WASHINGTON-The Federal Communications Commission last week adopted proposed rules that could lead to the use of ultra-wideband technology on an unlicensed basis.
“UWB devices appear to be able to operate on spectrum already occupied by existing radio services without causing interference. It could permit scarce spectrum resources to be used more efficiently, a core responsibility of the commission in its role as the nation’s spectrum manager,” the FCC said.
Ultra-wideband radio-frequency technologies have long been recognized as the technology of choice for ground penetrating radars. But the technology also has the potential to address a far wider range of radar, communications and positioning applications, according to the Ultra Wideband Working Group.
Prior testing has shown that ultra-wideband technology can be used for search-and-rescue operations. The FCC hopes it also can be used for short-range, high-speed data transmissions. The commission is requiring that testing and analysis of UWB operations below 2 GHz be conducted and submitted for the record before November. The National Telecommunications and Information Administration and the Department of Transportation are planning such testing.
UWB technology, developed by Huntsville, Ala.-based Time Domain Corp., also can be used for covert secure communications and wireless delivery of services, such as phone, cable and computer networking.
The aviation community has expressed concern that ultra-wideband service could interfere with the low-powered signals emitted by the global positioning system.
“I think they are saying all of the right words. We are really concerned about the testing deadline of Oct. 30. That is a very aggressive time schedule for government tests. We are concerned about a rush to judgment. Is this safe for the legacy systems? The issues are just too critical,” said David Stempler, president of the Air Travelers Association.
Time Domain called the notice of proposed rule making an important milestone.
“The FCC is sending a strong message that [UWB] has the potential to save lives, create entirely new products and industries, and help ease the current spectrum crunch,” said Ralph Petroff, Time Domain chief executive officer and president.
In order for the technology to be widely deployed, the FCC would have to approve a final rule, Time Domain said.
Last June, Time Domain received a waiver from the FCC to sell a limited number of its RadarVision products to law enforcement, firefighters and rescue personnel. RadarVision is a through-wall motion detector that reports the location of people in buildings, lessening the risk to authorities and improving rescue efforts, Time Domain said.
