After conducting a second set of measurements on the capabilities of prototype white space devices, the Federal Communications Commission said it will take into consideration authorizing the operation of these devices in the TV broadcast spectrum that is not used by other authorized services.

These devices were intended to demonstrate capabilities that could later be used in operating unlicensed low power radio transmitting devices on unused frequencies between television channels, known as white spaces.

The Federal Communications Commission said it is satisfied that the spectrum sensing in combination with geo-location and database access techniques can be used to authorize equipment according to the technical standards today.

The Commission also said that the white space devices (WSD) that operate from a fixed location could be allowed into the TV spectrum simultaneous with the completion of the transition from analog to digital television broadcasting on February 17, 2009. Furthermore, they said that while consumers and business will benefit from broadband data through these devices, the devices should not interfere with the televisions and services operating in the TV band.

In order for these devices to operate only on vacant frequencies, the FCC said it will take into consideration for the WSD to employ “smart radio” features that would use a “detect and avoid” or “spectrum sensing” strategy. Another technique used could be geolocation detection.

The FCC will hold an open meeting on November 4 on the white spaces, but until then, white spaces supporters will be glad to know that FCC Chairman Kevin Martin continues to support the use of the spectrum for wireless broadband services.

Google, one of the most ardent defenders of the white spaces, has longed pushed for regulating their use, in a movement called “free the airwaves.” The company wrote on the website they dedicated to this movement: “we think more open access to the white spaces is essential, not only for companies like ours, but for society in general.”