Space Data Corporation Captures 262.5 kHz of New Spectrum
11.19.03
Controls Majority of Narrowband PCS
Chandler, AZ — Space Data Corporation was the successful bidder in the recent Federal Communications Commission (FCC) 900 MHz band spectrum auction. The company obtained an additional 262.5 kHz of nationwide spectrum, increasing its total ownership in this band to more than 1.7 MHz of Narrowband PCS spectrum. This is more than half of the total spectrum available for Narrowband PCS use in the United States.
"This is extraordinarily valuable 'real estate,'" said Gerald Knoblach, chairman and CEO of Space Data. "Because our spectrum is contiguous nationwide, it allows us to deliver ubiquitous nationwide wireless data services. We can offer our customers and partners unprecedented access, particularly in the 70 percent of the continental US not served by wireless towers. The only comparab le service in remote areas is provided by satellite systems, which are inherently far less cost effective than our SkySite(tm)-based service."
Space Data's latest spectrum acquisition occurred on the eve of the company's roll out of telemetry service. "During the past three years, we have raised capital, completed research and development, acquired spectrum, and received all necessary government approvals. The field tests of our live network are complete and we are now ramping up production for our customers," said Knoblach.
Space Data offers data services by utilizing its patented balloon-based SkySite(tm)technology. Although unique to the telecom industry, weather services around the globe have, for more than 60 years, used a similar platform to transmit critical atmospheric data to ground-based weather stations. Space Data is the first to adapt this rugged, all weather technology to commercial wireless communications. The SkySite(tm) network delivers dependable, clear, two-way signals over hundreds of miles — ideal for reaching even the most remote areas. Operating at 100,000 feet, a single SkySite(tm) can provide service to an area the size of Oklahoma.