The FCC last week dismissed without prejudice the request of The Rail Network to use broadcast spectrum to provide audio and video information to passengers on moving trains. The concept was to transmit over the FM spectrum (88 – 108 MHz) at relatively low power to flat TV screens in each rail car and portable FM receivers on the trains. A waiver was needed because the power levels requested exceeded those permissible under Part 15 of the rules for unlicensed operations. Not surprisingly, the broadcast industry objected that its own signals could be interfered with. The FCC concluded that The Rail Network had not demonstrated conclusively that its proposed signals would not create interference. The FCC did leave the door open for The Rail Network to come back again and make a stronger showing next time.
