Yesterday, it was reported that journalists attending the presidential debate at Hofstra University were banned from using personal hotspots and were told they had to pay $200 to access the event's Wi-Fi.
The journalists were reportedly offered the option to either turn off their personal hotspots or leave the debate.
Cyrus Farivar via Ars Technica is now reporting that "one of the members of the Federal Communications Commission, Jessica Rosenworcel, has asked the agency to investigate the Monday evening ban."
Ars Technica reports:
Earlier, Commissioner Jessica Rosenworcel tweeted, saying that something was "not right" with what Hofstra did. She cited an August 2015 order from the FCC, forcing a company called SmartCity to no longer engage in Wi-Fi blocking and to pay $750,000.
Ars has since updated their report with a statement from Karla Schuster, a spokeswoman for Hofstra University:
The Commission on Presidential Debates sets the criteria for services and requires that a completely separate network from the University's network be built to support the media and journalists.
This is necessary due to the volume of Wi-Fi activity and the need to avoid interference.
The Rate Card fee of $200 for Wi-Fi access is to help defray the costs and the charge for the service does not cover the cost of the buildout.
For Wi-Fi to perform optimally the system must be tuned with each access point and antenna.
When other Wi-Fi access points are placed within the environment the result is poorer service for all.
To avoid unauthorized access points that could interfere, anyone who has a device that emits RF frequency must register the device.
Whenever a RF-emitting device was located, the technician notified the individual to visit the RF desk located in the Hall.
The CPD RF engineer would determine if the device could broadcast without interference.
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Bull Spittle I think they're worrying too much.
I would suggest that they instead offer free WiF.
A couple of Apple Airport Extreme's around the room would have done the job with very little cash outlay.
As it were, right now they look like profiteers seeking to make a buck.
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