Stop this train before it gets away from us all.

Unless they are in touch with ALL the users, it really won't work. I'll admit that there are others wanting to grab the spectrum, but LEAVE IT ALONE.

My need comes from wireless Mic's, which in the USA are unlicensed part 15 devices. This is a different application since the operator of the unit controls BOTH ends of the channel. The "white space" grabbers have nodes that have a single "point of view" and while their "signal detectors" might detect some signals, they won't detect all parts (specifically the receiver) of the channel. This is the flaw in the use. Since they can't detect the receiver (even if it is a TV), they cannot say that the space is "unused". The receiving box (whatever it is) may have a nice directional antenna that picks up the signal, and then a more local "white space" thing comes along and blabs its heart out, which can/will be picked up by the receiver it can't detect. The non-"white space" user is then out of luck.

It is like trying to cross the street and only looking ONE WAY. You are sure to get run over!

They can make a device that can spot other transmitters, but it hasn't been proven yet that these wireless devices will not interfere with DTV reception. There is already a large installed base of TV receivers with very cheap tuners. They likely lack the dynamic range and selectivity required to stay locked on the TV station in the presence of stronger local wireless nodes. This "real world" testing has yet to be done. Keep that sparkling cider on ice for now.

Don't get me wrong, I don't like MS, not one bit, but...

I always get a giggle rising up whenever I see people who use transmitters which (by their own admission) uses an unlicensed segment of the airwaves get up in arms when someone else dares suggest that they too should be allowed to use it.

I'm sorry, you can't have it both ways. Either get the manufacturing companies(or a consortium of same) to "buy" the spectrum your mics use, at which point you can exclude everyone else, OR continue to use the spectrum "free of charge" but stop complaining when Joe Blog decides to do the same.

You guys remind me of someone who camps out in a State Forest and then grumbles because someone else dares pitch a tent within hearing distance. (or VOIP users who complain they have to share the bandwidth with other applications. How dare P2P use bandwidth when they want to make a call!)

These will cause interference. Because a yagi on a TV set will pickup the TV and the WS unit, which due to its small portable aerial(s) won't hear the TV channel.

This is part of the "Cognitive" radio movement which if allowed space to grow will destroy predictable use of bands for long life equipment.

I know it's just my 2 pennies worth but hey - TV is shit anyway. As far as I'm concerned they can stuff TV up their you-know-whats. Of course, I'm not a radio wave boffin...