The Broadcast Spectrum
Of the 700MHz of available space left on the broadcast spectrum after the digital transition, 60MHz will be used for wireless broadband and 24MHz will be allocated for emergency response.
On January 16, 2008, the FCC plans to auction the rest of what is being referred to as “white space.” The available broadband could provide a fast, strong signal for services like the high-speed internet, Wi-Fi, and cell phones.
High-tech and consumer electronics companies want to use the spectrum to offer wireless broadband services to customers. However, there are concerns that this use of “white space” could interfere with the quality of digital television.
With these concerns in mind, tech companies are working to create portable devices that detect unoccupied, “white space” frequencies on the spectrum. Prototype devices would be thoroughly tested in densely populated areas in order to meet FCC standards.
No matter who places the winning bid, future spectrum owners must meet open access requirements, supporting all devices and applications with no limitations.
Plug-and-Play Cable Cards
A plug-and-play television is a digital television that plugs directly into a cable jack and does not require a set-top box to view programming. Plug-and-play televisions are used with a security card called a CableCARD. The CableCARD is inserted into a slot on the plug-and-play set that allows the television to receive and display paid programming services.
First generation plug-and-play sets receive one-way, basic programming only including analog, digital, and premium services. Second generation plug-and-play sets are able to receive advanced services like pay-per-view and video-on-demand. First generation plug-and-play sets need a set-top box to receive these interactive services.
If you are considering buying a plug-and-play digital television, look for label that reads “digital cable ready” or ask your retailer for verification. While all plug-and-play sets are digital, not all are HDTV’s. If you are interested in subscribing to high-definition service, make sure to purchase a HDTV plug-and-play set that displays full high-definition quality.
