Personal Communications Service (PCS) encompasses a wide variety of mobile, portable and ancillary communications
services to individuals and businesses. The Commission broadly defined PCS as mobile and fixed communications offerings
that serve individuals and businesses, and can be integrated with a variety of competing networks. The spectrum allocated to
PCS is divided into three major categories: (1) broadband, (2)
narrowband, and (3) unlicensed.
Licensees use broadband PCS spectrum for a variety of mobile and fixed radio services, also called wireless services.
Mobile broadband PCS services include both voice and advanced two-way data capabilities that are generally available on
small, mobile multifunction devices. The Commission and other wireless industry representatives often refer to these services
as "Mobile Telephone Services" and Mobile Data Services". Many broadband PCS licensees offer these services in competition
with existing cellular and SMR licensees. Examples of entities holding a significant amount of broadband PCS spectrum include
AT&T Wireless and Sprint PCS.
Broadband PCS operates in the 1850-1910 MHz and 1930-1990 MHz bands (refer to the
band plan), and typically uses MTA and BTA
Market Area designations. The rules governing broadband PCS are found in the
Code of Federal Regulations, Volume 47, Part 24.
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