The following, related to Ultra-Wideband, is from our UWB Coalition folks. Interesting regarding Part 15 noise studies in general. 73, Chris W3KD

FCC Chmn. Powell responded to Sen. Burns (R-Mont.) letter requesting more information about ultra- wideband (UWB) devices being tested by Commission, saying there were apparent misconceptions in Burns' original Aug. 1 letter asking about agency's testing plans (CD Aug 6 p5). Powell said FCC wasn't currently testing UWB devices, few UWB devices were even available to be tested and most of them were ground-penetrating radar. "There is little opportunity for performing real world tests of interference of radio services now," Powell wrote. He said FCC anticipated conducting tests of UWB devices once enough became available to provide representative sample. FCC currently is testing common consumer electronic devices such as computers, electric drills, hair dryers and others that are sources of incidental electromagnetic radiation that can cause interference with some radio signals. It also is studying radio noise that exists in envir onments such as from airports and factories, Powell wrote. In FCC's decision implementing UWB standards, major consideration is determining whether restrictions are unnecessary considering existing sources of radio interference, Powell wrote. "These tests will provide a baseline measure of typical ambient noise levels as well as noise levels from unintentional radiators that might be present at a location where a UWB device is used," he said. In earlier letter, Burns emphasized that testing results should be made public and should be open for public comment. Powell said FCC would publish report and test methodology in fall and insert copy of report into UWB rulemaking proceeding, which will give opportunity for public comment. "Commission staff have extensive experience in performing these types of measurements," Powell said. "Therefore, it is not necessary to invite public comment on the measurement procedures before the report is published." --- ---