AT&T is asking the FCC for permission to test 5G transmissions in the 3.45-3.55 GHz band, across dozens of sites around the USA, as preparation for the upcoming auction of spectrum in this band. The operator wants to conduct the tests with Nokia and Ericsson equipment in locations including San Antonio, Texas; San Diego, California; St. Louis, Missouri; New York City; San Jose, California; Las Vegas, Nevada; and Bedminister, New Jersey (where rival Verizon is headquartered). AT&T said it would test a number of site types including monopoles, rooftops, utility poles and equipment on the sides of buildings. The auction is due to start next month with widely varying predictions about how much revenue it may generate, with forecasts ranging…