(2010-09-25) Fcc Frees White Spaces

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) on Thursday released its long-awaited revised rules regarding devices that access Analog Tv White Spaces, which can provide extended wireless capabilities, sometimes known as "WiFi on steroids.".. Under the new rules, any white spaces device must include geo-location, which will allow it to cross reference its location with a database of licensed spectrum users in the area to make sure the white spaces device does not interfere. The FCC ditched a requirement that white spaces devices also include sensing, a technology that scans spectrum for unused channels.

Tom Evslin notes For technical reason, the ex-TV white space frequencies can be used for much longer distance transmission than the frequencies formerly available for unlicensed use. Moreover, transmissions at these frequencies go through walls and usually through leaves. Even though these signals won't go through granite (or brick walls), they bounce well so they effectively go around corners. These are as good as the frequencies which cell phones are on today.