FCC Adopts Order to Clear Wireless Microphones from the 700 MHz Band

On January 15 2010, the FCC released a Report and Order and Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking that requires all low auxiliary stations, including wireless microphones, to cease operation in the 700 MHz band (i.e. channels 52 - 69) no later than June 12, 2010. The FCC also has adopted an early clearing mechanism permitting public safety or commercial licensees commencing operations in the 700 MHz Band before June 12 to require wireless microphone users to cease co-channel operations upon 60 days prior notice. The FCC says it has taken this action to "...ensure that public safety and commercial licensees can operate in the 700 MHz Band without interference, while providing entities currently operating wireless microphones in the band with an opportunity to relocate to other bands." The order also authorizes the use of wireless microphones, on an unlicensed basis, by entities not currently eligible to obtain licenses. The Further Notice portion seeks comment on a range of issues concerning the operation of these low power devices in the core TV bands. A link to the FCC decision can be reviewed here.

If a microphone does not operate on frequencies within the 700 MHz band, no action is required.

Action items: First, you must figure out which frequencies you are operating on. If you need assistance with this, please visit http://www.fcc.gov/cgb/wirelessmicrophones/FAQs.html. Second, if you find you are operating equipment within the 700 MHz band, please make sure to check our equipment notice and join our conference call.

Equipment notice: Some wireless microphones that operate in the 700 MHz band can be successfully retuned to operate in frequencies other than 700 MHz. If the wireless microphone operates only in the 700 MHz frequency band, it will need to be replaced. For more information, please visit: http://www.fcc.gov/cgb/wirelessmicrophones/Pubs.html

In addition, a table can be found here, that may be useful in determining whether the wireless microphones your organization or you use operate within the 700 MHz band and will need to be replaced or retuned. We recommend contacting your wireless microphone's manufacturer to answer any technical questions you may have. Links to many manufacturers can be found on this same FCC website as well.