Tests show wireless network could harm GPS systems

Test results filed with federal regulators Thursday show that a proposed high-speed wireless broadband network being planned by a Virginia company called LightSquared could interfere with GPS systems used for everything from aviation to high-precision timing networks to consumer navigation devices.

The results were filed with the Federal Communications Commission by a technical working group created to study the extent of potential GPS interference that the LightSquared network would cause. The findings add to the debate about whether the FCC should permit LightSquared to proceed with its plans to launch a new nationwide wireless network that would compete with AT&T and Verizon Wireless.

Although the FCC gave LightSquared approval in January, the agency said it would not let the network be turned on until GPS interference problems are resolved.