 
    10 log(P) dB, where (P) is the highest emission (watts) of the 
    transmitter inside the licensee's sub-band.
    * * * * *
        7. Section 90.350 is revised to read as follows:
    
    
    Sec. 90.350  Scope.
    
        The Intelligent Transportation Systems radio service is for the 
    purpose of integrating radio-based technologies into the nation's 
    transportation infrastructure and to develop and implement the nation's 
    intelligent transportation systems. It includes the Location and 
    Monitoring Service (LMS) and Dedicated Short Range Communications 
    Service (DSRCS). Rules as to eligibility for licensing, frequencies 
    available, and any special requirements for services in the Intelligent 
    Transportation Systems radio service are set forth in this subpart.
        8. A new Sec. 90.371 is added to subpart M to read as follows:
    
    
    Sec. 90.371  Dedicated short range communications service.
    
        (a) These provisions pertain to systems in the dedicated short 
    range communications services (DSRCS). DSRCS systems utilize non-voice 
    radio techniques to transfer data over short distances between roadside 
    and mobile radio units, between mobile units, and between portable and 
    mobile units to perform operations related to the improvement of 
    traffic flow, traffic safety and other intelligent transportation 
    service applications in a variety of public and commercial 
    environments. When authorized, DSRCS licensees operating systems in the 
    5850-5925 MHz band may serve individuals, federal government agencies 
    and entities eligible for licensing in this Part, and must comply with 
    the following requirements.
        (b) DSRCS stations operating in the band 5850-5925 MHz shall not 
    receive protection from Government Radiolocation services in operation 
    prior to the establishment of the DSRCS station. Operation of DSRCS 
    stations within 75 kilometers of the locations listed in the table 
    below must be coordinated through the National Telecommunications and 
    Information Administration.
    
    ------------------------------------------------------------------------
                 Location                   Latitude           Longitude
    ------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Ft. Lewis, WA.....................  470525N           1223510W
    Yakima Firing Center, WA..........  464018N           1202135W
    Ft. Carson, CO....................  383810N           1044750W
    Ft. Riley, KS.....................  385813N           0965139W
    Ft. Shafter, HI...................  211800N           1574900W
    Hunter Army Airfield, GA..........  320100N           0810800W
    Ft. Gillem, GA....................  333600N           0841900W
    Ft. Benning, GA...................  322130N           0845815W
    Ft. Stewart, GA...................  315145N           0813655W
    Ft. Rucker, AL....................  311947N           0854255W
    Yuma Proving Grounds, AZ..........  330114N           1141855W
    Ft. Hood, TX......................  310830N           0974550W
    Ft. Knox, KY......................  375350N           0855655W
    Ft. Bragg, NC.....................  350805N           0790035W
    Ft. Campbell, KY..................  363950N           0872820W
    Ft. Polk, LA......................  310343N           0931226W
    Ft. Leonard Wood, MO..............  374430N           0920737W
    Ft. Irwin, CA.....................  351536N           1164102W
    Ft. Sill, OK......................  344024N           0982352W
    Ft. Bliss, TX.....................  314850N           1062533W
    Ft. Leavenworth, KS...............  392115N           0945500W
    Ft. Drum, NY......................  440115N           0754844W
    Ft. Gordon, GA....................  332510N           0820910W
    Ft. McCoy, WI.....................  440636N           0904127W
    Ft. Dix, NJ.......................  400025N           0743713W
    Parks Reserve Forces Training       374254N           1214218W
     Area, CA.
    Ft. Hunter Ligget, CA.............  355756N           1211404W
    Pacific Missile Test Center, CA...  340914N           1190524W
    Naval Air Development Center, PA..  401200N           0750500W
    Mid-Atlantic Area Frequency         381710N           0762500W
     Coordinator, MD.
    Naval Research Laboratory, MD.....  383927N           0763143W
    Naval Ocean Systems Center, CA....  324500N           1171000W
    Naval Research Laboratory, DC.....  385500N           0770000W
    Naval Surface Weapons Center, MD..  390205N           0765900W
    Naval Electronic Systems            381000N           0762300W
     Engineering Activity, MD.
    Midway Research Center, VA........  382640N           0772650W
    Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD.......  392825N           0760655W
    Ft. Huachuca, AZ..................  313500N           1102000W
    Ft. Monmouth, NJ..................  401900N           0740215W
    Picatinny Arsenal, NJ.............   405600N          0743400W
    Redstone Arsenal, AL..............  343630N           0863610W
    White Sands Missile Range, NM.....  322246N           1062813W
    Army Research Laboratory, MD......  390000N           0765800W
    Space and Missile Systems Center,   335500N           1182200W
     CA.
    Edwards AFB, CA...................  345400N           1175200W
    Patrick AFB, FL...................  281331N           0803607W
    Eglin AFB, FL.....................  302900N           0863200W
    Holloman AFB, NM..................  322510N           1060601W
    Kirtland AFB, NM..................  350230N           1063624W
    Griffiss AFB, NY..................  431315N           0752431W
    Wright-Patterson AFB, OH..........  394656N           0840539W
    Hanscom AFB, MA...................  422816N           0711725W
    Nellis AFB, NV....................  361410N           1150245W
    Vandenberg AFB, CA................  344348N           1203436W
    U.S. Air Force Academy, CO........  385800N           1044900W
    Brooks AFB, TX....................  292000N           0982600W
    Arnold AFB, TN....................  352250N           0860202W
    Tyndall AFB, FL...................  300412N           0853436W
    Charles E. Kelly Support Facility-- 402357N           0800925W
     Oakdale, PA.
    ------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
    [FR Doc. 99-30591 Filed 11-24-99; 8:45 am]
    BILLING CODE 6712-01-U
    
    
    

Document Information

Effective Date:
12/27/1999
Published:
11/26/1999
Department:
Federal Communications Commission
Entry Type:
Rule
Action:
Final rule.
Document Number:
99-30591
Dates:
December 27, 1999.
Pages:
66405-66410 (6 pages)
Docket Numbers:
ET Docket No. 98-95, FCC 99-305
PDF File:
99-30591.pdf
CFR: (7)
47 CFR 2.106
47 CFR 15.247
47 CFR 90.7
47 CFR 90.205
47 CFR 90.210
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