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Why A Backup GPS Proposal Could [Impact Z-Wave in North America] (www.forbes.com)
submitted 5 months ago by to c/homeassistant@lemmy.world
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[–] 15 points 5 months ago* (last edited 5 months ago) (1 child)

tl:dr some company wants the FCC to let them pollute the shit out of the 900MHz unlicensed ISM so they can build another GPS-style satellite constellation. This would effect far more than just Z-wave.

Edit: not entirely accurate, read replies.

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  • [–] 12 points 5 months ago*

    Um Ackshually, NextNav's proposal doesn't involve satellites at all, at least directly. As I understand it, they would use the 900 MHz band to triangulate between cell towers with the technology. (As a convenient side effect, once the 900 MHz band is reallocated cell phone companies could use it too, which I'm sure NextNav can make money from.)

    Having a source of good position information that doesnt rely solely on satellites is important. However, the proposal hinges on NextNav's assessment that the band is "underutilized", though, which all sorts of people are objecting to. Still, this is the era of Trump, and anything can happen with the proper bribe.

    More technical into here: https://spectrum.ieee.org/gps-alternatives-nextnav-interference

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    • [–] 9 points 5 months ago (1 child)

    “There are currently 14 identified methodologies that have been recognized through grant writing and grant submissions by the Department of Transportation,” Rosenthal explained. “13 of those solutions do not require any spectrum change whatsoever from the FCC.”

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