Steve Mehs
04-22-03, 02:27 AM
Broadcasters and others argued at the Federal Communications Commission against a proposal to allow unlicensed communications devices to operate in TV broadcast spectrum, saying the move could damage the nation's transition to digital TV.
The National Association of Broadcasters told the commission that it's not the right time to consider new "untested and largely uncontrollable devices" into the spectrum. Digital TV sets, the association said, "would be particularly vulnerable because interference to them would cause a complete loss of service.
"By undermining consumer confidence in the new digital service at a critical juncture, this interference could derail the transition just as it is finally beginning to take off," the NAB said.
In its comments, the Consumer Electronics Association said it agrees with the FCC that providing additional spectrum for new devices is a high priority, "but sharing in the TV bands must be addressed carefully to ensure that unlicensed devices do not interfere with broadcast TV reception.
The CEA added, "Successful unlicensed use on a non-interference basis has yet to be demonstrated on this spectrum, but the potential exists and the subject deserves additional attention and study."
A handful of wireless interests have been pursuing the idea of allowing unlicensed communications devices to operate in broadcast spectrum bands. In its filing at the FCC, the Wi-Fi Alliance urged the commission to initiate a rulemaking to allow the use of the designated bands - as well as other spectrum - for unlicensed systems.
From SkyReport (http://www.skyreport.com) (Used with Permission)
The National Association of Broadcasters told the commission that it's not the right time to consider new "untested and largely uncontrollable devices" into the spectrum. Digital TV sets, the association said, "would be particularly vulnerable because interference to them would cause a complete loss of service.
"By undermining consumer confidence in the new digital service at a critical juncture, this interference could derail the transition just as it is finally beginning to take off," the NAB said.
In its comments, the Consumer Electronics Association said it agrees with the FCC that providing additional spectrum for new devices is a high priority, "but sharing in the TV bands must be addressed carefully to ensure that unlicensed devices do not interfere with broadcast TV reception.
The CEA added, "Successful unlicensed use on a non-interference basis has yet to be demonstrated on this spectrum, but the potential exists and the subject deserves additional attention and study."
A handful of wireless interests have been pursuing the idea of allowing unlicensed communications devices to operate in broadcast spectrum bands. In its filing at the FCC, the Wi-Fi Alliance urged the commission to initiate a rulemaking to allow the use of the designated bands - as well as other spectrum - for unlicensed systems.
From SkyReport (http://www.skyreport.com) (Used with Permission)