In June 2009 OFCOM announced that RF bandwidth between 854-862MHz ( known as Channel 69 ) will no longer be available for radio mic use, in the UK, from 2012. Until now, this bandwidth has been available on a straightforward annual licence and has been extensively used for multi-way radio mic systems.
Additionally, OFCOM have announced that frequencies between 790-854MHz ( Channels 61-68 ) which have been used for more specialist radio mic applications will not be available after 2012 either.
863-865MHz ( Channel 70 ) which has typically been suitable for upto 4 x radio mic systems is to remain usable after 2012. This bandwidth does not require a licence, so can be used free of charge throughout the UK. This situation will remain unchanged after 2012. Equipment capable of operating on Channel 70 therefore remains a good choice for smaller scale radio mic users.
For portable users who need to operate a larger number of radio mics together as part of a multi-way system, a new area of bandwidth 606-614MHz ( Channel 38 ) has been allocated as the replacement for Channel 69. This will be available throughout the UK from the start of 2012. Channel 38 is not currently available across the whole of the UK as it will be used for radio astronomy in certain locations until 2012. However, to help smooth the transition from Channel 69 to Channel 38, OFCOM have announced that in the period from 4-1-10 to 31-12-11 an annual radio mic licence will not only entitle the user to Channel 69 frequencies but also Channel 38. Additionally, access to Channel 39 and Channel 40 will be allowed where Channel 38 is not available.
Fixed site users ( where the equipment will only be used at one location ) have a greater number of licencing options available to them. Please contact us for more details.
At Mercury we understand that these changes can seem complex and confusing. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you would like to discuss how the changes will affect you. There are various options available to radio mic users looking to buy new equipment and we will be happy to explain these.
The equipment ranges shown below can already be ordered on frequency ranges that cover Channel 38. We expect more Channel 38 ready equipment to be released over the coming months and will add further details as this equipment becomes available.
