FCC Approves Use of "White Spaces" for Wireless Broadband

Washington, DC -- The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has voted to authorize the opening of unused portions of the broadcast spectrum -- known as white spaces -- to deliver wireless broadband Internet access. "Opening the white spaces will allow for the creation of a WiFi on steroids," said Kevin Martin, chairman of the FCC. "I fully expect that everything from enhanced home broadband networks, to intelligent peer-to-peer devices, and even small communications networks will come into being in TV 'white spaces'." The use of this spectrum was opposed by broadcasters, sports leagues and other event organizers, who fear the Internet signals may cause interference with their television or wireless microphone signals. Companies that have been developing white space devices and advocating for such services include Google, Microsoft, Motorola and Philips.
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DOC-286566A1.pdf (PDF)
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DOC-286571A4.pdf (PDF)


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Mitalee Mulpuru
Director of Student Affairs
TSAN