by Alex Hudson, the BBC
Insatiable demand for wireless services means that, despite new technology, the airwaves are running out of room. Could making use of the space between signals be the solution to all our problems? By 2014, global data traffic will increase by 39 times from current levels, reaching 3.6 exabytes (around 3.9 billion gigabytes) per month, according to wireless firm Cisco. And this means that current wireless networks are approaching breaking point. “Compared with other forms of wireless technology like Bluetooth and wi-fi, white-space devices are being designed to use lower frequencies that have traditionally been reserved for TV.” Every device that uses wireless technology – from remote-locking car keys and TV controls right through to the latest smart phones or tablets – uses a part of the spectrum. While it is hoped that 4G and LTE technology will relieve some pressure on capacity, many see this as only a short-term solution.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/programmes/click_online/9658117.stm
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