In 2009, UHF television stations will abandon analog frequencies as they shift to digital. The frequencies that they will abandon will soon go on the FCC's auction block, and the result could shape the internet and wireless industry for decades to come.These frequencies, in the 700 mhz range (channels 52-68), are desirable because they travel long distances without interference. Any company wanting to build a national wireless broadband network would find UHF the perfect foundation. In an age of growing connectivity, the profit potential of owning such a backbone is enormous.
The players are already lined up to fight for the frequencies. As you can imagine, the cell phone companies will be players, if for no other reason than to keep new competitors out of their market. Other bidders may include satellite television providers such as DirecTV, and rich internet moguls including Google (NASDAQ:GOOG).
The most interesting bid might be that of Frontline Wireless, a company put together by e-business investors and wireless veterans. They propose building a nationwide network under open source protocol, acting as a passive wholesaler of access to one and all. Frontline further sweetens the offer by proposing to reserve part of the spectrum for a national intergrated emergency services system, the need for which became painfully apparent during Katrina.
This would be the definition of a disruptive technology. It would allow local, smaller companies to offer broadband wireless internet connection, including VOIP. With a single stroke, Frontline's system could threaten the cellular industry, cable and satellite television, and networks built on platforms such as WiMax.
The results of such an auction are often preordained by the rules that are set for the process, and usually favor existing players in the market. However, in this instance, the voice of local law enforcement just might make a difference. If so, it could change the wireless market overnight.
We'll know soon, as the FCC is to announce its decision within the next few weeks.
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Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
5-18-2007 @ 10:48AM
Nancy said...
This system is already going into use: in non-landline alarm systems. So far, very few have been licensed to sell and administer these systems. I am fortunate to be using one of the only ones in my state.
AND they work great: your alarm system cannot be interupted by the phone lines being cut, all activities are known, can be followed from any location, by cell, internet, etc. It can also be disarmed, rearmed, and users taken out from anywhere also
This week, during massive storm fronts and power outages, the alarm was still in effect and alerting us to problems.
If this is going to be the future of cell service, I can't wait: I have a cell with a huge network of people following me around- according to the commercials(HAH!!) and yet everytime I am in the shadow of two trees, or go into Walmart, my network goes down.
I am tired of SBC/ AT&T trying to re-create and combine past companies. I want better, more competitive service
6-02-2007 @ 11:29AM
Rick Linhart said...
This auction is more goverment jive. The people own
the airwaves. The FCC should hold a lottery (free) and let the people who entered and who win keep or sell there option to the UHF band.
Let the little guy have some capitalist fun.