OFFICE OF
TH E CHAI R MAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 18,2011
The Honorable Robert E. Latta
U.S. House ofRepresentatives
1323 Longworth House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Latta:
Thank you for your letter encouraging the effective use ofour nation's spectrum
resources. As you note, the mobile revolution has placed tremendous demands on our nation's
spectrum. I agree that incentive auctions have the potential to fairly and efficiently increase the
productive use ofspectrum, which is why they are a cornerstone ofthe Commission's proposal
to identify opportunities to free up spectrum for wireless broadband. I am pleased that Congress
is seriously considering granting the Commission the authority to conduct them.
I also share your view that it is beneficial to inventory the nation's spectrum. This is why
for more than a year the Commission has conducted - and has now completed - a baseline
spectrum inventory. While a spectrum inventory is inherently an iterative process, it is possible
to take a detailed snapshot ofhow spectrum is currently used, who holds spectrum licenses and
where spectrum is available. The FCC has inventoried the spectrum over which it has
jurisdiction - commercial spectrum - but has also worked with our colleagues at NTIA, who
have undertaken to look at federal government spectrum, over which it has jurisdiction
The Commission's baseline inventory is one ofthe most substantial and comprehensive
reviews ofspectrum in its history. Through our systematic process, we have developed two tools
- LicenseView
l
and the Spectrum Dashboard
2
- that reflect our understanding ofwhere the most
significant spectrum opportunities lie. LicenseView is a comprehensive online portal to
information about each spectrum license; it presents data from multiple FCC systems in a
searchable, user-friendly manner. The Spectrum Dashboard, originally released last year,
identifies how non-Federal spectrum is currently being used, who holds spectrum licenses and
where spectrum is available. The Commission just released Spectrum Dashboard 2.0, an
upgraded version that provides more granular information about spectrum holdings, including
the ability to determine the extent of licensing within counties and on tribal lands, and offers
additional insights on the secondary market in spectrum licenses through the addition ofleasing
information.
Our work in creating and maintaining a spectrum inventory has provided the necessary
information to determine how best to unleash significant additional spectrum for wireless
broadband within the next ten years. It has enabled us to obtain a more complete picture ofwhat
1See http://reboot.fcc.gov/license-view.
2 See http://reboot.fcc.gov/reform/systems/spectrum-dashboard.
Page 2-The Honorable Robert E. Latta
spectrum is dedicated to what purposes and where spectrum can be made available for flexible
use, including mobile broadband. Most importantly, it has confirmed that Congress should
swiftly take the important step ofauthorizing the Commission to conduct voluntary incentive
auctions, which would bring market dynamics to bear on the spectrum allocation process,
ensuring the most efficient use ofthe limited spectrum suitable for mobile broadband. The
Commission can apply this market-based tool to the few bands that stand out as falling within the
frequencies appropriate for mobile use that have sufficient bandwidth to offer clear oppOliunities
for increased spectrum access. The mobile satellite services and broadcast television bands meet
these criteria, making them the best possible candidates for initial application ofvoluntary
incentive auctions to free up additional spectrum for mobile broadband in the near term.
With respect to voluntary incentive auctions, I recommend that Congress grant the
Commission the authority to conduct them in a manner that encourages a healthy and robust
broadcasting industry. Our plan is designed to minimize the number ofstations that would need
to switch frequencies as part ofthe realignment process and for those that do, to accomplish that
task in a way that causes little or no harm to broadcasters and their viewers. Our proposal
includes reimbursing broadcasters for out-of-pocket costs incurred in relocating and limiting loss
ofservice to over-the-air television viewers. Fortunately, this process should be far less complex
than the transition to digital television, as it requires only moves from one frequency to another
rather than a wholesale change in technology. Indeed, we anticipate that the consumer impact
will be quite small, as any shift in broadcaster frequencies will merely require that over-the-air
viewers rescan their televisions.
My number one goal in this process is to maintain a strong over-the-air broadcast service
while meeting growing consumer demand for mobile broadband. Our baseline spectrum
inventory has enabled us to move forward in a strategic and targeted fashion, and I look forward
to working with you and your staffto ensure that our nation finds novel ways to realize the full
potential that all wireless services can offer and spur job creation, innovation and U.S. global
competitiveness.
Sincerely,
--------- .
Julius Genachowski
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 18,2011
The Honorable John Barrow
U.S. House ofRepresentatives
2202 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Barrow:
Thank you for your letter encouraging the effective use ofour nation's spectrum
resources. As you note, the mobile revolution has placed tremendous demands on our nation's
spectrum. I agree that incentive auctions have the potential to fairly and efficiently increase the
productive use ofspectrum, which is why they are a cornerstone ofthe Commission's proposal
to identify opportunities to free up spectrum for wireless broadband. I am pleased that Congress
is seriously considering granting the Commission the authority to conduct them.
I also share your view that it is beneficial to inventory the nation's spectrum. This is why
for more than a year the Commission has conducted - and has now completed - a baseline
spectrum inventory. While a spectrum inventory is inherently an iterative process, it is possible
to take a detailed snapshot ofhow spectrum is currently used, who holds spectrum licenses and
where spectrum is available. The FCC has inventoried the spectrum over which it has
jurisdiction - commercial spectrum - but has also worked with our colleagues at NTIA, who
have undertaken to look at federal government spectrum, over which it has jurisdiction
The Commission's baseline inventory is one ofthe most substantial and comprehensive
reviews ofspectrum in its history. Through our systematic process, we have developed two tools
- LicenseView
l
and the Spectrum Dashboard
2
- that reflect our understanding ofwhere the most
significant spectrum opportunities lie. LicenseView is a comprehensive online portal to
information about each spectrum license; it presents data from multiple FCC systems in a
searchable, user-friendly manner. The Spectrum Dashboard, originally released last year,
identifies how non-Federal spectrum is currently being used, who holds spectrum licenses and
where spectrum is available. The Commission just released Spectrum Dashboard 2.0, an
upgraded version that provides more granular information about spectrum holdings, including
the ability to determine the extent of licensing within counties and on tribal lands, and offers
additional insights on the secondary market in spectrum licenses through the addition of leasing
information.
Our work in creating and maintaining a spectrum inventory has provided the necessary
information to determine how best to unleash significant additional spectrum for wireless .
broadband within the next ten years. It has enabled us to obtain a more complete picture ofwhat
ISee http://reboot.fcc.gov/license-view.
2 See http://reboot.fcc.gov/reform/systems/spectrum-dashboard.
Page 2-The Honorable John Barrow
spectrum is dedicated to what purposes and where spectrum can be made available for flexible
use, including mobile broadband. Most importantly, it has confirmed that Congress should
swiftly take the important step ofauthorizing the Commission to conduct voluntary incentive
auctions, which would bring market dynamics to bear on the spectrum allocation process,
ensuring the most efficient use ofthe limited spectrum suitable for mobile broadband. The
Commission can apply this market-based tool to the few bands that stand out as falling within the
frequencies appropriate for mobile use that have sufficient bandwidth to offer clear opportunities
for increased spectrum access. The mobile satellite services and broadcast television bands meet
these criteria, making them the best possible candidates for initial application ofvoluntary
incentive auctions to free up additional spectrum for mobile broadband in the near term.
With respect to voluntary incentive auctions, I recommend that Congress grant the
Commission the authority to conduct them in a manner that encourages a healthy and robust
broadcasting industry. Our plan is designed to minimize the number ofstations that would need
to switch frequencies as part ofthe realignment process and for those that do, to accomplish that
task in a way that causes little or no harm to broadcasters and their viewers. Our proposal
includes reimbursing broadcasters for out-of-pocket costs incurred in relocating and limiting loss
ofservice to over-the-air television viewers. Fortunately, this process should be far less complex
than the transition to digital television, as it requires only moves from one frequency to another
rather than a wholesale change in technology. Indeed, we anticipate that the consumer impact
will be quite small, as any shift in broadcaster frequencies will merely require that over-the-air
viewers rescan their televisions.
My number one goal in this process is to maintain a strong over-the-air broadcast service
while meeting growing consumer demand for mobile broadband. Our baseline spectrum
inventory has enabled us to move forward in a strategic and targeted fashion, and I look forward
to working with you and your staffto ensure that our nation finds novel ways to realize the full
potential that all wireless services can offer and spur job creation, innovation and U.S. global
competitiveness.
Sincerely,
Julius Genachowski
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 18,2011
The Honorable Joe Barton
U.S. House ofRepresentatives
2109 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Barton:
Thank you for your letter encouraging the effective use ofour nation's spectrum
resources. As you note, the mobile revolution has placed tremendous demands on our nation's
spectrum. I agree that incentive auctions have the potential to fairly and efficiently increase the
productive use ofspectrum, which is why they are a cornerstone ofthe Commission's proposal
to identify opportunities to free up spectrum for wireless broadband. I am pleased that Congress
is seriously considering granting the Commission the authority to conduct them.
I also share your view that it is beneficial to inventory the nation's spectrum. This is why
for more than a year the Commission has conducted - and has now completed - a baseline
spectrum inventory. While a spectrum inventory is inherently an iterative process, it is possible
to take a detailed snapshot ofhow spectrum is currently used, who holds spectrum licenses and
where spectrum is available. The FCC has inventoried the spectrum over which it has
jurisdiction - commercial spectrum - but has also worked with our colleagues at NTIA, who
have undertaken to look at federal government spectrum, over which it has jurisdiction
The Commission's baseline inventory is one ofthe most substantial and comprehensive
reviews ofspectrum in its history. Through our systematic process, we have developed two tools
- LicenseView) and the Spectrum Dashboard
2
- that reflect our understanding ofwhere the most
significant spectrum opportunities lie. LicenseView is a comprehensive online portal to
information about each spectrum license; it presents data from multiple FCC systems in a
searchable, user-friendly manner. The Spectrum Dashboard, originally released last year,
identifies how non-Federal spectrum is currently being used, who holds spectrum licenses and
where spectrum is available. The Commission just released Spectrum Dashboard 2.0, an
upgraded version that provides more granular information about spectrum holdings, including
the ability to determine the extent oflicensing within counties and on tribal lands, and offers
additional insights on the secondary market in spectrum licenses through the addition of leasing
information.
Our work in creating and maintaining a spectrum inventory has provided the necessary
information to determine how best to unleash significant additional spectrum for wireless
broadband within the next ten years. It has enabled us to obtain a more complete picture ofwhat
[See http://reboot.fcc.gov/license-view.
2 See http://reboot.fcc.gov/reform/systems/spectrum-dashboard.
Page 2-The Honorable Joe Barton
spectrum is dedicated to what purposes and where spectrum can be made available for flexible
use, including mobile broadband. Most importantly, it has confirmed that Congress should
swiftly take the important step ofauthorizing the Commission to conduct voluntary incentive
auctions, which would bring market dynamics to bear on the spectrum allocation process,
ensuring the most efficient use ofthe limited spectrum suitable for mobile broadband. The
Commission can apply this market-based tool to the few bands that stand out as falling within the
frequencies appropriate for mobile use that have sufficient bandwidth to offer clear opportunities
for increased spectrum access. The mobile satellite services and broadcast television bands meet
these criteria, making them the best possible candidates for initial application ofvoluntary
incentive auctions to free up additional spectrum for mobile broadband in the near term.
With respect to voluntary incentive auctions, I recommend that Congress grant the
Commission the authority to conduct them in a manner that encourages a healthy and robust
broadcasting industry. Our plan is designed to minimize the number ofstations that would need
to switch frequencies as part ofthe realignment process and for those that do, to accomplish that
task in a way that causes little or no harm to broadcasters and their viewers. Our proposal
includes reimbursing broadcasters for out-of-pocket costs incurred in relocating and limiting loss
ofservice to over-the-air television viewers. Fortunately, this process should be far less complex
than the transition to digital television, as it requires only moves from one frequency to another
rather than a wholesale change in technology. Indeed, we anticipate that the consumer impact
will be quite small, as any shift in broadcaster frequencies will merely require that over-the-air
viewers rescan their televisions.
My number one goal in this process is to maintain a strong over-the-air broadcast service
while meeting growing consumer demand for mobile broadband. Our baseline spectrum
inventory has enabled us to move forward in a strategic and targeted fashion, and I look forward
to working with you and your staffto ensure that our nation finds novel ways to realize the full
potential that all wireless services can offer and spur job creation, innovation and u.s. global
competitiveness.
Sincerely,
•
Julius Genachowski
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 18,2011
The Honorable Charles Bass
U.S. House ofRepresentatives
2350 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Bass:
Thank you for your letter encouraging the effective use of our nation's spectrum
resources. As you note, the mobile revolution has placed tremendous demands on our nation's
spectrum. I agree that incentive auctions have the potential to fairly and efficiently increase the
productive use ofspectrum, which is why they are a cornerstone ofthe Commission's proposal
to identify opportunities to free up spectrum for wireless broadband. I am pleased that Congress
is seriously considering granting the Commission the authority to conduct them.
I also share your view that it is beneficial to inventory the nation's spectrum. This is why
for more than a year the Commission has conducted - and has now completed - a baseline
spectrum inventory. While a spectrum inventory is inherently an iterative process, it is possible
to take a detailed snapshot ofhow spectrum is currently used, who holds spectrum licenses and
where spectrum is available. The FCC has inventoried the spectrum over which it has
jurisdiction - commercial spectrum - but has also worked with our colleagues at NTIA, who
have undertaken to look at federal government spectrum, over which it has jurisdiction
The Commission's baseline inventory is one ofthe most substantial and comprehensive
reviews ofspectrum in its history. Through our systematic process, we have developed two tools
- LicenseView
l
and the Spectrum Dashboard
2
- that reflect our understanding ofwhere the most
significant spectrum opportunities lie. LicenseView is a comprehensive online pOlial to
information about each spectrum license; it presents data from multiple FCC systems in a
searchable, user-friendly manner. The Spectrum Dashboard, originally released last year,
identifies how non-Federal spectrum is currently being used, who holds spectrum licenses and
where spectrum is available. The Commission just released Spectrum Dashboard 2.0, an
upgraded version that provides more granular information about spectrum holdings, including
the ability to determine the extent of licensing within counties and on tribal lands, and offers
additional insights on the secondary market in spectrum licenses through the addition ofleasing
information.
Our work in creating and maintaining a spectrum inventory has provided the necessary
information to determine how best to unleash significant additional spectrum for wireless
broadband within the next ten years. It has enabled us to obtain a more complete picture ofwhat
'See http://reboot.fcc.gov/license-view.
2 See http://reboot.fcc.gov/reforrn/systems/spectrum-dashboard.
Page 2-The Honorable Charles Bass
spectrum is dedicated to what purposes and where spectrum can be made available for flexible
use, including mobile broadband. Most importantly, it has confirmed that Congress should
swiftly take the important step ofauthorizing the Commission to conduct voluntary incentive
auctions, which would bring market dynamics to bear on the spectrum allocation process,
ensuring the most efficient use ofthe limited spectrum suitable for mobile broadband. The
Commission can apply this market-based tool to the few bands that stand out as falling within the
frequencies appropriate for mobile use that have sufficient bandwidth to offer clear opportunities
for increased spectrum access. The mobile satellite services and broadcast television bands meet
these criteria, making them the best possible candidates for initial application ofvoluntary
incentive auctions to free up additional spectrum for mobile broadband in the near term.
With respect to voluntary incentive auctions, I recommend that Congress grant the
Commission the authority to conduct them in a manner that encourages a healthy and robust
broadcasting industry. Our plan is designed to minimize the number ofstations that would need
to switch frequencies as part ofthe realignment process and for those that do, to accomplish that
task in a way that causes little or no harm to broadcasters and their viewers. Our proposal
includes reimbursing broadcasters for out-of-pocket costs incurred in relocating and limiting loss
ofservice to over-the-air television viewers. Fortunately, this process should be far less complex
than the transition to digital television, as it requires only moves from one frequency to another
rather than a wholesale change in technology. Indeed, we anticipate that the consumer impact
will be quite small, as any shift in broadcaster frequencies will merely require that over-the-air
viewers rescan their televisions.
My number one goal in this process is to maintain a strong over-the-air broadcast service
while meeting growing consumer demand for mobile broadband. Our baseline spectrum
inventory has enabled us to move forward in a strategic and targeted fashion, and I look forward
to working with you and your staffto ensure that our nation finds novel ways to realize the full
potential that all wireless services can offer and spur job creation, innovation and U.S. global
competitiveness.
Sincerely,
•
Julius Genachowski
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 18,2011
The Honorable Brian Bilbray
U.S. House ofRepresentatives
2410 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Bilbray:
Thank you for your letter encouraging the effective use of our nation's spectrum
resources. As you note, the mobile revolution has placed tremendous demands on our nation's
spectrum. I agree that incentive auctions have the potential to fairly and efficiently increase the
productive use ofspectrum, which is why they are a cornerstone ofthe Commission's proposal
to identify opportunities to free up spectrum for wireless broadband. I am pleased that Congress
is seriously considering granting the Commission the authorjty to conduct them.
I also share your view that it is beneficial to inventory the nation's spectrum. This is why
for more than a year the Commission has conducted - and has now completed - a baseline
spectrum inventory. While a spectrum inventory is inherently an iterative process, it is possible
to take a detailed snapshot ofhow spectrum is currently used, who holds spectrum licenses and
where spectrum is available. The FCC has inventoried the spectrum over which it has
jurisdiction - commercial spectrum - but has also worked with our colleagues at NTIA, who
have undertaken to look at federal government spectrum, over which it has jurisdiction
The Commission's baseline inventory is one ofthe most substantial and comprehensive
reviews ofspectrum in its history. Through our systematic process, we have developed two tools
- LicenseView
l
and the Spectrum Dashboard
2
- that reflect our understanding ofwhere the most
significant spectrum opportunities lie. LicenseView is a comprehensive online portal to
information about each spectrum license; it presents data from multiple FCC systems in a
searchable, user-friendly manner. The Spectrum Dashboard, originally released last year,
identifies how non-Federal spectrum is currently being used, who holds spectrum licenses and
where spectrum is available. The Commission just released Spectrum Dashboard 2.0, an
upgraded version that provides more granular information about spectrum holdings, including
the ability to determine the extent oflicensing within counties and on tribal lands, and offers
additional insights on the secondary market in spectrum licenses through the addition of leasing
information.
Our work in creating and maintaining a spectrum inventory has provided the necessary
information to determine how best to unleash significant additional spectrum for wireless
broadband within the next ten years. It has enabled us to obtain a more complete picture ofwhat
ISee http://reboot.fcc.gov/license-view.
2 See http://reboot.fcc.gov/reform/systems/spectrum-dashboard.
Page 2-The Honorable Brian Bilbray
spectrum is dedicated to what purposes and where spectrum can be made available for flexible
use, including mobile broadband. Most importantly, it has confirmed that Congress should
swiftly take the important step ofauthorizing the Commission to conduct voluntary incentive
auctions, which would bring market dynamics to bear on the spectrum allocation process,
ensuring the most efficient use ofthe limited spectrum suitable for mobile broadband. The
Commission can apply this market-based tool to the few bands that stand out as falling within the
frequencies appropriate for mobile use that have sufficient bandwidth to offer clear opportunities
for increased spectrum access. The mobile satellite services and broadcast television bands meet
these criteria, making them the best possible candidates for initial application ofvoluntary
incentive auctions to free up additional spectrum for mobile broadband in the near term.
With respect to voluntary incentive auctions, I recommend that Congress grant the
Commission the authority to conduct them in a manner that encourages a healthy and robust
broadcasting industry. Our plan is designed to minimize the number ofstations that would need
to switch frequencies as part ofthe realignment process and for those that do, to accomplish that
task in a way that causes little or no harm to broadcasters and their viewers. Our proposal
includes reimbursing broadcasters for out-of-pocket costs incurred in relocating and limiting loss
ofservice to over-the-air television viewers. Fortunately, this process should be far less complex
than the transition to digital television, as it requires only moves from one frequency to another
rather than a wholesale change in technology. Indeed, we anticipate that the consumer impact
will be quite small, as any shift in broadcaster frequencies will merely require that over-the-air
viewers rescan their televisions.
My number one goal in this process is to maintain a strong over-the-air broadcast service
while meeting growing consumer demand for mobile broadband. Our baseline spectrum
inventory has enabled us to move forward in a strategic and targeted fashion, and I look forward
to working with you and your staffto ensure that our nation finds novel ways to realize the full
potential that all wireless services can offer and spur job creation, innovation and U.S. global
competitiveness.
Sincerely,
Julius Genachowski
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 18,2011
The Honorable Marsha Blackburn
U.S. House ofRepresentatives
217 Cannon House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congresswoman Blackburn:
Thank you for your letter encouraging the effective use ofour nation's spectrum
resources. As you note, the mobile revolution has placed tremendous demands on our nation's
spectrum. I agree that incentive auctions have the potential to fairly and efficiently increase the
productive use ofspectrum, which is why they are a cornerstone ofthe Commission's proposal
to identify opportunities to free up spectrum for wireless broadband. I am pleased that Congress
is seriously considering granting the Commission the authority to conduct them.
I also share your view that it is beneficial to inventory the nation's spectrum. This is why
for more than a year the Commission has conducted - and has now completed - a baseline
spectrum inventory. While a spectrum inventory is inherently an iterative process, it is possible
to take a detailed snapshot ofhow spectrum is currently used, who holds spectrum licenses and
where spectrum is available. The FCC has inventoried the spectrum over which it has
jurisdiction - commercial spectrum - but has also worked with our colleagues at NTIA, who
have undertaken to look at federal government spectrum, over which it has jurisdiction
The Commission's baseline inventory is one ofthe most substantial and comprehensive
reviews ofspectrum in its history. Through our systematic process, we have developed two tools
- LicenseView
l
and the Spectrum Dashboard
2
- that reflect our understanding ofwhere the most
significant spectrum opportunities lie. LicenseView is a comprehensive online portal to
information about each spectrum license; it presents data from multiple FCC systems in a
searchable, user-friendly manner. The Spectrum Dashboard, originally released last year,
identifies how non-Federal spectrum is currently being used, who holds spectrum licenses and
where spectrum is available. The Commission just released Spectrum Dashboard 2.0, an
upgraded version that provides more granular information about spectrum holdings, including
the ability to determine the extent oflicensing within counties and on tribal lands, and offers
additional insights on the secondary market in spectrum licenses through the addition ofleasing
information.
Our work in creating and maintaining a spectrum inventory has provided the necessary
information to determine how best to unleash significant additional spectrum for wireless
broadband within the next ten years. It has enabled us to obtain a more complete picture ofwhat
'See http://reboot.fcc.gov/license-view.
2 See http://reboot.fcc.gov/reform/systems/spectrum-dashboard.
Page 2-The Honorable Marsha Blackburn
spectrum is dedicated to what purposes and where spectrum can be made available for flexible
use, including mobile broadband. Most importantly, it has confirmed that Congress should
swiftly take the important step ofauthorizing the Commission to conduct voluntary incentive
auctions, which would bring market dynamics to bear on the spectrum allocation process,
ensuring the most efficient use ofthe limited spectrum suitable for mobile broadband. The
Commission can apply this market-based tool to the few bands that stand out as falling within the
frequencies appropriate for mobile use that have sufficient bandwidth to offer clear oppOliunities
for increased spectrum access. The mobile satellite services and broadcast television bands meet
these criteria, making them the best possible candidates for initial application ofvoluntary
incentive auctions to free up additional spectrum for mobile broadband in the near term.
With respect to voluntary incentive auctions, I recommend that Congress grant the
Commission the authority to conduct them in a manner that encourages a healthy and robust
broadcasting industry. Our plan is designed to minimize the number ofstations that would need
to switch frequencies as part ofthe realignment process and for those that do, to accomplish that
task in a way that causes little or no harm to broadcasters and their viewers. Our proposal
includes reimbursing broadcasters for out-of-pocket costs incurred in relocating and limiting loss
ofservice to over-the-air television viewers. Fortunately, this process should be far less complex
than the transition to digital television, as it requires only moves from one frequency to another
rather than a wholesale change in technology. Indeed, we anticipate that the consumer impact
will be quite small, as any shift in broadcaster frequencies will merely require that over-the-air
viewers rescan their televisions.
My number one goal in this process is to maintain a strong over-the-air broadcast service
while meeting growing consumer demand for mobile broadband. Our baseline spectrum
inventory has enabled us to move forward in a strategic and targeted fashion, and I look forward
to working with you and your staffto ensure that our nation finds novel ways to realize the full
potential that all wireless services can offer and spur job creation, innovation and U.S. global
competitiveness.
Sincerely,
Julius Genachowski
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 18,2011
The Honorable Gene Green
U.S. House ofRepresentatives
2470 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Green:
Thank you for your letter encouraging the effective use ofour nation's spectrum
resources. As you note, the mobile revolution has placed tremendous demands on our nation's
spectrum. I agree that incentive auctions have the potential to fairly and efficiently increase the
productive use ofspectrum, which is why they are a cornerstone ofthe Commission's proposal
to identify opportunities to free up spectrum for wireless broadband. I am pleased that Congress
is seriously considering granting the Commission the authority to conduct them.
I also share your view that it is beneficial to inventory the nation's spectrum. This is why
for more than a year the Commission has conducted - and has now completed - a baseline
spectrum inventory. While a spectrum inventory is inherently an iterative process, it is possible
to take a detailed snapshot ofhow spectrum is currently used, who holds spectrum licenses and
where spectrum is available. The FCC has inventoried the spectrum over which it has
jurisdiction - commercial spectrum - but has also worked with our colleagues at NTIA, who
have undertaken to look at federal government spectrum, over which it has jurisdiction
The Commission's baseline inventory is one ofthe most substantial and comprehensive
reviews ofspectrum in its history. Through our systematic process, we have developed two tools
- LicenseView' and the Spectrum Dashboard
2
- that reflect our understanding ofwhere the most
significant spectrum opportunities lie. LicenseView is a comprehensive online portal to
information about each spectrum license; it presents data from multiple FCC systems in a
searchable, user-friendly manner. The Spectrum Dashboard, originally released last year,
identifies how non-Federal spectrum is currently being used, who holds spectrum licenses and
where spectrum is available. The Commission just released Spectrum Dashboard 2.0, an
upgraded version that provides more granular information about spectrum holdings, including
the ability to determine the extent oflicensing within counties and on tribal lands, and offers
additional insights on the secondary market in spectrum licenses through the addition ofleasing
information.
Our work in creating and maintaining a spectrum inventory has provided the necessary
information to determine how best to unleash significant additional spectrum for wireless
broadband within the next ten years. It has enabled us to obtain a more complete picture ofwhat
ISee http://reboot.fcc.gov/license-view.
2 See http://reboot.fcc.gov/reform/systems/spectrum-dashboard.
Page 2-The Honorable Gene Green
spectrum is dedicated to what purposes and where spectrum can be made available for flexible
use, including mobile broadband. Most importantly, it has confirmed that Congress should
swiftly take the important step ofauthorizing the Commission to conduct voluntary incentive
auctions, which would bring market dynamics to bear on the spectrum allocation process,
ensuring the most efficient use ofthe limited spectrum suitable for mobile broadband. The
Commission can apply this market-based tool to the few bands that stand out as falling within the
frequencies appropriate for mobile use that have sufficient bandwidth to offer clear opportunities
for increased spectrum access. The mobile satellite services and broadcast television bands meet
these criteria, making them the best possible candidates for initial application ofvoluntary
incentive auctions to free up additional spectrum for mobile broadband in the near term.
With respect to voluntary incentive auctions, I recommend that Congress grant the
Commission the authority to conduct them in a manner that encourages a healthy and robust
broadcasting industry. Our plan is designed to minimize the number ofstations that would need
to switch frequencies as part ofthe realignment process and for those that do, to accomplish that
task in a way that causes little or no harm to broadcasters and their viewers. Our proposal
includes reimbursing broadcasters for out-of-pocket costs incurred in relocating and limiting loss
ofservice to over-the-air television viewers. Fortunately, this process should be far less complex
than the transition to digital television, as it requires only moves from one frequency to another
rather than a wholesale change in technology. Indeed, we anticipate that the consumer impact
will be quite small, as any shift in broadcaster frequencies will merely require that over-the-air
viewers rescan their televisions.
My number one goal in this process is to maintain a strong over-the-air broadcast service
while meeting growing consumer demand for mobile broadband. Our baseline spectrum
inventory has enabled us to move forward in a strategic and targeted fashion, and I look forward
to working with you and your staffto ensure that our nation finds novel ways to realize the full
potential that all wireless services can offer and spur job creation, innovation and U.S. global
competitiveness.
Sincerely,
-------- .
Julius Genachowski
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 18,2011
The Honorable Brett Guthrie
U.S. House ofRepresentatives
308 Cannon House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Guthrie:
Thank you for your letter encouraging the effective use ofour nation's spectrum
resources. As you note, the mobile revolution has placed tremendous demands on our nation's
spectrum. I agree that incentive auctions have the potential to fairly and efficiently increase the
productive use ofspectrum, which is why they are a cornerstone ofthe Commission's proposal
to identify opportunities to free up spectrum for wireless broadband. I am pleased that Congress
is seriously considering granting the Commission the authority to conduct them.
I also share your view that it is beneficial to inventory the nation's spectrum. This is why
for more than a year the Commission has conducted - and has now completed - a baseline
spectrum inventory. While a spectrum inventory is inherently an iterative process, it is possible
to take a detailed snapshot ofhow spectrum is currently used, who holds spectrum licenses and
where spectrum is available. The FCC has inventoried the spectrum over which it has
jurisdiction - commercial spectrum - but has also worked with our colleagues at NTIA, who
have undertaken to look at federal government spectrum, over which it has jurisdiction
The Commission's baseline inventory is one ofthe most substantial and comprehensive
reviews ofspectrum in its history. Through our systematic process, we have developed two tools
- LicenseView! and the Spectrum Dashboard
2
- that reflect our understanding ofwhere the most
significant spectrum opportunities lie. LicenseView is a comprehensive online portal to
information about each spectrum license; it presents data from multiple FCC systems in a
searchable, user-friendly manner. The Spectrum Dashboard, originally released last year,
identifies how non-Federal spectrum is currently being used, who holds spectrum licenses and
where spectrum is available. The Commission just released Spectrum Dashboard 2.0, an
upgraded version that provides more granular information about spectrum holdings, including
the ability to determine the extent oflicensing within counties and on tribal lands, and offers
additional insights on the secondary market in spectrum licenses through the addition of leasing
information.
Our work in creating and maintaining a spectrum inventory has provided the necessary
information to determine how best to unleash significant additional spectrum for wireless
broadband within the next ten years. It has enabled us to obtain a more complete picture ofwhat
ISee http://reboot.fcc.gov/license-view.
2 See http://reboot.fcc.gov/reform/systems/spectrum-dashboard.
Page 2-The Honorable Brett Guthrie
spectrum is dedicated to what purposes and where spectrum can be made available for flexible
use, including mobile broadband. Most importantly, it has confirmed that Congress should
swiftly take the important step ofauthorizing the Commission to conduct voluntary incentive
auctions, which would bring market dynamics to bear on the spectrum allocation process,
ensuring the most efficient use ofthe limited spectrum suitable for mobile broadband. The
Commission can apply this market-based tool to the few bands that stand out as falling within the
frequencies appropriate for mobile use that have sufficient bandwidth to offer clear opportunities
for increased spectrum access. The mobile satellite services and broadcast television bands meet
these criteria, making them the best possible candidates for initial application ofvoluntary
incentive auctions to free up additional spectrum for mobile broadband in the near term.
With respect to voluntary incentive auctions, I recommend that Congress grant the
Commission the authority to conduct them in a manner that encourages a healthy and robust
broadcasting industry. Our plan is designed to minimize the number ofstations that would need
to switch frequencies as part ofthe realignment process and for those that do, to accomplish that
task in a way that causes little or no harm to broadcasters and their viewers. Our proposal
includes reimbursing broadcasters for out-of-pocket costs incurred in relocating and limiting loss
ofservice to over-the-air television viewers. Fortunately, this process should be far less complex
than the transition to digital television, as it requires only moves from one frequency to another
rather than a wholesale change in technology. Indeed, we anticipate that the consumer impact
will be quite small, as any shift in broadcaster frequencies will merely require that over-the-air
viewers rescan their televisions.
My number one goal in this process is to maintain a strong over-the-air broadcast service
while meeting growing consumer demand for mobile broadband. Our baseline spectrum
inventory has enabled us to move forward in a strategic and targeted fashion, and I look forward
to working with you and your staffto ensure that our nation finds novel ways to realize the full
potential that all wireless services can offer and spur job creation, innovation and U.S. global
competitiveness.
Sincerely,
-------- .
Julius Genachowski
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 18,2011
The Honorable Jim Matheson
U.S. House ofRepresentatives
2434 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Matheson:
Thank you for your letter encouraging the effective use ofour nation's spectrum
resources. As you note, the mobile revolution has placed tremendous demands on our nation's
spectrum. I agree that incentive auctions have the potential to fairly and efficiently increase the
productive use ofspectrum, which is why they are a cornerstone ofthe Commission's proposal
to identify opportunities to free up spectrum for wireless broadband. I am pleased that Congress
is seriously considering granting the Commission the authority to conduct them.
I also share your view that it is beneficial to inventory the nation's spectrum. This is why
for more than a year the Commission has conducted - and has now completed - a baseline
spectrum inventory. While a spectrum inventory is inherently an iterative process, it is possible
to take a detailed snapshot ofhow spectrum is currently used, who holds spectrum licenses and
where spectrum is available. The FCC has inventoried the spectrum over which it has
jurisdiction - commercial spectrum - but has also worked with our colleagues at NTIA, who
have undertaken to look at federal government spectrum, over which it has jurisdiction
The Commission's baseline inventory is one ofthe most substantial and comprehensive
reviews ofspectrum in its history. Through our systematic process, we have developed two tools
- LicenseView) and the Spectrum Dashboard
2
- that reflect our understanding ofwhere the most
significant spectrum opportunities lie. LicenseView is a comprehensive online portal to
information about each spectrum license; it presents data from multiple FCC systems in a
searchable, user-friendly manner. The Spectrum Dashboard, originally released last year,
identifies how non-Federal spectrum is currently being used, who holds spectrum licenses and
where spectrum is available. The Commission just released Spectrum Dashboard 2.0, an
upgraded version that provides more granular information about spectrum holdings, including
the ability to determine the extent oflicensing within counties and on tribal lands, and offers
additional insights on the secondary market in spectrum licenses through the addition ofleasing
information.
Our work in creating and maintaining a spectrum inventory has provided the necessary
information to determine how best to unleash significant additional spectrum for wireless
broadband within the next ten years. It has enabled us to obtain a more complete picture ofwhat
ISee http://reboot.fcc.gov/license-view.
2 See http://reboot.fcc.gov/reform/systems/spectrum-dashboard.
Page 2-The Honorable Jim Matheson
spectrum is dedicated to what purposes and where spectrum can be made available for flexible
use, including mobile broadband. Most importantly, it has confirmed that Congress should
swiftly take the important step ofauthorizing the Commission to conduct voluntary incentive
auctions, which would bring market dynamics to bear on the spectrum allocation process,
ensuring the most efficient use ofthe limited spectrum suitable for mobile broadband. The
Commission can apply this market-based tool to the few bands that stand out as falling within the
frequencies appropriate for mobile use that have sufficient bandwidth to offer clear opportunities
for increased spectrum access. The mobile satellite services and broadcast television bands meet
these criteria, making them the best possible candidates for initial application ofvoluntary
incentive auctions to free up additional spectrum for mobile broadband in the near term.
With respect to voluntary incentive auctions, I recommend that Congress grant the
Commission the authority to conduct them in a manner that encourages a healthy and robust
broadcasting industry. Our plan is designed to minimize the number ofstations that would need
to switch frequencies as part ofthe realignment process and for those that do, to accomplish that
task in a way that causes little or no harm to broadcasters and their viewers. Our proposal
includes reimbursing broadcasters for out-of-pocket costs incurred in relocating and limiting loss
ofservice to over-the-air television viewers. Fortunately, this process should be far less complex
than the transition to digital television, as it requires only moves from one frequency to another
rather than a wholesale change in technology. Indeed, we anticipate that the consumer impact
will be quite small, as any shift in broadcaster frequencies will merely require that over-the-air
viewers rescan their televisions.
My number one goal in this process is to maintain a strong over-the-air broadcast service
while meeting growing consumer demand for mobile broadband. Our baseline spectrum
inventory has enabled us to move forward in a strategic and targeted fashion, and I look forward
to working with you and your staffto ensure that our nation finds novel ways to realize the full
potential that all wireless services can offer and spur job creation, innovation and U.S. global
competitiveness.
Sincerely,
Julius Genachowski
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 18,2011
The Honorable Cathy McMorris Rodgers
U.S. House ofRepresentatives
2421 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congresswoman McMorris Rodgers:
Thank you for your letter encouraging the effective use of our nation's spectrum
resources. As you note, the mobile revolution has placed tremendous demands on our nation's
spectrum. I agree that incentive auctions have the potential to fairly and efficiently increase the
productive use ofspectrum, which is why they are a cornerstone ofthe Commission's proposal
to identify opportunities to free up spectrum for wireless broadband. I am pleased that Congress
is seriously considering granting the Commission the authority to conduct them.
I also share your view that it is beneficial to inventory the nation's spectrum. This is why
for more than a year the Commission has conducted - and has now completed - a baseline
spectrum inventory. While a spectrum inventory is inherently an iterative process, it is possible
to take a detailed snapshot ofhow spectrum is currently used, who holds spectrum licenses and
where spectrum is available. The FCC has inventoried the spectrum over which it has
jurisdiction - commercial spectrum - but has also worked with our colleagues at NTIA, who
have undertaken to look at federal government spectrum, over which it has jurisdiction
The Commission's baseline inventory is one ofthe most substantial and comprehensive
reviews ofspectrum in its history. Through our systematic process, we have developed two tools
- LicenseView
l
and the Spectrum Dashboard
2
- that reflect our understanding ofwhere the most
significant spectrum opportunities lie. LicenseView is a comprehensive online portal to
information about each spectrum license; it presents data from multiple FCC systems in a
searchable, user-friendly manner. The Spectrum Dashboard, originally released last year,
identifies how non-Federal spectrum is currently being used, who holds spectrum licenses and
where spectrum is available. The Commission just released Spectrum Dashboard 2.0, an
upgraded version that provides more granular information about spectrum holdings, including
the ability to determine the extent oflicensing within counties and on tribal lands, and offers
additional insights on the secondary market in spectrum licenses through the addition ofleasing
information.
Our work in creating and maintaining a spectrum inventory has provided the necessary
information to determine how best to unleash significant additional spectrum for wireless
broadband within the next ten years. It has enabled us to obtain a more complete picture ofwhat
ISee http://reboot.fcc.gov/license-view.
2 See http://reboot.fcc.gov/reform/systems/spectrum-dashboard.
Page 2-The Honorable Cathy McMorris Rodgers
spectrum is dedicated to what purposes and where spectrum can be made available for flexible
use, including mobile broadband. Most importantly, it has confirmed that Congress should
swiftly take the important step ofauthorizing the Commission to conduct voluntary incentive
auctions, which would bring market dynamics to bear on the spectrum allocation process,
ensuring the most efficient use ofthe limited spectrum suitable for mobile broadband. The
Commission can apply this market-based tool to the few bands that stand out as falling within the
frequencies appropriate for mobile use that have sufficient bandwidth to offer clear opportunities
for increased spectrum access. The mobile satellite services and broadcast television bands meet
these criteria, making them the best possible candidates for initial application ofvoluntary
incentive auctions to free up additional spectrum for mobile broadband in the near term.
With respect to voluntary incentive auctions, I recommend that Congress grant the
Commission the authority to conduct them in a manner that encourages a healthy and robust
broadcasting industry. Our plan is designed to minimize the number ofstations that would need
to switch frequencies as part ofthe realignment process and for those that do, to accomplish that
task in a way that causes little or no harm to broadcasters and their viewers. Our proposal
includes reimbursing broadcasters for out-of-pocket costs incurred in relocating and limiting loss
ofservice to over-the-air television viewers. Fortunately, this process should be far less complex
than the transition to digital television, as it requires only moves from one frequency to another
rather than a wholesale change in technology. Indeed, we anticipate that the consumer impact
will be quite small, as any shift in broadcaster frequencies will merely require that over-the-air
viewers rescan their televisions.
My number one goal in this process is to maintain a strong over-the-air broadcast service
while meeting growing consumer demand for mobile broadband. Our baseline spectrum
inventory has enabled us to move forward in a strategic and targeted fashion, and I look forward
to working with you and your staffto ensure that our nation finds novel ways to realize the full
potential that all wireless services can offer and spur job creation, innovation and U.S. global
competitiveness.
Sincerely,
•
Julius Genachowski