FCC approves software radio device

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WASHINGTON, Nov. 20 (UPI) -- The FCC has announced its approval of the first software defined radio device allowed in the United States.

The new equipment will allow users to share limited airspace, increase flexibility, and reduce interference concerns.

"This is the first step in what may prove to be a radio technology revolution," said FCC Chairman Michael Powell. "The industry's pioneering work to find more creative and efficient use of our airwaves will continue to bring benefits to consumers."

The Laboratory Division of the Commission's Office of Engineering and Technology issued a Grant of Certification to Vanu, Inc., a software development company, for a cellular base station transmitter.

Software defined radios can change the frequency range, modulation type or output power of a radio device without making changes to hardware components. This programmable capacity permits radios to be highly adaptable to changing needs, protocols and environments.