Wireless microphones continue to play an active role in supporting productions in a wide range of sectors, and to meet those customer needs, Shure asked for unlicensed Wireless Multi-Channel Audio Systems (WMAS) with higher power.
The FCC agreed.
Shure had been active in FCC proceedings over the past few years, advocating on behalf of a wide array of customers who rely on wireless microphones. This saw Shure support a recently released Commission Order that expands opportunities for wireless microphone users.
To meet customer needs, Shure asked for unlicensed Wireless Multi-Channel Audio Systems (WMAS) with higher power. The FCC said yes, with Shure successfully arguing that the number of unlicensed wireless microphone users far exceeds the number of licensed users in the U.S. As such, Shure said, the full benefit of WMAS technology can only be realized if WMAS is available to unlicensed as well as licensed users.
Shure believes the need for 100mW unlicensed power is important because it:
- Allows providers to minimize occupied spectrum while remaining equivalent in link performance to narrowband.
- Decreases total Power Spectral Density (PSD) when the audio channel efficiency is met.
- Aligns with recent WMAS updates within European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI).
Beyond their traditional role in broadcasting and film production, wireless microphones support productions in a wide range of sectors including news reporting, theater, music, sports, worship, civic events, transportation infrastructure, and education.
Tom Kundmann, Vice President of Professional Wireless at Shure, highlighted the potential of wideband wireless in the UHF and other bands. “This technology will provide our customers with innovative product solutions,” he said. “Our team is actively working on improving spectral efficiency, scalability of audio services, and simplifying deployment.”
