WASHINGTON-The Federal Communications Commission is considering making additional radio channels available for unlicensed wireless devices in TV spectrum and higher frequency bands.
The FCC, which is seeking public comment on the inquiry, said technological advances make it possible to design new types of unlicensed wireless gadgets that can share spectrum in TV bands without causing interference to broadcast licenses and that can locate an alternate radio channel when a licensed frequency is in use.
FCC Commission Kevin Martin, however, said allowing unlicensed devices to operate in TV spectrum could create interference to broadcasters and possibly hamper their transition from analog to digital technology. Martin also questioned the wisdom of launching the proceeding before the FCC receives feedback on the agency’s Spectrum Task Force report.
