Inside The Beltway…

Operators Encouraged To Test Google TV-Band Database
Next Monday, the FCC’s Office of Engineering and Technology (OET) will allow concerned parties to test Google Inc.’s TV band database system to make sure it correctly identifies channels available for unlicensed RF devices operating in the TV band. Parties also can see if the database properly registers radio-transmitting facilities that must be protected, and that it provides protection to authorized services and registered facilities as specified in the rules. Participants will be able to test such things as the channel-availability calculator and the MVPD receive site (cable headend and satellite receive site) registration utility; they then can report to Google directly on the test Web site. Once Google crunches all tester comments and concerns, it will provide a summary report to OET that identifies problems reported and their disposition along with descriptions of changes made to the channel availability calculator or the registration systems.
 
What’s On The FCC Open-Meeting Agenda?
The March 20 open meeting at the FCC tentatively has commissioners considering a NPRM to improve the reliability of 911 service nationwide based on recommendations contained in the Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau’s January 2013 report on the impact of the East Coast derecho storm. The panel also will hear from the Office of Native Affairs and Policy, which will present its report on the agency’s work with tribal nations and native communities last year, and highlighting projects expanding the reach of voice, broadband and radio broadcast services.