FCC Chairman proposes white space changes

US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Ajit Pai has proposed additional opportunities for unlicensed white space devices to deliver wireless broadband services in rural areas.

Such devices operate in parts of the broadcast television bands as well as spectrum not being used for authorised services.

“TV white spaces can play a critical role in providing broadband services to rural and underserved areas,” Chairman Pai said.

“I saw the promise of this technology in South Boston, a town in rural Virginia, where I met a student who said getting internet access in his home was a game changer.

“The FCC has taken steps to enable the use of white spaces over the years, and this new proposal would further help bridge the digital divide while protecting TV stations.”

Pai is specifically proposing to allow higher transmit power and higher antennas for fixed white space devices in rural areas.

To protect other authorised services from interference, Pai has proposed to increase the minimum separation distances for high-power white space devices.

The FCC will vote on the proposal at its monthly meeting on 28 February.

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