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FCC to Re-Test Wireless Internet Devices

Companies seek to broadcast web over unused TV airwaves

By Zach Samalin,  Newser Staff

Posted Jan 19, 2008 12:20 AM CST

(Newser) – After a series of unsuccessful tests, the Federal Communications Commission is heading back to the lab to assess a new round of devices for broadcasting high-speed Internet in the white space available in between TV airwaves. The prototypes come from a coalition of top-tier bidders, including Microsoft, Philips, and Intel, none of which received positive grades the first time around, the AP reports.

The coalition maintains using untapped airwave spaces would help them provide high-speed and low-cost Internet service, particularly in rural regions with limited access. But so far, no one has managed to produce a device that detects, but doesn't interfere with, TV programming signals outside of the laboratory. Round two of testing will take three months, with a report following six weeks later.

Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Kevin Martin speaks during a hearing on localism, Wednesday, Oct. 31, 2007,  at the FCC headquarters in Washington. Federal regulators on Wednesday, Oct. 31, 2007, approved a rule that would ban exclusive agreements that cable television operators have with apartment buildings, opening up competition for...
Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Kevin Martin speaks during a hearing on localism, Wednesday, Oct. 31, 2007, at the FCC headquarters in Washington. Federal regulators on Wednesday, Oct....   (Associated Press)
FCC Chairman Kevin Martin speaks during an industry insider session at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas on Tuesday, Jan. 8. 2007. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)
FCC Chairman Kevin Martin speaks during an industry insider session at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas on Tuesday, Jan. 8. 2007. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)   (Associated Press)
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