Some industry heavyweights are getting together to develop guidelines for a white spaces database. Comsearch, Dell, Google, HP, Microsoft, Motorola and NeuStar are founding members of the White Spaces Database Group.
The goal of the group is to bring the benefits of white spaces to consumers as soon as possible, according to a press release. Plans include the establishment of data formats and protocols that are open and non-proprietary.
The use of white spaces has been controversial. Last year, broadcasters and other groups claimed that using white spaces for wireless service could disrupt TV broadcasts and interfere with music performances.
In November, the FCC unanimously approved the use of white spaces spectrum by unlicensed devices. White spaces devices will be required to access a database to determine available channels before transmit capabilities are engaged.
Filed Under: Industry regulations + certifications