The Broadband Data Collection (BDC) is a process by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to collect data on broadband availability across the United States as per the Broadband DATA Act that sets forth specific certification requirements. It includes information from providers on their infrastructure, service availability, and subscription data. This data is used to create the National Broadband Map, which helps identify areas with limited or no broadband access.
The Data Specifications for Provider Infrastructure Data in the Challenge, Verification, and Audit Processes outline the specific requirements for how providers should submit their infrastructure data during the different stages of the BDC process:
- Challenge Process: This is when individuals, communities, and other stakeholders can dispute the accuracy of the broadband data shown on the National Broadband Map. The data specifications detail how providers must respond to these challenges and provide supporting evidence for their infrastructure data.
- Verification Process: This is an FCC-led process to verify the accuracy of the broadband data submitted by providers. The data specifications outline the criteria the FCC will use to assess the accuracy and completeness of the data, including the types of supporting documentation providers need to submit.
- Audit Process: This is a more in-depth examination of a provider's broadband data. The data specifications outline the specific procedures and requirements for providers to comply with during an audit.
Key Elements:
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Data Files Submission: Providers must submit specific data files when responding to mobile challenges or verification inquiries. These files include detailed information about cell sites, antennas, and other infrastructure elements used to provide service in the challenged area. This data helps the FCC verify the accuracy of the coverage maps and resolve any disputes about service availability.
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On-the-Ground Test Data: Providers can respond with on-the-ground test data in addition to infrastructure data. This involves conducting speed tests at specific locations within a hexagonal cell geography based on the H3 geospatial indexing system. These tests must meet specific geographic, temporal, and testing thresholds to be valid.
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Verification Process: The FCC uses a variety of data sources to identify areas for verification inquiries, including crowdsourced data, third-party data, and FCC staff evaluations. Providers must submit data for a statistically valid sample of areas within the targeted region if their coverage data is questioned. The FCC evaluates factors such as test reliability, RF link budgets, and infrastructure data accuracy during the verification process.
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Crowdsourced Data: Consumers can submit crowdsourced data through the FCC Speed Test app or approved third-party applications. This data, which must meet specific parameters and metrics, is used to supplement the FCC’s verification efforts and is publicly available once a critical mass is reached. The FCC initiates inquiries based on automated processes that highlight areas for further review.
Below is an example National Broadband Map location summary for outdoor stationary mobile broadband. You can navigate to the FCC mobile challenge portal directly from the map (e.g., to challenge that you are not receiving 35 Mbps download speed and 3 Mbps upload speed on 5G NR at this location as indicated below).
For more detailed information and to access the specific data specifications, you can visit the FCC’s Broadband Data Collection resources page here.
For information on broadband coverage, you can contact wireless engineering firms such as Rfwel Engineering. You may also contact us for legal advice regarding your broadband coverage challenge.