Communication Efficiencies: Utilizing Electromagnetic Spectrum for Wireless Broadband Services

Abstract

My thesis research focuses on the historical progression of spectrum management and policy leading up to the recent implementation of the FCC Broadcast Incentive Auctions. As America's society becomes more dependent on technology, the need to have additional commercial spectrum has become more salient. This need was recognized in 2010 by the Obama Administration and is the crux of the memorandums Unleashing the Wireless Broadband Revolution, Expanding America’s Leadership in Wireless Innovation, and Expanding Broadband Deployment and Adoption by Addressing Regulatory Barriers and Encouraging Investment and Training.

From the aforementioned memorandums, the FCC and NTIA have been delegated the authority to implement policies that specifically outline processes and procedures regarding spectrum allocation and management that are unique to today’s spectrum challenges on behalf of commercial and governmental interests respectively. In that regard, my research on the historical underpinnings of spectrum management provides a chronological perspective on spectrum regulations by holistically reviewing laws and policies have that have led to current spectrum recourses such as the Broadband Incentive Auctions.

The overarching goal has been to provide additional commercial spectrum for a more robust economy, while allowing America to remain at the forefront of technological innovation. With a finite amount of spectrum and a seemingly infinite amount of end users, decisions regarding spectrum allocation and management need to be able to sustain American consumers, businesses, Wireless Broadband Service Providers, the Internet of Everything (IoE), as well as national security interests conducted by federal users.

Through my research, I hope to provide an updated viewpoint on America’s efforts to innovate technology by making frequency bands available for commercial utilization through a historiography of wireless technologies and their effects on spectrum policy.