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06.04.2011 - Frankfurt

Sennheiser UK announces full availability of G3 GB

Frankfurt, 6 April 2011 – In response to the impending need for UK wireless microphone and wireless monitor users to move from Channel 69 (854-862 MHz) to Channel 38 (606-614 MHz), Sennheiser UK is pleased to announce the full availability of its new G3 GB systems.

The eagerly anticipated G3 GB frequency range variant covers ALL of Channel 38 and as many ‘future-proofed’ interleaved frequencies above Channel 38 as its 42 MHz (from 606-648 MHz) tuning range will allow.

As stated in July 2010, Channel 69 remains available nationally for wireless microphone use and continues to be licensable. However, the current Ofcom timetable will see access to channels 61-69 inclusive (790-862 MHz) cease during the second half of 2012. This means that any Channel 69 (range E) equipment purchased now will have a steadily reducing window of usability for most of its tuning range, with just over one year being the longest period for which it will continue to be usable.

863-865 MHz (two MHz of Channel 70) will continue to be available for use by ‘wireless audio devices’ after 2012. This will support a maximum of six wireless microphone links (subject to range variant and local conditions), but is generally not considered suitable for professional use.

Channel 38 (606-614 MHz) has been assigned by Ofcom as the replacement band for Channel 69, however some geographical restrictions on its use currently apply. In these areas it is supplemented, where available, with additional spectrum in Channels 39 or 40.

In an improvement to the previous schedule, Ofcom has announced that Channel 38 will effectively be available for both indoor and outdoor use by wireless microphones across the UK from 21 September 2011 – more than three months earlier than was previously indicated.

It is important to note that there is no de-regulated spectrum within the tuning range of G3 GB, therefore ALL G3 GB systems require an operator’s licence. One shared licence per user covers multiple systems operating on the shared frequencies. Licences are available from Ofcom-appointed spectrum management company JFMG – 0207 299 8660 - www.jfmg.co.uk.

Operation of equipment in either Channel 69 or Channel 38 requires the user to hold a valid shared user licence (available from www.jfmg.co.uk). During the period of transition this licence also covers parts of Channels 39 and 40, where geographically appropriate. Operation of any wireless gear on frequencies from 470 - 862 MHz without holding the appropriate licences is an offence under the terms of the Wireless Telegraphy Act.

Update on Goverment/Ofcom compensation
August 2010 saw the terms of a proposed compensation scheme for wireless microphone users released. Equiniti, on behalf of Ofcom, will administer the scheme. There is a dedicated website relating to the scheme which can be found at www.pmsefunding.co.uk. And details on how the proposed scheme will work can be found there too.

HM Government has now approved the scheme and payments to claimants have started to be paid.

BEIRG
Sennheiser UK is a full member of the British Entertainment Industry Radio Group (BEIRG), a not-for-profit organisation which, in light of increasing pressure for access to UHF spectrum from potential new users and service providers, works to ensure that sufficient quantity and quality of spectrum is (and will continue to be) available to the entertainment industry.

Wireless equipment users are encouraged to join BEIRG to express their support. Details on how to join BEIRG can be found at www.beirg.co.uk.

Notes for editors:
Sennheiser G3 equipment that is available for use in the newly assigned band, and that which is not, is as follows:

Range D – a maximum of 10 MHz of its 42 MHz tuning range will be usable post DSO (Digital Switchover).

Range A – will possibly lose 8 MHz of its tuning range. It is still to be decided what will happen to the ‘lower cleared band’ – Channels 31-37 (550 - 606 MHz) – but they are likely to become off-limits at the same time as 790 - 862 MHz.

Range G – will possibly lose 40 MHz of its tuning range for the same reasons as Range A.

Range B – OK – full tuning range available

Range C – OK – full tuning range available

Download this press release:
Spectrum_Campaign_UK.zip

For more information about Sennheiser please visit www.sennheiser.co.uk or call:

Sarah James, Sennheiser Pro PR
T: 01372 471472
E-mail: sarahj@gasolinemedia.com