Continuing to voice its opposition to allow unlicensed wireless devices to operate within the used spectrum (white spaces) now used by ENG crews and other production professionals, wireless mic provider Shure is conducting tests at NFL football games using prototype devices. Shure and others, including the NFL, are concerned by potential interference to wireless systems that operate on the frequencies.
Although results were not available, the company performed some tests at the Dec. 3 game between the New England Patriots and the Baltimore Ravens and at the Dec. 9 Baltimore Ravens and Indianapolis Colts game. Shure suggested four locations for such tests at Baltimore's M&T Bank Stadium: in or near the press box; within general stadium seating; in the player’s locker rooms; and in the parking lot.
The goal is to collect real-world technical data for the FCC, which will ultimately decide whether to allow the devices to be used.
The FCC announced in October it would conduct new tests but has not given specifics about the tests or which companies' devices would be tested. Thus far, Microsoft, Philips and Motorola have submitted prototype devices for testing.
For more information, visit www.shure.com.
