FCC encourages broadcasters to exit 700 MHz

The Federal Communications Commission modified its current rules and is encouraging private arrangements for television broadcasters if they clear their spectrum so it can be bought and used by wireless carriers.

Earlier this year, the FCC postponed the sale of the airwaves--scheduled to take place this month--and has yet to set a new date. Currently, television broadcasters that use channels 60 through 69 are supposed to move to digital from analog airwaves by the end of 2006 or when the penetration rate for digital television in the U.S. reaches 85%.

Because some industry and government officials have said they doubt the transition to digital signals will be completed by the end of 2006, wireless companies have said they would be hesitant to bid much for the airwaves, because it is uncertain when the television broadcasters actually would clear the spectrum.

Still, the FCC is banking on reselling the airwaves to carriers like Verizon Wireless and AT&T Wireless.

--Kelly Carroll, staff writer