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FCC Grants Globalstar ATC License, Paves Way for Company to Offer Seamless Satellite/Terrestrial Wireless Solutions |
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MILPITAS, Calif., Jan. 24, 2006/Satnews Daily/ — The U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has granted Globalstar LLC (GLLC) authority to offer Ancillary Terrestrial Component services (ATC) in the U.S. in conjunction with its mobile satellite services.
In an FCC Order, the Commission granted Globalstar authority to operate ATC base stations and mobile terminals that will serve the public interest, convenience, and necessity.
Globalstar welcomed the grant of license saying the company is now capable of developing and offering ATC over its existing satellite constellation, using small portable lightweight, fully featured, dual mode handsets.
The ATC authority allows Globalstar to use 11 MHz of its 1.6/2.4 GHz satellite radio frequencies for a complementary terrestrial wireless service permitting the company to develop integrated mobile voice and data solutions virtually anywhere including urban areas and indoors. With ATC, Globalstar said it can offer a ubiquitous and seamless wireless solution for various voice, broadband data, and multi media wireless applications.
Globalstar said it may potentially offer an all IP overlay network to various terrestrial wireless operators who currently only offer voice and low rate data services. Globalstar will then have the capability to offer enterprise business solutions with reduced dependence on the wireline network and decreased or eliminated, corresponding long distance charges.
Globalstar demonstrated the feasibility of ATC service in New York and Washington in July 2002 by pairing a modification of its dual mode satellite/cellular phone with a small, transportable base station. ATC base stations will be similar in size and cost to cellular base stations and can be either fixed in one location or transportable for temporary operation.
Using terrestrial ATC base stations and/or repeaters to complement the satellite service, Globalstar said it will be able to offer services in indoor or downtown urbanized areas that have traditionally limited mobile satellite coverage. Globalstar's primary ATC applications will be the enhancement of wireless service in urban areas, where buildings and other infrastructure can physically block satellite signals, and the provisioning of self-contained, transportable local area networks for remote locations or where communications are disrupted during disasters and emergencies.
FCC approval for ATC will also provide Globalstar with the opportunity to develop increased capacity, a broader customer base, and consequently economies of scale and increased pricing flexibility, not available to a satellite only provider. Globalstar is also currently participating in various foreign regulatory forums in order that it may apply for similar ATC products and service type approvals in other countries.
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