One month left for wireless microphone users to register for wireless
microphone funding

Ofcom is calling on licensed wireless microphone users to register for a
Government funding scheme set up earlier this year to help pay for the
replacement of channel 69 equipment. This equipment will stop working in
2012. The scheme closes on 31 December 2010.

Countries across Europe are clearing a block of frequencies to make way for
new services like next-generation mobile broadband. Part of this block –
called channel 69 (854-862 MHz) – is used by wireless microphones.

Replacement frequencies for channel 69 have been made available in channel
38 (606-614 MHz) as well as other frequencies – but existing microphones
will need to be replaced or modified to work at these new frequencies.

In July 2010, the Government announced that it will be providing a
contribution towards the cost of new equipment for those users who are
eligible under the terms of the scheme. Those affected will receive roughly
55% towards the cost of replacing their equipment.

Who is eligible?

Eligible applicants will have held a valid WT Act channel 69 licence for at
least part of the period between 3 February 2008 and 2 February 2009
inclusive. The exception to this will be equipment hiring companies that can
prove their channel 69 business exclusively involves renting out (and not
installing or operating) channel 69 equipment. The equipment must be in
working condition and capable of tuning to channel 69 but not to channel 38.
It must have been bought before 30 June 2009.

Users who consider themselves eligible for funding must register their claim
by 31 December 2010. Any claim received after this date will not be accepted
under the terms of the funding scheme.

Applicants can register and manage their claims online at www.pmsefunding.co.uk.
Alternatively, they can call the helpline free of charge on 0800 011 3617. 

One response

  1. Hi Mary good article but just to add to it Equiniti will also cover the cost of modifying mics to operate on ch38 to the 55% value and for your interest we can modify the Trantec s4000 series mics for ch 38 operation

    Regards
    Mike Lowe
    MLEC UK

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