TV White Space Usage Green-Lighted For Wireless Connections

The FCC has approved the use of white space TV channels (the unused space between channels) for the use of wireless connectivity.  The white space frequencies do not require a FCC license to use.  Current WiFi technologies have a limited range and are impaired by objects such as walls.  The white space spectrum can have ranges measured in miles and can easily penetrate objects.  We may see some proof of concept products as soon as January at CES 2011.

Roku Refreshes Product Line

Roku has refreshed their entire line of set-top TV boxes with prices ranging from $60 - $100, depending on model.  The high-end Roku XD|S will even play content from a USB connected hard drive (via free software update available in November).  At this time, the Roku XD|S will only be able to playback video in mp4 & m4v (H.264) formats.  This product line should give both the WDTV and Apple TV products a run for their money.  Also, we should hear some more details about the upcoming Google TV any day!

Roku currently has deals with the following companies to stream content to their products

• Video: Netflix, Amazon Video, Flixster, ChannelLive, and more


• Sports: UFC, MLB.TV, MCC, AFL, GAA


• News: Twit.TV, Revision3, Mediafly, TechPodcasts.com and more


• Music: Pandora, MP3Tunes, radiotime, MOG, and more


• Social: vimeo, SmugMug, facebook photos, BREAK.com, flickr, and more 

Below is a quick reference guide for choosing the Roku that is right for you.

Roku HD

• Works with any TV


• 720p video (Composite & HDMI)


• 802.11g WiFi


• 10/100 Ethernet


• Price $59.99 

Roku XD

• Same as Roku HD but adds


• 1080p video (Composite & HDMI)


• Instant replay button


• 802.11n WiFi


• Price $79.99 

Roku XD|S

• Same as Roku XD but adds


• Dual-Band WiFi


• Component video & optical audio


• USB ports for content playback (via software upgrade)


• Price $99.99