FCC update

Shamelessly heisted from another blog:

Fellow CSC member Doug Gould (from Shure) has requested that we get this
information into your hands right away. This is an update from the message we
sent a few days ago, and has more complete information on how YOU can help
with this fight for wireless microphones.

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On November 4th, the FCC plans to change the rules that govern the use of
wireless microphones and other wireless audio equipment. The new rules may
make it impossible for you to continue using wireless microphones as you do
today, and your entire inventory of wireless equipment may become obsolete within
months.

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 You

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 http://www.infocomm.org
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.
http://www.shure.com/stellent/groups/public/@gms_gmi_web_us_pro/documents/web_
resource/us_pro_pr_ws_brief_filing.pdf