600 & 700MHz FCC Auction

Regarding DTV and White Space Devices, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) adopted changes and approved wireless devices that affect the operation of wireless microphone, wireless intercom, wireless IFB, and wireless In-Ear Monitors in the VHF and UHF band frequencies.

In 2008, the FCC auctioned off television channels 52 through 69 (698MHZ to 806MHz). Known as the 700MHZ auction, the FCC mandated that all existing radio operation and television above 700MHz cease.

A consortium of cellular companies purchased the 700MHz band and the usse of the 700MHz band is slowly being taken advantage of by the cellular companies.

The following is a brief explanation of several issues and how they affect wireless operation. This information may help in identifying problems and finding solutions.

Most wireless systems make use of VHF and UHF television bands between 150MHz and 698MHz. These correspond to television channels 7 through 52. Wireless use occurs within the unused and available areas between the in-use digital television channels (DTV). Radio interference occurs when wireless operation is forced to compete with or within existing DTV transmissions. Symptoms of radio interference can be displayed as noisy operation or poor range. Depending on city, user location and RF levels, RF interference has occurred for wireless systems still operating within the 700MHz band.

2008 DTV Change Over

The FCC mandated that all full power television stations cease the analog (NTSC) television signal and only broadcast the digital television signal (DTV). This “DTV Change Over” was scheduled for February 17, 2009. The actual date was delayed closer to 2010.

As in 2008, the FCC is contemplating auctioning off the 600MHz band sometime during 2015. Again, licensed users and existing television stations currently within the 600MHz band will be forced to move to television channels between 7 (174MHz) and 35 (596MHz).

White Space Devices

On November 4, 2008, the FCC approved the future use of “White Space Devices”. The “White Space Devices” or “TVBD” (television band devices) are destined to operate within white spaces. Depending on the RF level, location and proximity to these devices, RF interference to wireless systems is possible. The devices are required to be “geo-specific”, use data bases of existing “licensed” wireless users, and use “spectrum sensing” technologies. Larger production facilities and touring productions that require heavy wireless use can be licensed with the help of the FCC wireless microphone database.

Bosch, Clear Com, Shure and several other wireless microphone manufacturers offer alternative frequency systems that operate outside of the VHF/UHF television bands. These systems provide wireless communications in the 900MHz, 1.9GHz and 2.4GHz bands.

Production Wireless Services provides information, service, support and sales for most professional wireless products. Production Wireless Services will continue full service and support during and after any FCC mandated changes.

Please contact us email or call with any questions or issues.