WASHINGTON — The FCC has set Nov. 4, the same day as the U.S. presidential election, to vote on the long-debated white spaces issue, a decision that will have a profound impact on how wireless audio products will be used in the future. Wireless audio manufacturers are hoping that the letters of support from the live event industry, musicians, houses of worship and sports groups against the freeing of the spectrum will influence the FCC’s decision. The comment period officially ended Oct. 27.
Paul Gallo, executive director of the Professional Audio Manufacturers Alliance, says that manufacturers are concerned about their user base and will work together to support them throughout this period no matter the ruling. “The manufacturers will stand behind their customers in this matter and we will work together to help them have a clear picture of what their track for the future is,” Gallo says.
Some believe that the FCC’s decision to hold the ruling on the same day as the presidential election is a tactic to sway publicity, especially amid the recent flurry of outcry from those opposed to the freeing of the white spaces.
“I don't think there are any accidents at the FCC,” Gallo says. “I believe it was a convenient day because it would not be reported on as much in the following days since coverage will be focused on the presidential election. Look at all the publicity that’s come up in the last week — they certainly don't want to see that happen Nov. 5.”
Gallo says he is hoping that a rational decision will be made, which he hopes to be an additional comments period to review the findings of the technical committee. As far as the worst-case scenario, Gallo says it is unclear if the decision will include a time period or if wireless audio users will be granted some use of the spectrum.
“Once there is clarification of a decision, we will make it clear to our customers, in a competitive way with each manufacturer pursuing its own technology solution, that the industry-at-large can depend on its very strong and concerned manufacturer group.”
