Changes to Wireless Microphone Frequencies
Aug 12, 2013 at 02:57PM Highlighting an upcoming technical issue
Do you use a wireless mic in your band, venue or business? There's close to 200,000 units in use in Australia so there is a strong chance that you need to use one from time to time.
We're all aware of the introduction of digital TV and the shift in channels, along with the (slow) introduction of Digital Radio (DAB). To allow that to happen there is also re-organisation of the Wireless Frequency Band for other equipment throughout Australia.
A portion of this spectrum either has or will be auctioned and made available for the use of mobile digital devices following the switch to digital TV that is expected to be completed by the end of 2013. The sale and re-use of this spectrum is known as the "digital dividend".
How will this affect you and other users that have to vacate the 694MHz to 820Mhz frequency band. Read on:
Up to 80% of current equipment (around 150,000 units) may have to be switched off from 1st Jan 2015
Over $200 million worth of equipment could be made redundant
Fines (or Jail) could be enforced for use of the equipment after 1st Jan 2015
Obviously without some information from the Federal Government there is a great deal of confusion, According to AWAG as of 9th August 2013 there have been no replies that adequately address the issue.
So what can be done in the interim?
If you are buying new equipment or need to replace current equipment, ensure that it complies with the post 1st Jan 2015 legislation.
Purchase new wireless systems that are agile ( multi-frequency ) so that they can be operated outside of the current TV bandwidth.
We would strongly recommend visiting the AWAG website for a complete run down of the situation, There are also documents explaining the work done so far in alerting the Federal Government to the matter.
Also signing this petition will give weight to the industry concerns. Not least would be gaining some financial compensation for the considerable expense that all concerned will have to go through.
More details available on the ACETA and AWAG website: Click the image below:
