The Regional Wireless Broadband Network (RWBN) is the first and only 700 MHz broadband network in the United States dedicated to public safety users. It is authorized via an experimental license in the 700 MHz band provided by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).

 

Still a pilot network, the RWBN was first used in 2007 and has since been of great service for major events in the District, including the 2009 presidential inauguration. The RWBN is supported, managed and operated by the District of Columbia Office of the Chief Technology Officer (OCTO). Currently, the network consists of 12 radio sites and 280 network devices (i.e. PC cards) that facilitate wireless interconnection of local and federal public safety mobile devices throughout the District of Columbia. In addition, users of the network can access applications that, up to this time, were only accessible from desktop computers.

 

Network Attributes:

The RWBN, in and of itself, does not provide applications. Rather, it makes available all the applications on a users’ desktop, wherever RWBN coverage exists in the District’s geographical boundaries. Typical user applications might include: