Important Information on Frequency Allocation

Over the past months a growing number of customers have contacted Shure Distribution UK seeking information on what spectrum will be available for wireless microphone and IEM (In Ear Monitor) users in the future. This document will try and answer the most common questions as best we can with the latest information available to us.

What frequencies are affected?

As a result of OfCom’s Digital Dividend Review (DDR), there will be major changes to available spectrum for wireless microphones and IEM’s. The changes affect 550-606MHz (TV Channels 31-37) and 790-862MHz (TV channels 61-69). These two blocks of spectrum will be auctioned and re-allocated to new services, most likely mobile broadband.

How much longer can I use these frequencies?

It is thought that all PMSE (Program Making and Special Events) equipment will have access to these bands until the completion of Digital Switchover (DSO) which is expected by the end of 2012. OfCom recently confirmed the availability of these bands including channel 69 for the London 2012 Olympics.

Which frequencies are available for PMSE use?

1. Channel 38 (606-614MHz) has been officially announced by OfCom as the replacement for Ch.69 (854-862MHz). Channel 69 is unique in the sense that it is the only nationally available licensable band for wireless microphones and IEM’s. Currently, channel 38 is not available nationwide for two reasons:
   • Radio astronomy holds the current license until Jan 1st, 2012, consequently creating “restriction zones” in parts of the UK.
   • The protection of analogue TV broadcast in channel 37 in areas where DSO is not complete.
   On Dec.15th, OfCom announced information on licensing arrangements for channel 38. This included for channels 39 and 40 to be made available on the same shared license until channel 38 becomes fully available nationwide. Availability will improve as DSO progresses and channel 38 should be available nationwide as of Jan. 1st 2012 if not earlier.
   www.ofcom.org.uk/consumer/2009/12/new-licensing-arrangements-for-wireless-microphone-users/
2. 470-550MHz (TV Channels 21-30) and 630-790MHz (TV Channels 41-60) are available now and post 2012 for wireless microphones and IEM’s on an interleaved basis. Please contact JFMG (www.jfmg.co.uk) for availability and licensing information.
3. The deregulated license-free spectrum from 863-865MHz remains untouched by DSO. If you are currently operating in this spectrum or use less than four channels you are free to carry on using this spectrum now and beyond 2012.

Do I need a license to operate my wireless microphones or IEM’s?

Yes. It is required by law to be in possession of a license to legally operate radio microphones or IEM’s unless you are using the de-regulated spectrum between 863-865MHz. Please contact JFMG (Joint Frequency Management Group) for licensing information: www.jfmg.co.uk

Shure Product Information

Many questions have been asked recently about the status of Shure products now and in the future.

If you are a community user or use a low number of channels (four or less) you can carry on using the deregulated portion of channel 70 between 863-865MHz which is license-exempt and unaffected by the Digital Switchover. All current Shure products are capable of tuning to frequencies within 863-865MHz. For reference: PG-T10, PGX-T1, SLX-S6, ULX-S3, UHF-R-R9.

Please see the user guide or contact Shure Distribution UK for information on which groups and channels in the Shure products to use.

UHF-R is and has always been capable of tuning to Channel 38. Please use the J5E version which covers 578-638MHz. This also covers channels 39-40 which are available on the same shared license as channel 38.

Alternative frequency band options also exist for SLX, ULX, and UHF-R that operate in the two blocks of licensable interleaved spectrum (470-550MHz and 630-790MHz) that are available now and post 2012. Please visit our website at www.shure.co.uk or contact the office at 01992.703.058 for further details.

How do I stay up-to-date with what is happening?

Shure is a long standing member of BEIRG (British Entertainment Industry Radio Group). BEIRG is an independent and non-profitmaking association, working for the benefit of all those who use radio spectrum. For the latest developments please see www.beirg.co.uk

Shure also fully supports the Save Our Sound UK campaign. For further details please visit www.saveoursounduk.com

Shure is whole-heartedly committed to supporting and assisting our customers with any questions you may have. We maintain a leading-role in the ongoing spectrum debate in the UK, Europe and the USA to secure spectrum access to wireless product users as well as delivering the best wireless products to our customers.