PUBLIC NOTICE
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
1919 M STREET, N.W.
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20554                                  DA 98-924

News media information 202/418-0500     Fax-On-Demand  202/418-2830     Internet:  http://www.fcc.gov    ftp.fcc.gov


                                           Released: May 18, 1998


       OFFICE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY DECLARES ZIRCON
   CORPORATION REQUEST FOR A WAIVER OF PART 15 FOR AN ULTRA-
    WIDEBAND SYSTEM TO BE A "PERMIT-BUT-DISCLOSE" PROCEEDING
                     FOR EX PARTE PURPOSES


     On April 14, 1998, Zircon Corporation filed a petition for waiver of Part 15 of the rules in
order to permit the authorization, importation and operation of an ultra-wideband system that could
be used for through-wall imaging radar systems in construction environments.

     These transmission systems are centered within the 200 MHz to 4 GHz band and emit an
average radiated power of approximately 125 uW.  Accordingly, Zircon seeks to operate in the
restricted bands, shown in Section 15.205.  Zircon also seeks to remove the requirement to apply a
pulse desensitization correction factor in measuring the emission from its system.

     The Office of Engineering and Technology (OET) is reviewing the request to determine
whether a waiver of the rules should be granted.  OET seeks comments from interested parties
concerning this request.  OET has concluded that in order to permit a fuller exchange on the complex
issues under consideration in this proceeding, it should be treated, for ex parte purposes, as a "permit-
but-disclose" proceeding, in accordance with Section 1.1200(a) of the Commission's rules, and is
subject to the requirements under Section 1.1206(b) of the rules.  Parties should note that these rule
sections were revised in a recent Report and Order, GC Docket No. 95-21, 62 Fed. Reg. 15,852
(April 3, 1997).

     Interested parties filing comments or oppositions to this petition are invited to do so no later
than June 17, 1998.  Parties filing replies may do so by July 2, 1998.

     The full text of the waiver request is available for inspection and copying during normal
business hours in the OET Reception Area, Suite 480, 2000 M Street, N.W., Washington, D.C., and
may also be purchased from the Commission's duplication contractor, International Transcription
Service, (202) 857-3800, 2100 M Street, N.W., Suite 140, Washington, D.C. 20037.

By the Chief, Office of Engineering and Technology

Office of Engineering and Technology contact:  John A. Reed at (202) 418-2455.