I suppose that we shouldn’t be surprised, but a cloud of confusion has rolled in over the past few months regarding the future of wireless microphones, and it all stems back to the myriad of discussions regarding the transition to digital TV broadcasting (DTV). I’ve been frustrated by the outlandish claims of some and been encouraged by the diligent, heartfelt efforts of others to keep things in perspective.
This is a developing story. The final chapter hasn’t been written. Along the way, the facts may get enveloped by mythology, misunderstanding, or even wishful thinking, and the unsuspecting church tech is uncertain where to turn for a reality check.
Is the sky falling? Should you care? Should you wait to purchase a wireless mic until after this all gets worked out? Or has it already been worked out?
There are some very smart people working on this, so rather than reinvent the wheel, I’ll let them share the realities with you through their recent press releases. It is important to note that the vast majority of wireless microphone manufacturers acknowledge that changes are coming, but they are just as certain that there is nothing coming that cannot be dealt with by careful RF planning and management. So read their comments here, and take heart.
Click here to read the formal ruling by the FCC regarding this issue. This document clarifies their decision determined by vote on Novermber 4th, 2008.
Click here to read the November 4th press release from the FCC regarding their vote.
Our friends at iLevite Magazine have hosted two live webinars where a panel of industry leaders has presented the latest information on this important topic. Listen to those anytime online at www.ilevite.com. Click on the iLevite Live tab.
Click here to read the November 4th press release from Shure regarding the FCC’s vote. The news is not as bad as we first expected, but things are still up in the air.
Click here to read the FCC's Notice of Public Rulemaking (NPRM) dated August 15, 2008. This is what created the latest round of genuine concern regarding the fate of wireless microphone use in churches.
Read the original FCC Media Release announcing the 700 MHz band reallocation dated December 12, 2001.
Click here to read the letter from 100+ Major Recording Artists (including the Eagles, Neil Diamond, Miley Cyrus, etc.) to the FCC.
Click here to read the letter from Dr. Johnny Hunt (President of Southern Baptist Convention) to the FCC.
Click here to read the letter from Joel Osteen (Senior Pastor at Lakewood Church in Houston) to the FCC.
Click here to read the letter from Rick Warren (Senior Pastor at Saddleback Church in Lake Forest, California) to the FCC.
Click here to read the letter from Bill Thrasher, Sr. (highly respected audio consultant) to the FCC.
Click here to read the letter from Rep. Bobby Rush (Illinois Congressman) to the FCC.
For important details on this issue, read on:
On Friday, October 24th, our friends at iLevite Magazine held a live webinar featuring Chris Lyons from Shure microphones. Chris did a great job of making clear how the pending FCC rulings could affect each of us in ministry. The bottom line is this ... if you use wireless microphones (or headsets, or in–ear monitors, or anything wireless), you will probably be affected by this ... you MAY need to replace your existing equipment by February 2009.
If you missed the meeting ...
If you weren’t able to attend the meeting, you can still hear the details and how it might affect you. The presentation was recorded and has been edited down to just 20 minutes. In fact, you can click here to download the Sample Frequency Spectrum chart (this one for Houston, Texas) that Chris Lyons referred to in his presentation. It will help you visualize what’s going on.
It’s free to download the materials and watch the video. Just go to www.iLevite.com and click on the iLevite Live tab. Then click on the link for follow–up resources. That will take you to a page with all the resources and the video that you can watch.
Please take the 20 minutes to watch this video and please share it with anyone you know that uses wireless microphones. This has a huge potential impact on people in all areas of ministry, education, and business.
The current deadline to send comments to the FCC on this issue is Monday, October 27th. It is critical that you act immediately to tell the FCC and your legislators that these changes are unacceptable to you.
Background
The FCC is reorganizing the UHF television band, coinciding with the transition from analog to digital television broadcasting. Soon, TV stations will occupy a smaller section of the UHF spectrum because digital stations can be spaced more closely together – even on adjacent channels – without interfering with each other. There will still be unoccupied channels in every market – referred to as “White Spaces” – just as there are now.
Why does this matter to you? These “White Spaces” are used by wireless microphones and instrument systems, in–ear monitors, and production intercom systems. Beginning on February 18, 2009, the FCC plans to allow consumer wireless devices – mobile phones, BlackBerry’s™, etc. – to access the internet using the same frequencies currently used by wireless audio equipment.
These devices can cause catastrophic interference if operated on the same frequency as wireless audio devices. The effect on a wireless microphone could be decreased range (perhaps to as little as 10 feet), an increase in the number and severity of audio dropouts, or even complete interruption of the signal. Tests have also proven that White Space devices can interfere with DTV reception and even cable TV signals.
Two Channels Are Not Enough
Shure has proposed that the FCC set aside eight ‘protected’ TV channels (2 in the VHF band and 6 in the UHF band) in each market, in which unlicensed wireless microphones could operate without interference from White Space devices. The devices would check an online database and avoid transmitting on the channels that are ‘protected’. The problem: the FCC plans to set aside only TWO TV channels for unlicensed wireless mics – and they won’t reveal where they are in the spectrum. Two TV channels (12 MHz of spectrum) would only be enough for four to ten wireless microphones – less if other wireless mic users are nearby. This is insufficient for many users.
Tests Say “No”, But The FCC Says “Go”
For wireless microphones operating outside of the two ‘protected’ channels, the FCC proposes to use a technology known as “spectrum sensing.” This would require White Space devices to detect DTV stations and wireless audio equipment and avoid transmitting on the frequencies that they are using. The FCC’s own tests have demonstrated that this technology often fails to detect that a wireless microphone is present, even at very short distances. The problem: the FCC plans to allow new devices that rely on spectrum sensing anyway.
No Clear Plan For Large–Scale Users
In situations where many wireless audio devices are in use, several open TV channels may be required. The FCC has proposed that users would need to register in an online database that would include the event location and duration. The problem: the FCC has not revealed who would have access to this database. Many types of wireless users could be locked out.
The FCC needs to hear from wireless users, installers, and resellers that sufficient protection for wireless microphones is essential. Contact the FCC and your Congressional representatives directly, using one of the links below. Tell them how important wireless audio equipment is to your organization’s activities. If you are a performer or producer, tell them how it will affect your performance or content. If you are an installer or reseller, tell them how this will impact your business.
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NARAS The National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences
Go here to go to the NARAS Advocacy page, which allows you to find your U.S. Representatives and Senators by entering your zip code.
http://capwiz.com/grammy/home/
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NAMM The National Association of Music Merchants
Go here to send a letter to the FCC specifically stating the interests of the music equipment industry.
http://www.namm.org/publicaffairs/action–alerts/protect–live–music
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INFOCOMM
The Audiovisual (AV) Association To express your support for Infocomm’s letter to the FCC representing the interests of AV equipment dealers and installers, go to www.infocomm.org
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Shure Incorporated
Go here for instructions on how to file a comment with the FCC, and a direct link to the FCC’s Electronic Comment Filing System.
The “White Spaces” Docket 04–186, now in its fourth year, continues to be a source of intense debate by incumbents, prospective new entrants, and policy pundits, with activity increasing as the current administration in Washington comes to a close. In addition to this dialogue, the FCC recently sought comments on proposed rules calling for evacuation of the partially auctioned yet still populated 698–806 MHz (the 700 MHz band) spectrum by wireless microphones as of the February, 2009, DTV transition date. The FCC also asked for comment on a recent complaint that the majority of wireless microphones in the US are not licensed under rules written in 1977 that extend eligibility only to broadcasters and motion picture producers, and therefore not worthy of interference protections. Lastly, the FCC’s Office of Engineering and Technology completed its laboratory and field tests – which were open to the public – on interference mitigation technology designed for deployment in future “white space” devices. Interested parties on both sides have expressed their views of the results, however the OET has not yet issued its report.
“Smart” Radios Are Not Smart Enough to Protect Microphones but the FCC Still Wants to Change the Rules:
In Shure’s judgment based on close observation, the FCC’s testing of prototype spectrum sensing technology has shown that it is not yet a suitable means of preventing interference to TV broadcasts and wireless microphone signals. As you are aware, this technology has long been purported to be the answer to successful sharing of the “white space” spectrum. The lack of promise shown to date, however, has not slowed the White Spaces Coalition’s lobbying efforts, and in fact the intensity has dramatically increased, even to the point of discounting the validity of the tests altogether. We believe that the FCC is likely to allow new devices into the TV spectrum even if none of the proposals submitted adequately protects microphones.
Shure Has Proposed A Plan to Protect Wireless Microphones:
It is in this climate that Shure submitted on September 24, 2008, an alternative proposal to the FCC, in order to change the tenor of the debate to a solution–oriented approach. Although the proposal calls for some changes and compromises, we believe that our plan serves the twin goals of allowing for new uses of the TV band without significantly disrupting the use of wireless microphones to produce the wide variety of content enjoyed by the public today.
Briefly, our proposal would concentrate most wireless microphone use into a set of pre–determined ‘Protected Channels’ in each TV market, but allow for the number of Protected Channels to ‘flex’ in order to accommodate the temporary needs of large events. Specifically, we propose the creation of an online database through which consumer “white space” devices would utilize geo–location to determine available channels – that is, those that are not occupied by TV stations, reserved for Public Safety communications, specified for use by wireless microphones, or reserved for medical telemetry or radio astronomy.
Small to Moderate Operations Could Rely on Specific Interference–Free Channels Without Burdensome Licensing:
In each market, two VHF and six UHF protected, unoccupied TV Channels would be established for wireless microphones and other professional audio equipment. This limited amount of spectrum would be minimally sufficient to accommodate small–scale users who typically require only a moderate number of wireless microphones. These users would be “licensed by rule,” meaning permitted to operate on these channels without any burdensome license filings.
Large Scale Events Would Have Necessary Temporary Interference Protection Subject to Updated Licensing Rules:
For larger–scale events where more wireless microphones are required, users (licensed under updated FCC rules that accommodate today’s range of professional applications) would register their equipment in an online database that would include the event location and duration. This would promote more efficient use of spectrum by protecting channels only when and where they are actually needed for an event. This approach would require that the current FCC rules regarding wireless microphone licensing be amended to provide expanded license eligibility to the types of users who typically produce large events.
Shure believes this proposal accommodates the way that wireless microphones are currently used in news, sports, entertainment, corporate, and civic environments today. In addition, the timely creation of a reliable, workable, interference–free operating environment also gives current users in the 700 MHz band a clear transition path to a new section of spectrum. Finally, this spectrum plan will provide the certainty and direction needed for wireless microphone manufacturers to improve the spectral efficiency of their products, thus facilitating even more efficient use of this valuable spectrum over time.
The FCC Needs to Hear From the Wireless Microphone Community:
The companies that want to use the TV band spectrum without adequate protections for wireless microphone operations are lobbying the FCC daily on this issue. The FCC needs to hear from the wireless microphone community that sufficient protections are needed, and we are therefore asking you to support Shure’s proposal at the FCC by filing comments (electronically) in Docket 04–186. Please feel free to contact me with any questions you may have regarding the Shure Proposal, how to support the plan at the FCC, or any of the developments described above. Thank you for your ongoing involvement in the highly complex set of issues surrounding US spectrum allocation for wireless microphones and other professional audio equipment.
Best regards,
Mark Brunner
Senior Director, Public and Industry Relations
Click Here Now to download a concise overview of Shure’s White Spaces Proposal
Send your comments on this matter to Doug Gould at Shure no later than Friday, October 24th, 2008 (preferably well before that), and he will forward those to the FCC through Shure. You can email your comments to Doug by writing to Gould_Doug@shure.com. You can also write to Chris Lyons at Lyons_Chris@shure.com.
Your next step should be to call, email or fax your state representatives as soon as possible to voice your concerns over this important matter. Time is of the essence. This matter will be voted on by the FCC November 4th. So don’t wait. Don’t procrastinate on this one. The results won’t be pretty if we fall asleep at the wheel here.
While the UHF television band may become more crowded, it is not going away by any means. “Reports of the death of the UHF TV band have been greatly exaggerated,” says Mark Brunner, Senior uDirector, Pblic and Industry Relations. “The UHF TV band has been, and will continue to be, the largest and best spectrum for wireless microphone users.”
The FCC is in the middle of a multi-faceted reorganization of the UHF television band, stimulated by the future transition from analog to digital television broadcasting. The DTV stations will occupy a smaller section of the UHF spectrum (470 – 698 MHz) than is currently allocated for television broadcasting. The remaining spectrum (698 – 806 MHz) has been divided up into blocks. Some blocks have been or will be auctioned to companies that will use them to provide new nationwide wireless services, while others have been reserved for Public Safety communications.
Even with packing the digital TV stations into a smaller piece of spectrum, there will still be unoccupied channels in every market. These “White Spaces” are used by wireless microphones, in-ear monitors, and production intercoms. The FCC is considering the use of the “White Spaces” to deliver wireless broadband Internet service to consumer wireless devices.
The scale and complexity of this project has generated confusion among wireless microphone users, resellers, and even some manufacturers. Shure explains three points of misunderstanding: the difference between the “White Spaces” and the auctioned spectrum blocks, the fate of wireless microphones after the DTV transition, and the viability of other frequency bands for wireless microphone use.
No Auction For White Spaces“The ‘White Spaces’ are not being auctioned,” Brunner says. The auctions cover the spectrum from 698 MHz to 806 MHz, often referred to as ‘the 700 Megahertz band.’ “The ‘White Spaces’ will not be sold to Google, Microsoft, or anyone else,” he says.
The Morning AfterAnd what happens on “the morning after” the DTV transition? “Wireless microphones will not stop working on February 18, 2009,” says Edgar Reihl, Shure’s Technology Director, Advanced Development. “Any consumer device that the FCC allows to operate in the “White Spaces” must include circuitry and software that allows it to detect and avoid both TV broadcasts and wireless microphone signals.” The FCC is currently testing this avoidance technology, and it is unlikely to authorize new devices unless they can adhere to these rigid rules and their performance is verified under real world conditions.
Wishful ThinkingSome have engaged in wishful thinking that moving wireless microphones to other frequency bands can eliminate the risk of interference. "The 902 - 928 Megahertz and 2.4 Gigahertz ranges have been represented as some sort of ‘spectrum lifeboats’, but those ‘boats’ have holes in them," states Reihl. "The core UHF TV bands have much more usable spectrum available than the 902 MHz and 2.4 GHz bands, even after taking into account any new unlicensed devices that may exist in the years after 2009. More usable spectrum translates into more wireless microphone channels available to the user. Additionally, providing interference-free, high quality audio is even more challenging in these bands, where wireless microphones compete with other signals such as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.”
Adjusting Product Offerings“When the timetable for the auctions became clear, we responded by transitioning our wireless products to new frequency ranges that are below the auctioned and Public Safety blocks,” says Brunner. “Our premium UHF-R product was designed with the post-DTV RF landscape in mind. Its 60 megahertz tuning bandwidth is among the widest in the industry, offering maximum flexibility to large-scale wireless users.”
Working Closely With FCCShure has been actively engaged with the FCC’s Office of Engineering and Technology and with legislators in Congress since 2003. The Company has provided samples of its wireless products for use in FCC testing, submitted plans for field testing of interference effects, and has arranged meetings between FCC officials and representatives from broadcast networks, sports leagues, and other major wireless microphone user groups. “No one can definitively say how this will turn out,” Brunner says. “The FCC has to iron out a lot of details before it makes any decisions related to new use of the ‘White Spaces’.”
You will find a host of additional information on the Shure website at http://www.shure.com/proaudio/pressroom/whitespaces/index.htm
Shure, Inc.
www.shure.com
Phone: (847) 600-2000
Note: On May 18, 2008, we received an email from Doug Gould with Shure, Inc. with this update:
Due to the FCC reallocation and auction of frequencies in the 700 MHz band, Shure has chosen to move the PSMB-400 products from the HF band (722 to 746 MHz) to the new X1 band (944 to 952 MHz). ... The X1 band extends from 944 to 952 MHz (8 MHz total). This portion of the RF spectrum is called the STL band because it is used for Studio-Transmitter Links between a radio station studio and a transmitter in a different location. It is outside of the TV band, new wireless services, and public safety bands.
What Digital TV Means to Wireless Microphone Users
The introduction of Digital Television (DTV) service in the U.S. will result in more intensive use of all TV spectrum, both VHF and UHF, as new digital signals come on the air. In addition, the FCC has reallocated four UHF TV channels for use by Public Safety stations, and plans to auction off the remainder of the 700 MHz spectrum for other wireless services.Here is a brief summary of how the FCC plans to implement Digital Television service:
The FCC has established a "transition period" which will last through February 19, 2009. During this time, existing TV stations will be assigned a second TV channel on which they will begin broadcasting in the new digital format. This means that some television channels that are now vacant may be filled. Wireless microphones operating on these TV channels may or may not encounter interference from the DTV station’s signal.
During the transition period, public safety agencies will begin to use TV channels 63 - 64 (764 - 776 MHz) and 68 - 69 (794 - 806 MHz) for two-way radio communications. As these frequencies gradually become busier, wireless microphones operating on these TV channels may encounter occasional interference.
After February 19, 2009, TV channels 60 - 62 (746 - 764 MHz) and 65 - 67 (776 - 794 MHz) will be opened up for use by new commercial wireless services. Licenses for these new services will be awarded by competitive bidding. Some of these auctions have already occurred, but the winners will not be able to use this spectrum until it has been vacated by the television broadcasts.
Wireless microphones may continue to operate on all of these frequencies, just as they do now. However, wireless microphones that operate on frequencies above 698 MHz should not be used after February 19, 2009.
In order to determine which TV channels will be used for DTV broadcasts in your area, you may wish to refer to the FCC’s Sixth Report and Order; DTV allocations. A complete list of U.S. cities and TV channel allocations appears in the Appendix of this report, beginning on page B-6. This document can be downloaded from the FCC’s web site, at: http://www.fcc.gov/dtv. Additionally, the Shure Wireless Frequency Finder (www.shure.com/frequency) includes DTV channel listings for every city in the United States.
Users who experience interference from DTV will notice the same performance issues caused by other forms of interference, namely increased signal dropouts, decreased operating range, and undesired noises. Wireless microphones that are used indoors, with line-of-sight between transmitter and receiver, may operate normally depending on the strength of the interfering signal. Wireless microphone users who do experience interference (whether from a DTV station or another user) have the same option that has always been available: change the operating frequency of the wireless system. Frequency-agile systems can be retuned by the user; fixed-frequency systems, depending on their age, can be reworked by Shure’s Service Department at moderate cost.
Effective use of wireless microphones has always required awareness of the primary users (television stations, wireless data services, etc.) in a particular city or area. Knowing which frequency ranges are occupied in your local area will become even more important as use of the RF spectrum increases. Used knowledgeably, Shure wireless systems will remain valuable - and legal - audio tools for years to come.
Shure, Inc.
www.shure.com
Phone: (847) 600-2000
FCC Begins Field Testing of White Spaces Devices
Shure Set to Lend Continued Assistance in Formulation of Test Parameters and Protocol
NILES, IL, July 14, 2008—In response to an announcement made late last week by the FCC’s Office of Engineering and Technology that it will begin field testing of prototype White Spaces devices today, Shure Senior Director of Public and Industry Relations Mark Brunner sounded a sanguine note saying, "We look forward to continuing to offer our full assistance and expertise to the Commission as it formulates the test parameters and protocol."
According to a public notice released by the FCC dated Thursday, July 10, the field testing will take place over a four-week period. With specific dates, times, and locations being updated regularly at www.fcc.gov/oet/projects/tvbanddevice/Welcome.html, the testing will be open to the public.
Urban, suburban, and rural test sites for DTV have been identified, and as of this writing include Patapsco Valley State Park in Elkridge, Maryland, an aircraft observation area at Baltimore/Washington International Airport, and multiple residences in Maryland and Washington D.C. Wireless microphones are slated to be tested at one sports and one entertainment venue to be named at a later date.
"Shure is gratified to see that the Commission has acknowledged the importance of protecting wireless microphones used in sports and entertainment by including host facilities for such events in its plan," Brunner added, also noting that wireless microphones are integral to many other types of productions used in a wide range of environments. "Although the FCC’s laboratory testing has not conclusively revealed that White Spaces spectrum sensing technology will reliably protect wireless microphone operations, thorough and well-designed field testing will allow the Commission to meet its commitment to consider the scientific evidence of whether the proposed technology solutions will protect incumbent users from interference. All stakeholders will be best served by data that is both comprehensive and meaningful."
Shure, Inc.
www.shure.com
Phone: (847) 600-2000
1. Auctioning of the “700MHz band” (698-806MHz) will commence in January, 2008. As of February 17 2009, this piece of spectrum will be available to be used by the companies that win the auctions and will not be legal for use by wireless microphones.
a. At the same time, analog TV stations will shut down and only DTV stations will be in operation in all areas of the spectrum. Because the 700MHz band will no longer be available to TV broadcasters, the few that are left will have to move to a lower frequency range.
b. Thus, Lectrosonics blocks 27, 28 & 29 will have new (as of yet unknown) transmissions operating, while our blocks 21-26 may have a few new DTV channels when compared to today, depending on the local market.
2. There is effort on the part of consumer products manufacturers and content service providers to allow the “white spaces” (remaining unused spectrum between existing TV transmissions) to be used by unlicensed, low power fixed and mobile devices. A decision has not been made on this issue by the FCC; however, it does appear that some additional spectrum may be lost on a market by market basis. These devices are supposed to "sniff out" existing signals and avoid them. How well this works remains to be determined.
This is the bad news. Now here is the good news:
1. This means that at least initially, there will be fewer TV stations in operation overall. This is because today, many stations are running redundant NTSC and DTV broadcasts. After February, 2009, they will only run their DTV broadcasts. not only that, but several "channels" of content can be contained within each single DTV signal.
2. Lectrosonics make high-powered systems, from 50mW to 250mW, with the standard units at 100mW. Thus, we already have a major advantage over systems with low-powered transmitters. Also, most of our transmitters have isolated outputs, thus using higher power, as we do, is not the problem (intermodulation products) as it is with competitor’s units that are not isolated. Bottom line: our systems will operate very well even with a fair amount of broad-band noise.
However, it will not be legal for us (or any manufacturer) to make and sell transmitters above 698MHz following February 17, 2009. We have decided to cease stocking any transmitters in blocks 27, 28 and 29 starting January 1, 2008. However, these blocks will be available to you on a special-order, non-returnable basis until the end of 2008.
In addition, we will be adding three new blocks at the low end of the spectrum (blocks 470, 19 and 20) so that spectrum lost at the high range can be compensated for on the low end. We will also be adding products in the 944-952MHz range, including Venue, UM450, IFB, SM Series, UCR401 and SR (two-channel slot receiver). This additional range will give you and your customers more options in the future.
The bottom line:
1. The sky is not falling (remember Y2K?). Wireless mics will not be rendered useless within the next few years. Existing and foreseeable-future wireless mics, particularly those made by Lectrosonics, will be fully operational for years to come. Yes – there may be some challenges but mostly it will be about learning and adapting to the new RF spectrum.
2. Although the FCC expects the 700MHz band to be ‘vacated’ as of February 2009, it is unrealistic to expect that all users of low-powered devices (wireless mics) would need to stop using their current systems.
3. Lectrosonics will cease manufacturing and selling blocks 27, 28, and 29 at the end of 2008. However, systems in use on those blocks will probably be able to continue to function for several years to come.
Lectrosonics is very concerned about these issues, and we hope to do everything possible to make you aware of what is happening and help you with the transition. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
For more information, see http://www.lectrosonics.com/faq/faq1byref.php?id=121
Lectrosonics, Inc.
www.lectrosonics.com
Phone: (505) 892-4501
October 21, 2008
Spectrum Reallocation & White Space
An Explanation and Current Developments
Many questions have surfaced in recent weeks over the actions of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regarding digital television, spectrum re–allocation, and wireless microphone technology. These actions have an impact on the current professional wireless microphones. The following information is published in order to reduce misunderstanding about these issues.
How is the TV spectrum being reallocated?
The U.S. is in transition from conventional analog TV to digital TV. This is scheduled to be completed on February 17, 2009. At this same time, the reassignment of TV channels 52–69 (698 – 806 MHz) will be completed. This band will partially be used for emergency communications in channels 63, 64, 68, and 69. The rights to use the majority of the remaining channels were auctioned to AT&T, Verizon, and Qualcomm to provide what is being termed as advanced wireless services (AWS). This raised billions of dollars for the federal government and was therefore called the digital dividend. This will affect wireless microphones operating between 698–806 MHz (generically called the 700 MHz band), such as our evolution wireless C range systems.
Is this the White Space issue I’ve been hearing about?
No. The White Space debate is separate and distinct from the digital dividend.
Will my C range evolution wireless system operate after February 2009?
Technically systems will still work. However, wireless mics will be prohibited to operate between 698 – 806 MHz in the near future. This restriction could go into effect as early as February 17, 2009. It is likely the FCC will make an announcement after their meeting scheduled on November 4th, 2008.
What is the White Space debate?
The FCC is considering to allow a new class of unlicensed consumer electronic products, known as white space devices (WSD), to operate in locally unused UHF TV channels 21–51. If enacted, these new devices would also affect wireless mic users.
The debate centers on how current licensed devices (wireless mics are considered to be licensed devices by the FCC) will be protected from these new unlicensed white space devices (WSD). The FCC has acknowledged the need to prevent interference from white space devices to digital television signals and wireless microphones. The FCC recently conducted tests on WSD prototypes and published a report in mid October. A link to this report is referenced below. Once again, we expect further FCC action after their meeting on November 4th.
What has Sennheiser been doing regarding the White Space debate?
Sennheiser has been directly communicating with the FCC and legislators making them aware that the term “white space” is a misnomer since broadcasters, film producers, and professional entertainers have been using licensed devices, such as wireless microphones and monitoring systems, in this spectrum for years. Therefore major news, political, sports and entertainment events would not be able to operate reliably if the spectrum was randomly flooded by new unlicensed devices. To demonstrate this point, Sennheiser participated in the FCC field tests of WSD prototypes. Sennheiser has also been deeply involved in helping to shape response to the FCC through the Professional Audio Manufacturers Association, the Sports Video Group, and the Microphone Interests Coalition.
What about the future?
It is certain that the amount of spectrum available for wireless microphone use is shrinking. The 700MHz range will no longer be available for use for wireless mics. The remaining usable UHF spectrum may become smaller, or it may be shared with new devices. No matter what happens, Sennheiser will continue to support wireless microphone use with the most flexible products and service available. Sennheiser is continually developing unique ways to face new challenges with the same reliability that has always characterized our products.
Explanation of Recent FCC Activity
There have been two recent communications from the FCC that have caused heightened anxiety:
Notice of Proposed Rule Making banning wireless mics from the 700 MHz band
This NPRM can be read in its entirety at:
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/FCC–08–188A1.pdf
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DOC–284758A1.pdf
Sennheiser had predicted this action. That’s why we advised our customers back in early 2007 that the FCC was likely to impose restrictions on operating wireless mics between 698 MHz and 806 MHz. We therefore eliminated systems operating in this range from our regular assortment and made them available only based on a special order.
Sennheiser submitted a detailed response to this proposal on Oct 3rd and again on Monday, Oct. 20th. We are lobbying hard for a measured migration out of the 700 MHz band that includes a grace period that would allow existing users to continue to operate in this band on a non-interference basis. The full comment to the FCC is posted on the following webpage: http://www.sennheiserusa.com/spectrumreallocation
The White Space Technical Report
The FCC executive summary can be found at: http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DA-08-2243A2.pdf
This report relates to spectrum sensing capabilities of proposed white space devices (WSD). Other than the FCC stating that “...we believe... the ‘proof of concept’ has been met,” there is nothing new in this report.
1) WSD devices would still be required to detect and avoid wireless mics
2) Fixed WSD are being considered ahead of the more problematic portable units
3) More development is required on WSDs to meet the performance standards that have been set
Furthermore, there is also a proposal being considered that would dedicate at least two TV channels in every market for wireless microphone use. Major events, such as sports, would have additional channels reserved.
The bottom line is this: wireless mics will continue to be used throughout our nation. The FCC has scheduled a discussion and may vote on these issues on November 4th. We will distribute the results of this vote as well as a detailed analysis of what this means to wireless mic users. In the meantime, feel free to contact me with further questions. Thank you.
Joe Ciaudelli
860-434-9190 Ext. 508
SENNHEISER ELECTRONIC CORP
Wireless microphones primarily operate on frequencies in the UHF TV spectrum.
Changes in technology and national policy will affect wireless microphone operation in the future. Click here for a summary of the current status.
The United States is in the midst of a transition from traditional analogue television broadcast to digital TV (DTV). Currently, networks are broadcasting both analogue and digital signals on separate channels simultaneously. It is planned that by February 17, 2009 the analogue channels will be turned off freeing up the channels they are currently occupying. At that time, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) will reallocate channels 52-69 (698 – 806 MHz) for new services such as public safety communications and auction to the private sector. This is termed the “digital dividend”.
In addition, the FCC is considering proposals to allow unlicensed wireless devices to operate in channels 2-51 that are not occupied by local TV stations. These include broadband services, PDA’s, cell phones, home networking devices and other consumer electronics. These unoccupied local TV channels are being called “white spaces”. If such legislation is enacted, these devices will be new potential sources of interference for wireless microphones, intercoms, and monitoring systems.
The proposed date to allow unlicensed devices to use the spectrum is also February 17, 2009. However, in an effort to bring broadband to underserved areas quicker, Massachusetts Senator John Kerry has introduced the Wireless Innovation Act of 2007 (S. 234) that would shorten the timeline to within 180 days of enactment. A version of this bill has also been introduced in the House of Representatives (H.R. 1597) by Representative Jay Inslee of Washington.
Separately, New Hampshire Senator John Sununu has introduced the White Spaces Act of 2007 (S. 337). It would open white spaces within 90 days of passage, or by October 1, whichever comes first. This bill also considers the option of auctioning licenses for the spectrum.
Conversely, Congressman Bobby Rush of Illinois has introduced The Interference Protection for Existing Television Band Devices Act of 2007 (H.R. 1320). It would require manufacturers of unlicensed devices to demonstrate that their product will not interfere with existing devices, such as wireless mics and monitoring systems. It also calls to cease deployment of fixed wireless devices, such as broadband services to rural areas, until after the digital television changeover is complete. The bill suggests that new portable devices would be allowed to use white spaces after fixed devices have been operating for three years without causing interference.
The FCC and industry leaders have stated that adequate time must be allowed to develop solutions that will permit unlicensed devices to operate without causing harmful interference to current users of the TV spectrum, including wireless microphones.
There are some proposed solutions and compromises to allow co-existence. These include:
This proposed technique relies on the unlicensed devices to check for existing RF-traffic before transmitting.
Location sensing and consultation with a database of broadcast license assignments (use of GPS receiver). It would require entering requests for frequency/spectrum reservation into the ‘consulted’ database by any potential user.
Reception of a locally transmitted signal that identifies which TV channels may be used in the local area for unlicensed use. It would require entry of used frequencies/spectrum to be entered into (and removed from) the data stream to be transmitted by the beacon.
Each of these solutions has merit. White space legislation and these proposed solutions are likely to be subjected to long debate and go through several revisions before any bill is enacted. We will continue to keep you posted on any major developments.
In the meantime, feel free to contact us or visit our web site for the latest guidance on frequency selection in your area. Thank you.
For more information, see http://www.sennheiserusa.com/whitespaces/default.asp?transid=1345
Sennheiser Electronic Corporation
www.sennheiserusa.com
Phone: (860) 434-9190
Spectrum Reallocation and The Digital Dividend:
By February, 2009, analog television transmission will end; digital transmission has been mandated. Due to the efficiencies of digital transmission, a number of the frequencies that were used for analog transmission are being reallocated.
Two sets of issues will affect this UHF spectrum, which is still the optimal frequency range for wireless microphones.
The Digital Dividend: The first is known as the Digital Dividend, and is the frequency range above 698mHz. This range has been auctioned off to private companies with a portion reserved for emergency use. Currently, unused frequencies in this range are available to wireless microphone products, however this may change in the future.
White Spaces: The frequencies below 698mHz are where the famous White Spaces reside. These frequencies are not being auctioned or sold. The White Spaces are the areas between DTV stations and are where wireless microphones operate. This means that wireless microphone systems, such as Sennheiser’s evolution series as well as our 3000/5000 series will continue to operate as they do today simply by taking the same preparatory steps you’re used to.
Congress is considering making the White Spaces frequencies available for use in consumer and commercial applications (broadband services, PDAs, cell phones, home networking devices, etc). While this will be a potential new source of interference for wireless microphones, intercoms and monitoring systems, there are solutions being proposed that would require consumer and commercial products to detect the presence of frequencies in use by these professional products and operate in a way that avoids interference with them.
So, is Sennheiser on top of all this?
Absolutely. We’ve been preparing since the Digital Television (DTV) spec was first released in 1996.
All evolution wireless microphone systems will continue to work. Should you find that you have an evolution system that’s been assigned a frequency in the future Digital Dividend (C) range, and the FCC rules change, we will have a program to ensure you have a working system.Since DTV first started assigning frequencies, we’ve had an interactive frequency tool on our web site that lets you quickly see exactly which frequencies are in use in any geographical area. Check it out at www.sennheiserusa.com/findfrequency
We are also at the cutting edge with custom-tunable antenna systems and very advanced filtering technology that aids in interference-free operation by attenuating unwanted signals from adajacent ranges outside the filter bandwidth. These solutions work with ANY wireless microphone system.
Our top of the line 3000 and 5000 series wireless microphone systems give you macro and micro tuning capabilities not found in any other systems. These allow you to choose a range and then fine tune down to the exact frequency you need. Plus, their ability to optionally operate in the STL band (944-952 MHz) permits operation in a frequency range that is unaffected by the DTV conversion.
Sennheiser is deeply committed to continue providing you with the finest wireless microphone systems and ensuring that they function in this challenging environment. We have created an area on our website dedicated to the matters around the Spectrum Changes. These pages serve as a valuable resource for you and it is constantly updated with the latest information. Because we want you to be informed, not concerned, please frequent this web site to access the most up-to-date tools and information.
For more information, see http://www.sennheiserusa.com/whitespaces/spectrumReallocationDD.asp
Sennheiser Electronic Corporation
www.sennheiserusa.com
Phone: (860) 434-9190
Background
Congress passed the Balanced Budget Act of 1997, and as part of the legislation mandated the FCC to free up spectrum for auction. Auctions were to be complete by September 30, 2002. The FCC decided to consolidate the TV broadcast spectrum from channels 2-67 down to 2-51. The 16 freed channels (698-794 MHz) could then be auctioned as legislated.
The FCC split the process into two parts, moving broadcasters down from channels 60-67 (Upper 700 MHz) to channels 52-59 (Lower 700 MHz). Within both the Lower and Upper Band plans, they divided up the frequencies into auction blocks, reserving two blocks for public safety in the Upper. The first auction was to occur in April 2000 involving four of the 10 remaining blocks in the Upper Band. This auction was postponed to and completed on September 2000 with less than expected results. The remaining licenses from the first auction were eventually auctioned again in February 2001. Eight blocks of the Upper Band plan remained.
It took until September of 2002 to execute another auction, this time in the Lower Band with three of 8 blocks auctioned off. This auction was more successful, but still licenses remained within the three blocks. The “mop up” auction for these licenses was postponed two times, eventually occurring in June 2003. Five blocks of the Lower Band plan remained.
It took the FCC an additional 4 years to bring the auction of the 8 Upper and five Lower blocks to a close. The next and final auction occurred in January 2008. What was mandated to be completed in September 2002 took until January 2008. The auction process was fraught with lobbying, rule revisions, and posturing by telecommunications companies, broadcasters, and politicians. Audio-Technica response
From the point of the Balanced Budget Act of 1997’s passage, Audio-Technica began to take steps to leave the 700 MHz spectrum. It was through these development efforts that the 2000, 3000, 4000 and 5000 Series were created, all below the 700 MHz confusion, replacing the 1400 and 7000 Series. Despite loyal customers for those products, we encouraged customers to move to our newer frequency band products. Once the FCC finally announced a firm “Drop Dead” date of February 19, 2009 for the completion of the DTV transition, Audio-Technica suspended the sale of all 700 MHz systems (over 2 years ago). The only exception to this was for one single, license-qualified customer as special order item. That system has also been completely discontinued as well. Hopefully, our actions have already helped minimize the “exposure risk” to our customers.
Current 700 MHz Customers
Customers have spent a lot of hard earned money on their wireless systems and are very concerned about their investment. The question many customers are asking is “Will you help us if our systems can no longer be used”? Audio-Technica had been developing a plan even before the Notice of Proposed Rulemaking and Order (FCC 08-188). At that time we had seen most of our customers move to lower frequency bands and it also appeared the FCC had every intention of allowing wireless microphone systems to continue to operate as a secondary device in the 700 MHZ spectrum. Per a case opened with the FCC (Case ID HD0000001052162), the FCC responded with:
“After the DTV transition date of February 19, 2009, any use of 700 MHz low power auxiliary services, including wireless microphones operating in the 700 MHz Band, is secondary to the licensed services in the 700 MHz Band.
Should you have any further questions, or need additional information, please submit a request through http://esupport.fcc.gov/index.htm or call the ULS Customer Support Hotline at (877) 480-3201, selecting option 2 after the main menu recording.”
Only after the PISC group submitted their complaint did the FCC propose to completely ban wireless microphone systems from the 700 MHz spectrum. Given this possible change of direction by the FCC, Audio Technica finds it difficult to move forward with specific plans or programs until we know how the FCC will rule. Rest assured that we are looking at several scenarios based on possible decision outcomes, and each is intended to support our customers with the same level of service and dedication for which this company is known. We will do what we can to make this transition as smooth as possible.
Changing Frequencies on Current Wireless Systems
Many customers are asking if we can change the frequency on their current systems. I regret to say there is no “re-crystal” option for any of the discontinued 700 MHz A-T wireless. Our wireless are either crystal controlled (single frequency wireless) or frequency agile (phase locked loop multiple frequency capable wireless) designed to operate within a specific frequency spectrum. The RF spectrum capability of the wireless is determined by frequency specific components. Our crystal controlled wireless could be frequency changed within the band they were designed to operate in, but it is not possible to change either crystal controlled or frequency agile wireless out of the spectrum band they were designed to operate within.
Rick Joyner
Manager, Audio Solutions
Audio-Technica U.S., Inc.
1221 Commerce Drive, Stow, Ohio 44224
One solution that Audio-Technica has provided is their SpectraPulse Ultra Wideband wireless microphone system does touch on the subject. They have an interesting white paper regarding the technology found here:
For more information:
Audio-Technica U.S., Inc.
www.audio-technica.com
Phone: (330) 686-2600
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/White_space_(telecommunications)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/White_Spaces_Coalition
http://www.theregister.co.uk/2008/06/18/fcc_completes_white_spaces_lab_testing/
http://mixonline.com/news/headline/shure_fcc_whitespaces_1407/
http://www.fcc.gov/oet/projects/tvbanddevice/Welcome.html
http://www.fiercewireless.com/story/white-space-approval-it-matter-when/2008-07-14?utm_medium=rss&utm_source=rss&cmp-id=OTC-RSS-FW0
http://nobosh.com/sr/click-here-to-read-the-full-story/88007/
http://www.businessweek.com/technology/content/may2008/tc20080522_623138.htm
http://fjallfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DOC-275666A1.pdf
http://www.wirelessinnovationalliance.org/index.cfm?objectid=A26D89DB-F1F6-6035-BD3EB034D1E17D8C
http://news.cnet.com/White-space-spectrum-debate-rages/2100-1034_3-6202753.html
http://www.dtv.gov/
http://www.fcc.gov/
http://www.fcc.gov/cgb/consumerfacts/digitaltv.html
http://www.feb2009.com/
http://www.shure.com/stellent/groups/public/@gms_gmi_web_us_pro/documents/web_resource/us_pro_pr_ws_2007_faq.pdf
Voice: 888-547-1727 or 972-747-8083 / Fax 972-747-8084