Dish vs DirecTV: The Latest Opponents to Issue Dueling Data on 12 GHz

Dish and DirecTV are the latest opponents to issue dueling data about the impact of a proposed rule change for the 12 GHz spectrum band. A proceeding at the Federal Communications Commission is studying opening up 12 GHz spectrum for two-way 5G use. Both companies currently use 12 GHz spectrum for direct broadcast satellite (DBS) video service, but Dish and others advocate a rule change for the band that would enable the band to also be used for mobile and potentially fixed wireless services. According to a DirecTV  study to assess the impact of the potential rule change on DirecTV service––filed with the FCC on July 18––mobile service in the band would create harmful interference for DirecTV subscribers in urban, suburban and rural environments. The study, conducted by satellite and space systems consulting firm SAVID LLC and commissioned by Dish, advises the FCC to terminate the proceeding exploring the potential rule change. In response, Dish made its own filing with the FCC yesterday, offering a rebuttal of the SAVID study. According to Dish, SAVID made unreasonable assumptions in its analysis.