Memos, Resources
Memo: Broadband Map Released for Data as of December 31, 2022
May 31, 2023
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) released the FCC Broadband Map (Map) reflecting BDC filing data as of December 31, 2022, and processed availability challenges. Additional information is available in the Press Release. All Internet Service Providers (ISPs) are required to submit their availability for broadband serviceable locations (BSLs) bi-annually. The FCC compiles this information and…
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Memo: Recertifying Study Area Boundary Data
May 22, 2023
On May 16, 2023, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) released DA 23-416, a Public Notice announcing that the biennial recertifications of Study Area Boundary (SAB) data are due no later than June 30, 2023. According to the FCC’s Study Area Boundary Order, incumbent local exchange carriers (ILECs) and state commissions that have voluntarily agreed to…
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BEAD: Summer 2023 Guidance
May 18, 2023
When will we know more regarding BEAD funds? How long until applications will open? What can providers DO right now? Nathan Weber, PE, answers these questions and more. To paraphrase: BEAD isn’t a “once-in-a-lifetime” opportunity – It’s more like a “ONCE” opportunity. Here’s his guidance on making the most of it. Pertinent timelines for BEAD... Continue Reading Memos, Resources
Memo: STIR/SHAKEN and Robocall Mitigation
April 20, 2023
The FCC released an Order on March 17, 2023 designed to bolster the existing STIR/SHAKEN and Robocall Mitigation Database (RMD) and Robocall Mitigation Program requirements. The new requirements will affect ALL voice providers. If VPS assisted with your initial Robocall Mitigation Database/Program filing, we will reach out to you directly via email as things progress…
Continue ReadingRDOF Compliance Overview
April 18, 2023
Vantage Point has recently fielded a number of questions from RDOF winners about what needs to be filed and when. Below is a high-level overview of these requirements. For more detailed information, or guidance specific to your situation, please reach out to the Vantage Point staff members listed below. RDOF Compliance Overview Troy Eilts…
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Whitepaper: Can Unlicensed Wireless Solve the Digital Divide?
April 10, 2023
Can unlicensed wireless solve the digital divide? A recent White Paper for the Fiber Broadband Association finds the answer is a resounding “No.” Written by Larry Thompson, PE, CEO of Vantage Point Solutions, the paper discusses the capabilities needed to meet broadband needs today and in the future and both the physics and economics of…
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Memo: USDA Officially Releases Details on the Community Connect Grant Program
March 24, 2023
Application window opened March 20, 2023. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has released the highly anticipated details for the Community Connect Grant Program. The Community Connect Program will provide up to $79M in grant funding to construct broadband networks that provide service on a community-oriented connectivity basis in rural areas. This program was…
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Memo: Supply Chain Data Collection (SCDC) Annual Report due March 31, 2023
March 16, 2023
The Secure and Trusted Communications Networks Act of 2019 established the requirement for providers of Advanced Communications Services to report and certify annually information regarding purchasing, renting or leasing any equipment from the FCC’s Covered List of equipment or services that are deemed to pose a threat to national security interests. All providers of Advanced…
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Memo: STIR/SHAKEN Implementation on IP Portions of Network due June 30, 2023
March 15, 2023
With the small provider two-year extension coming to an end June 30, 2023, it is important that you analyze your network as soon as possible to identify and implement STIR/SHAKEN on all IP portions of your network. STIR/SHAKEN implementation can take a minimum of 90+ days. Depending on your STIR/SHAKEN solution, a TOKEN may be…
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Memo: Texas Broadband Development Office Publishes $120M Broadband Infrastructure NOFA
March 9, 2023
On March 6, 2023, the Texas Broadband Development Office (BDO) published a Notice of Funds Availability (NOFA) for an initial round of grants for Broadband Infrastructure Projects in Texas. The funding is being made available through the Bringing Online Opportunities to Texas (BOOT) program. This first round of funding will provide up to $120 million…
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