Globalstar Says More Details Coming on TLPS Interference Mitigation Issues

With critics calling for more details on how it will handle potential interference between its planned broadband terrestrial low-power service (TLPS) and adjacent unlicensed spectrum, Globalstar said Monday it will make those details available within days. "That should render any further claims for additional testing to be unnecessary," Globalstar said in a statement in response to a Public Knowledge ex parte filing posted Monday in docket 13-213. The filing recapped a meeting between PK Senior Vice President Harold Feld and Office of Engineering and Technology (OET) Chief Julius Knapp. PK said any service rules for TLPS could only follow more information on such issues as how Globalstar will control early-stage deployment and alert parties in particular geographic areas that its service is now active, how its network operating system will process complaints, and how to even define "unacceptable levels of interference." On interference, PK said OET "should generally rely on a behavioral definition rather than a strict engineering definition. In loose terms, 'if you don't notice it, don't worry about it.'" Globalstar hasn't provided enough engineering evidence into the record to authorize full-power outdoor use, PK said. "PK cannot at this time state what additional testing should be necessary because the record lacks critical details with regard to the implementation of the proposed interference mitigation mechanism," the group said, saying the FCC could add some clarity "by defining rules and setting a timetable and process for moving forward." In its statement, Globalstar said it has had "extensive discussions with Public Knowledge about the Commission’s proposed 2.4 GHz rules and [is] pleased Public Knowledge continues to show an interest in the Commission completing this proceeding. We take seriously Mr. Feld's view that providing additional information regarding our commercial deployment plans and how our network operating system will handle complaints of interference to other services, if any, will help move our proceeding to a successful conclusion. As Mr. Feld himself correctly observed, applicants who wish to provide new services should not be forced into 'testing hell.' After three years of full cooperation with the Commission technical experts, it is time to decide the issue and allow Globalstar to take steps that will improve Wi-Fi services for all.” Numerous critics in recent weeks have said Globalstar provided too little detail on possible interference and mitigation (see 1601070032 and 1512140046). In the same filing, on the spectrum frontiers notice of inquiry in docket 14-177, PK said it voiced concerns about the FCC's proposed geographic licensing plans in the lower bands. The agency instead should look at alternatives such as site-based licensing "and the 3.65 GHz 'licensed lite' regime," it said. "This would facilitate deployment of 5G technology while avoiding a potentially complicated overlay auction."