WWO Urges All Stations to Register C Band Downlinks

RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, May 17, 2018

Photo credit: MBA

Westwood One is urging all major commercial broadcast radio outlets to register their existing C Band downlinks with the FCC before the Commission evaluates the 3.7-4.2 Ghz C Band for added mobile broadband data services. The company says that these potential additional services could create "insurmountable interference" to programming stations receive by satellite. On April 19, 2018, the FCC issued a public notice regarding a 90-day opportunity to register existing C Band Downlinks.

WWO is encouraging stations to register within the window, which closes July 18, so that the FCC is aware of all downlinks in existence before the agency offers space to mobile broadband data services. The FCC believes that if stations do not register downlinks during this window, they do not need interference protection moving forward. WWO says stations not registering their downlinks could risk losing all of their satellite programming.

"In our history, we have never had to license and/or register C Band downlinks,' said WWO Senior VP Technology and Operations Eric Wiler. "Yet with the extensive use of mobile devices, Wifi and other data services, there is a constant need for radio spectrum and the government is considering all possible options. All C Band Radio, Television and Data services on every satellite are at risk. Registration is key to helping the FCC appreciate the universe of existing downlinks and potential outcomes of expansion. Westwood One has been working with other networks and satellite vendors to attempt to resolve this situation."

Typically, registration requires a Frequency Coordination Study ($1,500) plus a $435 filing fee. During the 90-day window, the FCC waived the first fee and only the $435 filing fee applies.