The FCC auction of spectrum for Multichannel Video Distribution and Data Service (MVDDS) ended last week, raising total net bids of $118,721,835. The auction ended after 49 rounds of bidding.
The auction included 214 geographic area licenses, of which 192 received winning bids. Each license consists of one 500 MHz block of unpaired spectrum in the 12.2 – 12.7 GHz band. Permissible operations include any digital fixed non-broadcast service including one-way direct-to-home/office wireless service.
Licensees are permitted to provide one-way video programming and data services on a non-common carrier and/or common carrier basis. Mobile and aeronautical services are not authorized. Two-way services may be provided by using other spectrum or media for the return or upstream path. Licensees are subject to a construction requirement that they provide “substantial service” in the license area within five years of receiving the license.
Winning bidders must make down payments on licenses 10 business days after the release of the Wireless Telecommunications Bureau’s Public Notice announcing the close of the auction. Winning bidders must also file their long form applications (FCC Form 601) with the FCC within the same period.
Further details about this and other FCC auctions can be accessed via the FCC’s homepage at: www.fcc.gov/wtb/auctions.
