CEA Filing Supports FCC Focus On Additional Unlicensed Spectrum

28-Apr-03

In a filing submitted with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regarding additional spectrum for unlicensed devices below 900 MHz and in the 3 GHz band, the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) lauded the Commission's focus on additional unlicensed spectrum, but cautioned that sharing in the television (TV) bands must be addressed carefully to ensure that unlicensed devices do not interfere with broadcast TV reception. CEA's Vice President of Technology Policy, Michael Petricone, issued the following statement about the filing: ""Ensuring that TV broadcast reception is fully protected must be the primary objective in the Commission's consideration of unlicensed spectrum. While the consumer electronics industry is excited about the possibilities and future innovations that will certainly result from additional unlicensed spectrum, we also honor existing customers and product owners and must ensure the full and proper operation of legacy equipment without interference. ""Successful unlicensed use on a non-interference basis in the broadcast bands has yet to be demonstrated, but the potential exists and deserves additional attention and study. CEA would like to see broadcasters, TV manufacturers, and other industries integrally involved in testing shared devices and resolving interference issues. ""Access to unused TV broadcast spectrum on a non-interference basis will provide needed services to the public, particularly through new value-added digital television (DTV) services, such as interactivity through a return path for broadcast stations. Additionally, fostering systems of these types would further the goals of the Commission by enhancing the functionality of digital broadcast stations and likely accelerate the transition to DTV. Working together will produce a win-win-win for broadcasters, manufacturers, and most important, consumers.""For more information about the CEA, visit www.ce.org.

Read More:
http://www.ce.org