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Lauttamus Communications & Security acquired Amos Security, a security alarm company located in West Virginia. Congratulations to Lauttamus President Paul Lauttamus.

Global Internet Outage Over Next 48 Hours Could Affect Some Users, According To ICANN

October 12, 2018

Image: Shutterstock

ICANN has scheduled the Root Zone Key Signing Key (KSK) Rollover for today, and it could affect some DNS users all over the world.

By Rolling the KSK, ICANN implies that a new cryptographic public and private key pair will be generated and the private key will be distributed to Internet service providers, enterprise network administrators, and Domain Name System (DNS) resolver operators.

KSK Rollover operations began in October 2016 and were scheduled for October 2017. However, ICANN announced that the rollover has been postponed due to the fact that “a significant number of resolvers used by Internet Service Providers (ISPs) and Network Operators are not yet ready for the Key Rollover.”

A draft plan was announced on February 1, 2018, after receiving input from the community; October 11, 2018, was the date put forward to initiate the procedure. According to ICANN, the rollover is necessary to curb the rising number of cyber attacks.

In an official statement, Communications Regulatory Authority said: “To further clarify, some Internet users might be affected if their network operators or Internet Service Providers (ISPs) have not prepared for this change. However, this impact can be avoided by enabling the appropriate system security extensions.”

Due to the ongoing maintenance work, some Internet users could face issues in accessing web pages or making transactions over the next 48 hours.

[source]

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NO POLITICS HERE

This doesn't mean that nothing is ever published here that mentions a US political party—it just means that the editorial policy of this newsletter is to remain neutral on all political issues. We don't take sides.

A new issue of the Wireless Messaging Newsletter is posted on the web each week. A notification goes out by e-mail to subscribers on most Fridays around noon central US time. The notification message has a link to the actual newsletter on the web. That way it doesn’t fill up your incoming e-mail account.

There is no charge for subscription and there are no membership restrictions. Readers are a very select group of wireless industry professionals, and include the senior managers of many of the world’s major Paging and Wireless Messaging companies. There is an even mix of operations managers, marketing people, and engineers — so I try to include items of interest to all three groups. It’s all about staying up-to-date with business trends and technology.

I regularly get readers’ comments, so this newsletter has become a community forum for the Paging, and Wireless Messaging communities. You are welcome to contribute your ideas and opinions. Unless otherwise requested, all correspondence addressed to me is subject to publication in the newsletter and on my web site. I am very careful to protect the anonymity of those who request it.

TIME TO HUDDLE UP

Let's get together and share ideas. Our competitors are not other paging companies, they are other technologies.

I spend the whole week searching the INTERNET for news that I think may be of interest to you — so you won’t have to. This newsletter is an aggregator — a service that aggregates news from other news sources. You can help our community by sharing any interesting news that you find.

Editorial Opinion pieces present only the opinions of the author. They do not necessarily reflect the views of any of advertisers or supporters. This newsletter is independent of any trade association. I don't intend to hurt anyone's feelings, but I do freely express my own opinions.

Prism-IPX Systems is growing and they are looking for more good software developers with communications experience. Additional information is available on their web site. Click here .

We need your help. This is probably the only weekly news source about paging and wireless messaging.

Advertiser Index

Lauttamus Communications Buys Amos Security

Monday, October 08, 2018

Lauttamus Communications & Security acquired Amos Security, a security alarm company located in West Virginia.

Amos Security has been in business since 2010, providing residential and commercial security alarm services. As part of the purchase, Amos President Wesley Schriver will leave day-to-day operations and focus on other business ventures.

“We are excited to add Amos Security to our team, and we look forward to serving their customers for many years to come,” said Lauttamus President Paul Lauttamus. “This acquisition complements our core operating strengths and facilitates continued growth opportunities in key geographical market areas. Our experienced staff will be available to all Amos Security customers.”

Lauttamus Communications & Security, established in 1967, is a diversified communications and security company with offices is Weirton, Wheeling and Morgantown, West Virginia, and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. “I am pleased to be able to sell my business to a top-notch company like Lauttamus,” said Schriver.

Radio Resource

Paging Transmitters 150/900 MHz

The RFI High Performance Paging Transmitter is designed for use in campus, city, state and country-wide paging systems. Designed for use where reliable simulcast systems where RF signal overlap coverage is critical.

• Commercial Paging systems.
• Healthcare Paging systems.
• Public Safety Emergency Services Paging systems.
• Demand Response Energy Grid Management.

Built-in custom interface for Prism-IPX ipBSC Base Controller for remote control, management and alarm reporting.

• Use as a stand-alone unit or in wide area network.
• Mix with other transmitter brands in an existing paging network.
• Adjustable from 20-250 watts.
• 110/240 VAC or 48VDC.
• Absolute Delay Correction.
• Remote Diagnostics.
• Configurable alarm thresholds.
• Integrated Isolator.
• Superb Reliability.
• Improved amplifier efficiency.
• Most reliable high-powered paging transmitter available.

Prism-IPX Systems LLC.

11175 Cicero Dr., Alpharetta, GA 30022
Ph: 678-242-5290 Email: sales@prism-ipx.com
prism-ipx.com

Back To Paging

Still The Most Reliable Protocol For Wireless Messaging!

If you are reading this, your potential customers are reading it as well. Please click here to find out about our advertising options.

Licensed Adobe Stock Image

Providing Expert Support and Service Contracts for all Glenayre Paging Systems.

The GL3000 is the most prolific paging system in the world and Easy Solutions gladly welcomes you to join us in providing reliable support to the paging industry for many more decades in the future.

Easy Solutions provides cost effective computer and wireless solutions at affordable prices. We can help in most any situation with your communications systems. We have many years of experience and a vast network of resources to support the industry, your system and an ever changing completive landscape.

• We treat our customers like family. We don’t just fix problems . . . We recommend and implement better cost-effective solutions.
• We are not just another vendor . . . We are a part of your team. All the advantages of high priced full-time employment without the cost.
• We are not in the Technical Services business . . . We are in the Customer Satisfaction business.

Experts in Paging Infrastructure

• Glenayre, Motorola, Unipage, etc.
• Excellent Service Contracts
• Full Service—Beyond Factory Support
• Making systems More Reliable and MORE PROFITABLE for over 30 years.

Please see our web site for exciting solutions designed specifically for the Wireless Industry. We also maintain a diagnostic lab and provide important repair and replacement parts services for Motorola and Glenayre equipment. Call or e-mail us for more information.

Oct 11, 2018, 07:40pm

Apple iOS 12.0.1 Has An Embarrassing Problem

iOS 12.0.1 is here and it brings some crucial fixes. That said, following a flurry of user complaints, we know now it also contains several new bugs while doubling down on what is arguably Apple most embarrassing problem in recent years. . .

Picking up from where iOS 12 left off, iOS 12.0.1 is still sending iMessages to the wrong people. Often with truly uncomfortable consequences. Moreover, it appears Apple has no plan to fix this.

Apple iOS 12 APPLE

Despite reports of iMessage accidentally sending messages to ex-wives, ex-husbands and children, Apple has been telling users this is a new “feature” for iOS 12. It stems from Apple now organising all contacts by Apple ID, so if family members or friends share an ID now all these messages are shared simultaneously with everyone who has that ID.

The move has been seen as an attempt by Apple to push users into each having their own Apple ID, whereas sharers have long enjoyed sharing because it means only having to purchase apps and iTunes content once.

Given Apple didn’t announce this ‘feature’ in advance, the surprise and anger of affected users is understandable. This is also playing havoc with users who have work and leisure devices with different emails and phone numbers but the same Apple ID since now all their communications are mixed together.

Source:

Forbes

GLENAYRE INFRASTRUCTURE

Service Contracts

I would like to recommend Easy Solutions for Support of all Glenayre Paging Equipment. This Texas company is owned and operated by Vaughan Bowden. I have known Vaughan for over 35 years. Without going into a long list of his experience and qualifications, let me just say that he was the V.P. of Engineering at PageNet which was—at that time—the largest paging company in the world. So Vaughan knows Paging.

GTES is no longer offering support contracts. GTES was the original group from Vancouver that was setup to offer support to customers that wanted to continue with the legacy Glenayre support. Many U.S. customers chose not to use this service because of the price and the original requirement to upgrade to version 8.0 software (which required expensive hardware upgrades, etc.). Most contracts ended as of February 2018.

If you are at all concerned about future support of Glenayre products, especially the “king of the hill” the GL3000 paging control terminal, I encourage you to talk to Vaughan about a service contract and please tell him about my recommendation.

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Who We Are

Prism-IPX is a leader in providing reliable communications systems using modern designs to meet today’s demands for critical message alerting and delivery. Prism-IPX designs versatile and robust Critical Message Management systems using paging and other wireless technologies for high performance and dependable communications.

What We Make

Prism-IPX Systems products include full-featured radio paging systems with VoIP input, IP based transmitter control systems and paging message encryption. Other options include e-mail messaging, remote switch controllers, Off-The-Air paging message decoders and logging systems.

Contact Us  

Repair and Refurbishment Services

Product Support Services, Inc.
511 South Royal Lane
Coppell, Texas 75019
817-527-6322
sales@pssirl.com
www.pssirl.com

Prism-IPX Systems LLC
11175 Cicero Drive, Suite 120
Alpharetta GA 30022 USA
T: +1 678-242-5290
W: www.prism-ipx.com

PRESS RELEASE

For Immediate Release

PRISM-IPX SYSTEMS ESTABLISHES SUBSIDIARY IN AUSTRALIA

ATLANTA, Oct. 7, 2018 — Prism-IPX Systems LLC has established a new subsidiary office in Sydney Australia to better serve its current and future customers for its industry leading critical messaging systems.

The Australian company will initially employ engineers for software development and Prism’s PriMega system support. The company will have its first remote office in Adelaide starting November 1, 2018.

Administration, sales and order fulfillment for Australasia will initially be handled by the US office. Local distribution will be in cooperation with other Australian companies.

Jim Nelson, Chairman, President and CEO of Prism-IPX Systems LLC, states “I am very excited to finally have our own company in the great country of Australia. I have been doing business in Australia for over 40 years and I'm very pleased to give back by employing local people to support our customers and continue to grow and expand our business. The requirements for critical messaging systems is different around the world and this office will help us work closely with users to provide the right designs based on local input for the Australian market. We are committed to a long-term relationship with Australia.”

About Prism-IPX Australia Pty. Ltd.:

The new company, Prism-IPX Australia Pty. Ltd., is wholly owned by Prism-IPX Systems LLC in Alpharetta, Georgia USA. Managing Director of the company is Jim Nelson.

About Prism-IPX Systems:

Prism-IPX is an innovative market leader and the company has won several major contacts for reliable modern IT-centric messaging systems that address cyber-security and IP based networking with centralized management and monitoring. The company is expanding its staff and plans to open additional development and support locations to better serve its markets. Prism-IPX Systems LLC is a privately held company headquartered in Alpharetta Georgia USA.

For more information, please contact us at info@prism-ipx.com or visit the Prism-IPX Systems website at www.prism-ipx.com

Source:

Prism-IPX Systems

Click on the image above for more info about advertising here.

INTERNET Protocol Terminal

The IPT accepts INTERNET or serial messaging using various protocols and can easily convert them to different protocols, or send them out as paging messages.

An ideal platform for hospitals, on-site paging applications, or converting legacy systems to modern protocols.

Additional/Optional Features

• Database of up to 5000 subscribers.
• 4 serial ports on board.
• Up to 8 phone lines (DID or POTS).
• Can be configured for auto-fail-over to hot swap standby.
• 1RU rack mount unit appliance—no moving parts.
• Easily secure legacy system messages leaving site for HIPAA compliance.
• Only purchase the protocols/options you need.
• Add Paging Encryption for HIPAA compliance on site.

Prism-IPX Systems LLC.

11175 Cicero Dr., Alpharetta, GA 30022
Ph: 678-242-5290 Email: sales@prism-ipx.com
prism-ipx.com

Specialists in sales and service of equipment from these leading manufacturers, as well as other two-way radio and paging products:

	Motorola SOLUTIONS
	Motorola MOBILITY

Paging Data Receiver PDR-4

The PDR-4 is a multi-function paging data receiver that decodes paging messages and outputs them via the serial port, USB or Ethernet connectors.

Designed for use with Prism-IPX ECHO software Message Logging Software to receive messages and log the information for proof of transmission over the air, and if the data was error free.

• Option—decode capcode list or all messages.
• Large capcode capacity.
• Serial, USB and Ethernet output.
• POCSAG or FLEX page decoding, special SA protocols.
• Receivers for paging bands in VHF, UHF, 900 MHz.
• Message activated Alarm Output.
• 8 programmable relay outputs.
• Send notifications of a system problem.

• Synthesized Receiver Tuning.
• Selectivity better than 60 dB.
• Frequencies 148-174, 450-470, 929-932 MHz.
• Image Rejection better than 55 dB.
• Spurious Rejection better than 55 dB.
• Channel Spacing 12.5 or 25 kHz.
• Power 5VDC.
• Receiving Sensitivity 5µV at 1200 bps.

Prism-IPX Systems LLC.

11175 Cicero Dr., Alpharetta, GA 30022
Ph: 678-242-5290 Email: sales@prism-ipx.com
prism-ipx.com

Wireless Network Planners
Wireless Specialists

R.H. (Ron) Mercer Consultant 217 First Street East Northport, NY 11731
Telephone: 631-786-9359
www.wirelessplanners.com
wirelessplannerron@gmail.com

Brad Dye, Ron Mercer, Allan Angus, Vic Jackson, and Ira Wiesenfeld are friends and colleagues who work both together and independently, on wireline and wireless communications projects.

Click here for a summary of their qualifications and experience. Each one has unique abilities. We would be happy to help you with a project, and maybe save you some time and money.

Note: We do not like Patent Trolls, i.e. “a person or company who enforces patent rights against accused infringers in an attempt to collect licensing fees, but does not manufacture products or supply services based upon the patents in question.” We have helped some prominent law firms defend their clients against this annoyance, and would be happy to do some more of this same kind of work.

Some people use the title “consultant” when they don't have a real job. We actually do consulting work, and help others based on our many years of experience.

“If you would know the road ahead, ask someone who has traveled it.”
— Chinese Proverb

Remote AB Switches

ABX-1 switches are often used at remote transmitter sites to convert from old, outdated and unsupported controllers to the new modern Prism-IPX ipBSC base station controllers. Remotely switch to new controllers with GUI commands.

ABX-1

ABX-3 switches are widely used for enabling or disabling remote equipment and switching I/O connections between redundant messaging systems.

ABX-3

Common Features:

• RJ45 for A, B and Common connectors.
• Manual push button or use Prism IP commands to switch one or more relays.
• Single or Dual Port Control card for IP or Serial connection.
• Form C relay—control local connection.
• Power Loss Indicator.
• Rear Panel Connector for controlling the switch externally.
• Power Source: 5VDC for ABX-1; 12VDC for ABX-3.

Prism-IPX Systems LLC.

11175 Cicero Dr., Alpharetta, GA 30022
Ph: 678-242-5290 Email: sales@prism-ipx.com
prism-ipx.com

Friday, October 12, 2018	Volume 6 | Issue 200

“Radio Towers Are Down” Says Panama City Police Chief

Percent Cell Sites Out of Service by County Source: FCC

Search and rescue teams are working to find people after Hurricane Michael hit the Florida Panhandle on Wednesday. Crews are cutting away fallen trees so power can be restored. Nearly 400,000 electricity accounts had lost power in Florida as of noon Eastern Thursday, reported NPR.

"We have almost no lines of communication," the city manager of Panama City Beach, Mario Gisbert said, in an interview with NPR on Thursday. "I mean, my police chief cannot communicate with my sheriff right now. Cell lines are down, radio towers are down."

Major carriers prepared for the storm by deploying assets in the areas expected to be hit hardest by the hurricane. AT&T said some customers, “may be experiencing issues with their wireline and wireless services in areas where the storm made landfall.” The carrier is monitoring its network as storm conditions continue and is coordinating with emergency management officials and local utility companies. “Our technicians have been preparing for storm-related issues and are working to respond to affected areas as quickly and as safely as conditions allow,” said AT&T on Thursday.

FCC Chairman Ajit Pai said yesterday, data from the agency’s Disaster Information Reporting System (DIRS) shows Hurricane Michael caused “substantial communications outages along its destructive path.” Employees from Pai’s office and the Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau contacted carriers and broadcasters to assess the situation to discuss how to restore service as quickly as possible. He singled out carriers for praise, noting: “We were pleased that carriers had prepositioned equipment and were in the process deploying cells on wheels (COWs) and cells on light trucks (COLTs) in order to get wireless service up and running in many locations.”

101 counties are covered by DIRS right now. Florida has the most cell site outages, according to the first report. Out of 2,543 cell sites, 733 or 28.8 percent are not working. Eight out of Liberty County’s nine cell sites is out, or nearly 90 percent. Bay County followed, with 256 out of 327 cell sites out, or just over 78 percent.

In Georgia, 554 out of a total of 3,910 sites are out — or just over 14 percent. Schley County had the most outages by percentage, with six out of nine cell sites not operational, or 66.9 percent. Grady County followed, with 26 out of 42 sites not operational, or just under 62 percent.

In Alabama, out of 759 cell sites, 70 are not working, or just over nine percent. Henry County was affected the most, with 17 out of 38 sites impacted, or more than 44 percent.

Only four TV stations were off the air while 23 remained on the air in the affected areas. For radio, 61 FMs were on-air and 30 were dark. 18 AMs remained on-air with 4 off the air.

iHeart’s WPAP Tower Collapses in Panama City

WPAP tower in Panama City, FL

• Panama City, FL map​
  The path of destruction resulting from Hurricane Michael included a 300-foot self-standing tower in Panama City, FL on Tuesday. The tower, built in 2011, is owned by iHeartMedia and carries broadcaster WPAP-FM. No injuries were reported.
  Source: Teresa Connell, by permission

• Mexico Beach, FL map
  A fly-over video of devastation from Hurricane Michael in Mexico Beach, FL
  Source: WX CHASING

Hurricane Michael Catastrophic aftermath from Helicopter — Mexico Beach, FL — 10/11/2018

Selected portions [sometimes more — sometimes less] of the BloostonLaw Telecom Update and/or the BloostonLaw Private Users Update — newsletters from the Law Offices of Blooston, Mordkofsky, Dickens, Duffy & Prendergast, LLP — are reproduced in this section of The Wireless Messaging News with kind permission from the firm. The firm's contact information is included at the end of this section of the newsletter.

FINAL REMINDER: 911 RELIABILITY CERTIFICATION DUE OCTOBER 15

All Covered 911 Service Providers are required to certify by October 15 that they have taken reasonable measures to provide reliable 911 service with respect to three substantive requirements: (i) 911 circuit diversity; (ii) central office backup power; and (iii) diverse network monitoring. Certifications must be made through the FCC’s portal.

Covered 911 Service Providers are defined as entities that “[p]rovide[] 911, E911, or NG911 capabilities such as call routing, automatic location information (ALI), automatic number identification (ANI), or the functional equivalent of those capabilities, directly to a public safety answering point (PSAP), statewide default answering point, or appropriate local emergency authority,” or that “[o]perate[] one or more central offices that directly serve a PSAP.” BloostonLaw can assist with preparation of the certification, and/or review it prior to submission.

BloostonLaw Contacts: Mary Sisak and Sal Taillefer.

Headlines

FCC Issues Guidance on Emergency Communications Procedures for Hurricane Michael

On October 9, the FCC’s Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau, in coordination with the International Bureau, Media Bureau, Wireline Competition Bureau, and the Wireless Telecommunications Bureau, announces procedures to help communications services initiate, resume, and maintain operations in the areas affected by Hurricane Michael. A copy of the Public Notice can be found here.

In particular, each Bureau provided information on how to obtain Special Temporary Authority:

• International Bureau. Emergency requests for STAs related to these events may be submitted by letter, e-mail or, if necessary, by telephone. Applicants also may file requests electronically through the IBFS at http://licensing.fcc.gov/myibfs. The Bureau will handle all STA requests as expeditiously as possible. To ensure that the Bureau has a complete record of the action, applicants who do not file through the IBFS should follow-up the initial request with an electronic version submitted through the IBFS as soon as possible. In this filing, operators should note in the first description field on the electronic STA form that this is a “Hurricane-related STA Request” and the date the initial request was granted.
• Media Bureau. Emergency requests for special temporary authority may be submitted by informal letter or email or, if necessary, by telephone. Licensees of Radio stations may file requests electronically through Consolidated Database System (CDBS), and Licensees of TV stations may file requests electronically through Licensing Management System (LMS). All requests should provide the technical parameters of the proposed operation and a contact point. These requests will be handled as expeditiously as possible. To file STA requests via email or fax, or to receive an oral STA during regular business hours, licensees may contact specific personnel listed in the Public Notice.
• Wireline Competition Bureau. Emergency requests for relief, including special temporary authority (STA), prompted by the effects of Hurricane Michael may be submitted by email or, if necessary, by telephone. Providers may file requests electronically through the Electronic Comment Filing System (ECFS) but should also provide copies of any submissions simultaneously via email to the appropriate FCC staff identified below. Requests should include supporting details concerning the relief requested, including any technical parameters and contact information.
• Wireless Telecommunications Bureau. Emergency requests for special temporary authority (STA) prompted by the effects of Hurricane Michael may be submitted by informal letter or email or, if necessary, by telephone. Licensees may file requests electronically through the Universal Licensing System (ULS). All requests should provide the technical parameters of the proposed operation and a contact point. These requests will be handled as expeditiously as possible. To file STA requests via email or fax, or to receive an oral STA during regular business hours, licensees may contact specific personnel listed in the Public Notice.

Carriers seeking assistance with any emergency requests can contact the firm for assistance.

BloostonLaw Contacts: Ben Dickens, Gerry Duffy, and John Prendergast.

FCC Announces Auction 101/102 Application Status

On October 10, the FCC issued a Public Notice announcing the status of the short form applications filed for participation in its upcoming Auctions 101 and 102. Companies with complete applications are listed here (Auction 101) and here (Auction 102). Companies with incomplete applications are listed here (Auction 101) and here (Auction 102).

The 60 applicants with complete applications will become a qualified bidder in the auction(s) for which they applied upon receipt by the FCC of the required upfront payment. The 50 applications with incomplete applications will receive a letter identifying the deficiency(ies) in its application. This letter will be sent to the contact person and contact address listed on the incomplete application via overnight delivery, along with a copy of this Public Notice. To become a qualified bidder in the auction(s) for which it applied, each applicant with an incomplete application must resubmit its application, having corrected any deficiencies, prior to 6:00 p.m. ET on Tuesday, October 23, 2018, and make the required upfront payment by the applicable upfront payment deadline.

Auction 101, which is scheduled to begin on Wednesday, November 14, 2018, will offer 3,072 Upper Microwave Flexible Use Service (UMFUS) licenses in the 27.5–28.35 GHz (28 GHz) band. Auction 102, which will be scheduled to begin after the conclusion of bidding in Auction 101, will offer 2,909 UMFUS licenses in the 24.25–24.45 GHz and 24.75–25.25 GHz (24 GHz) band.

BloostonLaw Contacts: John Prendergast.

FCC Adopts Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking on AM Broadcast Revitalization

On October 5, the FCC adopted a Second Further Notice of Proposed Rule Making (SFNPRM) setting forth revised alternative proposals regarding interference protection to Class A AM radio stations. Comment deadlines have not yet been established.

Specifically, the FCC offers one new proposal for the protection of Class A AM stations during the day, and two alternative proposals for critical hours protection, as well as two alternative proposals for protection of Class A AM stations at night:

Daytime hours proposal:

During daytime hours, Class A AM stations are protected to their 0.5 mV/m daytime ground-wave contour, from both co-channel and first-adjacent channel stations;

Critical hours proposals:

Alternative 1: During critical hours, Class A AM stations are afforded no protection from other AM stations, as proposed in the AMR NPRM, or

Alternative 2: During critical hours, Class A AM stations are protected to their 0.5 mV/m ground-wave contour;

Nighttime hours proposals:

Alternative 1: During nighttime hours, there may be no overlap between a Class A AM station’s 0.5 mV/m nighttime ground-wave contour and any interfering AM station’s 0.025 mV/m 10 percent skywave contour (calculated using the single station method); or

Alternative 2: During nighttime hours, Class A AM stations are protected from other AM stations in the same manner as Class B AM stations are protected, that is, interference may not be increased above the greater of the 0.5 mV/m nighttime ground-wave contour or the 50 percent exclusion RSS NIF level (calculated using the multiple station method).

The FCC is also seeking comments addressing the effect of these proposals, if any, on the functioning of the EAS and IPAWS systems.

BloostonLaw Contacts: John Prendergast and Cary Mitchell.

FCC Seeks Comment on Petitions for ETC Designation

On October 3, the FCC issued a Public Notice seeking comment on several petitions for designation as an Eligible Telecommunications Carrier (ETC) from winning bidders of Connect America support through the Connect America Fund (CAF) Phase II auction (Auction 903). Comments are due on October 17, and reply comments are due on October 24.

Petitions were filed by: NTUA Wireless, LLC (AZ, NM, UT); Fond du Lac Communications, Inc (MN); Hankins Information Technology (CA); Northern Arapaho Tribal Industries, Inc. d/b/a Wind River Internet (WY); Red Spectrum Communications, LLC (ID); Central Virginia Services, Inc. (VA); Gibson Connect, LLC; PGEC Enterprises, LLC (TN, KY); BARC Connects, LLC (VA); and Empower Broadband, Inc. (VA).

The FCC noted that, to the extent that these petitions specifically include areas outside of CAF-eligible census blocks for which the petitioners’ won support (bid areas), the FCC will treat the petition as a request for Lifeline-only designation in those areas (although the petitioner will be obligated to provide Lifeline services throughout its designation area).

BloostonLaw Contacts: Ben Dickens, Gerry Duffy, Mary Sisak, and Sal Taillefer.

Law & Regulation

FCC Seeks Comment on World Radio-communication Conference Recommendations

On October 3, the FCC issued a Public Notice seeking comments on draft recommendations on a number of issues that will be considered by the 2019 World Radio-communication Conference (WRC-19). Comments are due October 17.

According to the Public Notice, the FCC tentatively concludes that it can generally support most of the WRC-19 Advisory Committee draft recommendations, but took special notice of differing views expressed by the WRC- 19 Advisory Committee in documents WAC/063, WAC/065, WAC/066 and WAC/068. It seeks comment on all of the draft recommendations, as well as the draft proposals provided to the FCC by the NTIA. The draft recommendations can be found here. The NTIA proposals can be found here.

Contacts: John Prendergast.

Rep. Khanna Releases “Internet Bill of Rights” Principles

On October 4, California Representative Ro Khanna issued a press release announcing his consumer data privacy regulations principles for an ‘Internet Bill of Rights.’ The principles state that a consumer should have the right:

1. To have access to and knowledge of all collection and uses of personal data by companies;
2. To opt-in consent to the collection of personal data by any party and to the sharing of personal data with a third party;
3. Where context appropriate and with a fair process, to obtain, correct, or delete personal data controlled by any company and to have those requests honored by third parties;
4. To have personal data secured and to be notified in a timely manner when a security breach or unauthorized access of personal data is discovered;
5. To move all personal data from one network to the next;
6. To access and use the Internet without Internet service providers blocking, throttling, engaging in paid prioritization, or otherwise unfairly favoring content, applications, services, or devices.
7. To Internet service without the collection of data that is unnecessary for providing the requested service absent opt-in consent;
8. To have access to multiple viable, affordable Internet platforms, services, and providers with clear and transparent pricing;
9. Not to be unfairly discriminated against or exploited based on your personal data; and
10. To have an entity that collects your personal data have reasonable business practices and accountability to protect your privacy.

“The Internet age and digital revolution have changed Americans' way of life. As our lives and the economy are more tied to the Internet, it is essential to provide Americans with basic protections online,” said Rep. Khanna.

BloostonLaw Contacts: Ben Dickens, Gerry Duffy, and John Prendergast.

Industry

FCC Releases Biennial Report to Congress on Communications Accessibility

On October 9, the FCC released its submission to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the U.S. Senate and the Committee on Energy and Commerce of the U.S. House of Representatives, in accordance with the Twenty-First Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act of 2010 (CVAA). The Report assesses industry compliance over the past two years with sections 255, 716, and 718 of the Communications Act of 1934, as amended (the Act), which require telecommunications services and equipment, advanced communications services (ACS) and equipment used for ACS, and Internet browsers built into mobile phones (collectively, covered products and services) to be accessible to and usable by individuals with disabilities.

The Report also addresses accessibility barriers to new communications technologies, and the effect of the accessibility-related record-keeping and enforcement requirements under section 717 of the Act on the development and deployment of such technologies. Finally, the Report provides information about the number and nature of, and actions taken to resolve, complaints alleging violations of sections 255, 716, and 718 for the period of January 1, 2016, through December 31, 2017, including the length of time that the FCC took to resolve such complaints, and the number, status, nature, and outcome of any actions for mandamus filed, and of any appeals filed, pertaining to such complaints.

Based on the comments filed in response to the 2018 CVAA Assessment Public Notice and the 2018 CVAA Tentative Findings Public Notice, the FCC found that, “continued improvements in the accessibility and usability of many covered products and services have been made since the 2016 CVAA Biennial Report, and that there has been a continued effort by the affected industries to include people with disabilities in the design and development of their products and services. Nevertheless … some accessibility gaps persist.” Those gaps included accessibility of non-smartphones for people who are blind or visually impaired, communications devices for people who are deaf-blind, and accessible alerting.

The FCC also found that the accessibility of Internet browsers built into mobile phones has continued to improve due to the incorporation of better screen readers, improvements in speech-to-text engines, and new accessibility features built into the operating systems of the phones, and that covered entities continue to include people with disabilities in product and service design and development.

The FCC also found that find that new communications technologies such as 5G, RTT, text-to-911, HD voice, and Bluetooth will improve the accessibility of communications, but that lack of uniformity in the design of services available through the Internet of Things can create new access barriers. The FCC also noted concerns about the availability of relay services for web conferencing, the lack of interoperability for video conferencing, and the extent to which virtual and augmented reality technologies are accessible.

On the subject of accessibility complaints, the FCC reported that in 2016 and 2017 combined, consumers filed 24 requests for dispute assistance (RDAs) alleging violations of section 255, 716, or 718. Of these 24 RDAs, nine RDAs (37%) involved the accessibility and usability of equipment and 15 RDAs (63%) involved the accessibility and usability of services. Of the 24 RDAs filed during the period covered by this Report, 22 RDAs (92%) alleged violations of section 255, and two RDAs (8%) alleged violations of section 716. One of the 22 RDAs that alleged violations of section 255 also alleged a violation of section 718. Nine of the 24 RDAs (33%) involved the accessibility and usability of Lifeline phones and services.

In accordance with the RDA process, for each of the RDAs received, the FCC’s Disability Rights Office (DRO) contacted the consumer and the manufacturer or service provider to offer assistance in resolving the accessibility or usability problem. According to the report, the DRO was able to facilitate a resolution between the consumer and the manufacturer or service provider for 23 of the 24 RDAs filed during the period covered by this Report.

Deadlines

OCTOBER 15: 911 RELIABILITY CERTIFICATION. Covered 911 Service Providers, which are defined as entities that “[p]rovide[] 911, E911, or NG911 capabilities such as call routing, automatic location information (ALI), automatic number identification (ANI), or the functional equivalent of those capabilities, directly to a public safety answering point (PSAP), statewide default answering point, or appropriate local emergency authority,” or that “[o]perate[] one or more central offices that directly serve a PSAP,” are required certify that they have taken reasonable measures to provide reliable 911 service with respect to three substantive requirements: (i) 911 circuit diversity; (ii) central office backup power; and (iii) diverse network monitoring by October 15. Certifications must be made through the FCC’s portal.

BloostonLaw Contacts: Mary Sisak and Sal Taillefer.

NOVEMBER 1: FCC FORM 499-Q, TELECOMMUNICATIONS REPORTING WORKSHEET. All telecommunications common carriers that expect to contribute more than $10,000 to federal Universal Service Fund (USF) support mechanisms must file this quarterly form. The FCC has modified this form in light of its decision to establish interim measures for USF contribution assessments. The form contains revenue information from the prior quarter plus projections for the next quarter. Form 499-Q relates only to USF contributions. It does not relate to the cost recovery mechanisms for the Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS) Fund, the North American Numbering Plan Administration (NANPA), and the shared costs of local number portability (LNP), which are covered in the annual Form 499-A that is due April 1.

BloostonLaw Contacts: Mary Sisak and Sal Taillefer.

Calendar At-a-Glance

October
Oct. 15 – 911 Reliability Certifications are due.
Oct. 15 – Auction 903 Long Form is due.
Oct. 16 – Reply comments are due on IP CTS NPRM.
Oct. 16 – Comments are due on IP CTS NOI.
Oct. 17 – Comments are due on TCPA Public Notice.
Oct. 23 – Upfront Payment Deadline for Auction 101 and 102.
Oct. 24 – Reply Comments are due on TCPA Public Notice.
Oct. 29 – Comments are due on Phase II Location Discrepancy Resolution Process.
Oct. 29 – Comments are due on 2005-2006 Rule Elimination PN.
Oct. 29 – Comments are due on 3.7 GHz NPRM.

November
Nov. 1 – FCC Form 499-Q (Quarterly Telecommunications Reporting Worksheet) is due.
Nov. 5 – ETRS Form Three is due.
Nov. 13 – Reply comments are due on Phase II Location Discrepancy Resolution Process.
Nov. 14 – Auction 101 scheduled to begin.
Nov. 15 – Reply comments are due on IP CTS NOI.
Nov. 27 – Reply comments are due on 3.7 GHz NPRM.

December
Dec. 20 – Form 323 (Biennial Ownership Report) is due.

“Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you react to it.”

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