Private Land Mobile Radio Services

This document addresses revisions to the Commission's rules and policies regarding private land mobile radio (PLMR) services and particularly public safety operations. In the Report and Order portion of this document, the Commission accords primary status to 4.9 GHz band permanent fixed stations that are used to deliver broadband service; harmonizes output power measurement procedures for 4.9 GHz technology with procedures for similar devices that are regulated by part 15 of the Commission's rules; and clarifies that cross-band repeaters are permitted for all public safety systems. The Commission makes these changes to reduce uncertainty in the rules and harmonize the rules. The intended effect for public safety licensees is to allow additional flexibility, create opportunities for public safety users to benefit from speedier deployment of new technologies in the 4.9 GHz band, and lead to expanded use of 4.9 GHz broadband networks. The intended effect for manufacturers is to allow technologies similar to those covered by part 15 to be used in the 4.9 GHz band, resulting in speedier deployment of new technologies in this band. The intended effect of the cross-banding rule change is to enhance communications among public safety agencies operating in various frequency bands.