[TowerTalk] Re: BPL

[Jim Lux]

 From the FCC press release (the R&O isn't online yet... search for 
FCC-04-245 tomorrow)

The press release says:

Sets forth rules imposing new technical requirements on BPL devices, such 
as the capability to avoid using any specific frequency and to remotely 
adjust or shut down any unit;
 >>> might be interesting to know the resolution with which this must be 
done, and what performance level they expect (skirt steepness, for instance).

Establishes "excluded frequency bands" within which BPL must avoid 
operating entirely to protect aeronautical and aircraft receivers 
communications; and establishes "exclusion zones" in locations close to 
sensitive operations, such as coast guard or radio astronomy stations, 
within which BPL must avoid operating on certain frequencies;

 >>> Looks like they paid attention to ARINC..


Establishes consultation requirements with public safety agencies, federal 
government sensitive stations, and aeronautical stations.

 >>> Don't see amateurs here... responding to NTIAs original filing, and 
the FEMA, etc. concerns.

Establishes a publicly available Access BPL notification database to 
facilitate an organized approach to identification and resolution of 
harmful interference.

 >>> Be interesting to see how this actually plays out.  The devil is in 
the details with this kind of thing.  Is it at the "Company XYZ has 
installed Access BPL in Los Angeles County" or is it "P/N xyz S/N abc 
installed at Lat/Lon".  There may be a lot of finagling on implementation 
here (Homeland security concerns, proprietary rights concerns, update 
frequency for the database, etc.)

Changes the equipment authorization for Access BPL systems from 
verification to certification; and

 >>> this is quite significant... and not good.. verification means they 
have to test for compliance. certification means they can just sign a piece 
of paper saying, in effect, "designed to meet"

Improves measurement procedures for all equipment that use RF energy to 
communicate over power lines.
 >> who knows.. could be good bad or indifferent.