NNSquad - Network Neutrality Squad
[ NNSquad ] Google announces a white spaces trial -- (and a reality check from me)
Google announces a white spaces trial -- (and a reality check from me) Google has announced a new white spaces trial: http://bit.ly/c5Zc6o White spaces spectrum usage has a great deal of potential, and the upcoming FCC rules likely to formalize their availability are much anticipated (whether or not there will be litigation over any aspects of those rules is still an open question). However, one important reality check. In metro areas in particular spectrum congestion is so thick that most potential channels are unavailable for white space use. For example, checking at my location here in L.A., I find that only three channels are potentially available for fixed installations, and *no* channels are available for portable use at the 100mw level (and only two at 40mw). This is better than nothing, but white spaces will likely be of far more use outside of major population centers. In general the white space availability chart for L.A. is almost entirely red "X" marks, unfortunately. --Lauren-- NNSquad Moderator