ITI LAUDS FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (FCC) PROGRESS TO OPEN “WHITE SPACES” ON DIGITAL TV SPECTRUM

08.01.2007

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Information Technology Industry Council (ITI) President Rhett Dawson today commended the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for moving forward with a plan to open up  “white spaces” -- digital TV spectrum between bands – for unlicensed use by portable Internet devices. 

“We commend the FCC’s initial testing of white spaces prototypes to promote greater broadband connectivity and foster the development of innovative new wireless devices and technologies for all Americans,” Dawson said.  “In cities and communities across the country, there is a substantial amount of unused spectrum in the television bands. Access to the TV white spaces can facilitate more affordable and ubiquitous broadband deployment, particularly in rural areas.”

“With this initial first effort in the testing process, we move one step closer to the spectrum technologies of the 21st century, said Brian Peters, Director of Government Relations. “Our high tech innovators are confident in the promise of their work and look forward to working with the FCC and other stakeholders to maximize the use of our airwaves for the most innovative services. We hope FCC Chairman Martin will remain committed to a rigorous and transparent testing process that gives maximum opportunity for these new technologies.  We believe such a process will truly allow the white spaces to foster yet another American wireless revolution.”

ABOUT ITI

The Information Technology Industry Council (ITI) is a group of the nation's leading high-tech companies and is recognized as the tech industry's most effective lobbying organization in Washington.  ITI helps member companies achieve their policy objectives through building relationships with Members of Congress, Administration officials, and foreign governments; organizing industry-wide consensus on policy issues; and working to enact tech-friendly government policies.

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