The Land Mobile Communications Council (LMCC) recently submitted an updated Interference Contour Matrix (Matrix) based on F(50/10) curves in response to the Report and Order and Order (R&O) adopted by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).  The Matrix provides derating factors based on proposed/incumbent emission designations to be applied when Frequency Advisory Committees (FACs) process applications for full-channel 25 kHz or adjacent channel 12.5 kHz “Interstitial” 800-MHz frequencies.

Previously, the LMCC had submitted a matrix based on its recommended F(50,50)curve, but the FCC rejected that original proposal and elected to retain the traditional F(50,10) curve, which necessitated changes to the derating factors. The derating factors in the Matrix will be used to promote spectrum efficiency and ensure appropriate levels of interference protection for both full-channel and interstitial-channel systems.  For the reasons detailed in the PFR, the LMCC also urges the FCC not to include the Matrix in the rules.

Before the Interstitial channels are formally made available, approvals from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) must be issued and the Universal Licensing System (ULS) must be updated to accept applications specifying interstitial 800 MHz channels.

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