Jeffery A. Wepman , Robert J. Matheson, Kenneth C. Allen, and Robert J. Achatz

Abstract: Spectrum usage measurements were made in several potential Personal Communication Services (PCS) frequency bands in the 600 to 2600 MHz range in five U.S. cities. Geographic dependence (within a city) of spectrum usage was determined for all of the cities. Measurements were made using a mobile, computer-controlled, automated radio frequency measurement system that was installed in a mini–van. The raw data taken at each site consisted of received signal levels for each frequency measured. These were processed to provide signal level, measured frequency usage, and measured band usage graphs. The heaviest usage for all cities was seen in the 869–894 MHz (cellular base station–to–mobile) band and the 864–868 MHz (SMR) band. The frequency bands showing the least usage in all cities were the 901–902 MHz (GPMRS), 1850–1990 MHz (Private Fixed Microwave), and the 2400–2483.5 MHz (ISM and Pan 15) bands.

Keywords: measured band usage; measured frequency usage; PCS; received signal level; spectrum usage; personal communications services (PCS)

Disclaimer: Certain commercial equipment, components, and software may be identified in this report to specify adequately the technical aspects of the reported results. In no case does such identification imply recommendation or endorsement by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration, nor does it imply that the equipment or software identified is necessarily the best available for the particular application or uses.

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