Dish plans LTE Advanced network using satellite-land hybrid
updated 02:15 pm EDT, Tue August 23, 2011
Dish asks FCC to grant hybrid network permission
Dish Network is asking the FCC to allow it to combine the S-Band spectrum licenses it acquired with its $1.38 billion purchase of TerreStar Networks and DBSD North America to offer terrestrial-only devices. This is part of a larger goal of offering a satellite-terrestrial 4G network that uses LTE-Advanced. Dish claims this hybrid network that will use the 40MHz spectrum under a subsidiary called Gamma will help meet the FCC's goal of expanding broadband access. Dish cited the conditional waiver the FCC gave to LightSquared as a reason it should get its request granted.
Dish also asked the FCC to waive its Ancillary Terrestrial Component (ATC) "integrated service" rule that would allow Dish to provide customers who want them with dual-mode devices and single-mode terrestrial devices to those who do not want the satellite function.
In its filing, Dish noted the waiver will allow it to get the crucial amount of subscribers that will let it build a viable terrestrial mobile broadband offering with MSS service support.
Compared to the LightSquared approval, Dish further notes that there won't be any GPS interference issues with its request. The network also promised to work with the government watchdog to develop a reasonable buildout schedule.
At least one analyst believes Dish will try to align itself with MetroPCS and DirecTV or even Leap. [via FierceWireless]
