By Mark Rockwell April 15, 2004 WASHINGTON -- The FCC today moved closer to opening up new spectrum for wireless broadband services aimed at rural areas.
In its monthly meeting, the commission voted to begin making rules for wireless broadband operation between 3650 MHz and 3700 MHz. The proposed rules are aimed at wireless Internet service providers (WISPs) looking to broaden their backhaul and access in "sparsely populated areas," according to the FCC. The new rules would use unlicensed spectrum that's currently licensed for fixed satellite services, but any interference would be minimal. Any unlicensed users also would be required to use cognitive or "smart" radio technology that further prevents interference. Ed Thomas, chief of the FCC's office of engineering and technology, said the additional unlicensed spectrum also was chosen to complement unlicensed spectrum in 2.4 and 5 GHz bands. "Some radio manufacturers are making devices that could operate in all three bands," he said, broadening WISP capabilities even further in the future.
