Getting an FCC license is a relatively simple matter. Generally speaking, there are two types of licenses, regional and fixed, point-to-point. Regional licenses get all the publicity because of the millions that carriers bid at FCC auctions in order to control certain frequencies in their markets. By contrast, the total cost for a point-to-point, private-user license is under $3,000, and it's good for ten years with options to renew.
More good news. There's no shortage of available point-to-point frequencies, not even in midtown Manhattan. Better still, any corporate, public or private organization can get a license to operate a microwave link, provided that the license is properly applied for.
The license process is in three parts. Here's an overview:
1. Your path data, coordinates, building heights, antenna and radio specifications are entered to the FCC database from which an available set of frequencies is culled. This part of the process is known as "frequency coordination". Available frequencies may be confirmed in as soon as 48-hours, after which they're reserved for your license application.
2. While the reserved frequencies are held in your name, they aren't officially yours until the end of a 30-day notice period called "the PCN" (Prior Coordination Notice). The PCN consists of a mailed form letter, giving thirty day notification of your frequency assignment to other license holders in your area. This gives them an opportunity to dispute any frequency assignment that may have been made in error. While the PCN is important, it shouldn't be cause for concern. Point-to-point licenses for short haul (low power) microwave radios are uncontested. For one, they're not in short supply and second, these are not the same as regional licenses, which are coveted by common carriers and broadcasters.
3. Following the PCN period, we complete your license application form and submit it on-line with the FCC. Once granted, the license is good for 10-years and renewable thereafter.
A common scare tactic with unlicensed promoters is to make a big to-do about "the need to get a license", suggesting uncertainty and bureaucratic snags. On the contrary, getting a license is a short bit of work and well worth the time for the protection and peace of mind it affords. |
