FCC Wireless Bureau Seeks Comment on Wilson Electronics Cell Booster Petition

The FCC Wireless Bureau is seeking comment on a December petition by Wilson Electronics asking the agency to start a proceeding on eliminating the personal-use restriction on consumer cell-signal boosters, replacing it with a multi-provider registration requirement for wideband consumer signal boosters (see 1612200061). The bureau sought comment on the petition in general. “We also seek comment on whether this change to the rules would increase the risk of harmful interference to wireless networks; whether licensees (the wireless carriers) would retain sufficient control of their licensed spectrum under the proposal; and how the proposal would affect consumers, businesses, and public safety and other entities seeking to use consumer signal boosters,” said a Friday public notice. “We seek comment regarding the benefits and costs of removing the personal use restriction on only wideband consumer signal boosters, on only provider-specific consumer signal boosters, or on both.” The FCC approved rules for cell boosters, aimed at extending the reach of carrier networks, in February 2013 (see 1302210066). The order included the personal-use restriction. T-Mobile said last year the FCC added the personal-use restriction, which wasn't in an industry proposal for rules, “without explanation” before the vote. Comments are due March 23, replies April 3 in docket 10-4.