Spectrum usage measurements in potential PCS frequency bands

Spectrum usage measurements were made in several potential personal communication services (PCS) frequency bands in the 600 to 2600 MHz range in five US cities. Geographic dependence (within a city) of spectrum usage was determined for all of the cities. Measurements were made using a mobile, computer-controlled, automated radio frequency measurement system that was installed in a mini-van. The raw data taken at each site consisted of received signal levels for each frequency measured. These were processed to provide signal level and measured band usage graphs. The heaviest usage for all cities was seen in the 869-894 MHz (cellular base station-to-mobile) band and the 864-868 MHz (SMR) band. The frequency bands showing the least usage in all cities were the 901-902 MHz (GPMRS), 1850-1990 MHz (private fixed microwave), and the 2400-2483.5 MHz (ISM and Part 15) bands. >