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FCC Approves Unlicensed Use of White-Space Spectrum
sidesh0w was one of a number of readers to alert us to the FCC's unanimous decision approving unlicensed devices to use the white spaces of the spectrum unused by television broadcasters, provided they take certain precautions not to interfere with licensed users. "Denying a tremendous last-minute lobbying effort by broadcasters, the vote on white space devices went ahead as planned today after a several-hour delay at FCC headquarters. When the vote came, though, it was unanimous. For the Democrats on the Commission, the devices are appealing because they offer a potential new avenue for broadband services, while the Republicans are pleased for the same reasons, but love the fact that this is a deregulatory order that focuses on less regulation and more competition."
True for most wireless microphone users, you mean.
There are available licenses, and they have been applied-for (and granted) to a number of individuals and production groups. Wait until a Superbowl interview goes something like "zzzzzzzzzzzzz bdkk fdd d chatta-chatta bzzzzzz." This is a simple case of the FCC being for sale, and the only real question here has been whether Kevin Martin is going to Google or Microsoft after this. Given what he looks like, I'd wager on Microsoft.
These devices screw up OTA TV, wireless mics, and, shockingly, cable TV.
Kevin Martin is a Bush-appointed political hack. I thought that Slashdot leaned decidedly against corrupt government acts like this. Anyone who isn't pro-corruption but still applauds this decision is just an idiot.