Debate rages over free wireless spectrum

August 19, 2008 | Source: CNET News.Com

The debate over new unlicensed spectrum the FCC is considering opening up is heating up with Google’s launch of a new site called FreetheAirWaves.com.

Google and other technology companies such as Intel, Microsoft and Motorola have been lobbying the FCC to open up the “white space” spectrum (slivers of spectrum between TV channels) for unlicensed use after the digital TV transition early next year, to provide broadband wireless services. But broadcasters say using these channels will cause interference with their broadcast signals.