Title 47—Telecommunication--Volume 1
PART 90—PRIVATE LAND MOBILE RADIO SERVICES
§ 90.169   Construction prior to grant of application.
Applicants may construct facilities prior to grant of their applications, subject to the provisions of this section, but must not operate such facilities until the Commission grants an authorization. If the conditions stated in this section are not met, applicants must not begin to construct facilities.
(a) When applicants may begin construction. An applicant may begin construction of a facility thirty-five (35) days after the date of the Public Notice listing the application for that facility as acceptable for filing.
(b) Notification to stop. If the Commission for any reason determines that construction should not be started or should be stopped while an application is pending, and so notifies the applicant, orally (followed by written confirmation) or in writing, the applicant must not begin construction or, if construction has begun, must stop construction immediately.
(c) Assumption of risk. Applicants that begin construction pursuant to this section before receiving an authorization do so at their own risk and have no recourse against the United States for any losses resulting from:
(1) Applications that are not granted;
(2) Errors or delays in issuing Public Notices;
(3) Having to alter, relocate, or dismantle the facility; or
(4) Incurring whatever costs may be necessary to bring the facility into compliance with applicable laws, or Commission rules and orders.
(d) Conditions. Except as indicated, all pre-grant construction is subject to the following conditions:
(1) The application is not mutually exclusive with any other application;
(2) No petitions to deny the application have been filed;
(3) The application does not include a request for a waiver of one or more Commission rules;
(4) For any construction or alteration that would exceed the requirements of § 17.7 of this chapter, the licensee has notified the appropriate Regional Office of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA Form 7460-1), filed a request for antenna height clearance and obstruction marking and lighting specifications (FCC Form 854) with the Commission;
(5) The applicant has indicated in the application that the proposed facility would not have a significant environmental effect, in accordance with §§ 1.1301 through 1.1319 of this chapter; and,
(6) Under applicable international agreements and rules in this part, individual coordination of the proposed channel assignment(s) with a foreign administration is not required.
§ 90.171   Scope.
This subpart contains detailed information concerning the policies under which the Commission assigns frequencies for the use of licensees under this part, frequency coordination procedures, and procedures under which licensees may cooperatively share radio facilities.
§ 90.173   Policies governing the assignment of frequencies.
(a) Except as indicated in paragraph (j) of this section, the frequencies which ordinarily may be assigned to stations in the services governed by this part are listed in subparts B, C and F of this part. Except as otherwise specifically provided in this part, frequencies assigned to land mobile stations are available on a shared basis only and will not be assigned for the exclusive use of any licensee.
(b) All applicants and licensees shall cooperate in the selection and use of frequencies in order to reduce interference and make the most effective use of the authorized facilities. Licensees of stations suffering or causing harmful interference are expected to cooperate and resolve this problem by mutually satisfactory arrangements. If the licensees are unable to do so, the Commission may impose restrictions including specifying the transmitter power, antenna height, or area or hours of operation of the stations concerned. Further the use of any frequency at a given geographical location may be denied when, in the judgment of the Commission, its use in that location is not in the public interest; the use of any frequency may be restricted as to specified geographical areas, maximum power, or such other operating conditions, contained in this part or in the station authorization.
(c) Frequencies assigned to Federal Government radio stations by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration may be authorized under the provisions set forth in § 2.102(c) of this chapter.
(d) The radio facilities authorized under this part are intended for use in connection with and as an adjunct to the primary governmental or business activities of the licensee.
(e) Persons requesting authority to operate in the band 25-50 MHz should recognize that this band is shared with various services in other countries and that harmful interference may be caused by the propagation of signals in this band from distant stations. No protection from such harmful interference generally can be expected.
(f) Applications for stations in the 150-174 MHz and 421-512 MHz bands for operation on frequencies 15 kHz or less removed from existing stations in the same geographic area will be granted based upon a recommendation from the applicable frequency coordinator as specified in §§ 90.20(c)(2) and 90.35(b)(2).
(g) In the states of Alaska and Hawaii, and in areas outside the continental limits of the United States and the adjacent waters, the frequencies above 150.8 MHz which are listed elsewhere in this part as available for assignment to base stations or mobile stations in the Industrial/Business Pool are also available for assignment to operational fixed stations in the Industrial/Business Pool on a secondary basis.
(h) In the Public Safety Pool, base stations may be authorized to operate on a secondary basis on frequencies below 450 MHz which are available to mobile stations.
(i) In the 450-470 MHz band, the frequencies are ordinarily assigned in pairs, with the mobile station transmit frequency 5 MHz above the paired base station transmit frequency. In the 470-512 MHz band, the frequencies are ordinarily assigned in pairs with the mobile station transmit frequency 3 MHz above the paired base station transmit frequency. In the Industrial/Business Pool, in the 150 MHz band, the frequencies subject to § 90.35(c)(6) may be assigned in pairs with the separation between base and mobile frequencies being 5.26 MHz. A mobile station may be assigned the frequency which would normally be assigned to a base station for single-frequency operation. However, this single-frequency operation may be subject to interference that would not occur to a two-frequency system.
(j) Frequencies other than those listed in subparts B and C of this part may be assigned in the 150-174 MHz, 421-430 MHz, 450-470 MHz, and 470-512 MHz bands, provided the following conditions are met:
(1) Such applications must be accompanied by a showing of frequency coordination in accordance with the requirements of § 90.175;
(2) The frequencies must not be available in any other rule part of this chapter; and
(3) The authorized bandwidth of any system operating in accordance with this paragraph must not overlap spectrum available in other rule parts of this chapter unless that spectrum is also allocated in part 90.
(k) This paragraph is only applicable to entities with Finder's Preference requests pending before the Commission as of July 29, 1998. Notwithstanding any other provisions of this part, any eligible person shall be given a dispositive preference for a channel assignment on an exclusive basis in the 220-222 MHz, 470-512 MHz, and 800/900 MHz (except on frequencies designated exclusively for SMR service) bands by submitting information that leads to the recovery of channels in these bands. Recovery of such channels must result from information provided regarding the failure of existing licensees to comply with the provisions of § 90.155, § 90.157, § 90.629, § 90.631 (e) or (f), or § 90.633 (c) or (d).
(l) In the 150-174 MHz band, except where otherwise specifically provided, authorizations for frequencies that were available prior to August 18, 1995 will be granted with channel bandwidths of 25 kHz or less. Authorizations for all other frequencies in this band will be granted with channel bandwidths of 12.5 kHz or less ( i.e., in the Public Safety Pool, frequencies subject to §§ 90.20 (d)(27) and (d)(44), and in the Industrial/Business Pool, frequencies subject to §§ 90.35 (c)(30) and (c)(33)).
(m) In the 421-512 MHz band, except where otherwise specifically provided, authorizations for frequencies that were available prior to August 18, 1995 will be granted with channel bandwidths of 25 kHz or less. New authorizations for frequencies 12.5 kHz removed from these frequencies will be made for channel bandwidths of 12.5 kHz or less ( i.e., in the Public Safety Pool, frequencies subject to § 90.20(d)(27) and in the Industrial/Business Pool, frequencies subject to § 90.35(c)(30)). Authorizations for frequencies 6.25 kHz removed from these frequencies will be granted with channel bandwidths of 6.25 kHz or less ( i.e., in the Public Safety Pool, frequencies subject to § 90.20(d)(44), and in the Industrial/Business Pool, frequencies subject to § 90.35(c)(33)).
(n) Any recovered channels in the 800 MHz SMR service will revert automatically to the holder of the EA license within which such channels are included. If there is no EA licensee for recovered channels, such channels will be retained by the Commission for future licensing.
§ 90.175   Frequency coordinator requirements.
Except for applications listed in paragraph (j) of this section, each application for a new frequency assignment, for a change in existing facilities as listed in § 90.135(a), or for operation at temporary locations in accordance with § 90.137 must include a showing of frequency coordination as set forth further.
(a) Frequency coordinators may request, and applicants are required to provide, all appropriate technical information, system requirements, and justification for requested station parameters when such information is necessary to identify and recommend the most appropriate frequency. Additionally, applicants bear the burden of proceeding and the burden of proof in requesting the Commission to overturn a coordinator's recommendation.
(b) For frequencies between 25 and 470 MHz. (1) A statement is required from the applicable frequency coordinator as specified in §§ 90.20(c)(2) and 90.35(b) recommending the most appropriate frequency. In addition, for frequencies to which § 90.35(c)(63) or (66) is applicable, the written concurrence of the Commission-certified frequency coordinator for frequencies designated for central station alarm operations must be obtained. In addition, for frequencies above 150 MHz, if the interference contour of a proposed station would overlap the service contour of a station on a frequency formerly shared prior to radio service consolidation by licensees in the Manufacturers Radio Service, the Forest Products Radio Service, the Power Radio Service, the Petroleum Radio Service, the Motor Carrier Radio Service, the Railroad Radio Service, the Telephone Maintenance Radio Service or the Automobile Emergency Radio Service, the written concurrence of the coordinator for the industry-specific service, or the written concurrence of the licensee itself, must be obtained. Requests for concurrence must be responded to within 20 days of receipt of the request. The written request for concurrence shall advise the receiving party of the maximum 20 day response period. The coordinator's recommendation may include comments on technical factors such as power, antenna height and gain, terrain and other factors which may serve to minimize potential interference. In addition:
(2) On frequencies designated for coordination or concurrence by a specific frequency coordinator as specified in §§ 90.20(c)(3) and 90.35(b), and on frequencies designated for concurrence as specified in § 90.35(c)(63) or (66), the applicable frequency coordinator shall provide a written supporting statement in instances in which coordination or concurrence is denied. The supporting statement shall contain sufficient detail to permit discernment of the technical basis for the denial of concurrence. Concurrence may be denied only when a grant of the underlying application would have a demonstrable, material, adverse effect on safety.
(3) In instances in which a frequency coordinator determines that an applicant's requested frequency or the most appropriate frequency is one designated for coordination or concurrence by a specific frequency coordinator as specified in § 90.20(c)(3) or § 90.35(b), that frequency coordinator may forward the application directly to the appropriate frequency coordinator. A frequency coordinator may only forward an application as specified above if consent is received from the applicant.
(4) For any application for mobile repeater station operations on frequencies denoted by both § 90.20(d)(90) and (92), or by both § 90.35(c)(93) and (95) the frequency coordinator responsible for the application must determine and disclose to the applicant the call signs and the service areas of all active co-channel incumbent remote control and telemetry stations inside the applicant's proposed area of operation by adding a special condition to the application, except when the applicant has obtained written concurrence from an affected incumbent licensee, or when the applicant and the incumbent licensee are the same entity.
(c) For frequencies above 800 MHz: When frequencies are shared by more than one service, concurrence must be obtained from the other applicable certified coordinators.
(d) For frequencies in the 450-470 MHz band: When used for secondary fixed operations, frequencies shall be assigned and coordinated pursuant to § 90.261.
(e) For frequencies between 470-512 MHz, 769-775/799-805 MHz, 806-824/851-869 MHz and 896-901/935-940 MHz: A recommendation of the specific frequencies that are available for assignment in accordance with the loading standards and mileage separations applicable to the specific radio service, frequency pool, or category of user involved is required from an applicable frequency coordinator. In addition, a frequency coordinator must perform the contour overlap analysis detailed in § 90.621(d) when coordinating applications for channels in the 809-817 MHz/854-862 MHz band segment once interstitial 12.5 kHz bandwidth channels become available for licensing in a National Public Safety Planning Advisory Committee region.
(f) For frequencies in the 929-930 MHz band listed in paragraph (b) of § 90.494: A statement is required from the coordinator recommending the most appropriate frequency.
(g) For frequencies between 1427-1432 MHz and 4940-4990 MHz: A statement is required as follows.
(1) For frequencies between 1427-1432 MHz: A statement is required from the coordinator recommending the most appropriate frequency, operating power and area of operation in accordance with the requirements of § 90.259(b).
(2) For frequencies between 4940-4990 MHz: A statement is required from the nationwide band manager recommending the most appropriate channel(s), bandwidth, operating power, and any other technical parameter which promotes robust and efficient use of the band while minimizing interference.
(3) Compliance date. Paragraph (g)(2) of this section may contain information collection and/or recordkeeping requirements. Compliance with paragraph (g)(2) will not be required until this paragraph (g)(3) is removed or contains a compliance date, which will not occur until the date specified in a final rule published by the FCC announcing that the Office of Management and Budget has completed review of any information collection requirements associated with paragraph (g)(2) of this section or that they have determined such review is not required, which date shall be no earlier than February 28, 2024.
(h) Any recommendation submitted in accordance with paragraphs (a), (c), (d), or (e) of this section is advisory in character and is not an assurance that the Commission will grant a license for operation on that frequency. Therefore, applicants are strongly advised not to purchase radio equipment operating on specific frequencies until a valid authorization has been obtained from the Commission.
(i) Applications for facilities near the Canadian border north of line A or east of line C in Alaska may require coordination with the Canadian government. See § 1.928 of this chapter.
(j) The following applications need not be accompanied by evidence of frequency coordination:
(1) Applications for frequencies below 25 MHz.
(2) Applications for a Federal Government frequency.
(3) Applications for frequencies in the 72-76 MHz band except for mobile frequencies subject to § 90.35(c)(77).
(4) [Reserved]
(5) Applications in the Industrial/Business Pool requesting a frequency designated for itinerant operations.
(6) Applications in the Radiolocation Service.
(7) Applications filed exclusively to modify channels in accordance with band reconfiguration in the 806-824/851-869 band.
(8) Applications for SMR frequencies contained in §§ 90.617(d) Table 4A, 90.617(e), 90.617(f) and 90.619(b)(2).
(9) Applications indicating license assignments such as change in ownership, control or corporate structure if there is no change in technical parameters.
(10) Applications for mobile stations operating in the 470-512 MHz band, 799-805 MHz band, or above 800 MHz if the frequency pair is assigned to a single system on an exclusive basis in the proposed area of operation.
(11) Applications for add-on base stations in multiple licensed systems operating in the 470-512 MHz, 769-775 MHz band, or above 800 MHz if the frequency pair is assigned to a single system on an exclusive basis.
(12) Applications for control stations operating below 470 MHz, 769-775/799-805 MHz, or above 800 MHz and meeting the requirements of § 90.119(b).
(13) Except for applications for the frequencies set forth in § 90.719(c) and § 90.720, applications for frequencies in the 220-222 MHz band.
(14) Applications for a state license under § 90.529.
(15) Applications for narrowband low power channels listed for itinerant use in § 90.531(b)(4).
(16) Applications for licenses in the Intelligent Transportation Systems radio service (as well as registrations for Roadside Units) under subpart M of this part in the 5895-5925 MHz band.
(17) Applications for the deletion of a frequency and/or transmitter site location.
(18) Applications for base, mobile, or control stations in the 763-768 MHz and 793-798 MHz bands.
(19) Applications filed exclusively to return channels that had been authorized for commercial operation pursuant to § 90.621(e) or (f) to non-commercial operation (including removal of the authorization to interconnect with the public switched telephone network).
(20) Applications for a reduction in the currently authorized emission bandwidth or a deletion of an existing emission designator.
(21) Applications for a reduction in antenna height or authorized power.
(22) [Reserved]
§ 90.176   Coordinator notification requirements on frequencies below 512 MHz, at 769-775/799-805 MHz, or at 1427-1432 MHz.
(a) Frequencies below 470 MHz. Within one business day of making a frequency recommendation, each frequency coordinator must notify and provide the information indicated in paragraph (g) of this section to all other frequency coordinators who are also certified to coordinate that frequency.
(1) The applicable frequency coordinator for each frequency is specified in the coordinator column of the frequency tables of §§ 90.20(c)(3) and 90.35(b)(3).
(2) For frequencies that do not specify any frequency coordinator, all certified in-pool coordinators must be notified.
(3) For frequencies that are shared between the Public Safety Pool and the Industrial/Business Pool (frequencies subject to §§ 90.20(d)(7), (d)(25), (d)(34), or (d)(46) in the Public Safety Pool, and subject to §§ 90.35(c)(13), (c)(25), or (d)(4) in the Industrial/Business Pool), all certified coordinators of both pools must be notified.
(b) Frequencies in the 470-512 MHz band. Within one business day of making a frequency recommendation, each frequency coordinator must notify and provide the information indicated in paragraph (g) of this section to all other certified frequency coordinators in the Public Safety Pool and the Industrial/Business Pool.
(c) Frequencies in the 769-775/799-805 MHz band. Within one business day of making a frequency recommendation, each frequency coordinator must notify and provide the information indicated in paragraph (g) of this section to all other certified frequency coordinators in the Public Safety Pool.
(d) Frequencies in the 1427-1432 MHz band. Within one business day of making a frequency recommendation, each frequency coordinator must notify and provide the information indicated in paragraph (g) of this section to the WMTS frequency coordinator designated in § 95.113 and to all other frequency coordinators who are also certified to coordinate that frequency.
(e) Each frequency coordinator must also notify all other certified in-pool coordinators on any day that the frequency coordinator does not make any frequency recommendations.
(f) Notification must be made to all coordinators at approximately the same time and can be made using any method that ensures compliance with the one business day requirement.
(g) At a minimum the following information must be included in each notification:
(1) Name of applicant;
(2) Frequency or frequencies recommended;
(3) Antenna locations and heights;
(4) Effective radiated power (ERP);
(5) Type(s) of emissions;
(6) Description of the service area; and
(7) Date and time of recommendation.
(h) Upon request, each coordinator must provide any additional information requested from another certified coordinator regarding a pending recommendation that it has processed but has not yet been granted by the Commission.
(i) It is the responsibility of each coordinator to insure that its frequency recommendations do not conflict with the frequency recommendations of any other frequency coordinator. Should a conflict arise, the affected coordinators are jointly responsible for taking action to resolve the conflict, up to and including notifying the Commission that an application may have to be returned.
§ 90.179   Shared use of radio stations.
Licensees of radio stations authorized under this rule part may share the use of their facilities. A station is shared when persons not licensed for the station control the station for their own purposes pursuant to the licensee's authorization. Shared use of a radio station may be either on a non-profit cost shared basis or on a for-profit private carrier basis. Shared use of an authorized station is subject to the following conditions and limitations:
(a) Persons may share a radio station only on frequencies for which they would be eligible for a separate authorization.
(b) The licensee of the shared radio station is responsible for assuring that the authorized facility is used only by persons and only for purposes consistent with the requirements of this rule part.
(c) Participants in the sharing arrangement may obtain a license for their own mobile units (including control points and/or control stations for control of the shared facility), or they may use mobile stations, and control stations or control points authorized to the licensee.
(d) If the licensee shares the land station on a non-profit, cost shared basis to the licensee, this shared use must be pursuant to a written agreement between the licensee and each participant which sets out (1) the method of operation, (2) the components of the system which are covered by the sharing arrangements, (3) the method by which costs are to be apportioned, and (4) acknowledgement that all shared transmitter use must be subject to the licensee's control. These agreements must be kept as part of the station records.
(e) If the land station which is being shared is interconnected with the public switched telephone network, the provisions of § 90.477 et seq. apply.
(f) Above 800 MHz, shared use on a for-profit private carrier basis is permitted only by SMR, Private Carrier Paging, LMS, and C-V2X and DSRCS licensees. See subparts M, P, and S of this part.
(g) Notwithstanding paragraph (a) of this section, licensees authorized to operate radio systems on Public Safety Pool frequencies designated in § 90.20 may share their facilities with Federal Government entities on a non-profit, cost-shared basis. Such a sharing arrangement is subject to the provisions of paragraphs (b), (d), and (e) of this section, and § 2.103(c) of this chapter concerning operations in the 758-769 MHz and 788-799 MHz bands. State governments authorized to operate radio systems under § 90.529 may share the use of their systems (for public safety services not made commercially available to the public) with any entity that would be eligible for licensing under § 90.523 and Federal government entities.
(h) Notwithstanding paragraph (a) of this section, licensees authorized to operate radio systems on Industrial/Business Pool frequencies designated in § 90.35 may share their facilities with Public Safety Pool entities designated in § 90.20 and with Federal Government entities on a non-profit, cost-shared basis. Such a sharing arrangement is subject to the provisions of paragraphs (b), (d), and (e) of this section.
(i) The provisions of this section do not apply to licensees authorized to provide commercial mobile radio service under this part, including licensees authorized to use channels transferred or assigned pursuant to § 90.621(e)(2).
(j) On the Interoperability Channels in the 700 MHz Public Safety Band ( See 90.531(b)(1)), hand-held and vehicular units operated by any licensee holding a license in the 700 MHz Public Safety Band or by any licensee for any public safety frequency pursuant to part 90 of the Commission's rules may communicate with or through land stations without further authorization and without a sharing agreement.
§ 90.185   Multiple licensing of radio transmitting equipment in the mobile radio service.
Two or more persons eligible for licensing under this rule part may be licensed for the same land station under the following terms and conditions.
(a) Each licensee complies with the general operating requirements set out in § 90.403 of the rules.
(b) Each licensee is eligible for the frequency(ies) on which the land station operates.
(c) If the multiple licensed base station is interconnected with the public switched telephone network, the provisions of § 90.477 et seq. apply.
§ 90.187   Trunking in the bands between 150 and 512 MHz.
(a) Applicants for centralized and decentralized trunked systems operating on frequencies between 150 and 512 MHz (except 220-222 MHz) must indicate on their applications (radio service and class of station code, instructions for FCC Form 601) that their system will be trunked. Licensees of stations that are not trunked may trunk their systems only after modifying their license (see § 1.927 of this chapter).
(b) Except as provided in paragraphs (c) and (d) of this section, trunked systems operating under this section must employ equipment that prevents transmission on a trunked frequency if a signal from another system is present on that frequency. The level of monitoring must be sufficient to avoid harmful interference to other systems.
(c) The monitoring requirement in paragraph (b) of this section does not apply to trunked systems operating in the 470-512 MHz band that meet the loading requirements of § 90.313 and have exclusive use of their frequencies in their service area.
(d) The monitoring requirement in paragraph (b) of this section does not apply if the application is accompanied by written consent from all affected licensees.
(1) Affected licensees for the purposes of this section are licensees (and previously filed pending applicants) meeting both a spectral and a contour overlap as defined:
(i) Spectral overlap. Licensees (and filers of previously filed pending applications) with an assigned (or proposed) frequency having a spectral separation from a frequency of the proposed centralized trunked station that does not exceed these values:
The left column is the authorized bandwidth requested for the proposed trunked station. The second row is the authorized bandwidth of the incumbent. The other cells in the table show the frequency range above and below the frequency of the proposed centralized trunked station that must be considered.
(ii) Contour overlap. (A) Licensees (and filers of previously filed pending applications) with a service contour (37 dBu for stations in the 150-174 MHz band, and 39 dBu for stations in the 421-512 MHz band) that is overlapped by the proposed centralized trunked station's interference contour (19 dBu for stations in the 150-174 MHz band, and 21 dBu for stations in the 421-512 MHz band). Contour calculations are required for base station facilities. Contour calculations are required for associated mobile stations only in the 150-174 MHz band, with the associated base station's service contour used as both the mobile station's service contour and its interference contour.
(B) The calculation of service and interference contours shall be performed using generally accepted engineering practices and standards, including appropriate derating factors, agreed to by a consensus of all certified frequency coordinators. Frequency coordinators shall make this information available to the Commission upon request.
(C) For purposes of this section, the authorized operating area of a station or proposed station with no associated base station shall be used as both the station's service contour and its interference contour.
(D) After January 1, 2013, licensees with an authorized bandwidth exceeding 12.5 kHz will not be deemed affected licensees, unless the licensee meets the efficiency standard set forth in § 90.203(j)(3) or the licensee was granted a waiver of § 90.209(b).
(2) The written consent from an affected licensee shall state all terms agreed to by the parties and shall be signed by the parties. The written consent shall be maintained by the operator of the centralized trunked station and be made available to the Commission upon request. An application for a centralized trunked station shall include either a certification from the applicant that written consent has been obtained from all affected licensees, or a certification from the frequency coordinator that there are no affected licensees.
(3) In addition, the service contour for proposed centralized trunked stations on Industrial/Business Pool frequencies shall not be overlapped by an incumbent licensee's interference contour. An application filed for Public Safety Pool frequencies, see § 90.20, for a proposed centralized trunked station in which the service contour of the proposed station is overlapped by the interference contour of the incumbent station(s) is allowed, but the applicant must accept any resultant interference.
(e) The exclusive service area of a station that has been authorized for centralized trunked operation will be protected from proposed centralized trunked, decentralized trunked or conventional operations in accordance with the standards of paragraph (d) of this section.
(f) Trunking of systems licensed on paging-only channels or licensed in the Radiolocation Service (subpart F) is not permitted.
(g) Channel limits. (1) No more than 10 channels for new centralized trunked operation in the Industrial/Business Pool may be applied for at a single transmitter location or at locations with overlapping service contours as specified in paragraph (d) of this section. Subsequent applications for centralized trunked operation are limited to no more than an additional 10 channels, and must be accompanied by a certification, submitted to the certified frequency coordinator coordinating the application, that all of the applicant's existing channels authorized for centralized trunked operation at that location or at locations with overlapping service contours have been constructed and placed in operation. Certified frequency coordinators are authorized to require documentation in support of the applicant's certification that existing channels have been constructed and placed in operation.
(2) Applicants for Public Safety Pool channels may request more than 10 centralized trunked channels at a single location or at locations with overlapping service contours if accompanied by a showing of sufficient need. The requirement for such a showing may be satisfied by submission of loading studies demonstrating that requested channels in excess of 10 will be loaded with 50 mobiles per channel within a five year period commencing with the grant of the application.
(h) If a licensee authorized for centralized trunked operation discontinues trunked operation for a period of 30 consecutive days, the licensee, within 7 days thereafter, shall file a conforming application for modification of license with the Commission.
§ 90.201   Scope.
This subpart sets forth the general technical requirements for use of frequencies and equipment in the radio services governed by this part. Such requirements include standards for acceptability of equipment, frequency tolerance, modulation, emissions, power, and bandwidths. Special additional technical standards applicable to certain frequency bands and certain specialized uses are set forth in subparts J, K, N, and R.
§ 90.203   Certification required.
(a) Except as specified in paragraphs (b) and (l) of this section, each transmitter utilized for operation under this part and each transmitter marketed as set forth in § 2.803 of this chapter must be of a type which has been certified for use under this part.
(1) Effective October 16, 2002, except in the 1427-1432 MHz band, an equipment approval may no longer be obtained for in-hospital medical telemetry equipment operating under the provisions of this part. The requirements for obtaining an approval for medical telemetry equipment after this date are found in subpart H of part 95 of this chapter.
(2) Effective July 5, 2022, an equipment approval may no longer be obtained for DSRCS equipment (RSUs and OBUs) operating under the provisions of this part.
(3) Any manufacturer of radio transmitting equipment (including signal boosters) to be used in these services may request certification for such equipment following the procedures set forth in subpart J of part 2 of this chapter. Certification for an individual transmitter or signal booster also may be requested by an applicant for a station authorization by following the procedure set forth in part 2 of this chapter. Such equipment if approved will be individually enumerated on the station authorization.
(b) Certification is not required for the following:
(1) [Reserved]
(2) Transmitters used for police zone and interzone stations authorized as of January 1, 1965.
(3) Transmitting equipment used in the band 1427-1435 MHz.
(4) Transmitters used in radiolocation stations in accordance with subpart F authorized prior to January 1, 1974, for public safety and land transportation applications (old parts 89 and 93).
(5) Transmitters used in radiolocation stations in accordance with subpart F authorized for industrial applications (old part 91) prior to January 1, 1978.
(6) [Reserved]
(7) Transmitters imported and marketed prior to September 1, 1996 for use by LMS systems.
(c) Radiolocation transmitters for use in public safety and land transportation applications marketed prior to January 1, 1974, must meet the applicable technical standards in this part, pursuant to § 2.803 of this chapter.
(d) Radiolocation transmitters for use in public safety and land transportation applications marketed after January 1, 1974, must comply with the requirements of paragraph (a) of this section.
(e) Except as provided in paragraph (g) of this section, transmitters designed to operate above 25 MHz shall not be certified for use under this part if the operator can program and transmit on frequencies, other than those programmed by the manufacturer, service or maintenance personnel, using the equipment's external operation controls.
(f) Except as provided in paragraph (g) of this section, transmitters designed to operate above 25 MHz that have been approved prior to January 15, 1988, and that permit the operator, by using external controls, to program the transmitter's operating frequencies, shall not be manufactured in, or imported into the United States after March 15, 1988. Marketing of these transmitters shall not be permitted after March 15, 1989.
(g) Transmitters having frequency programming capability and that are designed to operate above 25 MHz are exempt from paragraphs (e) and (f) of this section if the design of such transmitters:
(1) Is such that transmitters with external controls normally available to the operator must be internally modified to place the equipment in the programmable mode. Further, while in the programmable mode, the equipment shall not be capable of transmitting. The procedures for making the modification and altering the frequency program shall not be made available with the operating information normally supplied to the end user of the equipment; or
(2) Requires the transmitter to be programmed for frequencies through controls normally inaccessible to the operator; or
(3) Requires equipment to be programmed for frequencies through use of external devices or specifically programmed modules made available only to service/maintenance personnel; or
(4) Requires equipment to be programmed through cloning (copying a program directly from another transmitter) using devices and procedures made available only to service/maintenance personnel.
(h) The requirements of paragraphs (e), (f), and (g) of this section shall not apply if:
(1) The equipment has been designed and manufactured specifically for aircraft use; and
(2) The part 90 certification limits the use of the equipment to operations only under § 90.423.
(i) Mobile/portable equipment capable of use in the 806-809/851-854 MHz band segment and submitted for certification thirty or more days after publication of a summary of the Report and Order, (FCC 16-48, released April 25, 2016) in PS Docket 13-209 in the Federal Register must have the capability to operate in the analog FM mode on the mutual aid channels designated in § 90.617(a)(1).
(j) Except where otherwise specially provided for, transmitters operating on frequencies in the 150-174 MHz and 406-512 MHz bands must comply with the following:
(1) Applications for certification of mobile and portable equipment designed to transmit voice on public safety frequencies in the 150-174 MHz or 450-470 MHz band will be granted only if the mobile/portable equipment is capable of operating in the analog FM mode on the nationwide public safety interoperability channels in the 150-174 MHz band or 450-470 MHz band, as appropriate. (See § 90.20(c), (d)(80) of this part.)
(2) Applications for certification received on or after February 14, 1997 but before January 1, 2005 will only be granted for equipment with the following channel bandwidths:
(i) 12.5 kHz or less for single bandwidth mode equipment or multi-bandwidth mode equipment with a maximum channel bandwidth of 12.5 kHz;
(ii) 25 kHz for multi-bandwidth mode equipment with a maximum channel bandwidth of 25 kHz if it is capable of operating on channels of 12.5 kHz or less; and
(iii) 25 kHz if the equipment meets the efficiency standard of paragraph (j)(3) of this section.
(3) Applications for part 90 certification of transmitters designed to operate on frequencies in the 150.8-162.0125 MHz, 173.2-173.4 MHz, and/or 421-512 MHz bands, received on or after February 14, 1997 must include a certification that the equipment meets a spectrum efficiency standard of one voice channel per 12.5 kHz of channel bandwidth. Additionally, if the equipment is capable of transmitting data, has transmitter output power greater than 500 mW, and has a channel bandwidth of more than 6.25 kHz, the equipment must be capable of supporting a minimum data rate of 4800 bits per second per 6.25 kHz of channel bandwidth.
(4) Applications for part 90 certification of transmitters designed to operate on frequencies in the 150.8-162.0125 MHz, 173.2-173.4 MHz, and/or 421-512 MHz bands, received on or after January 1, 2011, except for hand-held transmitters with an output power of two watts or less, will only be granted for equipment with the following channel bandwidths:
(i) 6.25 kHz or less for single bandwidth mode equipment;
(ii) 12.5 kHz for multi-bandwidth mode equipment with a maximum channel bandwidth of 12.5 kHz if it is capable of operating on channels of 6.25 kHz or less;
(iii) 25 kHz for multi-bandwidth mode equipment with a maximum channel bandwidth of 25 kHz if it is capable of operating on channels of 6.25 kHz or less; and
(iv) Up to 25 kHz if the equipment meets the efficiency standard of paragraph (j)(5) of this section.
(5) Applications for part 90 certification of transmitters designed to operate on frequencies in the 150.8-162.0125 MHz, 173.2-173.4 MHz, and/or 421-512 MHz bands, received on or after January 1, 2011, must include a certification that the equipment meets a spectrum efficiency standard of one voice channel per 6.25 kHz of channel bandwidth. Additionally, if the equipment is capable of transmitting data, has transmitter output power greater than 500 mW, and has a channel bandwidth of more than 6.25 kHz, the equipment must be capable of supporting a minimum data rate of 4800 bits per second per 6.25 kHz of channel bandwidth.
(6) Modification and permissive changes to certification grants.
(i) The Commission's Equipment Authorization Division will not allow adding a multi-mode or narrowband operation capability to single bandwidth mode transmitters, except under the following conditions:
(A) Transmitters that have the inherent capability for multi-mode or narrowband operation allowed in paragraphs (j)(2) and (j)(4) of this section, may have their grant of certification modified (reissued) upon demonstrating that the original unit complies with the technical requirements for operation; and
(B) New FCC Identifiers will be required to identify equipment that needs to be modified to comply with the requirements of paragraphs (j)(2) and (j)(4) of this section.
(ii) All other applications for modification or permissive changes will be subject to part 2 of this chapter.
(7) Transmitters designed only for one-way paging operations may be certified with up to a 25 kHz bandwidth and are exempt from the spectrum efficiency requirements of paragraphs (j)(3) and (j)(5) of this section.
(8) The Commission's Equipment Authorization Division may, on a case by case basis, grant certification to equipment with slower data rates than specified in paragraphs (j)(3) and (j)(5) of this section, provided that a technical analysis is submitted with the application which describes why the slower data rate will provide more spectral efficiency than the standard data rate.
(9) Transmitters used for stolen vehicle recovery on 173.075 MHz must comply with the requirements of § 90.20(e)(6).
(10) Except as provided in this paragraph, single-mode and multi-mode transmitters designed to operate in the 150-174 MHz and 421-512 MHz bands that operate with a maximum channel bandwidth greater than 12.5 kHz shall not be manufactured in, or imported into, the United States after January 1, 2011, except as follows:
(i) To the extent that the equipment meets the efficiency standard of paragraph (j)(3) of this section, or
(ii) Where operation with a bandwidth greater than 12.5 kHz is specified elsewhere.
(k) For transmitters operating on frequencies in the 220-222 MHz band, certification will only be granted for equipment with channel bandwidths up to 5 kHz, except that certification will be granted for equipment operating on 220-222 MHz band Channels 1 through 160 (220.0025 through 220.7975/221.0025 through 221.7975), 171 through 180 (220.8525 through 220.8975/221.8525 through 221.8975), and 186 through 200 (220.9275 through 220.9975/221.9275 through 221.9975) with channel bandwidths greater than 5 kHz.
(l) Ocean buoy and wildlife tracking transmitters operating in the band 40.66-40.70 MHz or 216-220 MHz under the provisions of § 90.248 shall be authorized under Supplier's Declaration of Conformity pursuant to subpart J of part 2 of this chapter.
The verification procedure has been replaced by Supplier's Declaration of Conformity. Equipment previously authorized under subpart J of part 2 of this chapter may remain in use. See § 2.950 of this chapter.
(m) Applications for part 90 certification of transmitters designed to operate in in 769-775 MHz and 799-805 MHz frequency bands will only be granted to transmitters meeting the modulation, spectrum usage efficiency and channel capability requirements listed in §§ 90.535, 90.547, and 90.548.
(n) [Reserved]
(o) Equipment certification for transmitters in the 3650-3700 MHz band. (1) Applications for all transmitters must describe the methodology used to meet the requirement that each transmitter employ a contention based protocol and indicate whether it is capable of avoiding co-frequency interference with devices using all other types of contention-based protocols (see §§ 90.7, 90.1305 and 90.1321 of this part);
(2) Applications for mobile transmitters must identify the base stations with which they are designed to communicate and describe how the requirement to positively receive and decode an enabling signal is incorporated (see § 90.1333 of this part); and
(3) Applications for systems using advanced antenna technology must provide the algorithm used to reduce the equivalent isotropically radiated power (EIRP) to the maximum allowed in the event of overlapping beams (see § 90.1321 of this part).
(4) Applications for fixed transmitters must include a description of the installation instructions and guidelines for RF safety exposure requirements that will be included with the transmitter. (See § 90.1335).
(p) Certification requirements for signal boosters are set forth in § 90.219.
§ 90.205   Power and antenna height limits.
Applicants for licenses must request and use no more power than the actual power necessary for satisfactory operation. Except where otherwise specifically provided for, the maximum power that will be authorized to applicants whose license applications for new stations are filed after August 18, 1995 is as follows:
(a) Below 25 MHz. For single sideband operations (J3E emission), the maximum transmitter peak envelope power is 1000 watts.
(b) 25-50 MHz. The maximum transmitter output power is 300 watts.
(c) 72-76 MHz. The maximum effective radiated power (ERP) for stations operating on fixed frequencies is 300 watts. Stations operating on mobile-only frequencies are limited to one watt transmitter output power.
(d) 150-174 MHz. (1) The maximum allowable station ERP is dependent upon the station's antenna HAAT and required service area and will be authorized in accordance with table 1. Applicants requesting an ERP in excess of that listed in table 1 must submit an engineering analysis based upon generally accepted engineering practices and standards that includes coverage contours to demonstrate that the requested station parameters will not produce coverage in excess of that which the applicant requires.
(2) Applications for stations where special circumstances exist that make it necessary to deviate from the ERP and antenna heights in Table 1 will be submitted to the frequency coordinator accompanied by a technical analysis, based upon generally accepted engineering practices and standards, that demonstrates that the requested station parameters will not produce a signal strength in excess of 37 dBu at any point along the edge of the requested service area. The coordinator may then recommend any ERP appropriate to meet this condition.
(3) An applicant for a station with a service area radius greater than 40 km (25 mi) must justify the requested service area radius, which will be authorized only in accordance with table 1, note 4. For base stations with service areas greater than 80 km, all operations 80 km or less from the base station will be on a primary basis and all operations outside of 80 km from the base station will be on a secondary basis and will be entitled to no protection from primary operations.
Table 1—150-174MHz—Maximum ERP/Reference HAAT for a Specific Service Area Radius
1 Maximum ERP indicated provides for a 37 dBu signal strength at the edge of the service area per FCC Report R-6602, Fig. 19 (See § 73.699, Fig. 10).
2 Maximum ERP of 500 watts allowed. Signal strength at the service area contour may be less than 37 dBu.
3 When the actual antenna HAAT is greater than the reference HAAT, the allowable ERP will be reduced in accordance with the following equation: ERP allow = ERP max × (HAAT ref / HAAT actual ) 2 .
4 Applications for this service area radius may be granted upon specific request with justification and must include a technical demonstration that the signal strength at the edge of the service area does not exceed 37 dBu.
(e) 217-220 MHz. Limitations on power and antenna heights are specified in § 90.259.
(f) 220-222 MHz. Limitations on power and antenna heights are specified in § 90.729.
(g) 421-430 MHz. Limitations on power and antenna heights are specified in § 90.279.
(h) 450-470 MHz. (1) The maximum allowable station effective radiated power (ERP) is dependent upon the station's antenna HAAT and required service area and will be authorized in accordance with table 2. Applicants requesting an ERP in excess of that listed in table 2 must submit an engineering analysis based upon generally accepted engineering practices and standards that includes coverage contours to demonstrate that the requested station parameters will not produce coverage in excess of that which the applicant requires.
(2) Applications for stations where special circumstances exist that make it necessary to deviate from the ERP and antenna heights in Table 2 will be submitted to the frequency coordinator accompanied by a technical analysis, based upon generally accepted engineering practices and standards, that demonstrates that the requested station parameters will not produce a signal strength in excess of 39 dBu at any point along the edge of the requested service area. The coordinator may then recommend any ERP appropriate to meet this condition.
(3) An applicant for a station with a service area radius greater than 32 km (20 mi) must justify the requested service area radius, which may be authorized only in accordance with table 2, note 4. For base stations with service areas greater than 80 km, all operations 80 km or less from the base station will be on a primary basis and all operations outside of 80 km from the base station will be on a secondary basis and will be entitled to no protection from primary operations.
Table 2—450-470 MHz—Maximum ERP/Reference HAAT for a Specific Service Area Radius
1 Maximum ERP indicated provides for a 39 dBu signal strength at the edge of the service area per FCC Report R-6602, Fig. 29 (See § 73.699, Fig. 10 b).
2 Maximum ERP of 500 watts allowed. Signal strength at the service area contour may be less than 39 dBu.
3 When the actual antenna HAAT is greater than the reference HAAT, the allowable ERP will be reduced in accordance with the following equation: ERP allow = ERP max × (HAAT ref / HAAT actual ) 2 .
4 Applications for this service area radius may be granted upon specific request with justification and must include a technical demonstration that the signal strength at the edge of the service area does not exceed 39 dBu.
(i) 470-512 MHz. Power and height limitations are specified in §§ 90.307 and 90.309.
(j) 758-775 MHz and 788-805 MHz. Power and height limitations are specified in §§ 90.541 and 90.542.
(k) 806-824 MHz, 851-869 MHz, 896-901 MHz and 935-940 MHz. Power and height limitations for frequencies in the 806-824 MHz and 851-869 MHz bands and for narrowband operations in the 896-901/935-940 MHz band are specified in § 90.635.
(l) 902-928 MHz. LMS systems operating pursuant to subpart M of this part in the 902-927.25 MHz band will be authorized a maximum of 30 watts ERP. LMS equipment operating in the 927.25-928 MHz band will be authorized a maximum of 300 watts ERP. ERP must be measured as peak envelope power. Antenna heights will be as specified in § 90.353(h).
(m) 929-930 MHz. Limitations on power and antenna heights are specified in § 90.494.
(n) 1427-1429.5 MHz and 1429.5-1432 MHz. Limitations on power are specified in § 90.259.
(o) 2450-2483.5 MHz. The maximum transmitter power is 5 watts.
(p) 4940-4990 MHz. Limitations on power are specified in § 90.1215.
(q) 5895-5925 MHz. Power and height limitations are specified in subpart M of this part.
(r) All other frequency bands. Requested transmitter power will be considered and authorized on a case by case basis.
(s) The output power shall not exceed by more than 20 percent either the output power shown in the Radio Equipment List [available in accordance with § 90.203(a)(1)] for transmitters included in this list or when not so listed, the manufacturer's rated output power for the particular transmitter specifically listed on the authorization.
§ 90.207   Types of emissions.
Unless specified elsewhere in this part, stations will be authorized emissions as provided for in paragraphs (b) through (n) of this section.
(a) Most common emission symbols. For a complete listing of emission symbols allowable under this part, see § 2.201 of this chapter.
(1) The first symbol indicates the type of modulation on the transmitter carrier.
(2) The second symbol indicates the type of signal modulating the transmitter carrier.
(3) The third symbol indicates the type of transmitted information.
(b) Authorizations to use A3E, F3E, or G3E emission also include the use of emissions for tone signals or signaling devices whose sole functions are to establish and to maintain communications, to provide automatic station identification, and for operations in the Public Safety Pool, to activate emergency warning devices used solely for the purpose of advising the general public or emergency personnel of an impending emergency situation.
(c) The use of F3E or G3E emission in these services will be authorized only on frequencies above 25 MHz.
(d) Except for Traveler's Information stations in the Public Safety Pool authorized in accordance with § 90.242, only J3E emission will be authorized for telephony systems on frequencies below 25 MHz.
(e) For non-voice paging operations, only A1A, A1D, A2B, A2D, F1B, F1D, F2B, F2D, G1B, G1D, G2B, or G2D emissions will be authorized.
(f) For radioteleprinter operations that may be authorized in accordance with § 90.237, only F1B, F2B, G1B or G2B emissions will be authorize above 25 MHz, and A1B or A2B emissions below 25 MHz.
(g) For radiofacsimile operations that may be authorized in accordance with § 90.237, only F3C or G3C emissions will be authorized above 25 MHz, and A3C emissions below 25 MHz.
(h) [Reserved]
(i) For telemetry operations, when specifically authorized under this part, only A1D, A2D, F1D, or F2D emissions will be authorized.
(j) For call box operations that may be authorized in accordance with § 90.241, only A1A, A1D, A2B, A2D, F1B, F1D, F2B, F2D, G1B, G1D, G2B, G2D, F3E or G3E emissions will be authorized.
(k) For radiolocation operations as may be authorized in accordance with subpart F, unless otherwise provided for any type of emission may be authorized upon a satisfactory showing of need.
(l) For stations in the Public Safety and Industrial/Business Pools utilizing digital voice modulation, in either the scrambled or unscrambled mode, F1E or G1E emission will be authorized. Authorization to use digital voice emissions is construed to include the use of F1D, F2D, G1D, or G2D emission subject to the provisions of § 90.233.
(m) For narrowband operations in a 3.6 kHz maximum authorized bandwith, any modulation type may be used which complies with the emission limitations of § 90.209.
(n) Other emissions. Requests for emissions other than those listed in paragraphs (c) through (e) of this section will be considered on a case-by-case basis to ensure that the requested emission will not cause more interference than other currently permitted emissions.
§ 90.209   Bandwidth limitations.
(a) Each authorization issued to a station licensed under this part will show an emission designator representing the class of emission authorized. The designator will be prefixed by a specified necessary bandwidth. This number does not necessarily indicate the bandwidth occupied by the emission at any instant. In those cases where § 2.202 of this chapter does not provide a formula for the computation of necessary bandwidth, the occupied bandwidth, as defined in part 2 of this chapter, may be used in lieu of the necessary bandwidth.
(b) The maximum authorized single channel bandwidth of emission corresponding to the type of emission specified in § 90.207 is as follows:
(1) For A1A or A1B emissions, the maximum authorized bandwidth is 0.25 kHz. The maximum authorized bandwidth for type A3E emission is 8 kHz.
(2) For operations below 25 MHz utilizing J3E emission, the bandwidth occupied by the emission shall not exceed 3000 Hz. The assigned frequency will be specified in the authorization. The authorized carrier frequency will be 1400 Hz lower in frequency than the assigned frequency. Only upper sideband emission may be used. In the case of regularly available double sideband radiotelephone channels, an assigned frequency for J3E emissions is available either 1600 Hz below or 1400 Hz above the double sideband radiotelephone assigned frequency.
(3) For all other types of emissions, the maximum authorized bandwidth shall not be more than that normally authorized for voice operations.
(4) Where a frequency is assigned exclusively to a single licensee, more than a single emission may be used within the authorized bandwidth. In such cases, the frequency stability requirements of § 90.213 must be met for each emission.
(5) Unless specified elsewhere, channel spacings and bandwidths that will be authorized in the following frequency bands are given in the following table.
Table 1 to § 90.209( b )(5)—Standard Channel Spacing/Bandwidth
1 For stations authorized on or after August 18, 1995.
2 Bandwidths for radiolocation stations in the 420-450 MHz band and for stations operating in bands subject to this footnote will be reviewed and authorized on a case-by-case basis.
3 Operations using equipment designed to operate with a 25 kHz channel bandwidth will be authorized a 20 kHz bandwidth. Operations using equipment designed to operate with a 12.5 kHz channel bandwidth will be authorized a 11.25 kHz bandwidth. Operations using equipment designed to operate with a 6.25 kHz channel bandwidth will be authorized a 6 kHz bandwidth. All stations must operate on channels with a bandwidth of 12.5 kHz or less beginning January 1, 2013, unless the operations meet the efficiency standard of § 90.203(j)(3).
4 The maximum authorized bandwidth shall be 12 MHz for non-multilateration LMS operations in the band 909.75-921.75 MHz and 2 MHz in the band 902.00-904.00 MHz. The maximum authorized bandwidth for multilateration LMS operations shall be 5.75 MHz in the 904.00-909.75 MHz band; 2 MHz in the 919.75-921.75 MHz band; 5.75 MHz in the 921.75-927.25 MHz band and its associated 927.25-927.50 MHz narrowband forward link; and 8.00 MHz if the 919.75-921.75 MHz and 921.75-927.25 MHz bands and their associated 927.25-927.50 MHz and 927.50-927.75 MHz narrowband forward links are aggregated.
5 See § 90.259.
6 Operations using equipment designed to operate with a 25 kilohertz channel bandwidth may be authorized up to a 20 kilohertz bandwidth unless the equipment meets the Adjacent Channel Power limits of § 90.221 in which case operations may be authorized up to a 22 kilohertz bandwidth. Operations using equipment designed to operate with a 12.5 kilohertz channel bandwidth may be authorized up to an 11.25 kilohertz bandwidth.
(6)(i) Beginning January 1, 2011, no new applications for the 150-174 MHz and/or 421-512 MHz bands will be acceptable for filing if the applicant utilizes channels with an authorized bandwidth exceeding 11.25 kHz, unless specified elsewhere or the operations meet the efficiency standards of § 90.203(j)(3).
(ii) Beginning January 1, 2011, no modification applications for stations in the 150-174 MHz and/or 421-512 MHz bands that increase the station's authorized interference contour, will be acceptable for filing if the applicant utilizes channels with an authorized bandwidth exceeding 11.25 kHz, unless specified elsewhere or the operations meet the efficiency standards of § 90.203(j)(3). See § 90.187(b)(2)(iii) and (iv) for interference contour designations and calculations. Applications submitted pursuant to this paragraph must comply with frequency coordination requirements of § 90.175.
(7) Economic Area (EA)-based licensees in frequencies 817-824/862-869 MHz (813.5-824/858.5-869 MHz in the counties listed in § 90.614(c)) may exceed the standard channel spacing and authorized bandwidth listed in paragraph (b)(5) of this section in any National Public Safety Planning Advisory Committee Region when all 800 MHz public safety licensees in the Region have completed band reconfiguration consistent with this part. In any National Public Safety Planning Advisory Committee Region where the 800 MHz band reconfiguration is incomplete, EA-based licensees in frequencies 817-821/862-866 MHz (813.5-821/858.5-866 MHz in the counties listed in § 90.614(c)) may exceed the standard channel spacing and authorized bandwidth listed in paragraph (b)(5) of this section. Upon all 800 MHz public safety licensees in a National Public Safety Planning Advisory Committee Region completing band reconfiguration, EA-based 800 MHz SMR licensees in the 821-824/866-869 MHz band may exceed the channel spacing and authorized bandwidth in paragraph (b)(5) of this section. Licensees authorized to exceed the standard channel spacing and authorized bandwidth under this paragraph must provide at least 30 days written notice prior to initiating such service in the bands listed herein to every 800 MHz public safety licensee with a base station in an affected National Public Safety Planning Advisory Committee Region, and every 800 MHz public safety licensee with a base station within 113 kilometers (70 miles) of an affected National Public Safety Planning Advisory Committee Region. Such notice shall include the estimated date upon which the EA-based 800 MHz SMR licensee intends to begin operations that exceed the channel spacing and authorized bandwidth in paragraph (b)(5) of this section.
(8) Applicants may begin to license 12.5 kilohertz bandwidth channels in the 809-817/854-862 MHz band segment only after the Wireless Telecommunications Bureau and the Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau jointly release a public notice announcing the availability of those channels for licensing in a National Public Safety Planning Advisory Committee region.
§ 90.210   Emission masks.
Except as indicated elsewhere in this part, transmitters used in the radio services governed by this part must comply with the emission masks outlined in this section. Unless otherwise stated, per paragraphs (d)(4), (e)(4), and (o) of this section, measurements of emission power can be expressed in either peak or average values provided that emission powers are expressed with the same parameters used to specify the unmodulated transmitter carrier power. For transmitters that do not produce a full power unmodulated carrier, reference to the unmodulated transmitter carrier power refers to the total power contained in the channel bandwidth. Unless indicated elsewhere in this part, the table in this section specifies the emission masks for equipment operating under this part.
(a) Emission Mask A. For transmitters utilizing J3E emission, the carrier must be at least 40 dB below the peak envelope power and the power of emissions must be reduced below the output power (P in watts) of the transmitter as follows:
(1) On any frequency removed from the assigned frequency by more than 50 percent, but not more than 150 percent of the authorized bandwidth: At least 25 dB.
(2) On any frequency removed from the assigned frequency by more than 150 percent, but not more than 250 percent of the authorized bandwidth: At least 35 dB.
(3) On any frequency removed from the assigned frequency by more than 250 percent of the authorized bandwidth: At least 43 + 10 log P dB.
(b) Emission Mask B. For transmitters that are equipped with an audio low-pass filter, the power of any emission must be attenuated below the unmodulated carrier power (P) as follows:
(1) On any frequency removed from the assigned frequency by more than 50 percent, but not more than 100 percent of the authorized bandwidth: At least 25 dB.
(2) On any frequency removed from the assigned frequency by more than 100 percent, but not more than 250 percent of the authorized bandwidth: At least 35 dB.
(3) On any frequency removed from the assigned frequency by more than 250 percent of the authorized bandwidth: At least 43 + 10 log (P) dB.
(c) Emission Mask C. For transmitters that are not equipped with an audio low-pass filter, the power of any emission must be attenuated below the unmodulated carrier output power (P) as follows:
(1) On any frequency removed from the center of the authorized bandwidth by a displacement frequency (f d in kHz) of more than 5 kHz, but not more than 10 kHz: At least 83 log (f d /5) dB;
(2) On any frequency removed from the center of the authorized bandwidth by a displacement frequency (f d in kHz) of more than 10 kHz, but not more than 250 percent of the authorized bandwidth: At least 29 log (f d 2 /11) dB or 50 dB, whichever is the lesser attenuation;
(3) On any frequency removed from the center of the authorized bandwidth by more than 250 percent of the authorized bandwidth: At least 43 + 10 log (P) dB.
(4) In the 1427-1432 MHz band, licensees are encouraged to take all reasonable steps to ensure that unwanted emissions power does not exceed the following levels in the 1400-1427 MHz band:
(i) For stations of point-to-point systems in the fixed service: −45 dBW/27 MHz.
(ii) For stations in the mobile service: −60 dBW/27 MHz.
(d) Emission Mask D—12.5 kHz channel bandwidth equipment. For transmitters designed to operate with a 12.5 kHz channel bandwidth, any emission must be attenuated below the power (P) of the highest emission contained within the authorized bandwidth as follows:
(1) On any frequency from the center of the authorized bandwidth f 0 to 5.625 kHz removed from f 0 : Zero dB.
(2) On any frequency removed from the center of the authorized bandwidth by a displacement frequency (f d in kHz) of more than 5.625 kHz but no more than 12.5 kHz: At least 7.27(f d −2.88 kHz) dB.
(3) On any frequency removed from the center of the authorized bandwidth by a displacement frequency (f d in kHz) of more than 12.5 kHz: At least 50 + 10 log (P) dB or 70 dB, whichever is the lesser attenuation.
(4) The reference level for showing compliance with the emission mask shall be established using a resolution bandwidth sufficiently wide (usually two or three times the channel bandwidth) to capture the true peak emission of the equipment under test. In order to show compliance with the emission mask up to and including 50 kHz removed from the edge of the authorized bandwidth, adjust the resolution bandwidth to 100 Hz with the measuring instrument in a peak hold mode. A sufficient number of sweeps must be measured to insure that the emission profile is developed. If video filtering is used, its bandwidth must not be less than the instrument resolution bandwidth. For emissions beyond 50 kHz from the edge of the authorized bandwidth, see paragraph (o) of this section. If it can be shown that use of the above instrumentation settings do not accurately represent the true interference potential of the equipment under test, an alternate procedure may be used provided prior Commission approval is obtained.
(e) Emission Mask E—6.25 kHz or less channel bandwidth equipment. For transmitters designed to operate with a 6.25 kHz or less bandwidth, any emission must be attenuated below the power (P) of the highest emission contained within the authorized bandwidth as follows:
(1) On any frequency from the center of the authorized bandwidth f 0 to 3.0 kHz removed from f 0 : Zero dB.
(2) On any frequency removed from the center of the authorized bandwidth by a displacement frequency (f d in kHz) of more than 3.0 kHz but no more than 4.6 kHz: At least 30 + 16.67(f d −3 kHz) or 55 + 10 log (P) or 65 dB, whichever is the lesser attenuation.
(3) On any frequency removed from the center of the authorized bandwidth by more than 4.6 kHz: At least 55 + 10 log (P) or 65 dB, whichever is the lesser attenuation.
(4) The reference level for showing compliance with the emission mask shall be established using a resolution bandwidth sufficiently wide (usually two or three times the channel bandwidth) to capture the true peak emission of the equipment under test. In order to show compliance with the emission mask up to and including 50 kHz removed from the edge of the authorized bandwidth, adjust the resolution bandwidth to 100 Hz with the measuring instrument in a peak hold mode. A sufficient number of sweeps must be measured to insure that the emission profile is developed. If video filtering is used, its bandwidth must not be less than the instrument resolution bandwidth. For emissions beyond 50 kHz from the edge of the authorized bandwidth, see paragraph (o) of this section. If it can be shown that use of the above instrumentation settings do not accurately represent the true interference potential of the equipment under test, an alternate procedure may be used provided prior Commission approval is obtained.
(f) Emission Mask F. For transmitters operating in the 220-222 MHz frequency band, any emission must be attenuated below the power (P) of the highest emission contained within the authorized bandwidth as follows:
(1) On any frequency from the center of the authorized bandwidth f o to the edge of the authorized bandwidth f e : Zero dB.
(2) On any frequency removed from the center of the authorized bandwidth by a displacement frequency (f d in kHz) of more than 2 kHz up to and including 3.75 kHz: 30 + 20(f d − 2) dB or 55 + 10 log (P), or 65 dB, whichever is the lesser attenuation.
(3) On any frequency beyond 3.75 kHz removed from the center of the authorized bandwidth f d: At least 55 + 10 log (P) dB.
(g) Emission Mask G. For transmitters that are not equipped with an audio low-pass filter, the power of any emission must be attenuated below the unmodulated carrier power (P) as follows:
(1) On any frequency removed from the center of the authorized bandwidth by a displacement frequency (f d in kHz) of more than 10 kHz, but no more than 250 percent of the authorized bandwidth: At least 116 log (f d /6.1) dB, or 50 + 10 log (P) dB, or 70 dB, whichever is the lesser attenuation;
(2) On any frequency removed from the center of the authorized bandwidth by more than 250 percent of the authorized bandwidth: At least 43 + 10 log (P) dB.
(h) Emission Mask H. For transmitters that are not equipped with an audio low-pass filter, the power of any emission must be attenuated below the unmodulated carrier power (P) as follows:
(1) On any frequency removed from the center of the authorized bandwidth by a displacement frequency (f d in kHz) of 4 kHz or less: Zero dB.
(2) On any frequency removed from the center of the authorized bandwidth by a displacement frequency (f d in kHz) of more than 4 kHz, but no more than 8.5 kHz: At least 107 log (f d /4) dB;
(3) On any frequency removed from the center of the authorized bandwidth by a displacement frequency (f d in kHz) of more than 8.5 kHz, but no more than 15 kHz: At least 40.5 log (f d /1.16) dB;
(4) On any frequency removed from the center of the authorized bandwidth by a displacement frequency (f d in kHz) of more than 15 kHz, but no more than 25 kHz: At least 116 log (f d /6.1) dB;
(5) On any frequency removed from the center of the authorized bandwidth by more than 25 kHz: At least 43 + 10 log (P) dB.
(i) Emission Mask I. For transmitters that are equipped with an audio low pass filter, the power of any emission must be attenuated below the unmodulated carrier power of the transmitter (P) as follows:
(1) On any frequency removed from the center of the authorized bandwidth by a displacement frequency of more than 6.8 kHz, but no more than 9.0 kHz: At least 25 dB;
(2) On any frequency removed from the center of the authorized bandwidth by a displacement frequency of more than 9.0 kHz, but no more than 15 kHz: At least 35 dB;
(3) On any frequency removed from the center of the authorized bandwidth by a displacement frequency of more than 15 kHz: At least 43 + 10 log (P) dB, or 70 dB, whichever is the lesser attenuation.
(j) Emission Mask J. For transmitters that are not equipped with an audio low-pass filter, the power of any emission must be attenuated below the unmodulated carrier power of the transmitter (P) as follows:
(1) On any frequency removed from the center of the authorized bandwidth by a displacement frequency (f d in kHz) of more than 2.5 kHz, but no more than 6.25 kHz: At least 53 log (f d /2.5) dB;
(2) On any frequency removed from the center of the authorized bandwidth by a displacement frequency (f d in kHz) of more than 6.25 kHz, but no more than 9.5 kHz: At least 103 log (f d /3.9) dB;
(3) On any frequency removed from the center of the authorized bandwidth by a displacement frequency (f d in kHz) of more than 9.5 kHz: At least 157 log (f d /5.3) dB, or 50 + 10 log (P) dB or 70 dB, whichever is the lesser attenuation.
(k) Emission Mask K —(1) Wideband multilateration transmitters. For transmitters authorized under subpart M to provide forward or reverse links in a multilateration system in the subbands 904-909.75 MHz, 921.75-927.25 MHz and 919.75-921.75 MHz, and which transmit an emission occupying more than 50 kHz bandwidth: in any 100 kHz band, the center frequency of which is removed from the center of authorized sub-band(s) by more than 50 percent of the authorized bandwidth, the power of emissions shall be attenuated below the transmitter output power, as specified by the following equation, but in no case less than 31 dB:
(2) Narrowband forward link transmitters. For LMS multilateration narrowband forward link transmitters operating in the 927.25-928 MHz frequency band the power of any emission shall be attenuated below the transmitter output power (P) in accordance with following schedule:
(3) Other transmitters. For all other transmitters authorized under subpart M that operate in the 902-928 MHz 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.
(4) In the 902-928 MHz band, the resolution bandwidth of the instrumentation used to measure the emission power shall be 100 kHz, except that, in regard to paragraph (2) of this section, a minimum spectrum analyzer resolution bandwidth of 300 Hz shall be used for measurement center frequencies with 1 MHz of the edge of the authorized subband. The video filter bandwidth shall not be less than the resolution bandwidth.
(5) Emission power shall be measured in peak values.
(6) The LMS sub-band edges for non-multilateration systems for which emissions must be attenuated are 902.00, 904.00, 909.5 and 921.75 MHz.
(l) Emission Mask L. For low power transmitters (20 dBm or less) operating in the 4940-4990 MHz frequency band, the power spectral density of the emissions must be attenuated below the output power of the transmitter as follows:
(1) On any frequency removed from the assigned frequency between 0-45% of the authorized bandwidth (BW): 0 dB.
(2) On any frequency removed from the assigned frequency between 45-50% of the authorized bandwidth: 219 log (% of (BW)/45) dB.
(3) On any frequency removed from the assigned frequency between 50-55% of the authorized bandwidth: 10 + 242 log (% of (BW)/50) dB.
(4) On any frequency removed from the assigned frequency between 55-100% of the authorized bandwidth: 20 + 31 log (% of (BW)/55) dB attenuation.
(5) On any frequency removed from the assigned frequency between 100-150% of the authorized bandwidth: 28 + 68 log (% of (BW)/100) dB attenuation.
(6) On any frequency removed from the assigned frequency above 150% of the authorized bandwidth: 40 dB.
(7) The zero dB reference is measured relative to the highest average power of the fundamental emission measured across the designated channel bandwidth using a resolution bandwidth of at least one percent of the occupied bandwidth of the fundamental emission and a video bandwidth of 30 kHz. The power spectral density is the power measured within the resolution bandwidth of the measurement device divided by the resolution bandwidth of the measurement device. Emission levels are also based on the use of measurement instrumentation employing a resolution bandwidth of at least one percent of the occupied bandwidth.
(m) Emission Mask M. For high power transmitters (greater that 20 dBm) operating in the 4940-4990 MHz frequency band, the power spectral density of the emissions must be attenuated below the output power of the transmitter as follows:
(1) On any frequency removed from the assigned frequency between 0-45% of the authorized bandwidth (BW): 0 dB.
(2) On any frequency removed from the assigned frequency between 45-50% of the authorized bandwidth: 568 log (% of (BW)/45) dB.
(3) On any frequency removed from the assigned frequency between 50-55% of the authorized bandwidth: 26 + 145 log (% of BW/50) dB.
(4) On any frequency removed from the assigned frequency between 55-100% of the authorized bandwidth: 32 + 31 log (% of (BW)/55) dB.
(5) On any frequency removed from the assigned frequency between 100-150% of the authorized bandwidth: 40 + 57 log (% of (BW)/100) dB.
(6) On any frequency removed from the assigned frequency between above 150% of the authorized bandwidth: 50 dB or 55 + 10 log (P) dB, whichever is the lesser attenuation.
(7) The zero dB reference is measured relative to the highest average power of the fundamental emission measured across the designated channel bandwidth using a resolution bandwidth of at least one percent of the occupied bandwidth of the fundamental emission and a video bandwidth of 30 kHz. The power spectral density is the power measured within the resolution bandwidth of the measurement device divided by the resolution bandwidth of the measurement device. Emission levels are also based on the use of measurement instrumentation employing a resolution bandwidth of at least one percent of the occupied bandwidth.
Low power devices may as an option, comply with paragraph (m).
(n) Other frequency bands. Transmitters designed for operation under this part on frequencies other than listed in this section must meet the emission mask requirements of Emission Mask B. Equipment operating under this part on frequencies allocated to but shared with the Federal Government, must meet the applicable Federal Government technical standards.
(o) Instrumentation. The reference level for showing compliance with the emission mask shall be established, except as indicated in §§ 90.210 (d), (e), and (k), using standard engineering practices for the modulation characteristic used by the equipment under test. When measuring emissions in the 150-174 MHz and 421-512 MHz bands the following procedures will apply. A sufficient number of sweeps must be measured to insure that the emission profile is developed. If video filtering is used, its bandwidth must not be less than the instrument resolution bandwidth. For frequencies more than 50 kHz removed from the edge of the authorized bandwidth a resolution of at least 100 kHz must be used for frequencies below 1000 MHz. Above 1000 MHz the resolution bandwidth of the instrumentation must be at least 1 MHz. If it can be shown that use of the above instrumentation settings do not accurately represent the true interference potential of the equipment under test, then an alternate procedure may be used provided prior Commission approval is obtained.
Table 1 to § 90.210—Applicable Emission Masks
1 Equipment using single sideband J3E emission must meet 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 § 90.691 of this chapter.
4 DSRCS Roadside Units in the 5895-5925 MHz band are governed under subpart M of this part.
5 Equipment designed to operate on 25 kilohertz bandwidth channels must meet the requirements of either Emission Mask B or G, whichever is applicable, while equipment designed to operate on 12.5 kilohertz bandwidth channels must meet the requirements of Emission Mask D. Equipment designed to operate on 25 kilohertz bandwidth channels may alternatively meet the Adjacent Channel Power limits of § 90.221.
6 Transmitters utilizing analog emissions that are equipped with an audio low-pass filter must meet Emission Mask B. All transmitters utilizing digital emissions and those transmitters using analog emissions without an audio low-pass filter must meet Emission Mask H.
2. At 85 FR 43139, July 16, 2020, § 90.210 was amended in the table by adding an entry in numerical order for “896-901/935-940”, however due to an inaccurate amendatory instruction, this amendment could not be incorporated.
§ 90.212   Provisions relating to the use of scrambling devices and digital voice modulation.
(a) Analog scrambling techniques may be employed at any station authorized the use of A3E, F3E, or G3E emission, subject to the provision of paragraph (d) of this section.
(b) The use of digital scrambling techniques or digital voice modulation requires the specific authorization of F1E or G1E emission, and these emissions will only be authorized subject to the provisions of paragraph (d) of this section.
(c) The transmission of any non-voice information or data under the authorization of F1E or G1E emission is prohibited. However, stations authorized the use of F1E or G1E emission may also be authorized F1D, F2D, G1D or G2D emission for non-voice communication purposes, pursuant to § 90.207(l).
(d) Station identification shall be transmitted in the unscrambled analog mode (clear voice) or Morse code in accordance with the provisions of § 90.425. All digital encoding and digital modulation shall be disabled during station identification.
§ 90.213   Frequency stability.
(a) Unless noted elsewhere, transmitters used in the services governed by this part must have a minimum frequency stability as specified in the following table.
Table 1 to § 90.213( a )—Minimum Frequency Stability
[Parts per million (ppm)]
1 Fixed and base stations with over 200 watts transmitter power must have a frequency stability of 50 ppm except for equipment used in the Public Safety Pool where the frequency stability is 100 ppm.
2 For single sideband operations below 25 MHz, the carrier frequency must be maintained within 50 Hz of the authorized carrier frequency.
3 Travelers information station transmitters operating from 530-1700 kHz and transmitters exceeding 200 watts peak envelope power used for disaster communications and long distance circuit operations pursuant to §§ 90.242 and 90.264 must maintain the carrier frequency to within 20 Hz of the authorized frequency.
4 Stations operating in the 154.45 to 154.49 MHz or the 173.2 to 173.4 MHz bands must have a frequency stability of 5 ppm.
5 In the 150-174 MHz band, fixed and base stations with a 12.5 kHz channel bandwidth must have a frequency stability of 2.5 ppm. Fixed and base stations with a 6.25 kHz channel bandwidth must have a frequency stability of 1.0 ppm.
6 In the 150-174 MHz band, mobile stations designed to operate with a 12.5 kHz channel bandwidth or designed to operate on a frequency specifically designated for itinerant use or designed for low-power operation of two watts or less, must have a frequency stability of 5.0 ppm. Mobile stations designed to operate with a 6.25 kHz channel bandwidth must have a frequency stability of 2.0 ppm.
7 In the 421-512 MHz band, fixed and base stations with a 12.5 kHz channel bandwidth must have a frequency stability of 1.5 ppm. Fixed and base stations with a 6.25 kHz channel bandwidth must have a frequency stability of 0.5 ppm.
8 In the 421-512 MHz band, mobile stations designed to operate with a 12.5 kHz channel bandwidth must have a frequency stability of 2.5 ppm. Mobile stations designed to operate with a 6.25 kHz channel bandwidth must have a frequency stability of 1.0 ppm.
9 Fixed stations with output powers above 120 watts and necessary bandwidth less than 3 kHz must operate with a frequency stability of 100 ppm. Fixed stations with output powers less than 120 watts and using time-division multiplex, must operate with a frequency stability of 500 ppm.
10 Frequency stability for DSRCS equipment in the 5895-5925 MHz band is specified in subpart M of this part. For all other equipment, frequency stability is to be specified in the station authorization.
11 Paging transmitters operating on paging-only frequencies must operate with frequency stability of 5 ppm in the 150-174 MHz band and 2.5 ppm in the 421-512 MHz band.
12 Mobile units may utilize synchronizing signals from associated base stations to achieve the specified carrier stability.
13 Fixed non-multilateration transmitters with an authorized bandwidth that is more than 40 kHz from the band edge, intermittently operated hand-held readers, and mobile transponders are not subject to frequency tolerance restrictions.
14 Control stations may operate with the frequency tolerance specified for associated mobile frequencies.
(b) For the purpose of determining the frequency stability limits, the power of a transmitter is considered to be the maximum rated output power as specified by the manufacturer.
§ 90.214   Transient frequency behavior.
Transmitters designed to operate in the 150-174 MHz and 421-512 MHz frequency bands must maintain transient frequencies within the maximum frequency difference limits during the time intervals indicated:
1 on is the instant when a 1 kHz test signal is completely suppressed, including any capture time due to phasing.
t 1 is the time period immediately following t on .
t 2 is the time period immediately following t 1 .
t 3 is the time period from the instant when the transmitter is turned off until t off .
t off is the instant when the 1 kHz test signal starts to rise.
2 During the time from the end of t 2 to the beginning of t 3 , the frequency difference must not exceed the limits specified in § 90.213.
3 Difference between the actual transmitter frequency and the assigned transmitter frequency.
4 If the transmitter carrier output power rating is 6 watts or less, the frequency difference during this time period may exceed the maximum frequency difference for this time period.
§ 90.215   Transmitter measurements.
(a) The licensee of each station shall employ a suitable procedure to determine that the carrier frequency of each transmitter authorized to operate with an output power in excess of two watts is maintained within the tolerence prescribed in § 90.213. This determination shall be made, and the results entered in the station records in accordance with the following:
(1) When the transmitter is initially installed;
(2) When any change is made in the transmitter which may affect the carrier frequency or its stability.
(b) The licensee of each station shall employ a suitable procedure to determine that each transmitter authorized to operate with an output power in excess of two watts does not exceed the maximum figure specified on the current station authorization. On authorizations stating only the input power to the final radiofrequency stage, the maximum permissible output power is 75 percent for frequencies below 25 MHz and 60 percent of the input power for frequencies above 25 MHz. If a non-DC final radiofrequency stage is utilized, then the output power shall not exceed 75 percent of the input power. This determination shall be made, and the results thereof entered into the station records, in accordance with the following:
(1) When the transmitter is initially installed;
(2) When any change is made in the transmitter which may increase the transmitter power input.
(c) The licensee of each station shall employ a suitable procedure to determine that the modulation of each transmitter, which is authorized to operate with an output power in excess of two watts, does not exceed the limits specified in this part. This determination shall be made and the following results entered in the station records, in accordance with the following:
(1) When the transmitter is initially installed;
(2) When any change is made in the transmitter which may affect the modulation characteristics.
(d) The determinations required by paragraphs (a), (b), and (c) of this section may, at the opinion of the licensee, be made by a qualified engineering measurement service, in which case the required record entries shall show the name and address of the engineering measurement service as well as the name of the person making the measurements.
(e) In the case of mobile transmitters, the determinations required by paragraphs (a) and (c) of this section may be made at a test or service bench: Provided, That the measurements are made under load conditions equivalent to actual operating conditions; and provided further, that after installation in the mobile unit the transmitter is given a routine check to determine that it is capable of being received satisfactorly by an appropriate receiver.
§ 90.217   Exemption from technical standards.
Except as noted herein, transmitters used at stations licensed below 800 MHz on any frequency listed in subparts B and C of this part or licensed on a business category channel above 800 MHz which have an output power not exceeding 120 milliwatts are exempt from the technical requirements set out in this subpart, but must instead comply with the following:
(a) For equipment designed to operate with a 25 kHz channel bandwidth, the sum of the bandwidth occupied by the emitted signal plus the bandwidth required for frequency stability shall be adjusted so that any emission appearing on a frequency 40 kHz or more removed from the assigned frequency is attenuated at least 30 dB below the unmodulated carrier.
(b) For equipment designed to operate with a 12.5 kHz channel bandwidth, the sum of the bandwidth occupied by the emitted signal plus the bandwidth required for frequency stability shall be adjusted so that any emission appearing on a frequency 25 kHz or more removed from the assigned frequency is attenuated at least 30 dB below the unmodulated carrier.
(c) For equipment designed to operate with a 6.25 kHz channel bandwidth, the sum of the bandwidth occupied by the emitted signal plus the bandwidth required for frequency stability shall be adjusted so that any emission appearing on a frequency 12.5 kHz or more removed from the assigned frequency is attenuated at least 30 dB below the unmodulated carrier.
(d) Transmitters may be operated in the continuous carrier transmit mode.
(e) Transmitters used for wireless microphone operations and operating on frequencies allocated for Federal use must comply with the requirements of § 90.265(b).
§ 90.219   Use of signal boosters.
This section contains technical and operational rules allowing the use of signal boosters in the Private Land Mobile Radio Services (PLMRS). Rules for signal booster operation in the Commercial Mobile Radio Services under part 90 are found in § 20.21 of this chapter.
(a) Definitions. The definitions in this paragraph apply only to the rules in this section.
Class A signal booster. A signal booster designed to retransmit signals on one or more specific channels. A signal booster is deemed to be a Class A signal booster if none of its passbands exceed 75 kHz.
Class B signal booster. A signal booster designed to retransmit any signals within a wide frequency band. A signal booster is deemed to be a Class B signal booster if it has a passband that exceeds 75 kHz.
Coverage area of a PLMRS station. All locations within the normal reliable operating range (service contour) of a PLMRS station.
Deploy a signal booster. Install and/or initially adjust a signal booster.
Distributed Antenna System (DAS). A network of spatially separated antenna nodes connected to a common source via a transport medium that provides wireless service within a geographic area or structure.
Operate a signal booster. Maintain operational control over, and responsibility for the proper functioning of, a signal booster.
Signal booster. A device or system that automatically receives, amplifies, and retransmits signals from wireless stations into and out of building interiors, tunnels, shielded outdoor areas and other locations where these signals would otherwise be too weak for reliable communications. Signal booster systems may contain both Class A and Class B signal boosters as components.
(b) Authority to operate. PLMRS licensees for stations operating on assigned channels higher than 150 MHz may operate signal boosters, limited to the service band for which they are authorized, as needed anywhere within the PLMRS stations' service contour, but may not extend the stations' service contour.
(1) PLMRS licensees may also consent to operation of signal boosters by non-licensees (such as a building owner or a signal booster installation contractor) within their service contour and across their applicable frequencies, but must maintain a reasonable level of control over these operations in order to resolve interference problems.
(i) Non-licensees seeking to operate signal boosters must obtain the express consent of the licensee(s) of the frequencies for which the device or system is intended to amplify. The consent must be maintained in a recordable format that can be presented to an FCC representative or other relevant licensee investigating interference.
(ii) Consent is not required from third party (unintended) licensees whose signals are incidentally retransmitted. However, signal booster operation is on a non-interference basis and operations may be required to cease or alter the operating parameters due to a request from an FCC representative or a licensee's request to resolve interference.
(2) [Reserved]
(c) Licensee responsibility; interference. PLMRS licensees that operate signal boosters are responsible for their proper operation, and are responsible for correcting any harmful interference that signal booster operation may cause to other licensed communications services. Normal co-channel transmissions are not considered to be harmful interference. Licensees are required to resolve interference problems pursuant to § 90.173(b). Licensees shall act in good faith regarding the operation of signal boosters and in the resolution of interference due to signal booster operation. Licensees who are unable to determine the location or cause of signal booster interference may seek assistance from the FCC to resolve such problems.
(d) Deployment rules. Deployment of signal boosters must be carried out in accordance with the rules in this paragraph.
(1) Signal boosters may be used to improve coverage in weak signal areas only.
(2) Signal boosters must not be used to extend PLMRS stations' normal operating range.
(3)(i) Except as set forth in paragraph (d)(3)(ii) of this section, signal boosters must be deployed such that the radiated power of each retransmitted channel, on the forward link and on the reverse link, does not exceed 5 Watts effective radiated power (ERP).
(ii) Railroad licensees may operate Class A signal boosters transmitting on a single channel with up to 30 Watts ERP on frequencies 452/457.9000 to 452/457.96875 MHz in areas where communication between the front and rear of trains is unsatisfactory due to distance or intervening terrain barriers.
(4) Class B signal boosters may be deployed only at fixed locations; mobile operation of Class B signal boosters is prohibited after November 1, 2014.
(5) Class B signal booster installations must be registered in the FCC signal booster database that can be accessed at the following URL: www.fcc.gov/signal-boosters/registration.
(6) Good engineering practice must be used in regard to the radiation of intermodulation products and noise, such that interference to licensed communications systems is avoided. In the event of harmful interference caused by any given deployment, the FCC may require additional attenuation or filtering of the emissions and/or noise from signal boosters or signal booster systems, as necessary to eliminate the interference.
(i) In general, the ERP of intermodulation products should not exceed −30 dBm in 10 kHz measurement bandwidth.
(ii) In general, the ERP of noise within the passband should not exceed −43 dBm in 10 kHz measurement bandwidth.
(iii) In general, the ERP of noise on spectrum more than 1 MHz outside of the passband should not exceed −70 dBm in a 10 kHz measurement bandwidth.
(7) Signal booster passbands are limited to the service band or bands for which the operator is authorized. In general, signal boosters should utilize the minimum passband that is sufficient to accomplish the purpose. Except for distributed antenna systems (DAS) installed in buildings, the passband of a Class B booster should not encompass both commercial services (such as ESMR and Cellular Radiotelephone) and part 90 Land Mobile and Public Safety Services.
(e) Device Specifications. In addition to the general rules for equipment certification in § 90.203(a)(2) and part 2, subpart J of this chapter, a signal booster must also meet the rules in this paragraph.
(1) The output power capability of a signal booster must be designed for deployments providing a radiated power not exceeding 5 Watts ERP for each retransmitted channel.
(2) The noise figure of a signal booster must not exceed 9 dB in either direction.
(3) Spurious emissions from a signal booster must not exceed −13 dBm within any 100 kHz measurement bandwidth.
(4) A signal booster must be designed such that all signals that it retransmits meet the following requirements:
(i) The signals are retransmitted on the same channels as received. Minor departures from the exact provider or reference frequencies of the input signals are allowed, provided that the retransmitted signals meet the requirements of § 90.213.
(ii) There is no change in the occupied bandwidth of the retransmitted signals.
(iii) The retransmitted signals continue to meet the unwanted emissions limits of § 90.210 applicable to the corresponding received signals (assuming that these received signals meet the applicable unwanted emissions limits by a reasonable margin).
(5) On or after March 1, 2014, a signal booster must be labeled to indicate whether it is a Class A or Class B device, and the label must include the following advisory
(1) In on-line point-of-sale marketing materials,
(2) In any print or on-line owner's manual and installation instructions,
(3) On the outside packaging of the device, and
(4) On a label affixed to the device:
“WARNING. This is NOT a CONSUMER device. It is designed for installation by FCC LICENSEES and QUALIFIED INSTALLERS. You MUST have an FCC LICENSE or express consent of an FCC Licensee to operate this device. You MUST register Class B signal boosters (as defined in 47 CFR 90.219) online at www.fcc.gov/signal-boosters/registration. Unauthorized use may result in significant forfeiture penalties, including penalties in excess of $100,000 for each continuing violation.”
§ 90.221   Adjacent channel power limits.
(a) For the frequency bands indicated below, operations using equipment designed to operate with a 25 kHz channel bandwidth may be authorized up to a 22 kHz bandwidth if the equipment meets the adjacent channel power (ACP) limits below. The table specifies a value for the ACP as a function of the displacement from the channel center frequency and a measurement bandwidth of 18 kHz.
(b)(1) Maximum adjacent power levels for frequencies in the 450-470 MHz band:
(2) In any case, no requirement in excess of −36 dBm shall apply.
(c)(1) Maximum adjacent power levels for frequencies in the 809-824/854-869 MHz band:
(2) In any case, no requirement in excess of −36 dBm shall apply.
(d) On any frequency removed from the assigned frequency by more than 75 kHz, the attenuation of any emission must be at least 43 + 10 log (P watts ) dB.
§ 90.223   RF exposure.
Licensees and manufacturers shall ensure compliance with the Commission's radio frequency exposure requirements in §§ 1.1307(b), 2.1091, and 2.1093 of this chapter, as appropriate. Applications for equipment authorization of mobile or portable devices operating under this section must contain a statement confirming compliance with these requirements. Technical information showing the basis for this statement must be submitted to the Commission upon request.
§ 90.231   Scope.
This subpart sets forth requirements and standards for licensing and operation of non-voice and other specialized radio uses (other than radiolocation). Such uses include secondary signaling, telemetry, radioteleprinter, radiofacsimile, automatic vehicle monitoring (AVM), radio call box, relay, vehicular repeater, and control station operations.
§ 90.233   Base/mobile non-voice operations.
The use of A1D, A2D, F1D, F2D, G1D, or G2D emission may be authorized to base/mobile operations in accordance with the following limitations and requirements.
(a) Licensees employing non-voice communications are not relieved of their responsibility to cooperate in the shared use of land mobile radio channels. See also §§ 90.403 and 90.173(a) and (b).
(b) Authorization for non-voice emission may be granted only on frequencies subject to the coordination requirements set forth in § 90.175. Non-voice operations on frequencies not subject to these requirements are permitted only a secondary basis to voice communications.
(c) Provisions of this section do not apply to authorizations for paging, telemetry, radiolocation, automatic vehicle monitoring systems (AVM), radioteleprinter, radio call box operations, or authorizations granted pursuant to subpart T of this part.
§ 90.235   Secondary fixed signaling operations.
Fixed operations may, subject to the following conditions, be authorized on a secondary basis for voice, tone or impulse signaling on a licensee's mobile service frequency(ies) above 25 MHz within the area normally covered by the licensee's mobile system. Voice signaling will be permitted only in the Public Safety Pool.
(a) The bandwidth shall not exceed that authorized to the licensee for the primary operations on the frequency concerned.
(b) The output power shall not exceed 30 watts at the remote site.
(c) A1D, A2D, F1D, F2D, G1D and G2D emissions may be authorized. In the Police Radio Service, A3E, F1E, F2E, F3E, G1E, G2E, or G3E emissions may also be authorized.
(d) Except for those systems covered under paragraph (e) of this section, the maximum duration of any non-voice signaling transmission shall not exceed 2 seconds and shall not be repeated more than 3 times. Signaling transmissions may be staggered at any interval or may be continuous. In the Public Safety Pool, the maximum duration of any voice signaling transmission shall not exceed 6 seconds and shall not be repeated more than 3 times.
(e) Until December 31, 1999, for systems in the Public Safety Pool authorized prior to June 20, 1975, and Power and Petroleum licensees as defined in § 90.7 authorized prior to June 1, 1976, the maximum duration of any signaling transmission shall not exceed 6 seconds and shall not be repeated more than 5 times. For Power licensees authorized between June 1, 1976, and August 14, 1989, signaling duration shall not exceed 2 seconds and shall not be repeated more than 5 times. Such systems include existing facilities and additional facilities which may be authorized as a clear and direct expansion of existing facilities. After December 31, 1999, all signaling systems shall be required to comply with the 2 second message duration and 3 message repetition requirements.
(f) Systems employing automatic interrogation shall be limited to non-voice techniques and shall not be activated for this purpose more than 10 seconds out of any 60 second period. This 10 second timeframe includes both transmit and response times.
(g) Automatic means shall be provided to deactivate the transmitter in the event the r.f. carrier remains on for a period in excess of 3 minutes or if a transmission for the same signaling function is repeated consecutively more than five times.
(h) Fixed stations authorized pursuant to the provisions of this section are exempt from the requirements of §§ 90.137(b), 90.425, and 90.429.
(i) Base, mobile, or mobile relay stations may transmit secondary signaling transmissions to receivers at fixed locations subject to the conditions set forth in this section.
(j) Under the provisions of this section, a mobile service frequency may not be used exclusively for secondary signaling.
(k) The use of secondary signaling will not be considered in whole or in part as a justification for authorizing additional frequencies in a licensee's land mobile radio system.
(l) Secondary fixed signaling operations conducted in accordance with the provisions of §§ 90.317(a), 90.557 and 90.637 are exempt from the foregoing provisions of this section.
§ 90.237   Interim provisions for operation of radioteleprinter and radiofacsimile devices.
These provisions authorize and govern the use of radioteleprinter and radiofacsimile devices for base station use (other than on mobile-only or paging-only frequencies) in all radio pools and services except Radiolocation in this part.
(a) Information must be submitted with an application to establish that the minimum separation between a proposed radioteleprinter or radiofacsimile base station and the nearest co-channel base station of another licensee operating a voice system is 120 km (75 mi) for a single frequency mode of operation, or 56 km (35 mi) for two frequency mode of operation. Where this minimum mileage separation cannot be achieved, either agreement to the use of F1B, F2B, F3C, G1B, G2B or G3C emission must be received from all existing co-channel licensees using voice emission within the applicable mileage limits, or if agreement was not received, the licensee of the radioteleprinter or radiofacsimile system is responsible for eliminating any interference with preexisting voice operations. New licensees of voice operations will be expected to share equally any frequency occupied by established radioteleprinter or radiofacsimile operations.
(b) [Reserved]
(c) Transmitters certificated under this part for use of G3E or F3E emission may also be used for F1B, F2B, F3C, G1B, G2B or G3C emission for radioteleprinter or radiofacsimile, provided the keying signal is passed through the low pass audio frequency filter required for G3E or F3E emission. The transmitter must be so adjusted and operated that the instantaneous frequency deviation does not exceed the maximum value allowed for G3E or F3E.
(d) Frequencies will not be assigned exclusively for F1B, F2B, F3C, G1B, G2B or G3C emission for radioteleprinter or radiofacsimile (except where specifically provided for in the frequency limitations).
(e) The requirements in this part applicable to the use of G3E or F3E emission are also applicable to the use of F1B, F2B, F3C, G1B, G2B or G3C emission for radioteleprinter and radiofacsimile transmissions.
(f) The station identification required by § 90.425 must be given by voice or Morse code.
(g) For single sideband operations in accordance with § 90.266, transmitters certified under this part for use of J3E emission may also be used for A2B and F2B emissions for radioteleprinter transmissions. Transmitters certified under this part for use of J3E emission in accordance with §§ 90.35(c)(1)(A), 90.35(c)(1)(B), 90.35(c)(1)(C) and 90.257(a) may also be used for A1B, A2B, F1B, F2B, J2B, and A3C emissions to provide standby backup circuits for operational telecommunications circuits which have been disrupted, where so authorized in other sections of this part.
§ 90.238   Telemetry operations.
The use of telemetry is authorized under this part on the following frequencies.
(a) 72-76 MHz (in accordance with § 90.257 and subject to the rules governing the use of that band).
(b) 154.45625, 154.46375, 154.47125, and 154.47875 MHz (subject to the rules governing the use of those frequencies).
(c) 173.20375, 173.210, 173.2375, 173.2625, 173.2875, 173.3125, 173.3375, 173.3625, 173.390, and 173.39625 MHz (subject to the rules governing the use of those frequencies).
(d) 216-220 and 1427-1435 MHz (as available in the Public Safety and Industrial/Business Pools and in accordance with § 90.259).
(e) In the 450-470 MHz band, telemetry operations will be authorized on a secondary basis with a transmitter output power not to exceed 2 watts on frequencies subject to § 90.20(d)(27) or § 90.35(c)(30), except that telemetry operations used by Railroad licensees may be authorized on frequency pair 452/457.9375 MHz with a transmitter output power not to exceed 8 watts.
(f) 220-222 MHz as available under subpart T of this part.
(g) 450-470 MHz band (as available for secondary fixed operations in accordance with § 90.261 and for low power operations in accordance with § 90.267).
(h) 458-468 MHz band (as available in the Public Safety Pool for bio-medical telemetry operations).
(i) For Industrial/Business frequencies which are not governed by paragraphs (a) through (h), on frequencies available for operations up to 2 watts.
§ 90.239   [Reserved]
§ 90.241   Radio call box operations.
(a) The frequencies in the 72-76 MHz band listed in § 90.257(a)(1) may be assigned in the Public Safety Pool for operation of radio call boxes to be used by the public to request fire, police, ambulance, road service, and other emergency assistance, subject to the following conditions and limitations:
(1) Maximum transmitter power will be either 2.5 watts plate input to the final stage or 1 watt output.
(2) Antenna gain shall not exceed zero dBd (referred to a half-wave dipole) in any horizontal direction.
(3) Only vertical polarization of antennas shall be permitted.
(4) The antenna and its supporting structure must not exceed 6.1 m (20 feet) in height above the ground.
(5) Only A1D, A2D, F1D, F2D, G1D, or G2D emission shall be authorized.
(6) The transmitter frequency tolerance shall be 0.005 percent.
(7) Except for test purposes, each transmission must be limited to a maximum of two seconds and shall not be automatically repeated more than two times at spaced intervals within the following 30 seconds. Thereafter, the authorized cycle may not be reactivated for one minute.
(8) All transmitters installed after December 10, 1970, shall be furnished with an automatic means to deactivate the transmitter in the event the carrier remains on for a period in excess of three minutes. The automatic cutoff system must be designed so the transmitter can be only manually reactivated.
(9) Frequency selection must be made with regard to reception of television stations on channels 4 (66-72 MHz) and 5 (76-82 MHz) and should maintain the greatest possible frequency separation from either or both of these channels, if they are assigned in the area.
(b) [Reserved]
(c) Frequencies in the 450-470 MHz band which are designated as available for assignment to central control stations and radio call box installations in § 90.20(c) or § 90.20(d)(58) may be assigned in the Public Safety Pool for highway call box systems subject to the following requirements:
(1) Call box transmitters shall be installed only on limited access highways and may communicate only with central control stations of the licensee.
(2) Maximum transmitter power for call boxes will be either 2.5 watts input to the final amplifier stage or one watt output. The central control station shall not exceed 25 watts effective radiated power (ERP).
(3) The height of a call box antenna may not exceed 6.1 meters (20 feet) above the ground, the natural formation, or the existing man-made structure (other than an antenna supporting structure) on which it is mounted. A central station transmitting antenna, together with its supporting structure shall not exceed 15 m. (50 ft.) above the ground surface.
(4) Only F1D, F2D, F3E, G1D, G2D, or G3E, emission may be authorized for nonvoice signaling, radiotelephony, and multiplexed voice and nonvoice use. The provisions in this part applicable to the use of F3E or G3E emission are also applicable to the use of F1D, F2D, G1D or G2D emission for call box transmitters.
(5) The station identification required by § 90.425 shall be by voice and may be transmitted for the system from the central control station. Means shall be provided at each central control station location to automatically indicate the call box unit identifier when a call box unit is activated.
(6) Call box installations must be so designed that their unit identifier is automatically transmitted when the handset is lifted.
(7) Each application for a call box system must contain information on the nonvoice transmitting equipment, including the character structure, bit rate, modulating tone frequencies, identification codes, and the method of modulation (i.e., frequency shift, tone shift, or tone phase shift).
(8) Call box installations may be used secondarily for the transmission of information from roadside sensors. Central control station transmitters may be used secondarily to interrogate call box roadside sensors and for the transmission of signals to activate roadside signs.
(9) Each call box transmitter must be provided with a timer which will automatically deactivate the transmitter after 2 minutes unless the central control station operator reactivates the timer cycle.
(10) The central control station must include facilities that permit direct control of any call box in the system.
(11) Call box transmitter frequency tolerance shall be 0.001 percent.
(12) Transmitters certificated under this part for use of F3E or G3E emission may be used for F1D, F2B, G2B or G2D emission provided that the audio tones or digital data bits are passed through the low pass audio filter required to be provided in the transmitter for F3E or G3E emission. The transmitter must be adjusted and operated so that the instantaneous frequency deviation does not exceed the maximum value allowed for F3E or G3E emission.
(d) In addition to the frequencies available pursuant to § 90.20(c) the frequencies set forth in § 90.20(d)(58) may be used for central control station and call box installations in areas where such frequencies are available for fixed system use subject to the requirements and limitations of that section and subject to the provisions of paragraphs (c) (1), (4), (5), (6), (7), (8), (9), (10), and (12) of this section.
§ 90.242   Travelers' information stations.
(a) The frequencies 530 through 1700 kHz in 10 kHz increments may be assigned to the Public Safety Pool for the operation of Travelers' Information Stations subject to the following conditions and limitations.
(1) [Reserved]
(2) Each application for a station or system shall be accompanied by:
(i) A statement certifying that the transmitting site of the Travelers' Information Station will be located at least 15 km (9.3 miles) measured orthogonally outside the measured 0.5 mV/m daytime contour (0.1 mV/m for Class A stations) of any AM broadcast station operating on a first adjacent channel or at least 130 km (80.6 miles) outside the measured 0.5 mV/m daytime contour (0.1 mV/m for Class A stations) of any AM broadcast station operating on the same channel, or, if nighttime operation is proposed, outside the theoretical 0.5 mV/m-50% nighttime skywave contour of a U.S. Class A station. If the measured contour is not available, then the calculated 0.5 mV/m field strength contour shall be acceptable. These contours are available at the concerned AM broadcast station and FCC offices in Washington, DC.
(ii) In consideration of possible cross-modulation and inter-modulation interference effects which may result from the operation of a Travelers' Information Station in the vicinity of an AM broadcast station on the second or third adjacent channel, the applicant shall certify that it has considered these possible effects and, to the best of its knowledge, does not foresee interference occurring to broadcast stations operating on second or third adjacent channels.
(iii) A map showing the geographical location of each transmitter site and an estimate of the signal strength at the contour of the desired coverage area. For a cable system, the contour to be shown is the estimated field strength at 60 meters (197 feet) from any point on the cable. For a conventional radiating antenna, the estimated field strength contour at 1.5 km (0.93 mile) shall be shown. A contour map comprised of actual on-the-air measurements shall be submitted to the Commission within 60 days after station authorization or completion of station construction, whichever occurs later. A sufficient number of points shall be chosen at the specified distances (extrapolated measurements are acceptable) to adequately show compliance with the field strength limits.
(iv) For each transmitter site, the transmitter's output power, the type of antenna utilized, its length (for a cable system), its height above ground, distance from transmitter to the antenna, and the elevation above sea level at the transmitting site.
(3) Travelers' Information Stations will be authorized on a primary basis on 530 kHz and on a secondary basis to stations authorized on a primary basis in the band 535-1705 kHz.
(4) A Travelers' Information Station authorization may be suspended, modified, or withdrawn by the Commission without prior notice or right to hearing if necessary to resolve interference conflicts, to implement agreements with foreign governments, or in other circumstances warranting such action.
(5) The transmitting site of each Travelers' Information Station shall be restricted to the immediate vicinity of the following specified areas: Air, train, and bus transportation terminals, public parks and historical sites, bridges, tunnels, and any intersection of a Federal Interstate Highway with any other Interstate, Federal, State, or local highway.
(6) A Travelers' Information Station shall normally be authorized to use a single transmitter. However, a system of stations, with each station in the system employing a separate transmitter, may be authorized for a specific area provided sufficient need is demonstrated by the applicant.
(7) Travelers' Information Stations shall transmit only noncommercial voice information pertaining to traffic and road conditions, traffic hazard and travel advisories, directions, availability of lodging, rest stops and service stations, and descriptions of local points of interest. It is not permissible to identify the commercial name of any business establishment whose service may be available within or outside the coverage area of a Travelers' Information Station. However, to facilitate announcements concerning departures/arrivals and parking areas at air, train, and bus terminals, the trade name identification of carriers is permitted. Travelers' Information Stations may also transmit information in accordance with the provisions of §§ 90.405 and 90.407.
(b) Technical standards. (1) The use of 6K00A3E emission will be authorized, however N0N emission may be used for purposes of receiver quieting, but only for a system of stations employing “leaky” cable antennas.
(2) A frequency tolerance of 100 Hz shall be maintained.
(3) For a station employing a cable antenna, the following restrictions apply:
(i) The length of the cable antenna shall not exceed 3.0 km (1.9 miles).
(ii) Transmitter RF output power shall not exceed 50 watts and shall be adjustable downward to enable the user to comply with the specified field strength limit.
(iii) The field strength of the emission on the operating frequency shall not exceed 2 mV/m when measured with a standard field strength meter at a distance of 60 meters (197 feet) from any part of the station.
(4) For a station employing a conventional radiating antenna(s) (ex. vertical monopole, directional array) the following restrictions apply:
(i) The antenna height above ground level shall not exceed 15.0 meters (49.2 feet).
(ii) Only vertical polarization of antennas shall be permitted.
(iii) Transmitter RF output power shall not exceed 10 watts to enable the user to comply with the specified field strength limit.
(iv) The field strength of the emission on the operating frequency shall not exceed 2 mV/m when measured with a standard field strength meter at a distance of 1.50 km (0.93 miles) from the transmitting antenna system.
(5) For co-channel stations operating under different licenses, the following minimum separation distances shall apply:
(i) 0.50 km (0.31 miles) for the case when both stations are using cable antennas.
(ii) 7.50 km (4.66 miles) for the case when one station is using a conventional antenna and the other is using a cable antenna.
(iii) 15.0 km (9.3 miles) for the case when both stations are using conventional antennas.
(6) For a system of co-channel transmitters operating under a single authorization utilizing either cable or conventional antennas, or both, no minimum separation distance is required.
(7) An applicant desiring to locate a station that does not comply with the separation requirements of this section shall coordinate with the affected station.
(8) Each transmitter in a Travelers' Information Station shall be equipped with an audio low-pass filter. Such filter shall be installed either at the transmitter's audio input or between the modulation limiter and the modulated stage. At audio frequencies between 5 kHz and 20 kHz this filter shall have an attenuation greater than the attenuation at 1 kHz by at least:
§ 90.243   Mobile relay stations.
(a) Mobile relay operations will be authorized on frequencies below 512 MHz, except in the Radiolocation Service.
(b) Special provisions for mobile relay operations:
(1) In the Public Safety Pool, systems operating on any of the public safety frequencies listed in § 90.20(c) are permitted to be cross-banded for mobile stations operations with mobile relay stations where such stations are authorized.
(2) [Reserved]
(3) In the Industrial/Business Pool, on frequencies designated with an “LR” in the coordinator column of the frequency table in § 90.35(b)(3), mobile relay operation shall be on a secondary basis to other co-channel operations.
(4) Except where specifically precluded, a mobile relay station may be authorized to operate on any frequency available for assignment to base stations.
(5) A mobile station associated with mobile relay station(s) may not be authorized to operate on a frequency below 25 MHz.
(c) Technical requirements for mobile relay stations.
(1) Each new mobile relay station with an output power of more than one watt, and authorized after January 1, 1972, that is activated by signals below 50 MHz shall deactivate the station upon cessation of reception of the activating continuous coded tone signal. Licensees may utilize a combination of digital selection and continuous coded tone control where required to insure selection of only the desired mobile relay station.
(2) Mobile relay stations controlled by signals above 50 MHz or authorized prior to January 1, 1972, to operate below 50 MHz are not required to incorporate coded signal or tone control devices unless the transmitters are consistently activated by undesired signals and cause harmful interference to other licensees. If activation by undesired signals causes harmful interference, the Commission will require the installation of tone control equipment within 90 days of a notice to the licensee.
(3) Except in the Industrial/Business Pool, on frequencies designated with an “LR” in the coordinator column of the frequency table in § 90.35(b)(3), each new mobile-relay station authorized after January 1, 1972, shall be equipped for automatic deactivation of the transmitter within 5 seconds after the signals controlling the station cease.
(4) Except in the Industrial/Business Pool, on frequencies designated with an “LR” in the coordinator column of the frequency table in § 90.35(b)(3), each new mobile-relay station authorized after January 1, 1972, during periods that is not controlled from a manned fixed control point; shall have an automatic time delay or clock device that will deactivate the station not more than 3 minutes after its activation by a mobile unit.
(5) In the Industrial/Business Pool, on frequencies designated with an “LR” in the coordinator column of the frequency table in § 90.35(b)(3), each mobile relay station, regardless of the frequency or frequencies of the signal by which it is activated shall be so designated and installed that it will be deactivated automatically when its associated receiver or receivers are not receiving a signal on the frequency or frequencies which normally activate it.
(6) Multiple mobile relay station radio systems shall use wireline or radio stations on fixed frequencies for any necessary interconnect circuits between the mobile relay stations.
§ 90.245   Fixed relay stations.
Except where specifically provided for, fixed relay stations shall be authorized to operate only on frequencies available for use by operational fixed stations.
§ 90.247   Mobile repeater stations.
A mobile station authorized to operate on a mobile service frequency above 25 MHz may be used as a mobile repeater to extend the communications range of hand-carried units subject to the following:
(a) Mobile repeaters and/or associated hand-carried transmitters may be assigned separate base/mobile frequencies for this use in addition to the number of frequencies normally assignable to the licensee.
(b)-(c) [Reserved]
(d) In the Industrial/Business Pool, on frequencies designated with an “LR” in the coordinator column of the frequency table in § 90.35(b)(3), use of mobile repeaters is on a secondary basis to the stations of any other licensee. Hand carried units used in connection with mobile repeaters on frequencies designated with an “LR” in the coordinator column of the frequency table in § 90.35(b)(3) may operate only above 150 MHz and are limited to a maximum output power of six watts. The frequency and maximum power shall be specified in the station authorization.
(e) In the Industrial/Business Pool, on frequencies designated with an “LR” in the coordinator column of the frequency table in § 90.35(b)(3), the output power of a mobile repeater station, when transmitting as a repeater station on the frequency used for communication with its associated pack-carried or hand-carried units, shall not exceed 6 watts except when the same frequency is also used by the same station for direct communication with vehicular mobile units or with one or more base stations.
(f) When automatically retransmitting messages originated by or destined for hand-carried units, each mobile station shall activate the mobile transmitter only with a continuous access signal, the absence of which will de-activate the mobile transmitter. The continuous access signal is not required when the mobile unit is equipped with a switch that activates the automatic mode of the mobile unit and an automatic time-delay device that de-activates the transmitter after any uninterrupted transmission period in excess of 3 minutes. For the purposes of this rule section the continuous access signal can be achieved by use of digital or analog methods.
§ 90.248   Wildlife and ocean buoy tracking.
(a) The frequency bands 40.66-40.70 MHz and 216-220 MHz may be used for the tracking of, and the telemetry of scientific data from, ocean buoys and animal wildlife.
(b) Transmitters operating under the provisions of this section are not subject to the technical standards contained in §§ 90.205-90.217. In lieu thereof, the transmitters shall comply with the provisions in this section.
(c) Classes of emission are limited to N0N, A1A, A2A, A2B, F1B, J2B, F2A, F2B, and/or F8E.
(d) The authorized bandwidth shall not exceed 1 kHz.
(e) Frequency stability. (1) For transmitters operating in the 40.66-40.70 MHz frequency band, the frequency stability shall be sufficient to ensure that, at the carrier frequency employed, the sum of the authorized bandwidth plus the bandwidth required for frequency stability are confined within this band.
(2) In the 216-220 MHz frequency band, transmitters shall employ a minimum frequency stability of 0.005 percent (50 parts per million). The carrier frequency shall be selected to ensure that the sum of the authorized bandwidth plus the bandwidth required for frequency stability are confined within this band.
(3) The frequency stability standards shall be met over a temperature range of −30° to + 50° centigrade at normal supply voltage and for a variation in the primary supply voltage from 85% to 115% of the rated supply voltage at a temperature of + 20 °C. For battery operated equipment, the equipment tests shall be performed using a new battery.
(f) The maximum peak transmitter output (carrier) power shall not exceed 1 milliwatt for airborne wildlife applications, 10 milliwatts for terrestrial wildlife applications or 100 milliwatts for ocean buoys.
(g) Emissions appearing outside of the authorized bandwidth shall be attenuated below the carrier power by at least 26 dB, following the procedures specified in § 90.210(m).
§ 90.249   Control stations.
Control stations associated with land mobile stations under this part shall be authorized to operate subject to the following:
(a) Frequencies for control stations. (1) Control stations may be authorized to operate on frequencies available for use by operational fixed stations.
(2) A control station associated with mobile relay station(s) may, at the option of the applicant, be assigned the frequency of the associated mobile station. In the Industrial/Business Pool, on frequencies designated with an “LR” in the coordinator column of the frequency table in § 90.35(b)(3), such a control station may be assigned any mobile service station frequency available for assignment to mobile stations. Such operation is on a secondary basis to use of the frequency for regular mobile service communications.
(3) Control and fixed stations in the Public Safety Pool may be authorized on a temporary basis to operate on frequencies available for base and mobile stations between 152 and 450 MHz, where there is an adequate showing that such operations cannot be conducted on frequencies allocated for assignment to operational fixed stations. Such operation will not be authorized initially or renewed for periods in excess of one year. Any such authorization shall be subject to immediate termination if harmful interference is caused to stations in the mobile service, or if the particular frequency is required for mobile service operations in the area concerned.
(b) [Reserved]
(c) A base station which is used intermittently as a control station for one or more associated mobile relay stations of the same licensee shall operate only on the mobile service frequency assigned to the associated mobile relay station when operating as a base station and on the mobile service frequency assigned to the associated mobile station when operating as a control station. Authority for such dual classification and use must be shown on the station authorization. When operating as a control station, the licensee must meet all control station requirements. In the Industrial/Business Pool, on frequencies designated with an “LR” in the coordinator column of the frequency table in § 90.35(b)(3), base stations used intermittently as control stations shall operate only on a mobile service frequency which is available for assignment to base stations.
§ 90.250   Meteor burst communications.
Meteor burst communications may be authorized for the use of private radio stations subject to the following provisions:
(a) Station operation is limited to the State of Alaska only.
(b) The frequency 44.20 MHz may be used for base station operation and 45.90 MHz for remote station operation on a primary basis. The frequencies 42.40 and 44.10 MHz may be used by base and remote stations, respectively, on a secondary basis to common carrier stations utilizing meteor burst communications. Users shall cooperate among themselves to the extent practicable to promote compatible operation.
(c) The maximum transmitter output power shall not exceed 2000 watts for base stations and 500 watts for remote stations.
(d) Co-channel base stations of different licensees shall be located at least 241 km (150 miles) apart. A remote station and a base station of different licensees shall be located at least 241 km (150 miles) apart if the remote units of the different licensees operate on the same frequency. Waiver of this requirement may be granted if affected users agree to a cooperative sharing arrangement.
(e) The authorized emission designator to be used in F1E, F7W, G1E or G7W to allow for Phase Shift Keying (PSK) or Frequency Shift Keying (FSK).
(f) The maximum authorized bandwidth is 20 kHz.
(g) Station identification in accordance with § 90.425(a) or (b) shall only be required for the base station.
(h) Stations may be required to comply with additional conditions of operation as necessary on a case-by-case basis as specified in the authorization.
(i) Stations employing meteor burst communications must not cause interference to other stations operating in accordance with the allocation table. New authorizations will be issued subject to the Commission's experimental licensing rules in part 5 of this chapter. Prior to expiration of the experimental authorization, application Form 601 should be filed for issuance of a permanent authorization.
§ 90.251   Scope.
This subpart sets forth special requirements applicable to the use of certain frequencies or frequency bands.
§ 90.253   Use of frequency 5167.5 kHz.
The frequency 5167.5 kHz may be used by any station authorized under this part to communicate with any other station in the State of Alaska for emergency communications. The maximum power permitted is 150 watts peak envelope power (PEP). All stations operating on this frequency must be located in or within 50 nautical miles (92.6 km) of the State of Alaska. This frequency may also be used by stations authorized in the Alaska-private fixed service for calling and listening, but only for establishing communication before switching to another frequency.
§ 90.255   [Reserved]
§ 90.257   Assignment and use of frequencies in the band 72-76 MHz.
(a) The following criteria shall govern the authorization and use of frequencies within the band 72-76 MHz by fixed stations. (For call box operations see § 90.241).
(1) The following frequencies in the band 72-76 MHz may be used for fixed operations:
MHz
(2) All authorizations are subject to the condition that no harmful interference will be caused to television reception on Channels 4 and 5.
(3) The applicant must agree to eliminate any harmful interference caused by his operation to TV reception on either Channel 4 or 5 that might develop by whatever means are necessary. Such action must be taken within 90 days of notification by the Commission. If such interference is not eliminated within the 90-day period, operation of the fixed station will be discontinued.
(4) Vertical polarization must be used.
(5) Whenever it is proposed to locate a 72-76 MHz fixed station less than 128 km (80 mi.) but more than 16 km (10 mi.) from the site of a TV transmitter operating on either channel 4 or 5, or from the post office of a community in which such channels are assigned but not in operation, the fixed station shall be authorized only if there are fewer than 100 family dwelling units (as defined by the U.S. Bureau of the Census), excluding units 112 or more km (70 mi.) distant from the TV antenna site, located within a circle centered at the location of the proposed fixed station. The radius shall be determined by use of the following chart entitled, “Chart for Determining Radius From Fixed Station in 72-76 MHz Band to Interference Contour Along Which 10 Percent of Service From Adjacent Channel Television Station Would Be Destroyed.” Two charts are available, one for Channel 4, and one for Channel 5. The Commission may, however, in a particular case, authorize the location of a fixed station within a circle containing 100 or more family dwelling units upon a showing that:
(i) The proposed site is the only suitable location.
(ii) It is not feasible, technically or otherwise, to use other available frequencies.
(iii) The applicant has a plan to control any interference that might develop to TV reception from his operations.
(iv) The applicant is financially able and agrees to make such adjustments in the TV receivers affected as may be necessary to eliminate any interference caused by his operations.
(v) All applications seeking authority to operate with a separation of less than 16 km (10 mi.) will be returned without action.
(b) The following criteria governs the authorization and use of frequencies in the 72-76 MHz band by mobile stations in the Industrial/Business Pool.
(1) Mobile operation on frequencies in the 72-76 MHz band is subject to the condition that no interference is caused to the reception of television stations operating on Channel 4 or 5. Interference will be considered to occur whenever reception of a regularly used television signal is impaired by signals radiated by stations operating under these rules in the 72 to 76 MHz band regardless of the quality of such reception or the strength of the signal used. In order to minimize the hazard of such interference, it shall be the duty of the licensee to determine whether interference is being caused to television reception, wherever television receivers other than those under the control of the licensee, are located within 31 m. (100 ft.) of any point where the stations licensed under these rules may be operated. In any case, it shall be the responsibility of the licensee to correct, at its own expense, any such interference and if the interference cannot be eliminated by the application of suitable techniques, the operation of the offending transmitter shall be suspended. If the complainant refuses to permit the licensee to apply remedial techniques which demonstrably will eliminate the interference without impairment of the original reception, the licensee is absolved of further responsibility.
(2) The maximum transmitter output power that will be authorized is 1 watt; and each station authorized will be classified and licensed as a mobile station. Any units of such a station, however, may be used to provide the operational functions of a base or fixed station. The antennas of transmitters operating on these frequencies must be directly mounted or installed upon the transmitting unit: Except that when permanently installed aboard a vehicle, antenna and transmitter may be separated as required for convenience in mounting. Horizontal polarization will not be allowed; and the gain of antennas employed shall not exceed that of a halfwave dipole. The maximum bandwidth that will be authorized is 20 kHz. Tone control transmissions are permitted.
(c) Radio remote control of models is permitted on frequencies 10 kHz removed from these frequencies authorized for fixed and mobile operations in the 72-76 MHz band. Remote control operations are secondary to operation of fixed and mobile stations as provided for in this section.
§ 90.259   Assignment and use of frequencies in the bands 216-220 MHz and 1427-1432 MHz.
(a) 216-220 MHz band. (1) Frequencies in the 216-220 MHz band may be assigned to applicants that establish eligibility in the Industrial/Business Pool.
(2) All operation is secondary to the fixed and mobile services, including the Low Power Radio Service.
(3) In the 216-217 MHz band, no new assignments will be made after January 1, 2002.
(4) In the 217-220 MHz band, the maximum transmitter output power is 2 watts. The maximum antenna height above average terrain (HAAT) is 152 m (500 feet).
(5) In the 217-220 MHz band, base, mobile, and operational fixed operations are permitted.
(6) Wide area operations will not be authorized. The area of normal day-to-day operations will be described in the application in terms of maximum distance from a geographical center (latitude and longitude).
(7) Frequencies will be assigned with a 6.25 kHz, 12.5 kHz, 25 kHz or 50 kHz channel bandwidth. Frequencies may be assigned with a channel bandwidth exceeding 50 kHz only upon a showing of adequate justification.
(8) Assignable 6.25 kHz channels will occur in increments of 6.25 kHz from 217.00625 MHz to 219.99375 MHz. Assignable 12.5 kHz channels will occur in increments of 12.5 kHz from 217.0125 MHz to 219.9875 MHz. Assignable 25 kHz channels will occur in increments of 25 kHz from 217.025 MHz to 219.975 MHz. Assignable 50 kHz channels will occur in increments of 50 kHz from 217.025 MHz to 219.975 MHz.
(b) 1427-1432 MHz band. (1) Frequencies in the 1427-1432 MHz band may be assigned to applicants that establish eligibility in the Public Safety Pool or the Industrial/Business Pool.
(2) All operations in the 1427-1429.5 MHz band are secondary to the Wireless Medical Telemetry Service except in the locations specified in paragraph (b)(4) of this section. At the locations specified in paragraph (b)(4) of this section, all operations are secondary to the Wireless Medical Telemetry Service in the 1429-1431.5 MHz band.
(3) All operations in the 1429.5-1432 MHz band are primary in status except in the locations specified in paragraph (b)(4) of this section. At the locations specified in paragraph (b)(4) of this section, all operations are primary in status in the 1427-1429 MHz and 1431.5-1432 MHz bands.
(4) Locations: (i) Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania—Counties of Westmoreland, Washington, Beaver, Allegheny and Butler;
(ii) Washington, DC metropolitan area—Counties of Montgomery, Prince George's and Charles in Maryland; Counties of Arlington, Prince William, Fauquier, Loudon, and Fairfax, and Cities of Alexandria, Falls Church, Fairfax, Manassas and Manassas Park in Virginia; and District of Columbia;
(iii) Richmond/Norfolk, Virginia—Counties of Charles City, Chesterfield, Dinwiddie, Goochland, Hanover, Henrico, Isle of Wight, James City, New Kent, Powhatan, Prince George, Southhampton, Surrey, Sussex, and York; Cities of Chesapeake, Colonial Heights, Franklin, Hampton, Hopewell, Newport News, Norfolk, Petersburg, Poquoson, Portsmouth, Richmond, Suffolk, Virginia Beach, and Williamsburg;
(iv) Austin/Georgetown, Texas—Counties of Williamson and Travis;
(v) Battle Creek, Michigan—County of Calhoun;
(vi) Detroit, Michigan—Counties of Oakland, Wayne, Washtenaw, Macomb and Livingston;
(vii) Spokane, Washington—Counties of Spokane, WA and Kootenai, ID.
(5) All operations in the 1429.5-1432 MHz band authorized prior to April 12, 2002 are on a secondary basis.
(6) For secondary operations only fixed stations are permitted. At the locations specified in (b)(4) of this section, secondary operations are performed in the 1429-1431.5 MHz band. For all other locations, secondary operations are performed in the 1427-1429.5 MHz band. The maximum power is 1 watt EIRP.
(7) For primary operations base, mobile, operational fixed and temporary fixed operations are permitted.
(i) At the locations specified in paragraph (b)(4) of this section, primary operations are performed in the 1427-1429 MHz and 1431.5-1432 MHz bands. The maximum ERP limitations are as follows:
(ii) For all other locations, primary operations are performed in the 1429.5-1432 MHz band. The maximum ERP limitations are as follows:
(8) Wide area operations will not be authorized. The area of normal day-to-day operations will be described in the application in terms of maximum distance from a geographical center (latitude and longitude).
(9) Assignable frequencies occur in increments of 12.5 kHz from 1427.00625 MHz to 1431.99375 MHz.
(10) Licensees, however, may combine contiguous channels up to 50 kHz, and more than 50 kHz only upon a showing of adequate justification.
(11) For any operation in the 1427-1432 MHz band, the predicted or measured field strength—in the WMTS primary band—at the location of any registered WMTS healthcare facility shall not exceed 150 uV/m. For the locations specified in (b)(4) of this section, WMTS is primary in the 1429-1431.5 MHz band. For all other locations, WMTS is primary in the 1427-1429.5 MHz band.
(c) Authorized uses. (1) Use of these bands is limited to telemetering purposes.
(2) Base stations authorized in these bands shall be used to perform telecommand functions with associated mobile telemetering stations. Base stations may also command actions by the vehicle itself, but will not be authorized solely to perform this function.
(3) Except for the transmissions that are permitted under § 90.248(f) of this chapter, airborne use is prohibited.
§ 90.261   Assignment and use of the frequencies in the band 450-470 MHz for fixed operations.
(a) Frequencies in the 450-470 MHz band as listed in §§ 90.20(c)(3) and 90.35(b)(3) may be assigned to all eligibles for fixed use on a secondary basis to land mobile operations.
(b) Fixed stations located 140 km (87 mi) or more from the center of any urbanized area of 600,000 or more population are limited to a transmitter output power of 75 watts. Fixed stations less than 140 km (87 mi) from the centers of these areas are limited to a transmitter output power of 20 watts. Urbanized areas of 600,000 or more population are defined in the U.S. Census of Population 1970, Vol. 1, Table 20, pages 1-74. The centers of the urbanized areas are determined from the Appendix, page 226, of the U.S. Department of Commerce publication “Airline Distance Between Cities in the United States.”
(c) All fixed systems are limited to one frequency pair with 5 MHz spacing and must employ directional antennas with a front-to-back ratio of 15dB, except that omnidirectional antennas having unity gain may be employed by stations communicating with a minimum of three receiving locations encompassed in a sector of at least 160° in azimuth. Stations authorized for secondary fixed operations prior to July 13, 1992, may continue to operate under the conditions of their initial authorization.
(d)-(e) [Reserved]
(f) Secondary fixed operations pursuant to paragraph (a) of this section will not be authorized on the following frequencies or on frequencies subject to § 90.267, except as provided in § 90.219(d)(3)(ii):
§ 90.263   Substitution of frequencies below 25 MHz.
Frequencies below 25 MHz when shown in the radio pool frequency listings under this part will be assigned to base or mobile stations only upon a satisfactory showing that, from a safety of life standpoint, frequencies above 25 MHz will not meet the operational requirements of the applicant. These frequencies are available for assignment in many areas; however, in individual cases such assignment may be impracticable due to conflicting frequency use authorized to stations in other services by this and other countries. In such cases, a substitute frequency, if found available, may be assigned from the following bands: 1705-1750 kHz, 2107-2170 kHz, 2194-2495 kHz, 2506-2850 kHz, 3155-3400 kHz, or 4438-4650 kHz. Since such assignments are in certain instances subject to additional technical and operation limitations, it is necessary that each application also include precise information concerning transmitter output power, type and directional characteristics, if any, of the antenna, and the minimum necessary hours of operation. (This section is not applicable to the Radiolocation Service, subpart F of this part.)
§ 90.264   Disaster communications between 2 and 10 MHz.
(a) The use of any particular frequency between 2 and 10 MHz is limited to those frequencies falling within the bands allocated to the fixed and land mobile services as indicated in § 2.106 of the Commission's Rules and Regulations.
(b) Only in the following circumstances will authority be extended to stations to operate on the frequencies between 2 and 10 MHz:
(1) To provide communications circuits in emergency and/or disaster situations, where safety of life and property are concerned;
(2) To provide standby and/or backup communications circuits to regular domestic communications circuits which have been disrupted by disasters and/or emergencies.
(c) The FCC will not accept responsibility for protection of the circuits from harmful interference caused by foreign operations.
(d) In the event that a complaint of harmful interference resulting from operation of these circuits is received from a foreign source, the offending circuit(s) must cease operation on the particular frequency concerned immediately upon notification by the Commission.
(e) In order to accomodate the situations described in paragraphs (c) and (d) of this section, the equipment shall be capable of transmitting and receiving on any frequency within the bands between 2 and 10 MHz and capable of immediate change among the frequencies.
(f) Only 2K80J3E, 100HA1A and those emission types listed in § 90.237(g) are permitted.
(g) Applicants must fulfill eligibility requirements set out in § 90.20(d)(6) and shall submit disaster communications plans pursuant to § 90.129(m).
(h) Training exercises which require use of these frequencies for more than seven hours a week, cumulative, are not authorized without prior written approval from the Commission.
§ 90.265   Assignment and use of frequencies in the bands allocated for Federal use.
(a) The following center frequencies are available for assignment to fixed stations in the Public Safety Pool or the Industrial/Business Pool, subject to the provisions of this section:
Hydro Channels (MHz)
(1) The use of these frequencies is limited to transmitting hydrological or meteorological data.
(2) All use of these frequencies is on a secondary basis to Federal Government stations and the hydrological or meteorological data being handled must be made available on request to governmental agencies.
(3) Other provisions of this part notwithstanding, an operational fixed station operating on these frequencies shall not communicate with any station in the mobile service unless written authorization to do so has been obtained from the Commission.
(4) Persons who desire to operate stations on these frequencies should communicate with the Commission for instructions concerning the procedure to be followed in filing formal application.
(5) After May 27, 2005, for the 169-172 MHz band and January 1, 2008 for the 406-416 MHz band, channels for new operations are limited to an authorized bandwidth not to exceed 11.25 kHz. After those dates, existing systems with an authorized bandwidth of greater than 11.25 kHz (including those systems that expand existing operations) may continue to operate with a bandwidth greater than 11.25 kHz until January 1, 2013. Such operations are limited by paragraphs (a)(6) and (a)(7) of this section.
(6) After May 27, 2005, if a licensee of a channel in the band 169-172 MHz which uses equipment with an authorized bandwidth greater than 11.25 kHz cannot resolve an interference complaint to the satisfaction of an impacted Federal agency or is advised to do so by the Hydro Committee as approved by the FCC, then the licensee must cease operation on the frequency upon notification by the Commission.
(7) After January 1, 2008, if a licensee of a channel in the band 406.1-420 MHz which uses equipment with an authorized bandwidth greater than 11.25 kHz cannot resolve an interference complaint to the satisfaction of an impacted Federal agency or is advised to do so by the Hydro Committee as approved by the FCC, then the licensee must cease operation on the frequency upon notification by the Commission.
(8) After May 27, 2005, new assignments on the frequencies 406.125 MHz and 406.175 MHz are to be primarily for paired operations with the frequencies 415.125 MHz and 415.175 MHz, respectively and limited to an authorized bandwidth not to exceed 11.25 kHz when paired.
(9) Existing stations may continue to use the center frequencies 169.575 MHz, 409.675 MHz, 409.725 MHz, and 412.625 MHz until January 1, 2013, subject to the requirements of paragraphs (a)(6) and (a)(7) of this section.
(b) The following frequencies are available for wireless microphone operations to eligibles in this part, subject to the provisions of this paragraph:
169.445
169.505
169.545
169.575
169.605
169.995
170.025
170.055
170.245
170.305
171.045
171.075
171.105
171.845
171.875
171.905
(1) On center frequencies 169.575 MHz, 170.025 MHz, 171.075 MHz, and 171.875 MHz, the emission bandwidth shall not exceed 200 kHz. On the other center frequencies listed in this paragraph (b), the emission bandwidth shall not exceed 54 kHz.
(2) The output power shall not exceed 50 milliwatts.
(3) For emissions with a bandwidth not exceeding 54 kHz, the frequency stability of wireless microphones shall limit the total emission to within ±32.5 kHz of the assigned frequency. Emissions with a bandwidth exceeding 54 kHz shall comply with the emission mask in Section 8.3 of ETSI EN 300 422-1 v1.4.2 (2011-08).
(4) Wireless microphone operations are unprotected from interference from other licensed operations in the band. If any interference from wireless microphone operation is received by any Government or non-Government operation, the wireless microphone must cease operation on the frequency involved. Applications are subject to Government coordination.
(c) The following center frequencies are available for assignment to licensees engaged in forest firefighting and conservation activities, subject to the provisions of this section:
Forest Firefighting and Conservation Channels (MHz)
(1) These frequencies will be assigned on a secondary basis to any U.S. Government station.
(2) The frequencies 170.425 MHz, 170.475 MHz, 170.575 MHz, 171.425 MHz, 171.575 MHz, 172.225 MHz, and 172.275 MHz will be assigned only to licensees directly responsible for the prevention, detection, and suppression of forest fires.
(3) The frequencies 171.475 MHz and 172.275 MHz will be assigned to licensees directly responsible for the prevention, detection, and suppression of forest fires; or to licensees engaged in forest conservation activities for mobile relay operation only.
(4) The frequencies 170.425 MHz, 170.575 MHz, 171.475 MHz, 172.225 MHz, and 172.375 MHz will be assigned for use only in areas west of the Mississippi River.
(5) The frequencies 170.475 MHz, 171.425 MHz, 171.575 MHz, and 172.275 MHz will be assigned for use only in areas east of the Mississippi River.
(6) All applications for use of these frequencies must be accompanied by a letter of concurrence by the United States Department of Agriculture.
(7) After May 27, 2005, channels for new operations are limited to an authorized bandwidth not to exceed 11.25 kHz. Between May 27, 2005, and January 1, 2013, existing systems with an authorized bandwidth of greater than 11.25 kHz (including those systems that expand existing operations) may continue to operate with a bandwidth greater than 11.25 kHz, subject to the limitations set forth in paragraph (c)(8), of this section.
(8) After May 27, 2005, if a licensee that uses equipment with an authorized bandwidth greater than 11.25 kHz cannot resolve an interference complaint from an impacted Federal agency, then the licensee must cease operation on the frequency upon notification by the Commission.
(d) The frequencies 166.250 MHz and 170.150 MHz are available for assignment to licensees engaged in public safety activities, subject to the provisions of this section:
(1) These frequencies are available for assignment to stations in the Public Safety Pool, only at points within 241.4 km. (150 mi.) of New York, N.Y.;
(2) Operations on these channels is on a secondary basis to any Federal station; and
(3) After May 27, 2005, if a licensee that uses equipment with an authorized bandwidth greater than 11.25 kHz cannot resolve an interference complaint from an impacted Federal agency, then the licensee must cease operation on the frequency upon notification by the Commission.
(4) After May 27, 2005, channels for new operations are limited to an authorized bandwidth not to exceed 11.25 kHz. Between May 27, 2005, and January 1, 2013, existing systems with an authorized bandwidth of greater than 11.25 kHz (including those systems that expand existing operations) may continue to operate with a bandwidth greater than 11.25 kHz, subject to the limitations set forth in paragraph (d)(3), of this section.
(e) The following frequencies are available for use by Medical Radiocommunication Systems:
(1) The frequencies 150.775 MHz, 150.790 MHz, and 163.250 MHz, subject to following provisions:
(i) After May 27, 2005, new assignments for these frequencies shall be authorized only for the purpose of delivering or rendering medical services to individuals (medical radiocommunication systems).
(ii) After May 27, 2005, new operations on the frequency 163.250 MHz are limited to an authorized bandwidth not to exceed 11.25 kHz.
(iii) After January 1, 2008, new operations on the frequencies 150.775 MHz and 150.790 MHz are limited to an authorized bandwidth not to exceed 11.25 kHz.
(iv) Existing systems with an authorized bandwidth of greater than 11.25 kHz (including those systems that expand existing operations) may continue to operate on a primary basis with a bandwidth greater than 11.25 kHz until January 1, 2013. After January 1, 2013, stations that use the frequencies 150.775 MHz, 150.790 MHz, or 163.250 MHz shall be limited to an authorized bandwidth not to exceed 11.25 kHz.
(2) The frequency 152.0075 MHz and frequencies within the bands 462.9375-463.1875 MHz and 467.9375 MHz-468.1875 MHz, subject to the limitations specified in § 90.20.
(f) Incorporation by reference. The material listed in this paragraph (f) is incorporated by reference in this section with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. To enforce any edition other than that specified in this section, the FCC must publish a document in the Federal Register and the material must be available to the public. All approved incorporation by reference (IBR) material is available for inspection at the FCC and the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). Contact the FCC through the Federal Communications Commission's Reference Information Center, phone: (202) 418-0270. For information on the availability of this material at NARA, visit www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html or email fr.inspection@nara.gov. The material may be obtained from the following source in this paragraph (f):
(1) European Telecommunications Standards Institute, 650 Route des Lucioles, 06921 Sophia Antipolis Cedex, France. A copy of the standard is also available at http://www.etsi.org/deliver/etsi_en/300400_300499/30042201/01.03.02_60/en_30042201v010302p.pdf .
(i) ETSI EN 300 422-1 V1.4.2 (2011-08): “ Electromagnetic compatibility and Radio spectrum Matters (ERM); Wireless microphones in the 25 MHz to 3 GHz frequency range; Part 1: Technical characteristics and methods of measurement,” Copyright 2011, IBR approved for section 15.236(g).
(ii) [Reserved]
(2) [Reserved]
§ 90.266   Long distance communications on frequencies below 25 MHz.
(a) The use of any particular frequency between 2 and 25 MHz is limited to those frequencies falling within the bands allocated to the fixed and land mobile services as indicated in § 2.106 of the Commission's Rules and Regulations.
(b) Only in the following circumstances will authority be extended to stations to operate on the frequencies below 25 MHz:
(1) To provide communications circuits to support operations which are highly important to the national interest and where other means of telecommunication are unavailable;
(2) To provide standby and/or backup communications circuits to regular domestic communications circuits which have been disrupted by disasters and/or emergencies.
(c) No protection is afforded to users of these frequencies from harmful interference caused by foreign operations.
(d) In the event that a complaint of harmful interference resulting from operation of these circuits is received from a foreign source, the offending circuit(s) must cease operation on the particular frequency concerned immediately upon notification by the Commission.
(e) In order to accommodate the situations described in paragraphs (c) and (d) of this section, the equipment shall be capable of transmitting and receiving on any frequency within the bands between 2 and 25 MHz and capable of immediate change among the frequencies, provided, however, that this requirement does not apply to equipment manufactured prior to August 15, 1983.
(f) Only 2K80J3E, 100HA1A, 100HA1B and those emission types listed in § 90.237(g) are permitted.
(g) Applicants must fulfill eligibility requirements set out in § 90.35(c)(1) and submit communications plans pursuant to § 90.129(o).
(h) Exercises or circuits tests which require use of these frequencies for more than seven hours per week cumulative are prohibited unless prior written approval is obtained from the Commission.
§ 90.267   Assignment and use of frequencies in the 450-470 MHz band for low power use.
(a) The following frequencies between 450-470 MHz are designated for low-power use subject to the provisions of this section. For purposes of this section these frequencies are referred to as “low power frequencies.” Pairs are shown but single frequencies are available for simplex operations.
(b) Group A1 Frequencies. The Industrial/Business Pool frequencies in Group A1 are available on a coordinated basis, pursuant to §§ 90.35(b)(2) and 90.175(b), as follows:
(1) Group A1 frequencies are available for voice and non-voice operations on a co-primary basis. Base, mobile and operational fixed stations will be authorized on Group A1 frequencies. Fixed stations may be licensed as mobile.
(2) Within 80 kilometers (50 miles) of the specified coordinates of the top 100 urban areas listed in § 90.741 of this chapter (“80 km circles”) only low power operation will be authorized. The coordinates of an operational fixed or base station and the geographic center (latitude and longitude) of a mobile area of operation determine whether a station is within an “80 km circle.”
(i) The maximum ERP for low power operation on Group A1 frequencies is as follows:
(ii) The maximum antenna height for low power fixed stations on Group A1 frequencies will be 23 meters (75 feet) above ground.
(3) Outside the “80 km circles” defined in paragraph (b)(2), full-power operational fixed, base, or mobile stations will be authorized as follows:
(i) Power and antenna height limits are governed by § 90.205 of this chapter;
(ii) For any operational fixed, base or mobile station exceeding the low power or antenna height limits listed in paragraph (b)(2), the 21 dBu F(50,10) contour may not overlap any portion of an “80 km circle;” and,
(iii) Wide area operations will not be permitted. The area of normal day-to-day operations will be described in the application in terms of maximum distance from a geographic center (latitude and longitude).
(4) The Industrial/Business Pool Group A1 Low Power Frequencies are as follows:
(c) Group A2 Frequencies. The Industrial/Business Pool frequencies in Group A2 are available nationwide on a coordinated basis, pursuant §§ 90.35(b)(2) and 90.175(b) as follows:
(1) Group A2 frequencies are available for voice and non-voice operations on a co-primary basis. Base, mobile or operational fixed stations will be authorized on Group A2 frequencies. Fixed stations may be licensed as mobile.
(2) Low power operation will be authorized nationwide on Group A2 frequencies.
(i) The maximum ERP for low power operation on these frequencies is as follows:
(ii) The maximum antenna height for low power fixed stations will be 23 meters (75 feet) above ground.
(3) The Industrial/Business Pool Group A2 Low Power Frequencies are as follows:
(d) Group B Frequencies. The Industrial/Business Pool frequencies in Group B are available nationwide on a coordinated basis, pursuant to §§ 90.35(b)(2) and 90.175(b) as follows:
(1) Group B frequencies are available for non-voice operations on a primary basis. Voice operations will be permitted on a secondary basis. Base, mobile or operational fixed stations will be authorized on Group B frequencies. Fixed stations may be licensed as mobile.
(2) Operation on these frequencies is limited to 6 watts ERP for base, mobile or operational fixed stations and 2 watts ERP for portable units. A maximum antenna height of 7 meters (20 ft) above ground is authorized for fixed stations.
(3) The Industrial/Business Pool Group B Frequencies are as follows:
(e) Group C Frequencies. The Industrial/Business Pool frequencies in Group C are available nationwide for non-coordinated itinerant use as follows.
(1) Group C frequencies are available for voice and non-voice operations on a co-primary basis. Only mobile operations will be authorized on Group C frequencies. Stations may operate at fixed locations for a temporary period of time. No stations operating at a permanent fixed location will be authorized on Group C frequencies.
(2) Operation on these frequencies is limited to 6 watts effective radiated power for fixed or mobile units and 2 watts ERP for portable units. Stations operating at fixed locations for a temporary period of time will be limited to an antenna height of 7 meters (20 feet) above ground.
(3) The Industrial/Business Pool Group C Low Power Frequencies are as follows:
(f) Group D Frequencies. The Industrial/Business Pool frequencies in Group D are available on a coordinated basis, pursuant to §§ 90.35(b)(2) and 90.175(b). Central station alarm signaling on these frequencies are co-primary with regard to co-channel or adjacent channel base, mobile or data operations.
(1) Base, mobile or operational fixed stations will be authorized on Group D frequencies. Fixed stations may be licensed as mobile.
(2) Unless concurrence is obtained in accordance with section 90.175(b) of this chapter from the Commission-certified frequency coordinator for frequencies designated for central station alarm operations, Group D frequencies subject to § 90.35(c)(63) are limited to central station alarm use within the urban areas described in § 90.35(c)(63). Outside the urban areas described in § 90.35(c)(63), Group D frequencies subject to § 90.35(c)(63) are available for general Industrial/Business use on a coordinated basis, pursuant to § 90.35(b)(2) and § 90.175(b).
(3) Unless concurrence is obtained in accordance with section 90.175(b) of this chapter from the Commission-certified frequency coordinator for frequencies designated for central station alarm operations, Group D frequencies subject to § 90.35(c)(66) are limited to central station alarm use nationwide.
(4) Operation on Group D frequencies is limited to 2 watts output power for mobile, base or operational fixed stations. Fixed stations used for central station alarm operations may utilize antennas mounted not more than 7 meters (20 feet) above a man-made supporting structure, including antenna structure.
(5) The Industrial/Business Pool Group D Low Power Frequencies are as follows:
(g) Low Power Public Safety Frequencies. The frequencies in the Public Safety Pool Low Power Group are available nationwide on a coordinated basis, pursuant to §§ 90.20(c)(2) and 90.175(b).
(1) Base, mobile or operational fixed stations will be authorized on Public Safety Low Power frequencies. Fixed stations may be licensed as mobile.
(2) Operation on these frequencies is limited to 6 watts effective radiated power for base, mobile or operational fixed stations and 2 watts ERP for portable units. A maximum antenna height of 7 meters (20 feet) above ground is authorized for fixed stations.
(3) The Public Safety Pool Low Power Frequencies are as follows:
(h) Unless otherwise noted, the following conditions apply to all low power frequencies:
(1) Except for itinerant operations on Group C, wide area operations will not be authorized. The area of normal day-to-day operations will be described in the application in terms of maximum distance from a geographic center (latitude and longitude).
(2) A hospital or health care institution holding a license to operate a radio station under this part may operate a medical radio telemetry device with an output power not to exceed 20 milliwatts without specific authorization from the Commission. All licensees operating under this authority must comply with the requirements and limitations set forth in this section.
(3) No limit shall be placed on the length or height above ground level of any commercially manufactured radiating transmission line when the transmission line is terminated in a non-radiating load and is routed at least 7 meters (20 feet) interior to the edge of any structure or is routed below ground level.
(4) Sea-based stations may utilize antennas mounted not more than 7 meters (20 feet) above a man-made supporting structure, including antenna structures.
(5) Continuous carrier operations are prohibited on these frequencies.
(6) Unless specified elsewhere in this part, licensees as of August 5, 1999, licensed for operations with an emission designator wider than 11.25 kHz on low power frequencies that are subject to an authorized bandwidth of 11.25 kHz, may obtain primary status with respect to co-channel licensees by supplying their coordinates to the Commission. These licensees will continue to operate on a secondary basis with respect to adjacent channel licensees. Additionally, these licensees may continue to operate with an authorized bandwidth wider than 11.25 kHz on such low power frequencies, subject to the provisions of § 90.209(b) of this chapter.
(7) Unless specified elsewhere in this part, licensees as of August 5, 1999, licensed for operations with an emission designator wider than 11.25 kHz on frequencies that are subject to an authorized bandwidth of 11.25 kHz, which are not low power frequencies, may obtain primary status with respect to co-channel licensees by modifying their license to low power frequencies, supplying their coordinates to the Commission, and otherwise complying with the conditions of paragraphs (b) through (g) of this section. These licensees will continue to operate on a secondary basis with respect to adjacent channel licensees. Additionally, these licensees may continue to operate with an authorized bandwidth wider than 11.25 kHz on such low power frequencies, subject to the provisions of § 90.209(b) of this chapter.
(8) Applicants proposing to operate with an authorized bandwidth wider than 11.25 kHz, on low power frequencies that are subject to an authorized bandwidth of 11.25 kHz, may be licensed on a secondary, non-interference basis. Such applicants are subject to the conditions of paragraphs (b) through (g) of this section and the provisions of § 90.209(b) of this chapter.
§ 90.269   Use of frequencies for self-powered vehicle detectors.
(a) Frequencies subject to § 90.20(d)(22) may be used for the operation of self-powered vehicle detectors by licensees of base/mobile stations in the Public Safety Pool in accordance with the following conditions:
(1) All stations are limited to 100 milliwatts carrier power and 20K00F7W, 20K00F7X, 20K00F8W, 20K00F8X, 20K00F9W or 20K00F9X emissions. The frequency deviation shall not exceed 5 kHz. No more than two 30 ms. pulses may be emitted for each vehicle sensed.
(2) The transmitters must be crystal controlled with a frequency tolerance of plus or minus .005% from −20° to plus 50 °C. They must be certificated.
(3) The total length of the transmission line plus antenna may not exceed one-half wavelength and must be integral with the unit.
(4) All operation shall be on a secondary, non-interference basis.
(b) [Reserved]
§ 90.273   Availability and use of frequencies in the 421-430 MHz band.
The frequency bands 422.1875-425.4875 MHz and 427.1875-429.9875 MHz are available for use in the Detroit, Michigan and Cleveland, Ohio areas. The bands 423.8125-425.4875 MHz and 428.8125-429.9875 MHz are available for use in the Buffalo, New York area. Sections 90.273 through 90.281 address the specific rules applicable to these bands. Use of these bands is also subject to the general technical standards and application procedures contained in other subparts of part 90. The technical standards applicable in this band are the same as those contained in subpart I of part 90 for the 450-470 MHz band. Private land mobile use of these frequencies is subject to accepting any interference from Federal Government radiolocation operations.
(a) The following tables list frequencies available for assignment in the Public Safety and Industrial/Business Pools as indicated. In the tables, the Public Safety Pool frequencies are denoted as “PS” and the Industrial/Business Pool frequencies are denoted as “IB.” The frequencies 422.19375 MHz through 424.99375 MHz are paired with frequencies 427.19375 MHz through 429.99375 MHz, respectively. Only the lower half of each frequency pair, available for base station operation, is listed in the tables. Corresponding mobile and control station frequencies are 5 MHz higher than the base station frequency. The frequencies 425.000 through 425.48125 are unpaired and are available for either single frequency dispatch or paging operations.
Table 1—Channels Available in Detroit and Cleveland Areas Only
* This frequency will be assigned with an authorized bandwidth not to exceed 6 kHz.
Table 2—Channels Available in Buffalo, Detroit and Cleveland Areas
* This frequency will be assigned with an authorized bandwidth not to exceed 6 kHz.
(b) [Reserved]
(c) Base or control stations shall be located within 48 km (30 miles) of the center of Buffalo or 80 km (50 miles) of the center of Detroit. In Cleveland, base or control stations will be allowed at locations north of line A that are within 48 km (30 miles) of the city center. In addition, low power (2 watts or less) base stations may locate within 80 km (50 miles) of the center of Buffalo. The following coordinates shall be used for the centers of these areas (coordinates are referenced to North American Datum 1983 (NAD83)):
(d) Mobile operation shall be confined to within 80 km (50 miles) of the centers of Detroit, Cleveland, or Buffalo.
§ 90.275   Selection and assignment of frequencies in the 421-430 MHz band.
Applicants must specify the frequencies in which the proposed system will operate pursuant to a recommendation by a frequency coordinator certified for the pool in which the requested frequency is assigned.
§ 90.279   Power limitations applicable to the 421-430 MHz band.
(a) Base station authorizations in the 421-430 MHz band will be subject to Effective Radiated Power (ERP) and Effective Antenna Height (EAH) limitations as shown in the table below. ERP is defined as the product of the power supplied to the antenna and its gain relative to a half-wave dipole in a given direction. EAH is calculated by subtracting the Assumed Average Terrain Elevation (AATE) as listed in table 7 of § 90.619 from the antenna height above mean sea level.
Limits of Effective Radiated Power (ERP) Corresponding to Effective Antenna Heights (EAH) of Base Stations in the 421-430 MHz Band
(b) The maximum transmitter power output that will be authorized for control stations is 20 watts.
§ 90.281   Restrictions on operational fixed stations in the 421-430 MHz band.
(a) Except for control stations, operational fixed facilities will not be authorized in the 421-430 MHz band. This does not preclude secondary fixed tone signaling and alarm operations authorized in § 90.235.
(b) Control stations associated with one or more mobile relay stations will be authorized only on the assigned frequency of the associated mobile station. Use of a mobile service frequency by a control station of a mobile relay system is subject to the condition that harmful interference shall not be caused to stations of licensees authorized to use the frequency for mobile service communications.
§ 90.283   [Reserved]
§ 90.301   Scope.
This subpart governs the authorization and use of frequencies by land mobile stations in the band 470-512 MHz on a geographically shared basis with Television Broadcast stations. Under this special sharing plan, different frequencies are allocated depending on the geographic urban area involved as fully detailed in the following rule sections.
§ 90.303   Availability of frequencies.
(a) Frequencies in the band 470-512 MHz are available for assignment as described below. Note: coordinates are referenced to the North American Datum 1983 (NAD83).
(b) The following table lists frequency bands that are available for assignment in specific urban areas. The available frequencies are listed in § 90.311 of this part.
1 In the Chicago, IL, urbanized area, channel 15 frequencies may be used for paging operations in addition to low power base/mobile usages, where applicable protection requirements for ultrahigh frequency television stations are met.
2 Channels 14 and 15 are not available in Cleveland, OH, until further order from the Commission.
3 Channels 15 and 16 are not available in Detroit, MI, until further order from the Commission.
4 Channel 16 is available in Los Angeles, CA, for use by eligibles in the Public Safety Radio Pool.
(c) The band 482-488 MHz (TV Channel 16) is available for use by eligibles in the Public Safety Radio Pool in the following areas: New York City; Nassau, Suffolk, and Westchester counties in New York State; and Bergen County, New Jersey. All part 90 rules shall apply to said operations, except that:
(1) Location of stations. Base stations shall be located in the areas specified in this paragraph (c). Mobile stations may operate throughout the areas specified in this paragraph (c) and may additionally operate in areas not specified in this paragraph (c) provided that the distance from the Empire State Building (40° 44′ 54.4″ N, 73° 59′ 8.4″ W) does not exceed 48 kilometers (30 miles).
(2) Protection criteria. In order to provide co-channel television protection, the following height and power restrictions are required:
(i) Except as specified in paragraph (c)(2)(ii) of this section, base stations shall be limited to a maximum effective radiated power (ERP) of 225 watts at an antenna height of 152.5 meters (500 feet) above average terrain (AAT). Adjustment of the permitted power will be allowed provided it is in accordance with the “169 kilometer Distance Separation” entries specified in Table B in 47 CFR 90.309(a) or the “LM/TV Separation 110 miles (177 km)” curve in Figure B in 47 CFR 90.309(b).
(ii) For base stations located west of the Hudson River, Kill Van Kull, and Arthur Kill, the maximum ERP and antenna height shall be limited to the entries specified in Table B in 47 CFR 90.309(a) or in Figure B in 47 CFR 90.309(b) for the actual separation distance between the base station and the transmitter site of WNEP-TV in Scranton, PA (41° 10′ 58.0″ N, 75° 52′ 20.0″ W).
(iii) Mobile stations shall be limited to 100 watts ERP in areas of operation extending eastward from the Hudson River and to 10 watts ERP in areas of operation extending westward from the Hudson River.
§ 90.305   Location of stations.
(a) The transmitter site(s) for base station(s), including mobile relay stations, shall be located not more than 80 km. (50 mi.) from the geographic center of the urbanized area listed in § 90.303.
(b) Mobile units shall be operated within 48 km. (30 mi.) of their associated base station or stations. Such units may not be operated aboard aircraft in flight except as provided for in § 90.315(i).
(c) Control stations must be located within the area of operation of the mobile units.
(d) Base and control stations shall be located a minimum of 1.6 km. (1 mi.) from local television stations operating on UHF TV channels separated by 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, and 8 TV channels from the television channel in which the base station will operate.
§ 90.307   Protection criteria.
The tables and figures listed in § 90.309 shall be used to determine the effective radiated power (ERP) and antenna height of the proposed land mobile base station and the ERP for the associated control station (control station antenna height shall not exceed 31 meters (100 feet) above average terrain (AAT)).
(a) Base stations operating on the frequencies available for land mobile use in any urbanized area and having an antenna height (AAT) less than 152 meters (500 feet) shall afford protection to co-channel and adjacent channel television stations in accordance with the values set out in tables A and E of § 90.309, except for channel 15 in New York, NY, and Cleveland, OH, and channel 16 in Detroit, MI, where protection will be in accordance with the values set forth in tables B and E in 47 CFR 90.309.
(b) For base stations having antenna heights between 152 and 914 meters (500-3000 feet) above average terrain, the effective radiated power must be reduced below 1 kilowatt in accordance with the values shown in the power reduction graph in Figure A in § 90.309, except for channel 15 in New York, NY, and Cleveland, OH, and channel 16 in Detroit, MI, where the effective radiated power must be reduced in accordance with Figure B in § 90.309. For heights of more than 152 meters (500 feet) above average terrain, the distance to the radio path horizon will be calculated assuming smooth earth. If the distance so determined equals or exceeds the distance to the Grade B contour of a co-channel TV station (Grade B contour defined in § 73.683(a) of this chapter), an authorization will not be granted unless it can be shown that actual terrain considerations are such as to provide the desired protection at the Grade B contour, or that the effective radiated power will be further reduced so that, assuming free space attenuation, the desired protection at the Grade B contour will be achieved.
(c) Mobile units and control stations operating on the frequencies available for land mobile use in any given urbanized area shall afford protection to co-channel and adjacent channel television stations in accordance with the values set forth in table C in § 90.309 and paragraph (d) of this section except for channel 15 in New York, NY, and Cleveland, OH, and channel 16 in Detroit, MI, where protection will be in accordance with the values set forth in table D in § 90.309 and paragraph (d) of this section.
(d) The minimum distance between a land mobile base station which has associated mobile units and a protected adjacent channel television station is 145 km (90 miles).
(e) The television stations to be protected (co-channel, adjacent channel, IM, and IF) in any given urbanized area, in accordance with the provisions of paragraphs (a), (b), (c), and (d) of this section, are identified in the Commission's publication “TV stations to be considered in the preparation of Applications for Land Mobile Facilities in the Band 470-512 MHz.” The publication is available at the offices of the Federal Communications Commission in Washington, DC or upon the request of interested persons.
§ 90.309   Tables and figures.
(a) Directions for using the tables. (1) Using the method specified in § 1.958 of this chapter, determine the distances between the proposed land mobile base station and the protected co-channel television station and between the proposed land mobile base station and the protected adjacent channel television station. If the exact mileage does not appear in table A for protected co-channel television stations (or table B for channel 15 in New York and Cleveland and channel 16 in Detroit) or table E for protected adjacent channel television stations, the next lower mileage separation figure is to be used.
(2) Entering the proper table at the mileage figure found in paragraph (a)(1) of this section, find opposite, a selection of powers that may be used for antenna heights ranging from 15 m (50 ft) to 152.5 m (500 ft) (AAT). If the exact antenna height proposed for the land mobile base station does not appear in the proper table, use the power figure beneath the next greater antenna height.
(3) The lowest power found using the tables mentioned in paragraphs (a)(1) and (a)(2) of this section is the maximum power that may be employed by the proposed land mobile base station.
(4) In determining the average elevation of the terrain, the elevations between 3.2 kilometers (2 miles) and 16 kilometers (10 miles) from the antenna site are employed. Profile graphs shall be drawn for a minimum of eight radials beginning at the antenna site and extending 16 kilometers (10 miles). The radials should be drawn starting with true north. At least one radial should be constructed in the direction of the nearest co-channel and adjacent channel UHF television stations. The profile graph for each radial shall be plotted by contour intervals of from 12.2 meters (40 feet) to 30.5 meters (100 feet) and, where the data permits, at least 50 points of elevation (generally uniformly spaced) should be used for each radial. For very rugged terrain, 61 meters (200 feet) to 122 meters (400 foot) contour intervals may be used. Where the terrain is uniform or gently sloping, the smallest contour interval indicated on the topographic chart may be used. The average elevation of the 12.8 kilometer (8 mile) distance between 3.2 kilometers (2 miles) and 16 kilometers (10 miles) from the antenna site should be determined from the profile graph for each radial. This may be obtained by averaging a large number of equally spaced points, by using a planimeter, or by obtaining the median elevation (that exceeded by 50 percent of the distance) in sectors and averaging those values. In the preparation of the profile graphs, the elevation or contour intervals may be taken from U.S. Geological Survey Topographic Maps, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Maps, or Tennessee Valley Authority Maps. Maps with a scale of 1:250,000 or larger (such as 1:24,000) shall be used. Digital Terrain Data Tapes, provided by the National Cartographic Institute, U.S. Geologic Survey, may be utilized in lieu of maps, but the number of data points must be equal to or exceed that specified above. If such maps are not published for the area in question, the next best topographic information should be used.
(5) Applicants for base stations in the Miami, FL, urbanized area may, in lieu of calculating the height of average terrain, use 3 m (10 ft) as the average terrain height.
Table A—Base Station—Cochannel Frequencies (50 dB Protection) Maximum Effective Radiated Power (ERP) 1
1 The effective radiated power (ERP) and antenna height above average terrain (AAT) shall not exceed the values given in this table.
2 At this distance from transmitter site of protected UHF television station.
Table B—Base Station—Cochannel Frequencies (40 d B Protection) Maximum Effective Radiated Power (ERP) 1
1 The effective radiated power (ERP) and antenna height above average terrain shall not exceed the values given in this table.
2 At this distance from the transmitter site of protected UHF television station.
Table C—Mobile and Control Station—Distance Between Associated Base Station and Protected Cochannel TV Station
[50 dB protection]
Table D—Mobile and Control Station—Distance Between Associated Land Mobile Base Station and Protected Cochannel TV Station
[40 dB protection]
Table E—Base Station Adjacent Channel Frequencies Maximum Effective Radiated Power (ERP) 1
1 The effective radiated power (ERP) and antenna height above average terrain (AAT) shall not exceed the values given in this table.
2 At this distance from transmitter site of protected UHF television station.
3 The minimum distance is 145 km (90 miles) where there are mobile units associated with the base station. See sec. 90.307(d).
Table “F”—Decibel Reduction/Power Equivalents
(b) Directions for Using the Figures. (1) Determine antenna height above average terrain. (According to § 90.309(a)(4).)
(2) Locate this value on the antenna height axis.
(3) Determine the separation between the LM antenna site and the nearest protected co-channel TV station. (According to § 73.611.)
(4) Draw a vertical line to intersect the LM/TV separation curve at the distance determined in step 3 above. For distances not shown in the graph use linear interpolation.
(5) From the intersection of the LM/TV separation curve draw a horizontal line to the power reduction scale.
(6) The power reduction in dB determines the reduction below 1 kW that must be achieved.
(7) See table F for dB/power equivalents.
§ 90.311   Frequencies.
(a) Except as provided for in § 90.315 and except for those frequencies allocated to services in part 22 of this chapter (see §§ 22.591, 22.621, 22.651, and 22.1007 of this chapter) the following frequencies in the band 470-512 MHz may be assigned as indicated in the table below. The first and last assignable frequencies are shown. Assignable frequencies occur in increments of 6.25 kHz. The separation between base and mobile transmit frequencies is 3 MHz for two frequency operation.
(1) Channel availability in the General Access Pool in any of the urbanized areas referred to in the table depends on whether that channel is presently assigned to one of the following categories of users:
(i) Public safety (as defined in § 90.20(a));
(ii) Power and telephone maintenance licensees (as defined in § 90.7);
(iii) Special industrial licensees (as defined in § 90.7);
(iv) Business licensees (as defined in § 90.35(a));
(v) Petroleum, forest products, and manufacturers licensees (as defined in § 90.7);
(vi) Railroad, motor carrier, and automobile emergency licensees (as defined in § 90.7); and
(vii) Taxicab licensees (as defined in § 90.7).
(2) If assigned, subsequent authorizations will only be granted to users from the same category. If unassigned, or should a channel subsequently become unassigned, it will be treated as available in the General Access Pool.
(3) Normally, each channel should be substantially loaded in accordance with the standards set out in § 90.313.
(4) The following frequencies will be authorized a maximum bandwidth of 6 kHz.
(b) [Reserved]
§ 90.313   Frequency loading criteria.
(a) Except as provided for in paragraph (b) of this section, the maximum channel loading on frequencies in the 470-512 MHz band is as follows:
(1) 50 units for systems eligible in the Public Safety Pool (see § 90.20(a)).
(2) 90 units for systems eligible in the Industrial/Business Pool (see § 90.35(a)).
(b) If a licensee has exclusive use of a frequency, then the loading standards in paragraph (a) of this section, may be exceeded. If it is a shared channel, the loading standards can be exceeded upon submission of a signed statement by all those sharing the channel agreeing to the increase.
(c) A unit is defined as a mobile transmitter-receiver. Loading standards will be applied in terms of the number of units actually in use or to be placed in use within 8 months following authorization. A licensee will be required to show that an assigned frequency pair is at full capacity before it may be assigned a second or additional frequency pair. Channel capacity may be reached either by the requirements of a single licensee or by several users sharing a channel. Until a channel is loaded to capacity it will be available for assignment to other users in the same area. A frequency pair may be reassigned at distances 64 km. (40 mi.), 32 km. (20 mi.) for Channel 15, Chicago; Channel 20, Philadelphia; and Channel 17, Washington, or more from the location of base stations authorized on that pair without reference to loading at the point of original installation. Following authorization, the licensee shall notify the Commission either during or at the close of the 8 month period of the number of units in operation. In the Industrial Radio Services, if the base station facility is to be used by more than a single licensee, the frequency assigned to it will not be reassigned for use by another facility within 64 km. (40 mi.) or 32 km. (20 mi.) where applicable for a period of 12 months, Provided, That the facility is constructed within 90 days from the date of the first grant, meets the loading standards to at least 50 percent within 9 months, and meets all loading standards within 12 months.