I
want to install a wireless phone or other device. Can I just install it,
or do I need to register the equipment?
April 17, 2001
Networking has been given the charge by the Office of Information Technology
to regulate all wireless devices that operate in the FCC's unlicensed ranges that
are used on any of the Missouri State University campuses or facilities. If
you wish to operate any type of wireless system and it operates on unlicensed
frequencies, you must register the system with Networking and receive a
"permit" or "license" to operate the device or system.
Why do I have to register my wireless equipment? It's none of your concern.
Unlicensed wireless devices can and will interfere with each other if they
are operating on the same or even similar frequencies within too close a proximity of each
other. Normally about 200 feet of separation will suffice to eliminate
(or reduce to a tolerable level) the interference of one system with another. It
is the goal of the Office of Information Technology and of Networking to be sure
that someone does not purchase a wireless device or system that interferes with
and destroys the usefulness of a system already installed and operating.
If we can get everyone to tell us about the systems they have installed or plan
to use, we can assist with placement and frequency selection and eliminate
interference. This will protect everyone's investment in their technology.
What devices must be registered? Do I need to tell you about my cordless
phone?
We are still investigating exactly what needs to be regulated. Current
feelings are that the older cordless phones would be exempt, but the newer
phones operating in the gigahertz range would be registered. Also,
wireless networks, headphones, smart boards, and more would be covered.
Things like FCC licensed trunk radios and cell phones would be exempt because of
the frequencies they use. Basically, we hope to identify a range of
frequencies that we will regulate. If a device operates in that frequency
range, you must apply for a permit to operate it.
What frequencies do I need to worry about?
The unlicensed frequency ranges are:
| 6.765 |
-- |
6.795 |
MHz |
| 13.553 |
-- |
13.567 |
MHz |
| 26.957 |
-- |
27.283 |
MHz |
| 40.66 |
-- |
40.70 |
MHz |
| 902 |
-- |
928 |
MHz |
| 2.4 |
-- |
2.5 |
GHz |
| 5.725 |
-- |
5.875 |
GHz |
| 24 |
-- |
24.25 |
GHz |
| 61 |
-- |
61.5 |
GHz |
| 122 |
-- |
123 |
GHz |
| 244 |
-- |
246 |
GHz |
How do I apply for a permit? I don't like the sound of that!
Our intent is to start colleting data on all wireless devices and granting all
requests for permits. We only want to protect everyone's investment in
wireless equipment that operates in the unlicensed bands. Most devices
will operate on multiple frequencies within those bands. We would only
help users avoid conflicts and have no interest in denying anyone the ability to
use the systems they choose. We currently do not have a formalized or
automated procedure for applying for a permit to operate wireless devices or
systems. But, if you are using a wireless system today or if you have any
questions regarding this topic, please contact one of the individuals below.
- Jason Lee, Network Analyst
in charge of wireless communications
- Roger Spalding, Network Analyst
providing backup support for wireless
- Mark Harsen, Networking
Administrator in charge of Networking
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