The National Association of Broadcasters calls for the creation of a “safe zone” to remove any threats of possible interference from low power indoor devices (LPI).
In December 2019, the NAB filed an ex parte regarding a 2018 proposed ruling to open the 6 GHz spectrum band for unlicensed devices. This could allow for an increase in the amount of spectrum available for Wi-Fi.
The band is essentially used by utility companies and ENG crews. However, the NAB believes opening the spectrum would cause interference issues. The group declared a disturbance could ensue due to the increased need to provide news and information during the current Coronavirus pandemic.
The FCC claimed the interference risk to be insignificant. A claim that the NAB argued was done with little to no independent analysis.
“Unfortunately, NAB, broadcasters across the country and their viewers cannot rely upon mere judgment rather than independent analysis of a highly technical issue,” the ex parte states.
“As a result, we believe that allowing a safe zone of less than seven percent of the overall band where LPI cannot occur at this time at least provides both the Commission and broadcasters some protection as the band is forever altered.”
Read the full ex parte here.
