Researchers from Microsoft Corp. and Harvard University have announced the development of a set of protocols that could be used to design wireless products capable of accessing unused analog TV spectrum, known as “white space,” while meeting the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) requirements for avoiding interference.
Though technology companies have spent several years petitioning the FCC for access to the unused TV spectrum, TV broadcasters and wireless microphone companies have long opposed this access, claiming that the change will interfere with their services.
Now, Microsoft claims to have succeeded in developing a set of protocols known as “White-Fi” that will allow a device to avoid interference while simultaneously making ideal use of the spectrum. Using White-Fi, a device will measure the spectrum conditions around it and actively monitor potential interference in order to identify available frequencies for use. If interference is detected, the device can simply switch to a different portion of the spectrum. Each device will also be equipped with a backup radio frequency channel for emergency use, in case another device using the same frequency becomes active and it is not possible for the device to move to a different portion of the spectrum.
According to Microsoft researcher Ranveer Chandra, Microsoft recently received an experimental license from the FCC to construct a prototype White-Fi system on the Microsoft Research Campus in Redmond, Wash. Microsoft plans to send any results to the FCC.
