Weather Effects on Wireless Microphone Equipment

Winter and Fall often conjures up cold and wet memories of wireless use. The Spring and Summer remind me of that unexpected rainstorm that nearly ruined the outdoor production.

Here are some ideas or suggestions that may help keep that extra dBm of RF on your next show.

The closest you’re going to get to waterproof is water resistant.  You may be able to enclose a body pack in anything from a condom to a sealed plastic bag with a gaff tape, but you’ll never get the lava or headset away from sweat, body heat and the outdoor elements.  Once a mic has been “sweated out”, take the mic to a warm, dry place and allow the water vapor to remove itself or dry out. Fans, hair dryers, the top of warm running electronic equipment all are sources of dry heat. After twelve to 24 hours the mic should be nearly as good as new.

Battery life in the cold is often only 75% or less of what may be expected in ideal conditions. Keep the batteries warm by carrying them in pants or shirt pockets or storing them inside a warm area helps.  Installing the warm batteries just before dressing or sound check will help the battery life.  Always plastic wrap or bag RF antennas that are exposed to the elements.  Water, dust, salt and even the wind all combine to loosen and deteriorate electronic connections and welds resulting in poor or no reception and/or transmission.  If the antennas are out of view, leave the plastic bag(s) on.  Try and keep antenna cables off of the deck and away from electrical and dimmer cables.  Radio interference (RFI), noise and hum will be greatly reduced or eliminated.

Do you have a wireless microphone question?  Please contact us and we will post the answer here on our site!