FCC 700 Mhz Devices Ruling
Under a new FCC rule, anyone who uses a wireless microphone that operates in the 700 MHz Band will have to stop operating their wireless microphone by June 12, 2010. To see if this law affects your wireless microphone, check this list on the FCC's website. See a summary of the ruling.

Why did the FCC make this rule?
Certain wireless microphones have operated in frequencies that are needed for public safety. When these microphones were first designed, the frequencies they used were inbetween the frequencies that television stations used to broadcast television programs. With the completion of the digital television (DTV) transition on June 12, 2009, television stations no longer use the frequencies between 698 and 806 MHz (the 700 MHz Band) for broadcast. These frequencies are now being used by public safety entities (such as police, fire and emergency services) and by commercial providers of wireless services (such as wireless broadband services). The wireless microphones that have been operating in the old TV broadcast channels can cause harmful interference to these public safety and wireless consumer services. Therefore, all users of wireless microphones (or certain low power auxiliary stations) that operate on any of the frequencies in the 700 MHz band – including both licensed users (under Part 74) and unlicensed users – now have to stop operating in this band.

The FCC is only prohibiting the use of wireless microphones that operate in the 700 MHz Band (other devices operating in the 698 -806 MHz range are included as well. i.e., RF wireless mice, RF projector remotes etc). You may continue to use wireless microphones that operate on other broadcast frequencies. Microphones with cords are not affected by the FCC's decision.

FCC 700 MHz Ruling - What does this mean to me?
If you are using any wireless devices, specifically wireless microphones you must cease the use of these by June 12, 2010.

Really, Me?
Yes, this seems crazy, but it is true. If you use a wireless mic in your Church, Bar, School, Company, Band, DJ business or knitting group, you must stop using these devices.

What happens if I don’t?
The FCC has not specified a penalty yet. One can assume a first time offence will be a "Cease and Desist" order, penalties may be assessed after that.

How will they find out?
OK, this is speculation here, but more than likely the FCC will not be out hunting you down, BUT they have sold these frequencies to some pretty heavy hitters (e.g. AT&T, Verizon, Qualcomm, and many local and regional providers) that may be motivated to clear the band that they paid some pretty big bucks for. One can assume these guys will start to police this and make reports to the FCC. The odds of getting caught are slim, but those who wish to be compliant have options.

How do I know what frequency I have?
On the transmitter (mic) or the receiver there will be a frequency printed on a label, usually in the battery compartment. It will be a range formatted as ### - ###. If either of the numbers fall within the range between 698 to 806, then you should consult this list at the FCC website to confirm by manufacturer. Some manufacturers use a letter code such as "Channel Group A." If this is the case, then follow this link to look up your specific model.

OK, I want to be compliant, what do I do?
Step one is going to be buy a new mic. We can help you decide what to purchase and possibly find you a manufacturer rebate for the purchase. Companies like Shure are offering from $40 to $1000 off of a system depending on the quality level you purchase.

We have a very close relationship with Shure and can help you with the process. Please feel free to contact us with any questions you may have concerning the FCC ruling or your options for becoming compliant. Look to the top of this page for our phone, email and chat contact info.

Courtesy: AVrent.com     AVequipment.com     AVcompanies.com