Why is this news in the IT world you ask? Well, much of the radio spectrum has already been licensed for specific purposes and there is only so much of the spectrum to go around. With some of the spectrum opening up, there is an opportunity for new wireless services. An article from PC World sums it up best:
Many companies have expressed an interest in bidding when the auction begins. They include heavyweights like AT&T, Google, Verizon Wireless and even a startup called Frontline Wireless. This has implications for Google, who is a key member of the Open Handset Alliance."[It] can be used to carry long-range wireless broadband traffic. Many people, including FCC Chairman Kevin Martin have said the auction represents a golden opportunity to create a nationwide broadband network in competition with the providers of cable modem and DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) and fiber-based services.
Some consumer groups have called the auctions the "last, best hope" for a third pipe that competes with cable operators such as Comcast and DSL and fiber-based providers such as AT&T and Verizon Communications.
While many observers see the spectrum as optimal for wireless broadband, some carriers may use it for traditional wireless voice traffic as well. Some plans for the spectrum will likely include networks that merge traditional wireless voice with high-speed data services."
The FCC has divided the spectrum into five blocks and with the exception of the D block, will be auctioned off as follows:
- A block (12MHz) is broken up into 176 smaller regions called economic areas.
- B block (12MHz) is broken up into 734 local areas called cellular market areas. Bidders can win multiple regional or local licenses.
- C block (22MHz) has the open-access rules and is broken up into 12 regional licenses across the
U.S. - D block (10MHz) has been set aside for public safety and is a nationwide license.
- E block (6MHz) is also broken up into 176 smaller regions called economic areas.
» 700MHz Spectrum Auction Update from ITechTips
I posted previously about this subject in FCC Auctions Portion of Radio Spectrum back in December, but wanted to report on the progress of Auction 73 (700 MHz Band) since bidding commenced last Thursday:A startup wireless company&nb... [Read More]
Tracked on: January 29, 2008 1:42 PM | Permalink to Trackback