The
Federal Communications Commission recently completed a multi-year exploration
of the role of wireless microphones in modern content production and the
technical challenges that surround their use. The study included
consultations with wireless microphone users across many different types of
productions.
Concluding
that the use of wireless microphones is an integral part of major productions
and events, and essential to maintaining high standards of production quality,
the FCC has adopted new rules that expand wireless microphone license
eligibility to include professional sound companies and venues that routinely
use 50 or more wireless microphones. The move will insure that concert
venues, theaters, convention centers, theme parks, professional sound
companies, and other large-scale users will continue to be able to employ
wireless microphones reliably as spectrum use intensifies.
After
consideration of technical and regulatory factors, the Commission concluded
that the use of wireless microphones (and related equipment such as in-ear
monitors and production intercoms) at major productions and events could be
effectively protected by expanding license eligibility. Wireless microphone
users may request protection from interference from TV Band Devices (also known
as ‘white space’ devices) at the time and location of these events by
registering in one of the FCC-approved TV Bands Devices Databases.
Licensed users are able to obtain protection in a more streamlined and
efficient manner. Previously, only broadcasters, cable networks, and
TV/film production companies were eligible for licenses.
“Shure
applauds the FCC’s thoughtful decision regarding expansion of entities eligible
for wireless microphone licenses,” said Mark Brunner, Senior Director, Global
Brand Management at Shure. “As spectrum demand is increasing from a wide
variety of technologies and services, protection of professional audio
operations is becoming more critical. We are pleased that the Commission
has recognized the wide impact that wireless microphones have on our daily
lives – in broadcasting and media production, sports, live entertainment, and
in corporate, civic, education, and worship venues. This action takes an
important step forward in updating the regulations regarding professional audio
operations that have become an integral part of American culture and aligns
with views held by regulatory authorities around the world. Shure
appreciates the careful attention the FCC has paid to this issue.”
