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FCC demands further testing of LightSquared LTE network to prevent GPS interference

posted by Nick T. / Sep 14, 2011, 8:37 AM

FCC demands further testing of LightSquared LTE network to prevent GPS interference

Until recently, few people were familiar with LightSquared and the services that it provides, most probably because the company works with other businesses only and does not market its services to retail customers. However, LightSquared made headlines not long ago once it struck a deal with Sprint, according to which both companies will partner up in deploying a nationwide LTE network.

Unfortunately for LightSquared, there has been one major obstacle preventing it from flipping the switch on its LTE network, namely the interference with GPS communication its towers were found to be causing. In effort to deal with the issue, the company started testing a different piece of spectrum than it originally chose, and the results from those tests have already been reviewed by the Federal Communications Commission.

Well, it seems like the FCC is still not satisfied with LightSquared's LTE network as it has demanded for further testing to be conducted. While the Commission agrees that the results are showing a significant reduction in interference when compared to previous tests, some more sensitive GPS gear, including equipment used by the military, might still be affected.

LightSquared's LTE network is expected to become operational as early as the beginning of 2012, but failing to receive FCC's seal of approval thus far could be a reason for the company to extend its deadline.

source: FCC via Phone Scoop

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5 Comments

1. snowgator

Posts: 3624; Member since: Jan 19, 2011

Look on the bright side Lightsquared: You only have to get it right once, and they are off your back. It seems that getting it right once is a problem, though.

posted on Sep 14, 2011, 9:34 AM 2

2. SuperAndroidEvo

Posts: 4888; Member since: Apr 15, 2011

I think Lightsquared will get it right, they need to step up with a solution already so the LTE can finally be up & going!

posted on Sep 14, 2011, 11:43 AM 1

3. Droid_X_Doug

Posts: 5993; Member since: Dec 22, 2010

Unless and until Lightsquared can conclusively show no interference with existing GPS systems, they will not get an FCC approval. FCC is not about to give Lightsquared (or any other vendor for that matter) approval to mess with existing GPS devices. The U.S. DOD is the big elephant in the room on this issue - think of how many GPS devices they have at risk....

posted on Sep 14, 2011, 12:26 PM 0

4. PhoneLuver

Posts: 481; Member since: Jul 05, 2010

I really feel sorry for these guys! If they're sticking to their end of the spectrum they should either sue the gps manufacturers that are interfering or sue the government for selling them a useless piece of the wireless spectrum!