Broadband and Fiber-Optic Training | Courses, Certifications & Degrees | NCTI

Train up.

Delivery: Online | Est. Length: 1.5 – 2 Seat Hours | Price: $170.00

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Course Overview

The NCTI Citizens Broadband Radio Service (CBRS) course provides a focused, technical introduction to the “Innovation Band” (3.5 GHz to 3.7 GHz). As wireless data demands explode, the FCC has designated this spectrum for shared use between government incumbents and private enterprises, paving the way for Private LTE and 5G networks.

This course demystifies the complex dynamic spectrum sharing model. Students will learn the history of spectrum management—including the influence of tech giants like Microsoft—and master the architecture of the Spectrum Access System (SAS). By understanding the three-tier hierarchy, technicians can grasp how modern networks maximize bandwidth without interference.

Who Should Attend:

  • Wireless Network Engineers
  • RF Technicians
  • ISP and WISP Operators
  • Enterprise IT Staff exploring Private 5G

What You Will Learn

Upon completion, students will be able to explain the regulatory and technical framework that allows different users to share the same airwaves in real-time.

Core Competencies:

  • Spectrum History: Explain how the FCC and private industry (including Microsoft’s influence) evolved from static licensing to dynamic spectrum management.
  • The 3-Tier Hierarchy: Differentiate between the three user tiers: Incumbent Access, Priority Access License (PAL), and General Authorized Access (GAA).
  • The SAS Brain: Describe the function of the Spectral Access System (SAS) and how it protects incumbents while granting access to commercial users.
  • Technical Architecture: Identify SAS interfaces and explain how CBRS serves as the baseline for real-time spectrum management.

Certification and Benefits

Stay Ahead of Wireless Trends

Graduates receive the NCTI Certificate of Graduation, validating their understanding of one of the most rapidly growing sectors in telecommunications.

Additional Benefits:

  • Quick Upskill: A concise 2-hour curriculum that delivers high-value knowledge without a massive time investment.
  • Flexible Learning: 100% online delivery with up to four months to complete.

Course Outline

Module 1: History and Governance

  • CBRS Overview and the “Innovation Band.”
  • History of FCC spectrum management.
  • Early management systems and the Wireless Innovation Forum.

Module 2: Technical Architecture

  • The CBRS Hierarchical User Model (Incumbent/PAL/GAA).
  • The Spectrum Access System (SAS).
  • Logical SAS functionality and interfaces.
  • Real-time spectrum management baselines.