While I realize the technology to make good on this is not widely
available, you might want to pass this information along to local schools
and other organizations similar organizations -- so they can take this into
account in future planning.
Regards,
Norm Jacknis
----------
> January 9, 1997
> SEPARATE STATEMENT
> OF
> COMMISSIONER SUSAN NESS
>
> Re: Operation of Unlicensed NII Devices in the 5 GHz Frequency Range
>
> Today the Commission opens another door to the wireless future by
> authorizing a new category of unlicensed, short-range, broadband
> digital devices.
>
> As a result, wireless local area network (LAN) and other equipment can
> now be developed to connect our computers, laptops, and personal
> digital assistants (PDAs) to each other, to the Internet of today, and
> to the global information infrastructure of tomorrow. In many
> buildings, including schools, a wireless connection will be a
> cost-effective alternative to pulling wire through walls and ceilings.
>
> We are providing a total of 300 megahertz of spectrum for these
> devices. This generous amount will permit substantial experimentation
> with technologies and features, and will support widespread use of
> these devices in the future.
>
> While this spectrum is shared with existing services, our technical
> rules will permit these devices to operate without causing harmful
> interference. This is an example of how unlicensed devices and
> spectrum sharing can increase the efficient use of our spectrum.
>
> This equipment has not yet been developed and tested, but our spectrum
> allocation today moves it forward. The bands selected are consistent
> with the European High Performance Local Area Network (HIPERLAN)
> potentially enabling such devices to be exported.
>
> While it is too early to know which technologies and devices might
> succeed in the marketplace, the potential is created for U.S.
> leadership in a whole new world of high-tech digital wireless
> products.
http://www.fcc.gov/Speeches/Ness/States/010997.html
The full news release is at:
http://www.fcc.gov/Bureaus/Engineering_Technology/News_Releases/1997/nre
t7002.txt