FCC responds to Manassas ARRL and COMTek`s Broadband over Powerline dispute over Interference issues

FCC responds to broadband dispute


By JACLYN PITTS
jpitts@manassasjm.com
Tuesday, June 20, 2006


It's been nearly three years since Manassas implemented broadband over powerline technology - and local amateur radio enthusiasts have battled with interference they say is caused by the system ever since.

In March, the Federal Communications Commission directed Manassas and Communication Technologies Inc. (COMTek) to investigate these allegations and take steps to eliminate "harmful interference."

Now the FCC has responded to Manassas' report on its progress and directed both the city and COMTek to further address interference issues and the system's non-compliance with FCC emission regulations.

The city and COMTek have 20 days from June 16 to file a detailed report on actions taken and progress made in resolving the interference complaint cited in the March directive, according to the June letter.

COMTek and the city have 30 days from June 16 to provide a detailed report on actions taken to bring and maintain system compliance with FCC emission requirements.

The FCC also directed Manassas and COMTek to provide information regarding plans to ensure adequate notice to customers if the FCC orders the system to be shut down, according to the letter.

COMTek spokesman Scott Stapf said what is requested in the FCC's most recent letter is customary procedure in the complaint process, and the company anticipated such requests.

COMTek is in the middle of upgrading 600 overhead lines, a move Stapf said is on schedule to be completed by the end of this year.

Stapf said he thinks the upgrade will address the FCC's concerns.

"COMTek is fully committed to getting the situation resolved," Stapf said.

Stapf explained that the FCC is simply requesting an update on the company's interference investigations.

George Tarnovsky, vice president for Ole Virginia Hams, a local ham radio group, said he finds the FCC's letter as a "positive motion" on the FCC's part.

"Hopefully this will resolve the interference issues here in Manassas and if not, the FCC will shut them down," Tarnovsky said.

Tarnovsky said he and fellow hams look forward to working with COMTek and the city to resolve all interference issues.

"I think I can speak for all parties in saying we're looking forward to a BPL-interference-free Manassas," Tarnovsky said.

Manassas became the first American municipality to implement the technology citywide in 2003.

By plugging a modem into any city electrical outlet, subscribers can get high-speed Internet access for about $29 per month, approximately half of what cable providers charge.

BPL radiates off power lines and can make certain shortwave radio frequencies inaudible.

COMTek's BPL service runs through the city's power grid and has nearly 1,000 subscribers.


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