2012 not only brings us the Olympics but also the final stages of the digital switchover. The last 4 regions will have their analogue TV transmitters switched off and replaced by new digital ones over the next few months.

The Past – Channel 69 has been used for years as a small set of frequencies available at a small licence fee for wireless radio mics and in-ear monitoring systems. However this is disappearing so that the uk can join the rest of Europe in utilising these frequencies for mobile communications use.

Channel 38 – As we couldn’t be left without any frequencies a new home has been created for wireless equipment called Channel 38. This channel is available for use now and will continue to be available beyond 2012. It is also protected, so only available for program making and special events equipment (such as Radio Mics)

Channel 70 – Channel 70 has been available in the past and will remain as license free frequencies, however, it is a very small frequency range so not suitable if you want to use more than a couple of Mics or monitors.

New equipment – Any equipment currently set up to be used on Channel 69 will no longer work after July 2012 so you will have to replace it with an alternative that is designed to work within the new Channel 38 frequencies.

Do I need a License? – If you are using more than 2 Mics and therefore need the Channel 38 frequencies then, Yes, you do need a license. Depending on how many wireless units you want to run together at any one time will depend on how many licenses you need to buy/rent.

Still confused? – If you still don’t understand what you need, license or equipment wise, then just give Black Light a call and we will happily go through the best and most cost effective options for you.