Unlicensed NII Devices in the 5 GHz Frequency Range

By this action, the Commission amends its radio frequency devices rules to make available 300 megahertz of spectrum at 5.15-5.35 GHz and 5.725-5.825 GHz for use by a new category of unlicensed equipment, called Unlicensed National Information Infrastructure (``U- NII'') devices. These devices will provide short-range, high speed wireless digital communications on an unlicensed basis. We anticipate that U-NII devices will support the creation of new wireless local area networks (``LANs'') and will facilitate wireless access to the National Information Infrastructure (``NII''). In order to permit significant flexibility in the design and operation of these devices, we are adopting the minimum technical rules necessary to prevent interference to other services and to ensure that the spectrum is used efficiently. We believe that the rules set forth herein will foster the development of a broad range of new devices and communications options that will stimulate economic development and the growth of new industries. We also expect that this action will promote the ability of U.S. manufacturers, including small businesses, to compete globally by enabling them to develop unlicensed digital communications products for the world market.