Google announced yesterday that their TV white spaces (unused channels in a TV spectrum) trial will provide broadband connectivity to 10 schools in and around Cape Town. The trial will demonstrate the potential of white spaces as a platform to deliver faster internet connectivity to the developing world, if it comes off.
Broadcasters, however are not embracing the idea, for fear that it may interfere with TV services. Google will attempt to put those fears to rest during the trial.
Firstly, Google will use its database of available spectrum to choose channels that are least likely to cause interference.
Secondly the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research Meraka Institute will be allowed to log spectrum measurments. Those results will then be reported frequently to the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa to stand as proof that nothing has gone wrong.
[Source: The Verge]
[imagesource: Sararat Rangsiwuthaporn] A woman in Thailand, dubbed 'Am Cyanide' by Thai...
[imagesource:renemagritte.org] A René Magritte painting portraying an eerily lighted s...
[imagesource: Alison Botha] Gqeberha rape survivor Alison Botha, a beacon of resilience...
[imagesource:mcqp/facebook] Clutch your pearls for South Africa’s favourite LGBTQIA+ ce...
[imagesource:capetown.gov] The City of Cape Town’s Mayoral Committee has approved the...