Populating the Vacant Channels

There are vacant channels between broadcast television stations in every media market. This spectrum can be used by unlicensed devices without interfering with television viewing.

An unlicensed allocation of these bands would be the most productive way to use this spectrum. Unlicensed spectrum is a proven way to generate technical and commercial innovation; promotes healthy diversity in markets and regulatory models; and complements the licensed allocation in the nearby 700 MHz band.

A broad cross-section of society would benefit, including rural and inner-city residents seeking affordable Internet access, entrepreneurs starting up digital communication businesses, cities and companies seeking to foster growth and productivity, and citizens who want to create home or community broadband networks.

Congress should press the FCC to act on its dormant Notice of Proposed Rulemaking by allocating this spectrum to unlicensed use.

To access the full Working Paper, see the attached PDF file.