Wireless Sound Systems Affected by FCC Changes

FCC requires wireless microphone users to vacate the 700 MHz frequency band (614-806 MHz)

On June 12, 2009, all full-power television stations in the United States stopped broadcasting on analog airwaves and began broadcasting only in digital. Unfortunately, the change affected more than your television sets. Wireless devices, like the sound systems that many churches use, were also impacted. We want to help you understand this change and protect your equipment investments.

The FCC requires all wireless microphone users to vacate the 700 MHz frequency band.

There's plenty of information about the digital switch on the FCC's website. In short, the FCC passed a ruling related to the DTV switch that requires all wireless microphone users to vacate the 700 MHz frequency band (614–806 MHz). Unfortunately, the vast majority of wireless sound systems, like the ones churches use, fall within this range.

There’s a wealth of information online about the transition, including the following blog entries:

• FCC website with information about wireless microphones
• Hundreds of Wireless Microphones in 700 MHz Band to Go Obsolete
• Stop Using 700 MHz Wireless by June 12, 2010

Insurance Protection For Your Equipment

If you do find it necessary to replace your wireless systems, be sure to consider updating your property inventory and make sure you have sufficient insurance coverage to protect your equipment investment.

Consider adding Equipment Breakdown Coverage to your policy, which protects sound systems and other expensive equipment. In addition, you may want to take this time to consider your other communication-related insurance needs, like those protected by Religious Freedom Coverage.

Your Brotherhood Mutual agent can help you review your coverage and explore your options.