SSE Audio Group
Radio Microphone Frequency Changes
Frequencies used by radio mics and in-ear monitors are changing. Find out details of the changes here.
You are probably aware that the government is making changes to the frequencies for operating radio mics. Here, we briefly explain the impact of the changes.
If you want to check if your mics and in-ear monitors conform to the new regulations, why not email us with the details of your mics (Make, Model and frequency, if known) and we will update you.
Email ryan.thomas@sseaudio.com
The communications regulator, Ofcom has decided to auction some wireless frequency bands for mobile broadband use that are currently used by radio microphones and in-ear monitors across the UK.
Basically, radio mics and in-ear monitors that use channel 69 (790-862 MHz) will be affected. From the 1st January 2013 access to Channels 61-69 will cease completely. Instead Channel 38 (606.5 - 613.5 MHz) has been allocated for this use.
However, although channel 38 is now widely available in 2012, it is affected by the digital switchover of terrestrial television transmissions, so users need to check Channel 38 availability for the time being.
For more information regarding the impact these changes will have on your choice of equipment, contact Ryan Thomas: ryan.thomas@sseaudio.com
Licence Information
PMSE
SSE Audio Group use, hire, install and sell radio systems for Programme Making & Special Events (PMSE).
This includes uses of wireless microphones, talk back and production services in theatrical performances, radio, and television programmes, conferences, places of worship, live events and so on, but only when directly associated with the performance or event.
The PMSE spectrum of frequencies are coordinated to avoid interference and licences are issued by JFMG (www.jfmg.co.uk) a spectrum management company.
Shared Frequencies
UK Wireless Microphone Licence (Shared frequencies, Ch69/Ch38)
VHF and UHF shared frequencies can be used anywhere in the UK once licensed. The licence can also cover anyone hiring from the licensee. Frequencies on this licence are provided on a non protected basis as they could be shared with other users in the local area. These frequencies are not coordinated by JFMG.
From the 1st January 2013 access to Channels 61 – 69 will cease completely. Until such time, annual licences within Channels 61 – 69 will continue to be issued. Any licences issued after 1st January 2012 will be for the remainder of 2012 and will expire on 31st December 2012.
Coordinated frequencies
Coordinated frequencies are licensed by JFMG at a specific site for short or long term. They provide the best protection against interference from other licensees and are planned to avoid interference from television transmissions.
Wireless Mics and In-Ear Monitors in the UK are generally available at VHF (170-210 MHZ) and UHF (470-865 MHZ).
Licence Exempt
The ranges 173.8 - 175 MHz and 863 - 865 MHz can be used without a licence. However these ranges are also used by other low power equipment so can be subject to interference.
Channel 38 is available on a shared non protected basis from 606.500 - 613.500 MHz but is subject to geographic restrictions until the end of 2012. Licensees may use any frequencies within this range however their availability in each location must be confirmed through the JFMG Channel 38 Look-up tool prior to use.
As Ofcom recognises that Channel 38 will not be fully available throughout the UK until the end of 2012, it has also included temporary access to channels 39 and 40 in those areas where channel 38 is not available until completion of Digital Switch Over.
Channel 38 licensees are required to use the Ch38 Look-up tool to check exactly what can be used at their location prior to operation.
Access to Channel 39 and Channel 40 on this basis will be removed from the UHF UK Wireless Microphone Licence once DSO has completed at the end of 2012.
Channel 69 is still available to use on pre-defined frequencies but will be removed at the end of 2012.
For further information:
Microphone and IEM Sales: Ryan Thomas ryan.thomas@sseaudio.com
For Hire of Radio Systems: SSE Hire hire@sseaudio.com
JFMG www.jfmg.co.uk
British Entertainment Industry Radio Group BEIRG www.beirg.co.uk
