Radio frequencies - Different countries?

[Mat Thompson]

Hi people. I wonder if you can help, I'm looking to buy some radio mics. Is there a difference in the frequency setups between the same mic sets purchased in the UK and US for instance.

Any pointers much appreciated.

[Phil Bloom]

yeah there are different frequencies assigned for different countries

[Mat Thompson]

Ahhh ok ! Thanks for the heads up. So what does this mean exactly, more chance of interference, certain frequencies wont work or it just a non-starter!?

[Michael Nistler]

Originally Posted by Mat Thompson

Ahhh ok ! Thanks for the heads up. So what does this mean exactly, more chance of interference, certain frequencies wont work or it just a non-starter!?

Hi Mat,

Frequency interference, possibly, possibly. But technically this issue exists worldwide. For instance, in the U.S. where the F.C.C. coordinates frequency usage, you wireless transceivers may have interference with other transmitters. Sennheiser nicely offers the following website:

http://www.sennheiserusa.com/frequen...er/default.asp

So in the U.S., you can always try using an authorized frequency band, but obviously a puny wireless transmitter is no match for a commercial tranmitter with a massive antenna blasting power over an entire area.

Now then, in another country, the government may forbid usage of your transceiver on certain frequency bands. That doesn't mean it won't work if no one else is tranmitting on that frequency, but you could get a fine (or worse) if you indiscrimently fire up your wireless transmitter in another country. Most of this don't care to get involved in a hypothetical scenario like this one:

"Gee officer, I'm so sorry - I didn't realize that my filming inside the airport with my wireless transceiver was going to cause trouble. How was I to know my wireless transmitter was tuned to the frequency used to coordinate flights by your local control tower..."

However, if you feel lucky, be sure to wear light clothing, tennis shoes and be on the lookout for government guys sniffing your way with directional radio antennas - that would be a nice time to turn off your transmitter and begin your daily run <wink>

Happy trails, Michael

[Mat Thompson]

Many thanks for this, it helps to get a full picture of the situation. I've done some reading and it appears that in the UK the following applies.

VHF deregulated frequencies.
Anyone can use these frequencies for MPT1345/1311 type approved equipment.
Free of charge
173.800 MHz
174.100 MHz
174.500 MHz
174.800 MHz *
175.000 MHz


* OK on it's own but may interfere with other units.
** Only legal until December 2007.
Check out the re-allocated frequencies.

UHF deregulated frequencies.
Anyone can use these frequencies for EN300 220 type approved equipment.
Free of charge
863.100 MHz

to

864.900 MHz


Other frequencies are available be cost apply. - Just thought I'd post this stuff incase anyone else might be interested in this thread!