FCC provides users with tools to perform broadband speed test

The Federal Communications Commission recently announced that it has developed tools that will allow users to measure their broadband speed and inform their internet service provider when their service is down.

The Broadband Consumer Test uses two popular tests to make its measurements and is also available users of the iPhone and newly released Droid. Understanding where service is consistently slow or unavailable will provide the FCC with information for its National Broadband Plan. Also, as money continues to be distributed from the American Recovery and Reinvesment Act, the data gathered from the tests will enable the government to make informed decisions as to who is in need of the funds.

"Transparency empowers consumers, promotes innovation and investment, and encourages competition," FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski said in a statement. "The FCC's new digital tools will arm users with real-time information about their broadband connection and the agency with useful data about service across the country."

The FCC plans to announced its intentions for the National Broadband Plan sometime next week. The goal is to provide adequate high-speed internet service throughout the U.S.