Industry Collegues:
Welcome to Tech Talk. Radio Active Designs is committed to providing timely information about the 600MHz spectrum re-allocation in order to minimize negative impact to wireless microphone and intercom operators across the United States.
Tech Talk will provide you with the information you need to weather the RF storm headed our way.
As you are aware, there is a 39-month transition period allowed for the 600MHz re-allocation, which began in April. However, wireless microphone and intercom operators should be aware that T-Mobile is pursuing an aggressive rollout plan across the country, with the goal of having several markets offering service before the end of the year.
Just as importantly, T-Mobile is already demonstrating their 600MHz services on a small-scale basis (micro-cells) at press events and trade shows. Recently, at one such recent event, they deployed a low power micro-cell for demonstration (without prior notice) and caused significant interference to wireless microphones and related equipment.
Please look at a recent article that was written by Phil Kurt and appeared in TVNewsTech. In the article he interviews Karl Voss, Chief Frequency Coordinator for every Super Bowl since 1996. The article is enlightening.
Karl has been a long-time advocate of proper frequency coordination. During the interview he notes that even television broadcasters are ill prepared. Needless to say, those of us in the professional audio community have good reason to be concerned about our lack of readiness as well.
Wireless operators should be prepared to vacate the 600 MHz band with the exception of the Duplex Gap and Guard bands immediately. Radio Active Designs is making every effort to obtain T-Mobile roll out information for each region of the country so that wireless operators may prepare. You can find this information on our website, and it is being updated regularly.
Phil Kurt’s full article with Karl Voss is available here.
Stay tuned for more information as it becomes available….
James Stoffo
Radio Active Designs CTO, Principle