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Planned wireless Internet network threatens GPS

April 06, 2011

WASHINGTON (AP) — A battle is brewing over a new, ultra-fast wireless Internet network.

Device makers, public safety officials and the Pentagon say they worry it could interfere with everything from airplanes to police cars.

A Virginia company called LightSquared is building a nationwide broadband network using airwaves on a band next to those used for GPS. Opponents warn that the planned network could jam existing systems.

There's disagreement on how expensive a technical fix might be and there's no agreement on who should pay. Government officials pledge to block LightSquared from turning on its network unless they receive assurances it won't cause a problem.

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The Federal Communications Commission approved it, seeking to boost wireless competition and bring faster and cheaper Internet connections to all parts of the country.

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