Poor Results in NFL White Spaces Test, says Shure

Prototypes of spectrum sensing devices performed poorly at a White Spaces test the Federal Communications Commission conduced on August 9 before and during the preseason NFL game between the Washington Redskins and the Buffalo Bills, according to Mark Brunner, senior director of public and industry relations at pro-audio vendor Shure. The FCC has been exploring the idea of opening unused parts of the analog broadcast TV spectrum -- dubbed white spaces -- to transmit high-speed data to portable devices. While the idea is backed by major technology firms, including Microsoft and Google, it has been criticized by broadcast and pro audio companies. They fear the devices might interfere with the transmission of DTV signals and wireless microphones. The issue is particularly important for high-def content, both in the transmission of HD broadcast signals and the use of wireless microphones in sporting or concert events using wireless microphones, Brunner said.