Unlicensed frequencies called “white space” make up the uncharted territory of the TV broadcast range. The Federal Communications Commission (Federal Communications Commission) has proposed starting white space to the public for mobile networks. ”White-fi and “Wi-Fi on steroids” are a few of the terms used to describe the networks using these untapped frequencies. Dead zones might be a thing of the past with the advent of powerful wireless networks enabled by white space. Advanced devices and applications heretofore unimagined are believed to be possible with the advent of Wi-Fi on steroids. Billions of dollars in previously non-existent economic potential is expected to be released along with the free of charge use of the white space spectrum.
The white space wireless movement
The wireless world anticipates that on Sept. 23 the FCC will declare open season on white space. The New York Times reports that Wi-Fi on steroids owes its existence to digital Television. When Television broadcasts were converted from analog to electronic digital, a surplus of white space was created. Digital broadcasts take up less space on the TV spectrum than analog, leaving more white space to go around. White space is coveted by wireless innovators because TV signals are low-frequency waves that travel farther, go through walls easier and deliver more reliable connections . By making the white space spectrum accessible free, the Federal Communications Commission could start a technological revolution the very same way it did in 1985, when opening unlicensed spectrum led to TV remotes, garage door openers and today’s wireless networks.
White space network issues
Reaction to the mobile potential of white space hasn’t been entirely optimistic. PC World reports that broadcast television networks and companies using wireless microphones, such as theaters and sports arenas, have opposed the liberation of white space. The concern is that wireless networks with a range of several miles, rather than several yards, will interfere with their signal. However, to keep devices using the white space spectrum from interfering, the Federal Communications Commission has created a database of TV channels and wireless microphone usage. Future mobile devices could possibly be set up to evade occupied frequencies on a local basis.
Microsoft’s white space system
White space for Wi-fi is already in use. Networks are being tested for a variety of uses. As reported in the Register, Microsoft is taking advantage of the white space spectrum on its corporate campus near Seattle. Microsoft’s “white-fi” network is providing connectivity to shuttle buses and buildings spanning its 500-acre campus from only two hot-spots. As reported in the Times, Super Wi-Fi is getting used in New Hanover County. Public officials are testing white space for a variety of uses. Remote cameras connected via white space keep an eye on traffic patterns for the transportation department. Without the expense of sending workers into the field, the parks department meets federal needs by collecting and transmitting environmental details . Industries unknown at the present could generate billions in the future with innovations in power distribution, medical technology and more.
Additional reading
New York Times
nytimes.com/2010/09/13/technology/13wifi.html?pagewanted=1 and _r=1 and src=busln
PC World
pcworld.com/businesscenter/article/205332/fcc_paving_the_way_to_wifi_on_steroids.html?tk=hp_new
The Register
theregister.co.uk/2010/09/13/white_space/
