Testing at the Federal Communication Commission will determine whether or not Google and its fellow backers of wireless broadband within unused spectrum reaches the marketplace.
Such broadband depends on the ability of technology to deliver it within the unused spaces, but without interfering with other devices on the spectrum. Televisions and wireless microphones use the space; a white space Internet service has to leave them alone or risk FCC rejection.
Google claimed the future of this method of bringing high-speed Internet services to potential customers stepped closer to reality. The company’s Public Policy blog said they remain confident the latest testing will find suitable protection for TV and wireless mics in these spectrum-sensing devices.
To determine how well spectrum sensing technology works, the FCC will test it at venues for sporting and entertainment events. Google said they already have such venues covered against white space interference.
In particular, standalone use of a geolocation database with a look-up function would offer complete protection to digital TV and wireless microphone signals at major venues.
Importantly, under our approach no WSD would transmit, even if it failed to detect any signals at all, without first receiving affirmative permission from a geolocation database look-up. With or without spectrum sensing, it’s abundantly clear that unlicensed devices can coexist successfully with licensed services, with no reasonable fear of harmful interference.
A working, effective implementation of white spaces Internet delivery promises the prospect of an affordable broadband competitor to face off against the current choice-limiting duopoly of telecom and cable Net services. Those with an interest in the broadest possible availability of Internet connectivity should root for successful testing.
