Most wireless microphones, transmit via radio waves in locally vacant TV channels primarily in the Ultra-High-Frequency (UHF) range.

The FCC regulates the airwaves and in 2009 the US began using the 700mhz band to mobile broadband and public safety. However, there were wireless microphones systems previously on this bandwidth and are now illegal to operate within the 700mhz band.  

In 2017 the FCC identified frequencies at 900mhz, 1.4Ghz and 7Ghz for wireless microphones.  These frequencies are being used by other licensed users making it sometimes difficult to access.

As part of the COVID-19 relief legislation in 2020, Congress repealed the pending auction of the 470mhz – 512mhz (T-band) ensuring that currently there will be spectrum remaining to preserve room for wireless microphone use. The 600mhz band was allocated to mobile broadband making this bandwidth illegal for wireless microphones with limited exceptions. All wireless microphones that operate between the 617-652 MHz/663-698 MHz frequencies will cease. Wireless microphone use will be available at frequencies below 608 MHz They will also be available between 614-616 MHz, as well as the 653-663 MHz frequencies.  

Any existing wireless microphone systems in use in the 600mhz or 700mhz bandwidth are now illegal in the US (except the exceptions noted above).  Currently the FCC has not authorized a dedicated UHF band to wireless microphone use.

What Happens if Users Do Not Comply with the New Rules?

This advisory emphasizes the importance of strict compliance with the rules and legal requirements described above and set forth in 47 C.F.R. S: 15.5. Among other things, violation of these rules and associated Commission orders may result in failed communications by fire and police departments and other entities whose communications are vital to public safety efforts.

Also, failure to comply with these new rules may, depending on the circumstances, subject the user to civil and criminal penalties, including but not limited to, substantial monetary forfeitures and seizure of equipment.

Is your wireless microphone system operating in the legal frequency bandwidth? Call us at 707-546-3633 or contact us online to come out and check your compliance with the current regulations.