Digicom Technology News

After the digital switchover, the 800-MHz band will no longer be used for TV broadcasts. ComReg is clearing the 800-MHzband TV channels (61 to 69) to match spectrum being released in other European countries (European Harmonisation). This will benefit people across Ireland because the spectrum will be able to be used for next generation mobile broadband services. However, this switch further limits a consumer’s ability to use ultra high frequency (UHF) wireless products, as there will be fewer frequencies available. Ultimately, this will reduce the maximum number of wireless products that can coexist in the UHF band at any given time.

These products consist of any device operating between 550 MHz to 606 MHz and 790 MHz to 862 MHz. This change is taking place to make room for both HDTV transmission and mobile broadband services, and will require anyone using any device operating in this space to replace it with an approved alternative.

The UHF band has been under review by most countries around the world, as it is a great option for wireless broadband services, which are in much higher demand than wireless microphones. While the 2012 switchover is the first major change to the UHF band and its availability for wireless microphone usage, it has been made clear that it is not necessarily the last. There is always the chance that more of the band will be sold off in the future, resulting in further limitations in UHF wireless microphone usage.

If you would like more information regarding UHF microphones, please contact Digicom today.