Wireless broadband networks are at risk of being overbuilt by competitors using Federal subsidies if they are unable to demonstrate adequate broadband coverage to the addresses within their coverage area. However, recent actions by the FCC have created a unique opportunity to access NTIA Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) program funding for US-based fixed wireless networks using the Citizens Broadband Radio Service (CBRS) frequency band.
The key to success is in having precise data to support broadband service coverage, satisfy FCC reporting requirements, and justify eligibility for BEAD funding.
The FCC is in the process of updating its current broadband maps with more detailed and precise information on the availability of fixed and mobile broadband services. The Broadband Data Collection (BDC) program will give the FCC, industry, state, local and Tribal government entities, and consumers the tools they need to improve the accuracy of existing maps. BDC reports will be used to support the evaluation of broadband connectivity grant eligibility, including the BEAD program.
cnHeat network planning software now makes it easy for all fixed wireless broadband service providers to meet their FCC-mandated BDC reporting requirements and provide powerful insight to their existing and anticipated coverage area. cnHeat with integrated BDC reporting is manufacturer agnostic and can be exercised with Cambium Networks fixed wireless broadband infrastructure, as well other available fixed wireless infrastructure providers’ solutions.
cnHeat with BDC enables broadband service providers to:
- Protect their business as a service provider – Challenge plans to overbuild and prove that their customers are “served” as defined by the FCC using CBRS spectrum at 3 GHz, which the FCC now considers licensed. Cambium Networks’ cnHeat RF planning tool provides 1-meter precise coverage predictions based on LIDAR data that enables you to meet BDC requirements and deliver reliable service to your customers.
- Meet their Broadband Data Collection (BDC) obligations and respond to FCC challenges – The BEAD program defines “Reliable Broadband Service” as broadband service that the Broadband Data Maps show is accessible to a location. Service providers can use cnHeat planning software with integrated automatic Broadband Data Collection (BDC) to submit high quality data to the FCC and to save time and resources meeting the bi-annual FCC reporting requirements.
Kevin Simms, Wireless Director of GTEK Communications in Texas shares his experience using cnHeat with integrated BDC reporting: “Reporting requirements can be an obstacle. cnHeat with BDC gathers the reporting data we need and enables our planning team and technicians to get installations planned precisely and done right the first time.”
The precise information provided by cnHeat enables a great opportunity for broadband service providers in the United States to extend their network coverage using PMP 450 technology in the CBRS spectrum while making it easy to meet BEAD program reporting requirements. In addition to CBRS-based networks, cnHeat can be applied to networks utilizing 2 GHz, 5 GHz, 60 GHz, and 28 GHz including Cambium Networks ePMP and cnWave platforms.
Join us on July 13 to learn about how ease the pain of Broadband Data Collection and make plans to grow your FWA network within the expanded subsidy environment. Register here.
Contact us to find out more about cnHeat and how precise data can make a difference for your business.