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The Impending Change of Wireless Mics


WL: What is the change we are facing, and what challenge does it present?
Kent: We are facing a challenge presented to all churches, sporting venues,
theaters and broadcasters: How do we handle the reduced bandwidth made
available by the transition to DTV effective February 17, 2009? And the
associated sell-off of the 700MHz band by the federal government for
$19B to Verizon and the consequential development of hyper WiFi /
Bluetooth devices, called TVBD in current development by Google and
Microsoft?

WL: What is the problem with our current mics?
Kent: Currently, the wireless mics you have operating between 698MHz and
806MHz will be "illegal" next month since that band no longer belongs
to the public but to Verizon. You are trespassing. However, it is
unlikely they will take churches to court over the issue. They will
simply transmit and interrupt your services forcing you to move. How
and when they will begin transmission is unknown.

WL: What is the best step to take?
Kent: The best move is to take advantage of Shure and Sennheiser's excellent
rebate programs designed to give you some money toward new safe product
when you trade in old product. The details are on their websites. In the meantime, I am counseling churches to make certain the pastors' mics are clear
and then use wired mics for the remainder until funds can be made
available to change out the entire package.

WL: Will everyone be affected and why are we only finding out about this now?
Kent: Some rural areas will find no disruption in service so we are taking a
"see what happens" approach there. This issue has been front and center for us for two years but we faced untold money from Google arrayed against us so there is no victory here technically.

WL: Changing all our mics can be a costly endeavor. In light of the economy, how do you suggest to make the change in these difficult times?
Kent: Do not panic. If money is not available, continue using your
mics until a clear directive is put in place by the new administration.
The FCC board is appointed and will be changing this month. Do not buy
off eBay or CraigsList. Use a solid, reputable vendor who will work
with you on loaners and be willing to determine if your site is
vulnerable, because you may not need to buy more than two or three units.

This is an excerpt from Worship Leader Magazine.