As the last step in the digital television (DTV) transition, the FCC is embarking on an aggressive outreach campaign to ensure that users of wireless microphones are aware of the Commission's rules to cease operations in the 700 MHz Band no later than June 12, 2010. This outreach is necessary because using a 700 MHz wireless microphone can cause harmful (and potentially life threatening) interference to public safety communications, and impede the successful roll out of important new commercial services. It also is important for the public to understand that these rules do not affect all wireless microphones – only those that operate in the 700 MHz Band.
The FCC has three simple goals in this outreach campaign. First, we want to make people aware that they cannot use a 700 MHz Band wireless microphone after June 12, 2010. Second, we want to help people determine if their wireless microphone is a 700 MHz Band wireless microphone. Third, we want to help consumers determine whether or not they can retune their wireless microphone or if they will have to replace it.
To further this outreach, we have developed a helpful Internet tool for wireless microphone users. This website is designed to help wireless microphone users whether or not their microphones are currently operating in the 700 MHz Band. By simply clicking on the hyperlink "Manufacturers Equipment list," consumers will be directed to a page that contains a comprehensive a list of wireless microphone manufacturers. At that point, a consumer can click on the manufacturer of their wireless microphone and then scroll down to see if his or her model is listed. If it is listed, the equipment must be retuned or replaced. If the manufacturer is not listed, we recommend contacting the manufacturer of the device or calling the FCC at 1-888-CALL -FCC. An FCC representative will help determine if the wireless microphone is on the 700 MHz Band. In addition, the website has links and phone numbers for wireless microphone manufacturers as well as a page of Frequently Asked Questions.