The FCC approved, on Wednesday, a plan to auction the 700Mhz wireless frequency spectrum. The auction will take place as the current 700Mhz block is abandoned, on Congressional decree, by TV stations switching to digital broadcasts. Large tech companies have requested that 60Mhz of this block be auctioned by early 2008 and is expected to raise US $10 billion. Complete digital broadcast conversion should open up more spectrum by 2009.
Currently, the FCC is accepting proposals on how to best use the spectrum. A portion of the 700Mhz block can be used to provide a “third pipe” for broadband access, says FCC Chairman Kevin Martin. Another possible use could be for enhanced communications for first responders. If Frontline Wireless LLC has their way, 10Mhz of the spectrum would be auctioned off for use as a broadband infrastructure for public safety agencies.
One interesting proposal comes from Save Our Spectrum Coalition, and requests that the FCC keep a portion of the spectrum open to public access. The coalition says, “if the commission adopts the rules we suggest, consumers will benefit from having more companies offer more types of services in many different areas.” Sounds good to us. Power to the people!
via: yahoonews