FCC Will Test Internet Over TV Airwaves, Again

Weather Storm writes "According to MSNBC.com, the FCC will try again to test prototypes on Jan. 24 for transmitting high-speed Internet service over unused television airwaves. The devices were developed by Microsoft and Motorola, among other corporate partners, and will be tested in laboratory and real-world conditions for three months. 'Last year, a high-technology coalition — which included Microsoft, Google Inc., Dell Inc., Hewlett-Packard Co., Intel Corp. among others — submitted prototypes they said could transmit broadband Internet service over unlicensed and unused TV spectrum, known as "white spaces." Television broadcasters and the wireless microphone industry say such devices could interfere with programming. The Initial prototype testing failed last July because the devices did not reliably detect and avoid TV programming signals and could have caused interference. If the tests are successful this time and the devices are approved, the coalition plans to introduce commercial devices for sale after the digital television transition in February 2009.'"

Comments

Re:During peak times

[weak*]

But not-so-innocent TV watchers were pleased to view free prOn.

Re:Rural internet is sort of a joke anyhow

[MacarooMac]

Point taken.

Over here (in "Little Britain") a large 'rural area' probably equates to a small city park in N. America - so net accessibility in remote regions is not such a big issue: we simly don't tell them the internet exists.

Re:Mostly benefits rural areas

[stranger_to_himself]

But yeah ... I fully expect to see wireless-laptop-wielding cows the next time I pass through a rural area.

But will they run Hurd?

Re:Detection should be easy

[Wingnut64]

I read your comment twice before I realized that it wasn't a joke about the declining quality of television programming.