The ARRL is calling on the FCC to evaluate the interference
potential of unlicensed wireless devices on the 5 GHz band before going forward
with plans to make additional frequencies available there. In reply comments
filed in the ongoing proceeding on unlicensed National Information
Infrastructure (U-NII) devices, the League reiterated its argument - apparently
bolstered by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration -
that aggregate interference caused by the use of thousands of these devices
remain unknown. U-NII devices include vehicular collision avoidance systems and
other so-called dedicated short-range communications applications. The League
also pointed out that while Congress ordered the FCC to begin a rulemaking
proceeding on permitting U-NII devices at 5.35-5.47 GHz, the Commission added
5.85-5.925 GHz to the NPRM of its own accord. Amateur radio has a secondary
allocation at 5.65-5.925 GHz.