WASHINGTON -- The National Association of Broadcasters filed reply comments with the Federal Communications Commission today concerning the agency's request for information on spectrum management practices as they relate to the rollout of nationwide broadband. NAB's comments were filed jointly with the Association for Maximum Service Television (MSTV).
"The Commission should reject the plan presented by the commercial wireless interests and develop instead a National Broadband Plan that both preserves the public's digital broadcast service and creates a world-class broadband network," NAB stated.
NAB reiterated the importance of prioritizing the efficient use of more than 500 MHz of spectrum already allocated for wireless broadband. NAB also stressed the importance of considering frequencies above 3.7 GHz and on using "white space" spectrum for licensed fixed rural services, a tactic NAB has long supported.
"[B]roadcasters are intensely using each station's 6 MHz channel to deliver a variety of HD and multicast programming, mobile DTV, advanced public safety services, datacasting and other ancillary and supplemental services," NAB explained. Accordingly, there is "no truth" to claims that question the efficiency of digital broadcasting, NAB wrote. NAB also reminded the Commission that, through mobile DTV, broadcasters in coming years will serve as an important means to offload video-related traffic from broadband networks experiencing network congestion.
NAB's full comments are available in PDF format here.
About NAB
The National Association of Broadcasters is the premier advocacy association for America's broadcasters. NAB advances radio and television interests in legislative, regulatory and public affairs. Through advocacy, education and innovation, NAB enables broadcasters to best serve their communities, strengthen their businesses and seize new opportunities in the digital age. Learn more at www.nab.org.