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My daughter told me this afternoon that her high school blocks cell phones during the school day. I have not confirmed that it actually does, but would that not be in violation of FCC regs? Just asking for opinions on that question, not whether or not it might be a good policy for the school, or whether the students' "rights" are being violated.
It could depend on how they block the signals. If they have a Faraday shield around the school, there is little that the FCC can do about that.
Correct. Some buildings are natural shields.Quote:
Originally Posted by X-Rated
However, if they are using active blocking methods, that's a big no no. Even prisons are not allowed to do that because they could block legitimate signals.
If the school is making the claim that they are indeed blocking signals when it's just a matter of circumstance, that could also be a violation of some type that could lead to correctional measure be taken on the administration.
...and if they ever find themselves in a situational emergency (ex. Columbine), they'll regret ever doing so. I defy anyone to remember where and how to shut it down when the chaos starts or in time to get necessary help. They'll wish they never implemented that stupid and illegal idea.
I have yet to see too many buildings that naturally block cell signals all that well. A few weeks ago I was walking through a section of a hospital hallway that was designated as a fallout shelter and I still had a cell signal. Weak but still usable. Building in Manhattan where I used to work had a "computer research lab" in what was once a designated basement underground fallout shelter. Absolutely no cell signals or any other signals from the outside world permeated that space. Probably would offer great gamma ray protection down there as well.
If the school is deliberately jamming cell sigs via some kind of deliberate jammer then they're probably in violation. If somehow the building naturally blocks the sigs then maybe not
I had a hat blocked once.
Did it hurt?Quote:
Originally Posted by W1GUH
Me too. Next time I'll take it off first.Quote:
Originally Posted by W1GUH
OK, got 5 helpful replies before the comedy routines. Not bad.
The reminder about Columbine is disturbing.
I don't think a Faraday cage is in place; calls are blocked only during school hours.
BTW, if the school building (for some strange reason like the school is shielded or deep underground) naturally blocks cell sigs it would probably also block police, fire, ems as well... NOT GOOD. But if they are selectively jamming then its more than likely against the law. In order to stop kids from using cell phones the principal probably bought an illegal cell phone jammer off Deal Extreme or some other Chinese distributor. From ,y experiences principals tend to be sort of clueless and dumb. Inform the principal that you will notify the FCC and he'll probably stop. If not then notify the FCC.