FCC: Your Wireless Microphone May Become Illegal to Use
Do you use wireless mics in worship, during weddings or other events? The ability to use certain models legally will end on June 12, 2010 under a new FCC ruling.
This will affect microphones and similar devices (including wireless inner ear monitors or wireless intercoms) which operate in the 700MHz band (698-806 MHz).
These new rules apply even if you have previously obtained a license to operate within that range.
This change comes now because the FCC auctioned off the 700MHz spectrum in 2008 and the entities who purchased those bands want them clear.
Some companies are offering rebates and trade-up programs. If your equipment can no longer be used and was purchased in the last couple of years, check with your vendor for promotions as soon as possible. Don't wait for the June deadline or you may miss out.
A list of equipment that can no longer be used
The FCC ruling states:
- We provide for an early clearing mechanism that, to the extent that a public safety or commercial licensee will be initiating operations in the 700 MHz Band on specified frequencies and particular markets before June 12, 2010, permits a licensee to require users of low power auxiliary stations, including wireless microphones, to cease operations 60 days after notice.
- We stress that the operations of low power auxiliary stations, including wireless microphones, in the 700 MHz Band must cease immediately if at any time users of these devices cause harmful interference to a 700 MHz public safety or commercial licensee.
- With respect to unauthorized operations of wireless microphones and other low power auxiliary stations, we waive our Part 15 rules for a limited period to permit unauthorized users of wireless microphones and other low power auxiliary stations to operate on an unlicensed basis under Part 15 pursuant to certain specified technical requirements – in the 700 MHz Band until June 12, 2010, and in the core “TV bands”3 until the effective date of the Commission’s actions in response to the Further Notice.
Church media staff and media volunteers, If you have experience and would be willing to be a resource for churches with need in answering equipment related-questions and offering advice, please e-mail bmills@txcumc.org.
Further
FCC Ruling - document about new restrictions
Christianity Today Article: Understanding New Wireless Microphone Restrictions
ARS Technica Article on the new ruling