What is CBRS? How 3.5 GHz Private Wireless Networks Work
Published by Uplink Wireless | Serving Henderson County & East Texas
CBRS — Citizens Broadband Radio Service — is a 150 MHz block of spectrum in the 3.5 GHz band that the FCC opened for shared commercial use. It's one of the most significant spectrum developments in recent years, and it's quietly changing how private wireless networks get built.
If you've heard terms like “private LTE,” “fixed wireless access,” or “Certified Professional Installer,” here's what it all actually means — and why it matters for East Texas.
How CBRS Spectrum Access Works
CBRS uses a three-tier system managed by a Spectrum Access System (SAS) — essentially a cloud-based database that coordinates who can use which frequencies, where, and when.
Tier 1 — Incumbent Access
Existing federal users (military radar, satellite earth stations) have top priority. The SAS protects them automatically.
Tier 2 — Priority Access Licenses (PAL)
Companies that purchased licensed spectrum at FCC auctions. They get priority over general users in their geographic area.
Tier 3 — General Authorized Access (GAA)
Anyone can use this tier for free — no license required. This is where most private networks and fixed wireless deployments operate.
What CBRS Is Used For
Private LTE/5G Networks
Businesses, campuses, and industrial facilities use CBRS to build their own cellular-grade wireless networks — without depending on a carrier.
Fixed Wireless Access (FWA)
WISPs and ISPs use CBRS to deliver broadband to homes and businesses in areas where fiber isn't available.
Rural Broadband
CBRS is particularly valuable in rural areas like East Texas, where traditional infrastructure is limited and distances are large.
IoT & Industrial
Manufacturing plants, warehouses, and agricultural operations use CBRS for reliable, low-latency connectivity across large areas.
What is a CPI (Certified Professional Installer)?
CPI stands for Certified Professional Installer. Under FCC Part 96 rules, CBRS base stations (called CBSDs — Citizens Broadband Radio Service Devices) must be registered in the SAS by a certified professional before they can legally transmit.
CPI certification is issued by FCC-approved SAS administrators. I hold my CPI certification through Federated Wireless, one of the leading FCC-approved SAS administrators in the CBRS ecosystem.
Why CPI Certification Matters
- Only CPIs can register CBRS equipment in the SAS — without registration, the equipment can't legally transmit
- CPIs verify installation parameters (location, antenna height, power levels) that the SAS uses to manage interference
- Proper CPI registration protects your network from being shut down to protect higher-tier users
- It ensures your deployment meets FCC Part 96 compliance requirements from day one
Category A vs. Category B CBSDs
Category A
Lower-power indoor or outdoor devices. Maximum EIRP of 30 dBm. Typical for indoor enterprise deployments and small outdoor coverage areas.
CPI registration required
Category B
Higher-power outdoor devices. Maximum EIRP of 47 dBm. Used for fixed wireless access, rural broadband, and longer-range deployments.
CPI registration required — stricter parameters
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