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FCC Plans to Allow Wireless Networking on Unused TV Channels

Posted by michael on from the better-than-knight-rider-reruns dept.

RKBA writes "Federal regulators have endorsed a plan to use vacant TV bandwidth for wireless Internet connections. Federal Communications Commission Chairman Michael Powell says it would 'dramatically increase' the availability and quality of wireless Internet connections -- especially for people in rural areas. Powell says it would be like 'doubling the number of lanes on a congested highway.' But TV broadcasters oppose the proposal. They argue that it would interfere with over-the-air television signals for millions of people. The FCC commissioners voted unanimously to begin the lengthy rulemaking process for the plan."

6 of 250 comments (clear)

  1. FCC: Government actually working right? by LostCluster · · Score: 5, Insightful

    Anybody who says that Michael Powell is in the pocket of the broadcasters or any other major company doesn't know what they're talking about, and this is the proof for anybody who doubts that.

    The FCC is actively looking to recycle frequency space for bandwidth wherever possible. I'm not even sure this is a workable solution... but just the fact that they're even going to open hearings about it is good for the masses.

    1. Re:FCC: Government actually working right? by Triumph+The+Insult+C · · Score: 5, Insightful

      1600+ Stern fans, including myself have complained.

      however, the FCC says (not verbatim) they can't fine Oprah because people like her, but they can fine Howard because he is a lightning rod.

      i am more of the opinion that Stern's problem with the FCC has nothing to do with indecency and is instead, politically motivated. my .sig says what i have to think about the subject

      --
      vodka, straight up, thank you!
  2. Re:Makes sense... by LostCluster · · Score: 5, Informative

    The other 55 or so channels are just static... begging to be used.

    The problem is, just because you see static overpowering any useful signal doesn't always mean that there isn't a weak one there.

    What may be an unused channel number to you could be a used one in the next TV-zone over... therefore too much of another signal on that channel might interfere with some people on the edge of the coverage range.

    These devices are most certainly are going to need to be "smart" in determining what an "unused" channel really is...

  3. Slashdot on channel 47 would be nice by MrRuslan · · Score: 5, Funny

    Does this mean my TV is gonna get slashdoted somehow?

  4. Vacancy by tds67 · · Score: 5, Funny
    "For more than half a century, vacant TV channels (which represent some of the most valuable spectrum available) have been underutilized," Gelsinger said in a statement.

    With all the daytime talk shows and nighttime reality shows on now, I'd say that all channels are vacant.

  5. geez, your spelling! by penguinoid · · Score: 5, Funny

    You added an extra 'm' in "asses"

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