Part 90 to CBRS Migration Checklist

Part 90 compliant Wireless Internet Service Providers offer fixed wireless solutions to serve rural and suburban markets where fiber and cable solutions aren’t cost-effective. Spectrum sharing in the Citizens Broadband Radio Service (CBRS) 3.5 GHz band offers a new alternative for Part 90 operators.

CBRS gives WISPs access to a wide swath of spectrum to deploy a fixed wireless LTE solution that is under their control. This more secure and reliable connectivity will result in higher customer satisfaction and retention.

The general network architecture difference between Part 90 operations and CBRS operations is minimal. The difference lies in the infrastructure required to share the spectrum. Spectrum must be obtained using a Spectrum Access System (SAS) that you do not control.

 

CBRS Migration Checklist

This checklist is intended to raise awareness of some important deployment and migration considerations.

1. Find out when your Part 90 license expires.  For most CBSDs, this will be October 17, 2020.   See FCC DA 20-291.
2. Learn about Part 96 regulations and technical landscape.
3. Consider what training you will need and how you will get it.
4. Consult with equipment vendors to understand their:
   
   1. Current support for CBRS on base stations and CPEs
   2. Product roadmap
   3. Design and deployment recommendations
5. Activate your SAS subscription.
6. Select and sequence deployment locations.
7. In each location, consider whether one or more PAL are required to deliver service.
8. Determine necessary tools and processes to manage the network.
9. Ensure your CBRS network elements that need to communicate with the SAS can do so.
10. What is the most effective way to conduct a CBRS trial?
11. Determine how you will charge and bill customers for CBRS service.

Refer to the attached Part 90 to CBRS Migration Checklist for details.