Scott Longhurst CalWA Vice Chairman, Education Committee

Evolution of FirstNet February, 2012, the Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act creates the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) as an independent authority within NTIA August, 2012, US Dept. of Commerce establishes the FirstNet board August, 2013, FirstNet Board approves the 2014 budget and plan

Purpose of FirstNet “FirstNet exists to serve first responders and the public safety community with dedicated, highly reliable, nationwide wireless data services, applications and user devices, at the lowest possible costs.” © First Responder Network Authority

What is FirstNet? FirstNet will be the first high-speed, nationwide, broadband data network dedicated to public safety The platform will facilitate communication for public safety users during emergencies and on the job every day. FirstNet is being designed as a bigger, more reliable and secure wireless network for use by public safety professionals and first responders

What is FirstNet? Public Safety Applications 4G data for video & web Utilize existing and new applications Voice – will evolve from cellular quality to mission-critical Designed to Public Safety Grade Standards Reliable Redundant Hardened Secure

FirstNet Support Congressional mandate to establish a nationwide public safety network Substantial industry support with user requirements, interoperability and technology 2x10 MHz of nationwide spectrum (700 MHz) $2B of current funding with potential for additional $5B funding from auction proceeds

Nationwide 4G-LTE Broadband FirstNet will deliver a single nationwide LTE broadband network FristNet will provide fast access to apps which can be shared broadly or on a limited basis Streaming video GIS/Mapping tools Database queries Field reporting

FirstNet Components

FirstNet Benefits Priority access and local control More coordinated emergency response Coverage solutions for rural and wilderness areas Capacity adjusted for increased traffic loads and special event spikes Improved situational awareness for all members of the emergency response team

FirstNet Network Build-out All states must have a local radio access network (RAN) that connects to the FirstNet core States can adopt FirstNet plan and FirstNet will construct RAN, or a state can build it’s own RAN to FirstNet specs with approval of FCC Funding available for states that “opt out” from NTIA but must meet stringent timing, economic and technological requirements

FirstNet Architecture

FirstNet Business Opportunities FirstNet will utilize existing public safety facilities as well as existing industry sites when available Many existing towers will need to be upgraded to allow for placement of FirstNet antennas and equipment Will require the construction of new towers in many areas nationwide especially, in those areas currently under-served by wireless carriers

Additional FirstNet Information FirstNet webpage: National Telecommunications & Information Administration webpage:

Thank You