CAS Quarterly

Fall 2016

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b y E d G r e e n e C A S Present and Future Availability of SPECTRUM FOR RF MICROPHONES PREFACE In a hypothetical situation, let us assume for a moment, that we as mixers who live in a world of reality, asked the producers and directors whom we serve, that since frequen- cies for RF microphones may soon be less available, would they consider reducing their use of RF technology? From personal experi- ence, the hypothetical answer is: "That's a silly question, in fact, we need more!" WITH THAT IN MIND, PART 1 RF spectrum users requiring a limited number of frequencies In our world of RF spectrum for audio, there are two distinct mixer groups: first, feature motion picture and episodic production mixers on loca- tion with limited numbers of RF's and second, live- event mixers using much larger numbers of RF's. The fact is, with advancements in audio quality and RF technology, the use of RF microphones is rapidly becoming a production mixer's first choice as well. I will attempt to discuss how each group now finds the number of usable frequencies they need. First, a few things to remember. 1. A while ago, I was privileged to be with a group that visited with two FCC commission- ers, a representative of the chairman, and their engineering group. We found the FCC was well aware of the RF needs of multiple users; production mixers, broadcast, sports, theatre, along with the public's insatiable use of cellphones, tablets, etc. They understood that at times, all the above needed to func- tion in close proximity to each other as in a major broadcast, concert, or sporting event. 2. In general, the CAS production mixers I spoke with, with the help of manufacturers' software, are able to successfully find usable channels for their RF's. There is an excellent companion article in this issue by Devendra Cleary CAS about antennas. Without ques- tion, a proper antenna is the key to the suc- cessful use of RF microphones. Next is a small sample of some of their experiences. From left: Don Coufal and Donavan Dear CAS on Roadies; CAS member Richard Lightstone uses 80%-90% hard-wired booms, but when he goes wireless, currently he uses a Lectrosonics SMa into a Denecke 48V box; the cart of Glen Trew CAS. 46 F A L L 2 0 1 6 C A S Q U A R T E R L Y

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