Still, their arguments turn not so much on what they can offer today-but what they promise for tomorrow. Unfortunately, their wireless vs. landline message seems to miss the mark. The telecommunications network really is a mixed bag-it is a labyrinth of many technologies serving many different needs. And nowhere is that truer than in rural America, where different climates, terrain, and demographics dictate demands for various communications solutions. In other words, what works in Montana doesn't necessarily work in Georgia.
Wireless carriers are, indeed, invading local markets.
The jury is still out on whether they are conquering them. The manufacturers of these devices must submit them for review by the FCC to confirm that the emissions will be low power and will not emit out of band to create interference. After receiving certification, customers may purchase and deploy the devices without any further FCC contact. Starting in the early 1990s, a company called Metricom began offering Internet service in a few cities at dial-up speeds over the ISM frequencies in the 900 MHz band. The FCC is encouraging this trend.