AT&T reports 2500 Band 14 sites operational
AT&T has reported that it has added Band 14 capability to more than 2500 sites across the US as part of its FirstNet build, with 10,000-plus more in the process of being deployed.
Band 14 is the nationwide spectrum set aside by the US Government specifically for FirstNet. Once Band 14 is fully deployed over the next several years, it will cover 95% or more of the US population.
“Since getting the green light to deploy Band 14 in March of this year, we’ve been moving quickly in order to bring first responders the additional coverage and capacity that only their network can provide,” said Chris Sambar, Senior Vice President, AT&T-FirstNet.
“What’s more, the FirstNet build is based off direct feedback from the states and public safety community. So each current or new site to get Band 14 helps to meet public safety’s specific network needs.”
Band 14 deployments are underway in 50 states and Puerto Rico, and is already on air for testing in 40-plus states.
AT&T said Band 14 will continue to be rapidly deployed nationwide and submitted to the FirstNet Authority for validation.
More than 1000 new sites will help close rural coverage gaps in areas where responses to emergencies have been previously challenged by a lack of connectivity.
FirstNet Ready devices with built-in Band 14 access are available to first responders, and FirstNet-dedicated deployable network assets, such as Satellite Cell on Light Trucks (SatCOLT), are also available.
In the past month FirstNet adoption has grown to nearly 1500 public safety agencies across 52 states and territories, totalling more than 110,000 connections.
“It is great to see the incredible strides being made in the initial deployment of public safety’s spectrum,” said FirstNet Authority CEO Mike Poth.
“There’s still much work to be done and, as the FirstNet buildout continues, we’ll work hand in hand with AT&T to ensure that FirstNet’s advancements meet the needs of first responders. No other network can commit to this.”
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