Google Inc (NASDAQ:GOOG) is testing a white space database for FCC certification. The search engine giant hopes this database will allow an unlicensed TV broadcast spectrum.
This database will keep track of the television broadcast frequencies that are being used, so they can use the “white-space” spectrum for wireless devices on broadband. Google happens to be just one of the small handful of companies who built this database and they are also one of the most current companies to enter the forty-five day testing phase for the Federal Communications Commissions.
Other companies who have completed their trial phases include Telcordia and Spectrum Bridge. Right now there are ten other companies besides Google Inc (NASDAQ:GOOG), who are working on the database. This includes Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT).
Three years ago, the FCC approved a new set of rules for using unlicensed white space spectrum. This included information on how to use databases which would prohibit devices from interfering with existing broadcast television license holders.
Back in late 2008, the FCC made an unanimous agreement to allow the spectrum to be used for unlicensed usage. There is about 300MHz to 400MHz of unused spectrum throughout the United States. This could be utilized to deliver wireless broadband service.
This database system works like this: when the devices with white space radios are powered on, they will need to check up on a database to find the clear frequency in order to transmit. It’s important to find which devices won’t interfere with television stations or even wireless microphones that were registered with the FCC.
The FCC will also supply the information with the databases.
Google Inc (NASDAQ:GOOG)’s Access Strategy Analysis team member Alan Norman, shared the following in a blog post, “”There is available spectrum out there– but it can be hard to find if you don’t know where to look. One way we’re trying to help researchers and other stakeholders identify available spectrum is through dynamic spectrum sharing. Spectrum sharing allows devices to use spectrum when it is not in use by someone else simply by checking a database.”
