What is a PSBN?
A Public Safety Broadband Network, or PSBN, is a wireless broadband network that provides prioritized and exclusive access to wireless data for first responders. A PSBN can also serve critical infrastructure entities that underpin our modern digital society (electric utilities, rail and transportation networks, transit systems, energy, potable water control systems, airports, harbours and more).
A PSBN encompasses the network infrastructure, equipment, wireless spectrum, user gear and associated systems that deliver mission-critical communications – so that first responders can communicate with each other, anywhere in Canada, during emergencies, major events, and day-to-day operations.
Dedicated spectrum has been designated for PSBN. This spectrum consists of 20 MHz of spectrum in the 700 MHz band, and is known as Band 14. This spectrum will be foundational to the deployment of a PSBN, but will also need to be supplemented by additional licenced spectrum.
A modern PSBN will be built on a foundation of mobile network standards – 3G, 4G/LTE, 5G – and will continue to incorporate new network standards as they are deployed in commercial networks. The PSBN must be seamlessly integrated with Next Generation 9-1-1 (NG9-1-1) services, providing responders with accurate and up-to-date information in emergencies.
The PSBN will also support connectivity for a wide variety of devices including body-worn cameras, monitoring equipment, and other devices that support first responders and public safety.
