The FCC Office of Engineering and Technology (OET) focused on the use of technology to manage interference and improve spectrum use in its 2004 Biennial Regulatory Review Staff Report released last week. OET described how the bureau was responding to the recommendations from the FCC Spectrum Policy Task Force. Some the examples included the Notice of Inquiry seeking comment on its proposed interference temperature model for quantifying and managing interference, the Notice of Inquiry regarding including receiver interference performance specifications as part of its spectrum policy and the FCC's initiative to explore uses of cognitive radio technology to improve spectrum use.
The Report described the efforts OET had taken to allow the use of Ultra Wideband (UWB) technology and access broadband over power lines (BPL). New rules for operation of unlicensed devices on current Part 15 frequencies and its proposal to open unused TV spectrum for unlicensed devices were mentioned. The FCC said the new rules encouraged and facilitated "an environment that stimulates investment and innovation in broadband technology and services. "
The 2004 Biennial Regulatory Review Staff Report is 25 pages long and has details on other OET accomplishments and projects, such as new RF exposure rules. While much of the information in the report relates to FCC OET actions and proposals previously discussed, you may find the year-end summary interesting.
