Integration of shared CBRS spectrum into neutral host model opens up new use cases
Based on a recent filing with the U.S. Federal Communications Systems, neutral host provider ExteNet Systems is looking to incorporate CBRS technology into its distributed network approach. Integration of spectrum support for the 3.5 GHz Citizens Broadband Radio Service is, as currently envisioned, based on a three-tiered priority approach, which could potentially allow new entrants to leverage the advantageous spectrum for a range of private network implementations while simultaneously providing new avenues of service delivery for established service providers.
ExteNet has asked the FCC for special temporary authority for the “ongoing integration testing of CBRS base station and user equipment testing to verify correct operation of networks based on equipment from multiple vendors,” according to the application, which is attributed to Randy Johnson, director of technology evolution, specifies equipment from vendors Nokia and Ruckus Wireless.
The application denotes testing CBRS technology in both indoor and outdoor settings in Lisle, Ill., beginning Sept. 1 and ending March 1.
The FCC has been working for several years on freeing up access to spectrum in the 3.5 GHz band for shared use. That work initially focused on up to 100 megahertz of spectrum, before being increased to 150 megahertz.
The 3.5 GHz band is now in the hands of the Department of Defense for use in certain radar installations, as well as by non-federal fixed satellite service earth stations for receive-only, space-to-earth operations and feeder links. The FCC’s goal was to find a way for shared access to the spectrum without causing interference with existing users.
Initial plans included a focus on small cell deployments in support of LTE services, which aligned with the limited propagation characteristics of the spectrum band. The current plan includes three tiers of spectrum usage comprised of federal and non-federal incumbents, priority access licensees and general authorized access users. Access would be under a flexible model taking advantage of technology to reduce interference between users.
ExteNet expands fiber footprint with planned acquisition
ExteNet today announced an agreement to acquire Axiom Fiber Networks, which operates a fiber network in the New York City metro area where ExteNet already has a footprint. The deal is pending regulatory approvals and financial details were not disclosed.
According to Axiom, the company has a 20-mile, 864 strand fiber network concentrated in Midtown and Lower Manhattan.
