FCC Rules Might Tighten up Use of Cell-signal Boosters

Verizon Wireless and T-Mobile USA unveiled a high-profile spectrum deal, but the odd couple also joined together earlier this month on a lesser known proposal for Federal Communications Commission rules on cellular signal boosters.

The two carriers were the largest players that signed on to a detailed set of specifications for boosters, which are two-way radios that amplify cellular coverage in a building or vehicle. The devices are largely unregulated today, but the proposed rules could introduce new requirements for users. The specifications emerged from a lengthy rulemaking process launched last year and from technical work to narrow down the proposals, said Joe Banos, chief operating officer of Wilson Electronics, which makes boosters and has been pushing for Federal Communications Commission rules on them for years. He thinks there is a good chance the FCC will approve the rules, with little or no modification, within 90 days. "I think we're close to the end of the road," Banos said. After the FCC’s vote, the industry would have to settle on procedures for compliance testing, which might take six months, he said. At some point after that, products would be tested and boosters that didn't comply would have to be removed from sale.