The FCC has finally released its long awaited report regarding “white space” prototype devices. The technical report demonstrates that the proof of concept has been met, which means that the devices can work under certain technical standards. “White space” generically refers to unused frequencies of the electromagnetic spectrum, and particularly in this case the prototype devices would use 300 MHz to 400 MHz of unlicensed space. The issue will be discussed in the next open meeting of the FCC which is scheduled for November 4th. The main problem with using “white space” is that this particular space was assigned for a reason, that reason being to act as a buffer between different spectrum bands.

These devices will have to be able to properly function without interfering with other frequencies. Some major technology companies like Motorola, Google and Microsoft have been asking for the FCC’s approval for more than a year and now that the condition of proof of concept has been met, they are closer than ever. “White space” is believed to be ideal for sending wireless signals over long distances or through walls and that this unlicensed space could be used for creating new wireless broadband services.

The main problem is that other companies, like mobile phone operators or TV networks, are afraid that wireless devices accessing this space would cause interference in their spectrum bands. This would be a tough decision for the FCC to take as they need to do something and, obviously, more testing is needed.