FCC to consider proposal that could boost Clearwire network speeds

During its June 9 open meeting, the Federal Communications Commission will consider a proposal that would allow operators in the 2.5 GHz band to make use of wider channel bandwidths. If the proposal is approved by the FCC, it could allow WiMAX operator Clearwire to expand from its recommended 5.5 MHz channel bandwidths to 20 MHz channel bandwidths or more, thus allowing the carrier to offer significantly faster upload and download speeds.

To be clear, a number of pieces must fall into place before Clearwire can actually widen its channels and boost its network speeds. First, the FCC must issue a Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking on the topic and solicit comments from the public. If the FCC does approve the proposal, then network equipment vendors will have to build suitable equipment for wider spectrum channels -- and Clearwire must deploy that equipment. Nonetheless, "the rule change would be beneficial to companies like Clearwire who may adopt wider channelization plans in the future," noted Clearwire spokesman Mike DiGioia.