FCC report: White-space devices able to sense other signals

15.10.2008
Prototype wireless broadband devices operating in television spectrum were frequently, but not always, able to sense TV stations and wireless microphones operating in the spectrum and avoid causing interference, according to a report released late Wednesday by the U.S. Federal Communications Commission.

The report, a giant step toward allowing new wireless broadband devices to operate in unused TV spectrum, comes after several groups complained that the devices would cause interference. The National Association of Broadcasters (NAB), some mobile-telephone carriers and wireless-microphone vendors have opposed the request by several large tech vendors to allow new wireless devices to operate in unoccupied TV channels.

However, the report also noted that some prototype devices had difficulty finding wireless-microphone signals operating in the TV spectrum during a series of tests conducted over the past year. The debate is likely to continue as the FCC moves forward with its effort to allow devices such as new smartphones to use the so-called white spaces of the television spectrum.

The National Football League, the ESPN network and several lawmakers and churches have also raised concerns about potential interference by new devices in the white spaces. Both sides in the debate have conducted intense lobbying campaigns in recent months.

Tech vendors cheered the . It is "great news" for tech vendors looking to provide a new avenue for customers to connect to broadband, said Steve Sharkey, Motorola's senior director of regulatory and spectrum policy.

The report came out just hours after FCC Chairman Kevin Martin told reporters that he'd support the use of new broadband devices in the spectrum white spaces. The FCC is scheduled to vote on an order to move the white-spaces plan forward during its Nov. 4 meeting, Martin said.