The Issue

Many users of radio microphones and in-ear monitors are unaware that their usage of these devices may become illegal during 2012.

As part of the move from analogue TV to digital TV, known as the digital switchover, OFCOM have decided to sell off the bandwidth that many of these devices currently use. This will happen in late 2012.

The actual situation is a bit complicated but essentially OFCOM is clearing the 800MHz frequency band ( TV channels 61-69) and all devices that currently occupy this bandwidth will need to move.

Currently there are a number of deregulated frequencies (licence free) available in the Ch 69 band and it is these that are most likely to affect a large number of users. If you are using microphones that operate on Channel 69 they will be using the frequency band 854 – 862.99 MHz and use of these frequencies is set to disappear.

So What Do I Do?

Don't Panic!

It may be possible to reprogramme your equipment to operate on other free to use frequencies - these are to be found in Channel 70 using the 863 – 864.99 MHz frequency band. Although there are various frequencies available in this band you will only be able to operate a maximum of 4 devices without encountering intermodulation problems. Also bear in mind that Ch70 is likely to be attractive to other users in your immediate vicinity so you may find that you get breakthrough from their microphones and vice versa.

If your equipment can't be reprogrammed to use Channel 70 then regrettably you may need to purchase new microphones or in ear monitors.

Also if you need more than 4 devices or you experience problems with other users on Channel 70 then you may have to move to other frequencies that are not deregulated (free to use) and these are typically in the Channel 38 frequency band and you will need to purchase a licence to use this band. Licenses may be purchased from JFMG who administer the allocation of licences and they will allocate you frequencies which are not prone to interference from other licensed users in your vicinity.

Finally bear in mind that these changes do not affect the VHF frequency band so if your equipment is legally using the VHF frequencies now then it will remain so after the 2012 switchover.

This is a very brief overview of the issues surrounding the use of radio microphones and other devices that use the UHF frequencies specified, if you are unsure whether or how this affects you then please do contact us to discuss it further.

Remember this will affect organisations of all types typically schools, churches, community groups and doing nothing is not an option, you will need to establish the legality of your equipment usage or risk prosecution under the Wireless Telegraphy Act.