FCC to Re-Test Wireless Internet Devices

Companies seek to broadcast web over unused TV airwaves
By Zach Samalin,  Newser Staff
Posted Jan 19, 2008 12:20 AM CST
FCC to Re-Test Wireless Internet Devices
Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Kevin Martin speaks during a hearing on localism, Wednesday, Oct. 31, 2007, at the FCC headquarters in Washington. Federal regulators on Wednesday, Oct. 31, 2007, approved a rule that would ban exclusive agreements that cable television operators have...   (Associated Press)

After a series of unsuccessful tests, the Federal Communications Commission is heading back to the lab to assess a new round of devices for broadcasting high-speed Internet in the white space available in between TV airwaves. The prototypes come from a coalition of top-tier bidders, including Microsoft, Philips, and Intel, none of which received positive grades the first time around, the AP reports.

The coalition maintains using untapped airwave spaces would help them provide high-speed and low-cost Internet service, particularly in rural regions with limited access. But so far, no one has managed to produce a device that detects, but doesn't interfere with, TV programming signals outside of the laboratory. Round two of testing will take three months, with a report following six weeks later. (More FCC stories.)

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