600 MHz spectrum access systems and methods

摘要

Systems and methods for utilizing secondary frequency spectrums for increased throughput. When faced with a shortage of primary cellular frequencies, a base station in a cellular network can determine whether secondary frequency spectrum, such as 600 MHz spectrum, frequencies are available. The 600 MHz frequencies can include frequencies licensed to the provider and frequencies licensed to other providers that can nonetheless be used under FCC “Whitespace” rules. Thus, the system can determine whether licensed (“Tier(2)”) or unlicensed (“Tier(3”) 600 MHz frequencies are available. Tier(2) frequencies can essentially be used in the normal manner—e.g., at normal power levels and emissions patterns. Tier(3) frequencies can be used under the Whitespace rules. The system can then provide these 600 MHz frequencies to capable user equipment (UE). The system can also prioritize frequencies based on UE capabilities, location, and other factors.