Wednesday, June 2, 2004

Powell Looks to Wireless to Boost Competition in Broadband

"Wireless broadband can bring much needed competition to existing DSL and cable-modem service," said FCC Chairman Michael K. Powell, speaking at the Wireless Communications Association (WCA) conference in Washington, D.C.. Powell is looking for wireless alternatives to drive down the price of broadband services and expand access to underserved areas. He said the FCC is working hard to develop new rules allowing more efficient and productive use of the spectrum in the 2.5 GHz band, much of which is currently underutilized. Two key aspects of the FCC policy are allowing for the creation of secondary markets for licensed spectrum and encouraging innovation in unlicensed bands, especially with smart radio technology. http://www.fcc.gov