>From the web page http://www.fcc.gov/cib/handbook.html FCC HANDBOOK TABLE OF CONTENTS Introduction- The FCC - What We're All About We're About Cable - Cable Services Bureau We're About Telephones - Common Carrier Bureau We're About Keeping You Informed - Consumer Information Bureau We're About Enforcing Our Rules and Regulations - Enforcement Bureau We're About International Communications - International Bureau We're About Radio and Television - Mass Media Bureau We're About Cellular, PCS Phones and Pagers - Wireless Telecommunications Bureau We're About - Having You Participate in the Rulemaking Process We're About - Keeping You Up-to-Date We're About - Ex Parte Procedures Glossary of Telecommunications Terms THE FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION WHAT WE'RE ALL ABOUT We're about communications! Whether you are listening to the radio, watching TV, talking on the phone, using your pager -- you're involved in communications. We, at the Federal Communications Commission, are working to make sure that the nation's communications systems are operating in your best interest. ********************************************* The FCC was established by the Communications Act of 1934 as an independent United States government agency directly responsible to Congress. The Act, which has been amended over the years, charges the Commission with establishing policies to govern interstate and international communications by television, radio, wire, satellite and cable. In February 1996, the Telecommunications Act of 1996 was signed into law, representing the first major overhaul of our nation's telecommunications policies in over 60 years. The law requires that our Commission be headed by five Commissioners, each appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate, with one designated as the Chairman. Only three Commissioners may be members of the same political party at any given time. HOW WE'RE ORGANIZED The FCC is organized by function. We have seven operating Bureaus and ten Offices. The Bureaus' responsibilities include: processing applications for licenses and other filings; analyzing complaints; conducting investigations; developing and implementing regulatory programs; and taking part in hearings. Our Offices provide support services. Even though the Bureaus and Offices have their individual functions, they regularly join forces and share expertise in addressing Commission issues. The Bureaus CABLE SERVICES BUREAU - serves as the single point-of-contact for consumers, community officials and the industry for cable-related issues. COMMON CARRIER BUREAU - responsible for rules and policies concerning telephone companies that provide interstate, and under certain circumstances intrastate, telecommunications services to the public through the use of wire-based transmission facilities (i.e., corded/cordless telephones). CONSUMER INFORMATION BUREAU - communicates information to the public regarding Commission policies, programs and activities. This Bureau is also charged with overseeing disability mandates. ENFORCEMENT BUREAU - enforces the Communications Act, as well as the Commission's rules, orders and authorizations. INTERNATIONAL BUREAU - represents the Commission in satellite and international matters . MASS MEDIA BUREAU - regulates AM, FM radio and television broadcast stations, as well as Multipoint Distribution (i.e., cable and satellite) and Instructional Television Fixed Services. WIRELESS TELECOMMUNICATIONS BUREAU - oversees cellular and PCS phones, pagers and two-way radios. This Bureau also regulates the use of radio spectrum to fulfill the communications needs of businesses, local and state governments, public safety service providers, aircraft and ship operators, and individuals. The Staff Offices OFFICE OF ADMINISTRATIVE LAW JUDGES - presides over hearings, and issues Initial Decisions. OFFICE OF COMMUNICATIONS BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES - provides advice to the Commission on issues and policies concerning opportunities for ownership and contracting by small, minority and women-owned communications businesses. OFFICE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY - allocates spectrum for non-Government use and provides expert advice on technical issues before the Commission. OFFICE OF THE GENERAL COUNSEL - serves as chief legal advisor to the Commission's various Bureaus and Offices. OFFICE OF INSPECTOR GENERAL - conducts and supervises audits and investigations relating to the operations of the Commission. OFFICE OF LEGISLATIVE AND INTERGOVERNMENTAL AFFAIRS - is the Commission's main point of contact with Congress and other governmental entities. OFFICE OF THE MANAGING DIRECTOR - functions as a chief operating official, serving under the direction and supervision of the Chairman. OFFICE OF MEDIA RELATIONS - informs the news media of FCC decisions and serves as the Commission's main point of contact with the media. OFFICE OF PLANS AND POLICY - serves as the Commission's chief economic policy advisor . OFFICE OF WORK PLACE DIVERSITY - advises the Commission on all issues related to workforce diversity, affirmative recruitment and equal employment opportunity. ********************************************* For additional information on any of the FCC's Bureaus and Offices, issues or rulings, visit our web site at http://www.fcc.gov/ or call our toll free number, 1-888-CALL-FCC (voice) or 1-888-TELL-FCC (TTY) . WE'RE ABOUT CABLE CABLE SERVICES BUREAU The Cable Services Bureau (CSB) enforces regulations that were designed to ensure competition among cable companies, satellite companies and other entities that offer video programming services to the general public. The Bureau is responsible for several areas, including: mandatory carriage of television broadcast signals commercial leased access program access over-the-air reception devices open video systems commercial availability of set-top boxes * accessibility of closed captioning and video description on television programming CSB also resolves appeals of local rate orders issued by franchising authorities and addresses issues concerning the computation of the franchise fee. It issues annual reports that analyze trends and developments in the multichannel video programming industry, including pricing and the state of competition. The Bureau's web page, www.fcc.gov/csb, provides the names and telephone numbers of Bureau personnel, listed according to the staff member's area of expertise. The site also contains several fact sheets on topics that are of interest to consumers, including: the receipt of local and distant broadcast television signals on a satellite dish; the installation of video antennas; and programming content issues. Finally, CSB's web page has a list of pending and recently resolved issues of interest to consumers. The Bureau welcomes the opportunity to respond to inquiries and comments sent to its web site or by postal mail. WE'RE ABOUT TELEPHONES COMMON CARRIER BUREAU The Common Carrier Bureau (CCB) is responsible for the FCC's policies and rules concerning long distance and local wireline telephone service to consumers. Telephone companies (referred to as "common carriers") generally provide consumers with voice, data and other telecommunication transmission services. The CCB ensures that everyone has rapid, efficient, nationwide and worldwide access to these services at reasonable rates. The Bureau oversees programs that ensure all Americans have universal access to telephone service. Among these programs are: Lifeline and Linkup -- offers a discounted phone service for low income residential consumers; E-rate -- provides discounts on communications services and access to the Internet for schools and libraries; Rural Health Care -- funds telecommunications services for not-for-profit health care organizations providing telemedicine; High Cost Fund -- offers reasonable local phone rates to customers living in high cost areas by providing financial support to the carriers that serve them; and Telecommunications Relay Services -- ensures that individuals with hearing or speech disabilities have access to telephone services which are functionally equivalent to voice services. CCB is also responsible for consumer protection in telecommunications. It develops rules and policies to protect consumers from slamming and cramming, and ensures Truth-in-Billing and Truth-in-Advertising. The Bureau additionally takes measures to encourage the development of competition for local and long distance services. It works to help open local markets to competition by deciding when and how companies' networks should interconnect and how phone numbers should be allocated. CCB reviews proposed mergers of telecommunications companies and determines when a local telephone company has met the Congressional requirements that will allow it to begin selling long distance services. WE'RE ABOUT KEEPING YOU INFORMED CONSUMER INFORMATION BUREAU The Consumer Information Bureau (CIB) is a one-stop-shopping place for information regarding FCC policies, programs and activities. Through the Bureau's toll free numbers, 1-888-CALL-FCC (voice) and 1-888-TELL-FCC (TTY), and website, www.fcc.gov/cib, the public is given access to updated consumer information. CIB includes the following: * Consumer Centers -- provide up-to-the-minute information about all issues regulated by the FCC. The Consumer Centers, located in Washington, D.C. and Gettysburg, PA, also help individuals file informal complaints on a variety of issues, including: slamming; cramming; confusing telephone bills; and disability access. Consumer Education Office (CEO)-- works with consumer organizations and government agencies concerned with FCC regulatory activities. CEO prepares informational materials and conducts forums to educate the public about important FCC regulatory programs and to solicit feedback on issues regulated by the Commission. This Office also arranges briefings and seminars for educational institutions, consumer organizations and other interested groups. Disabilities Rights Office (DRO)-- ensures that FCC actions and policies enable people with disabilities to have the same access as everyone else to telecommunications. Among other things, DRO helps to implement mandates for nationwide telephone relay services; access to telecommunications wireline and wireless products and services; televised emergency access; and closed captioning on television programming. If you have questions or concerns about disability issues or you wish to receive access information through DRO's e-mail list, DROInfo, you can contact the Office at access@fcc.gov. Strategic Information Office (SIO)-- coordinates with other Commission Bureaus and Offices in disseminating up-to-date informational materials through the Consumer Centers. SIO also analyzes complaints and inquiries to determine trends and to promote increased Commission understanding of the concerns and viewpoints of the public. Reference Information Center (RIC)-- serves as the official FCC records custodian. The public can come in and view FCC documents free of charge during the RIC's regular business hours, Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM. The RIC also manages the Electronic Comment Filing System (ECFS), which enables consumers to file comments with the FCC via the Internet. Finally, the RIC provides electronic access to the Commission's public information databases through which consumers can access data to: determine immediate status of filings; conduct research; and order printed copies of documents from the FCC's duplicating contractor. The Center can be reached through the Federal Relay number, 1-800-877-8339 during business hours. WE'RE ABOUT ENFORCING OUR RULES AND REGULATIONS ENFORCEMENT BUREAU The Enforcement Bureau (EB) is responsible for ensuring compliance of numerous statutory and regulatory provisions designed to protect consumers. There are four Divisions within EB. They are: Telecommunications Consumers -- oversees the enforcement of consumer-related obligations of common carriers and other telephone-related matters, such as: prohibitions against slamming (the act of transferring a consumer to a different long distance telephone carrier without his or her consent); unsolicited faxes; truth-in-billing; truth in advertising for long distance services; and the accessibility of telecommunications services and equipment by persons with disabilities. Additionally, this Division tracks informal complaints handled by the Consumer Information Bureau, identifies targets for investigation and takes enforcement action against violators. It also handles formal complaints on these matters. Investigations and Hearings -- responsible for, among other things, resolution of complaints against broadcast stations on matters, such as indecency, broadcast station content, broadcast of telephone calls and hoaxes. Technical and Public Safety -- administers the Emergency Alert System, which is used to notify the public of national, state and local emergencies. This Division also handles complaints of interference to public safety communications operations that can impact the ability of public safety entities, such as police and fire departments, to respond to emergencies. Market Disputes Resolution -- resolves complaints against common carriers by other carriers and resellers of telecommunication services involving market issues. Although this Division generally does not handle consumer-related complaints, its actions can have a significant impact on the ability of the public to benefit from competition through diverse choices in telecommunications services and products at reasonable rates. The Enforcement Bureau also has several regional and district field offices across the country. These offices conduct on-scene investigations, inspections, and audits of possible FCC violations at broadcast stations and other operations regulated by the FCC. In addition, these offices are able to respond immediately to life safety issues occurring in local areas all over the country. WE'RE ABOUT INTERNATIONAL COMMUNICATIONS INTERNATIONAL BUREAU The International Bureau (IB) serves as the focal point for international activities and satellites services, and advises the Commission on worldwide communications. Its mission is to promote innovative, efficient, reasonably priced, widely available, reliable, timely and high quality domestic and international communications services for consumers. In addition, the IB monitors the effects of significant legislation, such as the World Trade Organization Agreement on Basic Telecommunications Services, which helped decrease rates paid by US consumers for international service, among other benefits. The Bureau also takes part in the World Radio Conference, a group which was created under the auspices of the United Nations to provide a forum for discussion on use of the radio spectrum. The IB helps craft proposals to be considered at conference meetings, the aim of which is to expand the provision of telecommunications services to everyone worldwide. The FCC's new technical assistance initiative, aimed at helping developing countries to build independent regulatory regimes, is another area in which the Bureau offers its expertise. This initiative is designed to promote pro-competitive regulatory policies so that consumers everywhere can have access to the telecommunications revolution. The IB consists of the following three Divisions: Planning and Negotiations -- directs and coordinates the Commission's negotiations with foreign countries regarding international agreements; Satellite and Radiocommunications Division -- overseas policies, rules, procedures and standards for licensing and regulating satellite space and earth station facilities, both domestic and international; and Telecommunications Division -- responsible for the authorization and regulation of international telecommunications facilities and services. The International Bureau also administers the International Visitors Program (IVP). This program enables foreign delegations to interact in informal discussions with FCC personnel who provide legal, technical and economic perspectives on a wide range of communications issues. WE'RE ABOUT RADIO AND TELEVISION MASS MEDIA BUREAU The Mass Media Bureau (MMB) ensures that consumers have access to interference-free radio and television services that are in the public interest. To achieve this, MMB issues licenses for radio and television stations and establishes regulations to make certain that these stations serve their local communities through programming and advertising. Information about these obligations and how broadcast stations are licensed is available in a manual produced by MMB, called "The Public and Broadcasting." This manual also describes the public inspection file, which contains publicly available documents relevant to the operations of all radio and TV stations. Additionally, the public can access radio and television station information, including station application and authorization information, at the Bureau's Consolidated Database, (CDBS), which is available on-line at www.fcc.gov/mmb. Consumer input is vital to the FCC's license application process. Broadcasters are required to file license renewal applications every eight years. The public is encouraged to bring concerns about a station's renewal to the Commission's attention through an informal or formal objection. Each station is required to broadcast announcements giving the date its license will expire, the date a renewal application must be filed, and the date formal petitions against it must be filed. An informal objection can be filed at any time prior to the Commission taking action on an application. The public can also provide input to the FCC when a station: files an application for consent to sell a station (an assignment of the license); undergoes a major stock transfer (a transfer of control of the license); or makes a major change in the station's technical facilities. In each of these instances, the station licensee must run a series of notifications in the closest local newspaper informing the public about its application. In addition, the Commission publishes a Public Notice (also available through the MMB web site) which opens a 30 day period during which members of the public can file petitions to deny these applications. As with renewal applications, informal objections may also be filed at any time prior to the FCC taking action on an application. The Mass Media Bureau encourages the public to contact local stations and, if necessary, the Commission regarding concerns about the stations. Consumers can play a vital role in helping a station serve its local community's needs. WE'RE ABOUT CELLULAR, PCS PHONES and PAGERS WIRELESS TELECOMMUNICATIONS BU REAU The Wireless Telecommunications Bureau (WTB) is responsible for all FCC domestic wireless telecommunications programs and policies, except those involving satellite communications or broadcasting. Wireless communications services include: cellular telephones; paging; personal communications services (PCS); public safety; and other commercial and private communications services. The Bureau is also responsible for spectrum auctions. WTB's Internet site, www.fcc.gov/wtb, provides consumers easy access to the information and services needed to understand and take advantage of wireless communication technologies. This site contains information on wireless communication services, rulemaking proceedings, Bureau documents, forms and database access. The site also meets information demands created in supporting auctions, such as providing round results, bidder information and auction statistical reports. Additionally, consumers can use this site to file license applications and comments on proposed rules. The types of licenses issued by the Bureau include those for Amateur Radio Services, Private Land Mobile Radio Service, Aviation and Marine and Commercial Mobile Radio Services. WTB has introduced a new Universal Licensing System (ULS) that allows individuals to apply for licenses using a web browser from their own personal computer. ULS incorporates the latest technical advances to provide wireless consumers with on-line access to their FCC license records. In order to acquaint the public with the ULS paperless environment, the Bureau issues regular Public Notices and "ULS Update" newsletters, which are available on the WTB web site, www.fcc.gov/wtb/uls. This site also contains information on recent developments, events and deadlines. The Bureau's Technical Support Staff is available to answer questions at 202-414-1250 or through the above web site. The public can also participate in a WTB-sponsored open workshop where the Bureau walks consumers through the ULS system. Through the FCC's hotline, 1-888-CALL-FCC, the public can receive auction information, such as upcoming auction events, seminar reservations, Public Notice clarification and bidder information package requests. The hotline also provides individuals with step-by-step guidance on completing electronic or manually-filed ULS (and other) forms, as well as antenna registration and assistance with application data content. To obtain auction/ULS information, call 1-888-CALL-FCC (voice) and select option two (2) after the recorded message or call 1-888-TELL-FCC (TTY). WE'RE ABOUT HAVING YOU PARTICIPATE IN THE RULEMAKING PROCESS Each time Congress enacts a law affecting telecommunications, the FCC develops rules to implement the law. The Commission takes various steps to develop these rules. Typically, these steps offer consumers an opportunity to submit both comments and reply comments to the FCC. Are There Special Terms I Need to Know? Yes. Knowing your "ABCs," or specifically, one's NOIs, NPRMs, and R&Os is key to understanding the Commission's decision-making process. Exactly what do these letters mean? Below is a guide to understanding the "alphabets" of the FCC. Notice of Inquiry (NOI): The Commission releases an NOI for the purpose of gathering information about a broad subject or as a means of generating ideas on a specific issue. NOIs are initiated either by the Commission or an outside request. Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM): After reviewing comments from the public, the FCC may issue a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking. An NPRM contains proposed changes to the Commission's rules and seeks public comment on these proposals. Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (FNPRM): After reviewing your comments and the comments of others to the NPRM, the FCC may also choose to issue an FNPRM regarding specific issues raised in comments. The FNPRM provides an opportunity for you to comment further on a related or specific proposal. Report and Order (R&O): After considering comments to a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (or Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking), the FCC issues a Report and Order. The R&O may develop new rules, amend existing rules or make a decision not to do so. Summaries of the R&O are published in the Federal Register. The Federal Register summary will tell you when a rule change will become effective. Changes after the R&O Petition for Reconsideration: If you are not satisfied with the way an issue is resolved in the R&O, you can file a Petition for Reconsideration within 30 days from the date the R&O appears in the Federal Register. Memorandum Opinion and Order (MO&O): In response to the Petition for Reconsideration, the FCC may issue a Memorandum Opinion and Order (MO&O) or an Order on Reconsideration amending the new rules or stating that the rules will not be changed. Do I Need a Lawyer to File Comments? No. When the Commission proposes new rules, a period of time is established for the public to comment on the proposed rules. Anyone can file comments. You don't need to be an attorney or to hire one. Each of the Commission's documents containing proposed rules clearly details the specific dates, deadlines and locations for filing comments and reply comments. Comments are just that. In your comments, you tell us what you think about the subject topic and why you support or oppose the Commission's proposals. After initial comments are filed, there is an additional period for responding to the first set of comments. During this second phase, you can file reply comments. In your reply comments you can review what others have said in their initial comments, and then support or disagree. Does My Filing Need to Include Specific Information? Yes. The requirements differ, however, depending on whether you file electronically or on paper. Here are some guidelines to help make the paper filing process easier. Docket Number: Rulemaking proceedings at the Commission are assigned docket numbers. Each docket number lists a Bureau, a year and a specific number assigned to that proceeding (e.g., MM #99-001=3D 1999 Mass Media Proceeding Number 1). If you are submitting a document that pertains to a docketed proceeding, you must put the docket number on your filing. Copies: Generally, you must file only one (1) original plus four (4) copies of comments, reply comments or petitions. If you want all the Commissioners to receive copies, file one (1) original plus nine (9) copies. The original is always to be UNSTAPLED, while the copies should be STAPLED. In addition, use the following guidelines for other types of proceedings: Ex Parte Presentations - Original and One (1) copy Informal Comments - Original and One (1) copy Pleadings, Briefs, Petitions, etc. - Original and Four (4) copies Table of Allotments - Original and Four (4) copies Other: Before Administrative Law Judges - Original and Six (6) copies Before Full Commission - Original and Fourteen (14) copies Depositions - Original and Three (3) copies Interrogatories - Original and Three (3) copies Notices of Appearance - Original and Two (2) copies Type Size: All filings must be in 10 or 12 point type, or legibly written. Contact Name: You must include a contact name, address and telephone number on your document. Signatures: You need to place an original signature above your typed or clearly printed name. Personal Hand Delivered Filings: You, or the person making the delivery, should remove the filing package from its box or envelope before submission. The Commission will either sign for receipt of the filing or provide a stamped receipt copy, BUT NOT BOTH. Hand delivered documents are accepted Monday through Friday, except legal holidays, during the hours of 8:00 AM and 7:00 PM. You can direct questions to the Office of the Secretary by phone at 202-418-0300 (voice), 202-418-2970 (TTY) or through their web site, www.fcc.gov/osec. Filings Sent by Mail: You can mail in your filing. If you want the FCC to acknowledge receipt of your package, include an extra copy of the first page of your filing and enclose a postage stamped, self-addressed envelope. The Commission will then stamp the page and return it you. Mail Secretary Federal Communications Commission 445 12th Street, SW Room TW-204B Washington, D.C. 20554 Hand Delivered Secretary Federal Communications Commission 445 12th Street, SW Designated Counter at TW-325 Washington, D.C. 20554 Notations: If your document contains information you wish withheld from public inspection, you must write "Confidential, Not for Public Inspection" on the upper right hand corner of each page. The documents should then be placed in an envelope also marked "Confidential, Not for Public Inspection." You can also file documents with the FCC for all docketed and rulemaking proceedings through our Electronic Comment Filing System (ECFS) on the Internet at http://www.fcc.gov/e-file/ecfs.html, with the exception of Hearing Cases and Table of Allotments. However, you must first obtain the instructions for doing so by sending an e-mail to ecfs@fcc.gov with the following words noted in the body of the message: "get form ." ECFS accepts documents 24 hours a day with a midnight filing deadline. The official receipt for electronic filings will reflect Monday through Friday dates, except legal holidays. WE'RE ABOUT KEEPING YOU INFORMED Keeping you up-to-date is our priority. Below are several ways for you to learn about the Commission's activities. The FCC's Web Site: http://www.fcc.gov/ The Commission's web site provides one-stop-shopping for anyone interested in our activities. It contains information about FCC-proposed and final rules, reports, Public Notices and virtually all of our proceedings. You can obtain all FCC documents through this site free of charge. To find a document on our web site, look under the Bureau to which you think the document corresponds. The site also features special topic-oriented pages, including those on: Indian issues; e-rate; enhanced 911; home satellite dishes; and the V-chip. If you cannot find a document, e-mail the FCC at fccinfo@fcc.gov or call 1-888-CALL-FCC (voice) or 1-888-TELL-FCC (TTY). The Daily Digest Another excellent way to keep informed about ongoing FCC activities is by reading the Daily Digest. At approximately noon each work day, the Digest provides a listing of every rulemaking document, report, news release and Public Notice, as well as Commission speeches. You can obtain a copy of the Daily Digest via: Internet: The FCC can automatically send you the Daily Digest each day by e-mail. Simply log on to the Commission's home page, http://www.fcc.gov/, click on Daily Digest, and follow the instructions for using the "listserver." You can also download the Daily Digest from this same web site. In Person: Copies of the Daily Digest are available for viewing each day in the Office of Media Relations, 445 12th Street, SW, Courtyard Level, Washington, D.C. For Purchase: The Daily Digest is also available for purchase from the Commission's duplicating contractor, International Transcription Services (ITS). International Transcription Service 1231 20th Street, NW Washington, D.C. 20026 202-857-3800 (voice) 202-293-8810 (TTY) 202-857-3807 (fax) You can obtain most of the documents released by the Commission and listed in the Daily Digest by accessing our web site, http://www.fcc.gov/. Complete texts of the FCC's decisions are available from ITS, and you can find summaries of FCC rulemaking actions in the Federal Register. All FCC documents are available in alternative formats for persons with disabilities. These formats include documents in large print, Braille and audiotapes. For more information about alternative formats, please contact the FCC's Consumer Information Bureau, Disabilities Rights Office at 202-418-2517 (voice), 202-418-1169 (TTY), or write us at 445 12th Street, SW, Washington, D.C. 20554. You can also reach us by going to fccinfo@fcc.gov or by calling 1-888-CALL-FCC (voice) or 1-888-TELL-FCC (TTY). Open Meetings A third way to stay informed of the FCC's activities is by attending its open meetings. At these meetings, FCC Commissioners discuss and vote upon various Commission matters. The FCC announces open meetings seven days in advance in both the Federal Register and under the heading "Sunshine Notice" in the Daily Digest. Each Sunshine Notice contains an agenda of the topics to be discussed at the upcoming meeting. Open meetings are held once a month at the Commission's headquarters at 445 12th Street, SW, in Washington, D.C. A yearly schedule of open meetings can be found on the FCC's web site, www.fcc.gov, under "Agenda/Audio." You don't have to be present to be part of an open meeting. LIVE TV COVERAGE: The Capitol Connection provides live television coverage of the FCC's open meetings. Its annual program fee entitles you to an unlimited number of TV outlets. The cost of installation is based on time and materials and free site surveys are provided. For further information contact: The Capitol Connection George Mason University 4400 University Drive/Kelley Drive Mail Stop 1D2 Fairfax, VA 22030-4444 Phone: 703-591-4414 Fax: 703- 993-3115 LIVE AUDIO: There are two ways you can access FCC proceedings and events via the telephone. =FA "Hearings on the Line" is a service of the National Narrowcast Network that provides live coverage over a telephone line. For more information call 202-966-2211 or fax 202-966-1770. =FA "Conference Call USA" is available only outside the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area by calling 1-800-962-0044. There is a charge for this service from the Capitol Connection. If you have any additional questions, call the FCC's television staff at 202-418-0460. For questions concerning our audio web site link, call 202-418-0507. What Other FCC Resources are Available to the Public? The FCC Library The FCC Library contains a wide variety of legal and technical information on telecommunications and related subjects. The legal collection includes: federal and statutory histories; reference works; treatises; loose-leaf services; and a collection of cross-indexed legislative histories dating back to the beginning of communications law. Documents contained in the Library include: Code of Federal Regulations, Title 47 (containing all FCC rules); FCC Annual Reports; FCC Federal Court Briefs (selected); the FCC Record; FCC Reports, First and Second Series; Federal Radio Commission Annual Reports; Federal Registers,1934 to present (containing the full text of FCC Report and Orders); Pike and Fisher Radio Regulations, First and Second Series; Radio Act of 1927; Communications Act of 1934, as amended; the Telecommunications Act of 1996; as well as other proposed and/or enacted legislation pertaining to communications, telecommunications, broadcasting, administrative procedures, and independent agency regulations. The Library is located in Room TW-B505 at the Commission's Headquarters, 445 12th Street, SW in Washington, D.C. It is open to the public, Monday through Friday, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM. If you have any questions, please contact one of our librarians at 202-418-0450 (voice), 202-418-2805 (fax), or call our toll free TTY at 202-TELL-FCC. OTHER IMPORTANT INFORMATION-GATHERING PROCEDURES Ex Parte There are ex parte rules that govern the manner in which you may communicate with the Commission concerning the issues in its proceedings. An ex parte presentation is any presentation (e.g., in person, by phone, fax, letter or e-mail) made to decision-making personnel by one party to a proceeding when other parties to that proceeding are not present or have not yet been served. The ex parte rules apply to anyone who seeks to influence the outcome of a particular proceeding, whether or not that person is a party to the proceeding. There are two types of proceedings: permit-but-disclose and restricted. Permit-But-Disclose: In permit-but-disclose proceedings -- such as most rulemakings -- ex parte presentations are generally permissible, but subject to disclosure. A person who makes a written ex parte presentation must, by the end of the day following the ex parte presentation, provide two copies of the presentation to the Commission for inclusion in the record of the proceeding. A person who makes an oral presentation must submit an original and one copy of a summary of any new data or argument presented. All ex parte presentations must be clearly marked "ex parte." Restricted: All proceedings, not specifically listed as "exempt proceedings" or "permit-but-disclose proceedings" -- such as proceedings designated for hearing -- are considered "restricted." Ex parte presentations to or by decision makers are prohibited in these proceedings. Any written presentation to FCC decision-making personnel must be served on all parties to the proceeding. Oral presentations may not be made unless all parties are given notice and an opportunity to be present. The prohibition stays in effect until the proceeding has been decided or a settlement has been approved by the FCC and the matter is no longer subject to reconsideration by the Commission or review by any court. Freedom of Information (FOIA) Congress enacted the Freedom of Information Act (F0IA) to give the American public greater access to the federal government's records. Since then, Congress amended the FOIA statute several times. Most recently, the Electronic Freedom of Information Act Amendments of 1996 (E-FOIA) expanded the scope of the FOIA to include electronic records and to require the creation of "electronic reading rooms" to make records more easily and widely available to the public. You do not have to file a FOIA request to obtain information which is routinely available for public inspection, including records from: docketed cases; broadcast applications and related files; petitions for rulemakings; various legal and technical publications; and legislative history compilations. To make a FOIA request, fill out the E-FOIA request form and submit it to us or write the FCC and include the following in your correspondence: "Freedom of Information Act Request" on both the outside envelope and letter; the date; your telephone number and mailing address (in case we need to contact you); and as much information as possible to assist us in identifying and locating the documents you are seeking. Also, please specify the maximum search fee that you are prepared to pay for this request. Lastly, mail the original and two copies of your form to: Managing Director Attention: FOIA Officer Federal Communications Commission 445 12th Street, SW, Room 1-A835 Washington, D.C. 20554 or send it by e-mail to: foia@fcc.gov or fax the request to 202-418-2826. If you have questions about how to file your FOIA request or to obtain an E-FOIA request form, call us at 202-418-0440. For more information about FOIA, visit our web site at www.fcc.gov . GLOSSARY OF TELECOMMUNICATIONS TERMS ACCESS CHARGE - A fee charged subscribers or other telephone companies by a local exchange carrier for the use of its local exchange networks. ANALOG SIGNAL - A signaling method that uses continuous changes in the amplitude or frequency of a radio transmission to convey information. BANDWIDTH - The capacity of a telecom line to carry signals. The necessary bandwidth is the amount of spectrum required to transmit the signal without distortion or loss of information. FCC rules require suppression of the signal outside the band to prevent interference. BROADBAND - Broadband is a descriptive term for evolving digital technologies that provide consumers a signal switched facility offering integrated access to voice, high-speed data service, video-demand services, and interactive delivery services. CALLING PARTY PAYS - A billing method in which a wireless phone caller pays only for making calls and not for receiving them. The standard American billing system requires wireless phone customers to pay for all calls made and received on a wireless phone. CELLULAR TECHNOLOGY - This term, often used for all wireless phones regardless of the technology they use, derives from cellular base stations that receive and transmit calls. Both cellular and PCS phones use cellular technology. CLOSED CAPTIONING - A service for persons with hearing disabilities that translates television program dialog into written words on the television screen. COMMERCIAL LEASED ACCESS - Manner through which independent video producers can access cable capacity for a fee. COMMON CARRIER - In the telecommunications arena, the term used to describe a telephone company. COMMUNICATIONS ASSISTANT - A person who facilitates telephone conversation between text telephone users, users of sign language or individuals with speech disabilities through a Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS). This service allows a person with hearing or speech disabilities to communicate with anyone else via telephone at no additional cost. COMMUNITY ANTENNA TELEVISION (CATV) - A service through which subscribers pay to have local television stations and additional programs brought into their homes from an antenna via a coaxial cable. CRAMMING - A practice in which customers are billed for enhanced features such as voice mail, caller-ID and call-waiting that they have not ordered. DIAL AROUND - Long distance services that require consumers to dial a long-distance provider's access code (or "10-10" number) before dialing a long-distance number to bypass or "dial around" the consumer's chosen long-distance carrier in order to get a better rate. DIGITAL TELEVISION (DTV) - A new technology for transmitting and receiving broadcast television signals. DTV provides clearer resolution and improved sound quality. DIRECT BROADCAST SATELLITE (DBS/DISH) - A high-powered satellite that transmits or retransmits signals which are intended for direct reception by the public. The signal is transmitted to a small earth station or dish (usually the size of an 18-inch pizza pan) mounted on homes or other buildings. E-MAIL - Also called electronic mail, refers to messages sent over the Internet. E-mail can be sent and received via newer types of wireless phones, but you generally need to have a specific e-mail account. ENHANCED SERVICE PROVIDERS - A for-profit business that offers to transmit voice and data messages and simultaneously adds value to the messages it transmits. Examples include telephone answering services, alarm/security companies and transaction processing companies. EN BANC - An informal meeting held by the Commission to hear presentations on specific topics by diverse parties. The Commissioners, or other officials, question presenters and use their comments in considering FCC rules and policies on the subject matter under consideration. FREQUENCY MODULATION (FM) - A signaling method that varies the carrier frequency in proportion to the amplitude of the modulating signal. GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM (GPS) - A US satellite system that lets those on the ground, on the water or in the air determine their position with extreme accuracy using GPS receivers. HIGH DEFINITION TELEVISION (HDTV) - An improved television system which provides approximately twice the vertical and horizontal resolution of existing television standards. It also provides audio quality approaching that of compact discs. INTERACTIVE VIDEO DATA SERVICE (IVDS) - A communication system, operating over a short distance, that allows nearly instantaneous two-way responses by using a hand-held device at a fixed location. Viewer participation in game shows, distance learning and e-mail on computer networks are examples. INSTRUCTIONAL TELEVISION FIXED SERVICE (ITFS) - A service provided by one or more fixed microwave stations operated by an educational organization and used to transmit instructional information to fixed locations. LANDLINE - Traditional wired phone service. LAND MOBILE SERVICE - A public or private radio service providing two-way communication, paging and radio signaling on land. LOW POWER FM RADIO (LPFM) - A broadcast service that permits the licensing of 50-100 watt FM radio stations within a service radius of up to 3.5 miles and 1-10 watt FM radio stations within a service radius of 1 to 2 miles. LOW POWER TELEVISION (LPTV) - A broadcast service that permits program origination, subscription service or both via low powered television translators. LPTV service includes the existing translator service and operates on a secondary basis to regular television stations. Transmitter output is limited to 1,000 watts for normal VHF stations and 100 watts when a VHF operation is on an allocated channel. MUST-CARRY (Retransmission) - A 1992 Cable Act term requiring a cable system to carry signals of both commercial and noncommercial television broadcast stations that are "local" to the area served by the cable system. NETWORK - Any connection of two or more computers that enables them to communicate. Networks may include transmission devices, servers, cables, routers and satellites. The phone network is the total infrastructure for transmitting phone messages. NUMBER PORTABILITY - A term used to describe the capability of individuals, businesses and organizations to retain their existing telephone number(s) -- and the same quality of service -- when switching to a new local service provider. OPEN VIDEO SYSTEMS - An alternative method to provide cable-like video service to subscribers. OPERATOR SERVICE PROVIDER (OSP) - A common carrier that provides services from public phones, including payphones and those in hotels/motels. PAGING SYSTEM - A one-way mobile radio service where a user carries a small, lightweight miniature radio receiver capable of responding to coded signals. These devices, called "pagers," emit an audible signal, vibrate or do both when activated by an incoming message. PERSONAL COMMUNICATIONS SERVICE (PCS) - Any of several types of wireless, voice and/or data communications systems, typically incorporating digital technology. PCS licenses are most often used to provide services similar to advanced cellular mobile or paging services. However, PCS can also be used to provide other wireless communications services, including services that allow people to place and receive communications while away from their home or office, as well as wireless communications to homes, office buildings and other fixed locations. PRESCRIBED INTEREXCHANGE CHARGE (PICC) - The charge the local exchange company assesses the long distance company when a consumer picks it as his or her long distance carrier. ROAMING - The use of a wireless phone outside of the "home" service area defined by a service provider. Higher per-minute rates are usually charged for calls made or received while roaming. Long distance rates and a daily access fee may also apply. SATELLITE - A radio relay station that orbits the earth. A complete satellite communications system also includes earth stations that communicate with each other via the satellite. The satellite receives a signal transmitted by an originating earth station and retransmits that signal to the destination earth station(s). Satellites are used to transmit telephone, television and data signals originated by common carriers, broadcasters and distributors of cable TV program material. SATELLITE HOME VIEWER IMPROVEMENT ACT OF 1999 (SHVIA) - An Act modifying the Satellite Home Viewer Act of 1988, SHVIA permits satellite companies to provide local broadcast TV signals to all subscribers who reside in the local TV station's market. SHVIA also permits satellite companies to provide "distant" network broadcast stations to eligible satellite subscribers. SATELLITE MASTER ANTENNA TELEVISION (SMATV) - A satellite dish system used to deliver signals to multiple dwelling units (e.g., apartment buildings and trailer parks). SCANNER - A radio receiver that moves across a wide range of radio frequencies and allows audiences to listen to any of the frequencies. SERVICE PLAN - The rate plan you select when choosing a wireless phone service. A service plan typically consists of a monthly base rate for access to the system and a fixed amount of minutes per month. SERVICE PROVIDER - A telecommunications provider that owns circuit switching equipment. SLAMMING - The term used to describe what occurs when a customer's long distance service is switched from one long distance company to another without the customer's permission. Such unauthorized switching violates FCC rules. SPECTRUM - The range of electromagnetic radio frequencies used in the transmission of sound, data and television. SUBSCRIBER LINE CHARGE (SLC) - A monthly fee paid by telephone subscribers that is used to compensate the local telephone company for part of the cost of installation and maintenance of the telephone wire, poles and other facilities that link your home to the telephone network. These wires, poles and other facilities are referred to as the "local loop." The SLC is one component of access charges. TARIFF - The documents filed by a carrier describing their services and the payments to be charged for such services. TELEPHONE RELAY SERVICE (TRS) - A free service that enables persons with TTYs, individuals who use sign language and people who have speech disabilities to use telephone services by having a third party transmit and translate the call. TELEPHONY - The word used to describe the science of transmitting voice over a telecommunications network. TTY - A type of machine that allows people with hearing or speech disabilities to communicate over the phone using a keyboard and a viewing screen. It is sometimes called a TDD. UNBUNDLING - The term used to describe the access provided by local exchange carriers so that other service providers can buy or lease portions of its network elements, such as interconnection loops, to serve subscribers. UNIVERSAL SERVICE - The financial mechanism which helps compensate telephone companies or other communications entities for providing access to telecommunications services at reasonable and affordable rates throughout the country, including rural, insular and high costs areas, and to public institutions. Companies, not consumers, are required by law to contribute to this fund. The law does not prohibit companies from passing this charge on to customers. VERY HIGH FREQUENCY (VHF) - The part of the radio spectrum from 30 to 300 megahertz, which includes TV Channels 2-13, the FM broadcast band and some marine, aviation and land mobile services. VIDEO DESCRIPTION - An audio narration for television viewers who are blind or visually disabled, which consists of verbal descriptions of key visual elements in a television program, such as settings and actions not reflected in dialog. Narrations are inserted into the program's natural pauses, and are typically provided through the Secondary Audio Programming channel. ---------- End of Document