WIRELESS Info
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Wireless Frequency
Guide
Help File (Frequently Asked Questions)
What frequencies are used
for Wireless Products in the U.S.?
Wireless systems in the U.S. operate on various
unused frequencies within the broadcast television
spectrum. VHF systems utilize TV channels 7 through 13
(174 - 216 MHz). UHF systems range across TV channels 35
through 69 (596 - 806 MHz). Obviously, fixed channel
systems operate on a single frequency, while
frequency-agile systems are selectable across a range of
frequencies.
How do TV stations figure
into frequency selection?
Wireless systems should NOT be operated on the same
frequency as a local TV station. Only open (unoccupied)
frequencies should be used. In the U.S., each major city
has different local TV stations. The operating
frequencies of those stations must be avoided when
choosing a wireless system frequency.
I keep hearing that DTV
stations are a big problem. Is that true?
Digital television stations (DTV) represent a
wireless interference problem just like any other
broadcast signal. They are a major source of
interference on the frequencies being used and,
depending on the city you're in, local DTV stations may
be on the same frequencies as your wireless system.
Another factor is that any new broadcast station
contributes to "frequency crowding". Many DTV stations
have been licensed but are not yet on the air.
Will DTV make my wireless
system obsolete?
Like everything else with wireless, the answer is
simple: it depends on the frequency. Proper planning
makes it relatively easy to avoid problems, both now and
in the future. With a frequency-agile wireless system,
it's a simple matter to avoid local broadcast TV
frequencies (both analog and DTV) by simply changing
channels. With a single-frequency system, it's more
important to choose frequencies known to be clear, both
now and in the future.
What is the best way to
avoid interference?
Probably the best way to avoid interference is to invest
in a "frequency-agile" wireless system. That means the
user can change frequencies when interference is
encountered. Virtually all touring groups use
frequency-agile systems, since their wireless
environment changes as they move from town to town.
I'm in a touring band.
How do I choose a wireless system?
You are a prime candidate for a "frequency-agile"
wireless system. These systems generally cost a little
more, but allow you to change frequencies to avoid
interference as you move from town to town.
What if I only play in my
home town?
In this situation, the TV interference "landscape" is
unlikely to change. At Professional Sound Services
we will make it a point to sell wireless that is
consistently interference-free within the local area. In
this situation, a less expensive fixed-frequency
wireless system is a viable option.
How do I avoid TV
interference?
The only dependable way to avoid TV station interference
is to know and avoid the frequency bands occupied by
local stations. Familiarize yourself with this Web-based
listing of local TV stations in major U.S. markets.
Suburbs of these cities may or may not have the same
local TV stations as the listed city, depending on
distance, terrain, and other factors. The staff at
Professional Sound Services is extremely familiar
with all your frequency needs.
What about interference from
other wireless systems?
In addition to avoiding local TV stations, it is
essential to select compatible frequencies
- ones that do not cause interference with each other.
When used together, every wireless system must operate
on a different frequency, and these frequencies must be
compatible with each other. Compatibility depends on the
technical specifications of the systems, and the
mathematical relationships between frequencies as they
interact with each other. Professional Sound Services
will make sure you will not have any interference with
your wireless systems.
Does it matter how many
systems are being used?
As you add more wireless systems, the potential for
system-to-system interference grows. Every time you add
another system, you should check to make sure the new
one is compatible with all the others.
FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT OUR SALES
DEPARTMENT.
PROFESSIONAL SOUND SERVICES' KNOWLEDGEABLE STAFF IS
ALWAYS AT YOUR SERVICE.
Toll Free: 800.883.1033 |
