In early 2009, the US will complete its transition to digital television broadcasts. This will result in A LOT of unused signal space- basically the space between channels 2 and 51.
Google believes that this unused space can be used to provide wireless, high-speed, broadband internet access to homes, much like non-cable homes pick up TV signals right now. And with no one using this space, it could theoretically be used to provide FREE internet access!
It seems as though the FCC and several elected officials are strongly against this idea.
When the idea was first proposed by Google, one New York Congressional representative wrote "Unlicensed devices, like wireless laptops and remote-controlled toys, operating in the white spaces will probably cause havoc to TV viewers, theater goers and sports fans. We cannot let these new developments undermine television service or hurt key sectors of our entertainment industry."
So what do you all think-- is the resistance a case of genuine concern for the public wellfare, or an attempt to protect the pocketbooks of Big Business?
links-
http://arstechnica.com/news.ars/post/20070328-fcc-begins-testing-mysterious-white-space-wireless-broadband-device.html (http://arstechnica.com/news.ars/post/20070328-fcc-begins-testing-mysterious-white-space-wireless-broadband-device.html)
http://news.digitaltrends.com/news-article/16792/google-co-founder-touts-white-space-plan (http://news.digitaltrends.com/news-article/16792/google-co-founder-touts-white-space-plan)
http://www.circleid.com/posts/95145_white_space_interfering_patient_devices/ (http://www.circleid.com/posts/95145_white_space_interfering_patient_devices/)
My opinion? It's a money thing.
most things are. :(