Shure Asks for Technical Change to Wireless Mic Rules

Shure explained its opposition to an FCC order extending the Section 15.2031 prohibition on standard antenna jacks and connectors to wireless mics. “Wireless microphones are not practical candidates for aftermarket power amplifiers and as such do not create concerns regarding human safety or interference due to designs utilizing standard connectors,” Shure said. “Application of the Part 15 antenna connector rule to unlicensed wireless microphones would significantly inhibit manufacturing, raise consumer costs, and cause user confusion, thus complicating the transition of wireless microphones to the new 600 MHz band plan as a result of the broadcast Incentive Auction.” Body-worn wireless mics are often affixed “on or under the performer’s clothing or costume, mounted on an instrument, or, in theatrical productions frequently hidden in the performer’s hair,” the company said. “The microphone is then connected by a cable to a compact, body-worn transmitter that is also often concealed. The microphone and transmitter system must maintain an extremely small form factor to avoid restricting the performer’s freedom of motion.” There is little possibility anyone would affix a high-gain antenna to a Part 15 wireless mic, Shure said in docket 14-165.