I understand that it is necessary for broadcasters, wireless companies, etc for transmission. But there can only be a finite amount of spectrum. Has it all been used up? If there is some remaining then does the FCC hold it back? Do companies get more efficient in using it? If it is such a finite and valuable resource then wouldn’t companies pay a lot for their licenses?
In: 2
Not an expert but I think they are limited because at some point that spectrum becomes visible (aka light) and on the other side it starts using too much energy. The more high energy spectrum is you are sending at the more energy gets lost every meter it travels so your broadcast will reach fewer people with the same energy. At some point this just becomes too inefficient.
So it’s a limited spectrum. Now when the FCC auctions spectrums it just assigns the right to use a certain spectrum to someone. This spectrum might have previously belonged to someone else or it might be completely new, a “reserve” spectrum if you so will.
Latest Answers