The Digital Dividend
In case you've missed all the hype, Australia is currently transitioning from Analogue to Digital TV transmission. Once transition is complete, wireless audio devices must vacate the surplus spectrum, known as the Digital Dividend (694-820MHz), to free it for the new services. There is currently a lot of speculation and misinformation about the changes and even when you know what you are looking for it is sometimes difficult to find the information you need.
What is changing?
Australia is in transition from Analogue to Digital TV transmission. Digital TV transmission is much more spectrally efficient than analogue, thus once transition is complete a significant portion of the spectrum currently allocated to TV broadcast (694-820MHz) will become “surplus to requirements”. This surplus spectrum, referred to as the DIGITAL DIVIDEND, will be reallocated to Telecommunications service providers to enable next generation 4G mobile data services. As a result, wireless audio devices must also vacate this part of the spectrum to free it up for the new services. Additionally the TV services will be restacked into a block structure in the remaining 520-694MHz broadcast spectrum. The allocation of these blocks will vary from location to location, making it imperative that operators of wireless audio devices research the new block allocations in order to coordinate operations.
How will this affect me?
From the 1st of January 2015 the authorised frequency range for wireless audio devices will be reduced from the current 520-820MHz to 520-694MHz. Older devices that operate above 694MHz in what is colloquially known as “the 700MHz band” must be restricted to operate below 694MHz ONLY. Devices that are not capable of operating below 694MHz may no longer be used after the 1st January 2015.
What do I need to do?
Do an audit of your current systems. What frequency range do they operate on now? Are they capable of operating in the range 520-694MHz? Plan to transition out non-compliant products before January 2015. Research TV block allocation and confirm products operating below 694MHz are compatible with the block allocation in locations of interest.
How can we help you?
Our products are Digital Dividend ready! Perth Audiovisual can supply wireless and personal monitoring products that will meet the frequency of your region but also come in a variety of options to suit your usage requirements. Jands and Shure have compiled a comprehensive list of compatible frequencies available below.
Contact us today on 08 9378 0888 or email to find wireless products that are suitable for you!