The following points are based on our understanding of the current position. They are for guidance only, they do not constitute legal advice. For additional advice on this subject see the JFMG web pages.
The term 'radio microphone' includes radio links used for instruments, and, for the purposes of licensing, the various 'in ear monitor' systems.
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Many different models and types of radio microphones for use on both VHF and UHF frequencies are available from a number of manufacturers. Within both the VHF and UHF bands frequencies are allocated where equipment may operate 'Licence Exempt'. However, to comply with the technical requirements for licence exempt operation the transmitter power must be limited to 10mW for handheld and 50mW for body worn equipment. Other technical limitations to do with bandwidth etc. also apply. Equipment operating outside these frequencies and technical parameters will almost certainly require a licence.
If you are using or intending to use equipment which does need a licence be sure that you have it available at the point of use. It is an offence to operate the equipment without having a valid licence for it in your possession at the time. A successful prosecution for failure to produce a licence on demand can result in a fine or imprisonment and the immediate confiscation of all the equipment concerned, regardless of who actually owns it!
There are also geographical limitations on the use of certain frequencies in some parts of the country because of interference with existing users. Be sure to tell your supplier the location where you will be using the equipment when ordering.
The original five spot VHF licence exempt frequencies are now known as Band D02. They are:
| VHF Frequency | Channel |
|---|---|
| 173.80MHz. | Yellow |
| 174.10MHz. | Red |
| 174.50MHz. | Blue |
| 174.80MHz. | Green |
| 175.00MHz. | White |
A second set of spot frequencies, known as Band D06 and based on 200KHz channel separation, has also been introduced. They are:
| VHF Frequency |
|---|
| 173.80MHz. |
| 174.00MHz. |
| 174.20MHz. |
| 174.40MHz. |
| 174.60MHz. |
| 174.80MHz. |
| 175.00MHz. |
A word or two of caution is needed when using this type of equipment. Within the original set of five frequencies the green channel is known to cause intermodulation interference when used with other channels and the red channel has also been known to cause problems under some circumstances. Some manufacturers suggest that, even on the new frequencies, a maximum of four units should be used simultaneously. Also, the de-regulated frequencies are widely used for many purposes. There is no control over who is using them, where or when. Interference from other legitimate users is a possibility and this may be difficult to overcome.
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Much discussion, and a great deal of behind-the-scenes work, has been going on recently to ensure that the Programme Makers and Special Event (PMSE) sector of our business has access to adequate RF capacity after the sell-off a large part of the UHF spectrum vacated by the switch-off of analogue TV sometime in 2012. As we understand it, from a statement issued by Sennheiser UK in July 2010, the 2MHz section of Channel 70 (863.000MHz - 865.000MHz) which is designated for use by de-regulated radio devices will remain available after the 2012 deadline.
Although it is not generally considered suitable for professional use, this band is capable of supporting six radio links, subject to local conditions. However, the following four spot frequencies seem to be the most readily available:
| UHF Frequency | Channel |
|---|---|
| 863.125MHz. | C |
| 863.375MHz. | D |
| 864.125MHz. | E |
| 864.375MHz. | F |
The co-channel interference problems experienced with the VHF frequencies do not seem to occur with UHF equipment. It is worth noting though that these de-regulated frequencies too are becoming more widely used as time passes. As with VHF there is no control over who is using them, where or when. Interference from other legitimate users is a possibility and this may be difficult to overcome.
BEWARE - many of the so called 'entry-level' UHF radio microphone systems on the market are capable of working on sixteen or more selectable frequencies. Just because your unit can work on these frequencies does NOT mean that you are allowed to use them without the appropriate licence.
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