Today, the Federal Communications Commission voted to approve a Notice of Inquiry to promote more efficient spectrum use by improving receiver interference performance. Spectrum interference occurs when different spectrum users operating within the same band or in nearby bands utilize spectrum in a way that interrupts one another. Public Knowledge applauds the FCC for taking action to improve spectrum efficiency by considering all aspects of our telecommunications system.
The following can be attributed to Kathleen Burke, Policy Counsel at Public Knowledge:
“Most modern technologies from Bluetooth to Wi-Fi to cellular service use spectrum. Unfortunately, there are only so many bands of spectrum that these technologies can use. This makes it incredibly important to utilize our crowded airwaves efficiently while also avoiding interference issues between different spectrum users.
“Historically, the Commission has primarily focused on reducing interference between spectrum users by regulating the transmitter side of radio systems, not the receiver side. This one-sided approach to interference exacerbated the recent crisis over altimeters that were unduly sensitive to 5G wireless operations, which ultimately led to grounding flights and disrupting air traffic across the nation.
“By considering the receiver side of spectrum interference issues, the Commission will take a much needed look at the other half of the interference problem. If our telecommunications system is going to meet the modern needs of our nation, every aspect needs to operate efficiently.”
Members of the media may contact Communications Director Shiva Stella with inquiries, interview requests, or to join the Public Knowledge press list at shiva@publicknowledge.org or 405-249-9435.