Satellite/terrestrial LTE venture LightSquared has submitted plans to the FCC to test whether its L-band spectrum would interfere with GPS signals if it were switched on to provide mobile services.
Satellite/terrestrial LTE venture LightSquared has submitted plans to the FCC to test whether its L-band spectrum would interfere with GPS signals if it were switched on to provide mobile services.
Concerns that its spectrum could impede with GPS systems led to LightSquared applying for voluntary bankruptcy protection in May 2012, and the company only exited Chapter 11 earlier this year.
LightSquared mandated Illinois-based spectrum consultancy Roberson and Associates to design the tests, although the US Department of Transportation is already conducting its own tests alongside lobby group the GPS Innovation Alliance.
LightSquared has been in court for years due to concerns around spectrum interference. In July, LightSquared and GPS device maker Trimble asked a US court to pause their litigation to help them seek a settlement. GPS specialists Garmin and Deere are also part of the case.
In April, LightSquared officially asked the FCC to approve its request to set up a mobile broadband service after securing bankruptcy court approval for a restructuring plan in March. The group has been talking with regulators throughout the bankruptcy to find a way around these concerns.