Posted on 10/30/2008 10:46:36 AM PDT by STARWISE
The other big battle on Nov. 4 is over wireless airwaves, and it pits tech stalwarts against TV stations, evangelical preachers—even Dolly Parton
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Besides the Presidential election, there's another big political battle brewing in Washington on Nov. 4. This one is over the airwaves that are used to deliver communications signals to consumers across the country, and like the race for the White House, this contest has created a big divide.
The same day that the country is picking its next President, the Federal Communication Commission will decide whether to make available a large swath of airwaves for wireless high-speed Internet access. It would be the largest-ever contiguous chunk of frequencies, also known as spectrum, doled out by the U.S. government for free public use. Combatants on both sides are out swinging.
Proponents include FCC Chairman Kevin Martin and an odd conglomeration of tech heavyweights that includes Google (GOOG), Microsoft (MSFT), Dell (DELL), Motorola (MOT), and Philips Electronics North America. The companies hope the freed-up spectrum will spur demand for wireless access and the equipment and advertising that would support it.
Martin has already lined up the support he needs from two additional commissioners, according to a person familiar with the matter. Still, opposition has gathered steam in recent days, leaving some to speculate the vote on the issue may be delayed, if not ultimately defeated.
(Excerpt) Read more at businessweek.com ...
FCC Probe Signals Democratic Attack Machine (DOD-military analysts on airwaves-UNREAL!)
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Well I do know that TV broadcasting early next year have to go digital and the analouge channels are going to be bid for?
White spaces? Sounds pretty racist to me.
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