The Way Forward
For the time being, wireless systems operating between 614 and 698 MHz are still legal to manufacture, sell and use in North America.
However, it’s certainly not too early to begin planning and budgeting for replacement or re-tuning (where applicable) of these systems during the next year or two.
Fortunately, all reputable wireless manufacturers have been planning for this event by designing systems with wide tuning ranges, flexible operation, and good receiver filtering.
Most manufacturers also now offer transmitters with user-selectable RF power that can range from as low as 1 mW for high-channel-count and short-distance applications to as high as 250 mW for long-range and/or high-noise-floor environments.
Keep in mind, though, that unlicensed users are only allowed 50 mW EIRP (a measurement of effective radiated power), which is generally more than enough power for most pro audio applications.
In addition, many manufacturers now also offer a range of options in the VHF bands, ranging from wireless microphone to IFB systems.
There are also systems available in alternate bands, including 1.8 GHz, 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, 6 GHz, and other bands as well. In general, these alternative bands are best used for specialized purposes because higher frequencies don’t have the same propagation characteristics as the VHF and lower UHF bands and thus aren’t usually as “general purpose.”
Also note that some bands, particularly 2.4 GHz, are already quite crowded, and can be unpredictable due to the same band being used for Wi-Fi. Don’t forget that even post re-pack, the lower UHF band from 470 to 608 MHz, as crowded as it may get, is still the largest piece of spectrum available.
As with the previous rounds of auctions, I would expect that most manufacturers will again offer trade-ins, special incentives and re-tuning services for recently purchased products within the affected frequency ranges. However, be sure to check with manufacturers for exact details on their programs.
More Positives
Another bit of good news, especially for pro audio, is that eligibility for Part 74 licensing has been expanded.
Previously these were available only broadcasters and filmmakers; now, however, anyone owning and/or regularly using 50-plus wireless systems are eligible for a license. Even those who don’t own or use such a large quantity may be able to be covered via their production/rental house.
If you need help checking eligibility, or would like to apply for a license, I recommend contacting Henry Cohen at CP Communications (NY area), Professional Wireless Services (Florida), C&K Engineering (Arizona), or Bill Ruck (Northern California). These experienced professionals can assist in the process, which can be frustrating for those not used to dealing with the federal government.
A final thought: a scary aspect to the FCC’s original proposal last spring was the possibility of further spectrum auctions. It looks as though the lower-than anticipated revenue from this latest one ($19 billion instead of the $21 billion from the 700 MHz auction) will slow down any further thoughts of additional auctions. (At least for the foreseeable future.)
The bottom line: pro audio is losing more spectrum but not as much as many had originally feared. Now is the time to start planning and budgeting to replace or re-program existing equipment to be compliant when the time comes.
Finally, don’t hesitate to contact manufacturers for guidance. We’re all in this together.
