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News
Issue #2002 - 20 (May 2002)
(Updated May
29, 2002)
TECHNOLOGY
AT&T Wireless Could Pay
$2.2-Million for E911 Delay - Others Carriers May as well.
The U.S. Federal
Communications Commission could pursue punitive measures, to the tune
of $2.2-million, against AT&T Wireless for failing to meet the
government’s deadline for implementing E911 services.
Last month Cingular Wireless was fined $100,000 for missing the
October 1, 2001 deadline to begin upgrading its networks with E911
capabilities so that law enforcement agencies would know the
location of cell phones users making 911 calls.
According to the FCC, AT&T Wireless had requested a wavier of
the deadline, stating that it was switching to a different type of
E911 technology than originally planned. The carrier, however, would
provide location-capable handsets to all GSM subscribers so that the
network would be capable of providing Phase II service from the date
of deployment.
Based on its investigation into AT&T Wireless’ compliance
with the E911 rules, the FCC determined that the wireless operator
had failed to meet the following conditions:
- To sell and activate location-capable handsets by October 31,
2001.
- To implement the network or infrastructure upgrades necessary
to provide E911 Phase II service by October 31, 2001.
- To notify the FCC within 30 days that information in its E911
waiver was no longer substantially accurate and complete.
AT&T Wireless’ Response
AT&T Wireless’ spokeswoman Rochelle Cohen told Reuters
that even though she had not read the FCC’s proposal, the company
disagreed with the accusations and blamed delays on handset and
infrastructure vendors, including Nokia, Ericsson and Lucent
Technologies.
AT&T Wireless has 30 days to contest the proposed fine, seek
reduction or cancellation, or pay it.
For more information: http://www.fcc.gov
(Additional source Reuters)
MobileInfo.com’s Comments & Advisory: While
AT&T may have some valid justification in its defense, we feel
that wireless network providers and their suppliers have wasted a lot
of effort in marketing gas-filled balloons for promoting gambling and
gaming applications that do not enhance business or personal life of
its customers. They did not make serious efforts towards E911. If your
heart is not in something, you can find million reasons for not doing
something. When it comes to public safety, carriers drag their feet
before they play their part. FCC should stick to its position and
drive home the responsibility that carriers they must discharge.
Note: This news release may contain
forward-looking statements. Readers should take appropriate caution in
developing plans utilizing these products, services and technology
architectures. All trademarks used in this summary are
the property of their respective owners.
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