Nate Anderson writes:
The FCC has just announced the roadmap (PDF) for giving unlicensed wireless devices access to empty "white spaces" in the current analog TV spectrum. US spectrum is at a premium (just consider the astronomical fees paid by cell phone providers to grab a chunk of it), and the FCC wants to ensure that space is available for innovative unlicensed technology. ΒΆ The goal is to replicate the success of WiFi, but with longer range. ...
Link: Ars Technica.
For the official broadcaster reaction, see FCC sets roadmap for using vacant TV airwaves where Jeremy Pelofsky quotes the NAB's president:
... "We are pleased the FCC has taken the sensible position of ensuring that these devices will be tested rigorously and that no marketplace introduction will occur until after broadcasters complete a successful transition to digital television," said NAB President and Chief Executive Officer David Rehr. ...
Link: Reuters. --Dennis
The FCC is allowing more interference into broadcast spectrum, channels 2-51, both with this white space, smart radio option and the broadband over power lines initiative.
Expect to see talk of selling off these channels after the transition debacle to come and the number of those who still depend on over the air broadcasting, still thought by some to be around 13-15%, has been whittled down to something even more pathetic by a cable and satellite onslaught that will accompany the transition. They will want to take advantage of the transition disaster to pick up as many new customers as posible.
Some political type is going to see potential in championing the selling off of this spectrum around the middle of 2009 or even earlier depending on how much pain the transition inflicts.
Posted by: Bob Miller | Wednesday, 20 September 2006 at 00:03