800 MHz TA Guidelines For Coverage Testing

The 800 MHz Transition Administrator has released a "Fact Sheet" providing licensees guidelines with respect to when drive testing may or may not be appropriate. In general, the TA states that only "complex systems using simulcast technology or where extensive changes are made to the antenna and other transmission subsystems elements" should require drive testing.

The full fact sheet can be found here.

I think its best to note that the TA realizes that there are a wide varity of systems and that there may be cases where drive testing is appropriate for other system configurations, not just complex simulcast systems. Obviously, a well documented, technically appropriate rational for the need for drive testing will be required. You should be prepared to prove that drive testing is the only appropriate method for determining comparability of your system. If you believe that drive testing is necessary for your system, be sure that you have the appropriate technical expertise to explain why the other methods are not appropriate and that drive testing is required.

If you have any questions on whether your system may or may not require drive testing, please feel free to email us at reband@rcc.com for more information.