Home > Latest News > Band III (174-217 MHz)
Band III (174-217 MHz)
24/11/2006 Alternative frequencies for VHF microphones found
Our last update on VHF wireless microphones confirmed that frequencies
between 211 - 217 MHz would cease to be available after 31 December 2007. This move
will make way for more Digital Audio Broadcasting (DAB) in the UK.
In the same update we explained that we were working with Ofcom to identify replacement
spectrum for displaced users and that we would update you with developments as soon
as they became available.
We are now in a position to announce that replacement VHF spectrum has been identified
and that the new frequencies will become available with immediate effect. Our Band III channel plan
provides full details of the new allocations.
The amount of spectrum available for VHF wireless microphones remains the same,
although the new set of channels is adjacent to an existing set.
Licensees are currently being contacted separately by letter (UK Shared, Coordinated) with full details of how the migration
to these new frequencies will work.
5/10/2006 VHF (209 - 217 MHz) - the story so far.
Since our last news item on VHF spectrum Ofcom has updated the Spectrum Information Sheet which provides further details
on the frequencies affected by the implementation of further Digital Audio Broadcasting
(DAB) in the UK.
We are now able to clarify exactly which frequencies will cease to be available
to PMSE after 31 December 2007. Our diagram, available here, illustrates that only frequencies between 211 - 217 MHz will need to vacate the band.
We are currently working with Ofcom to determine a channel plan that will provide
alternative VHF spectrum for displaced radio microphone users. Further information
will be provided as soon as it becomes available.
6/9/2006 Spectrum Information Sheet
An updated version of the Spectrum Information
Sheet is now available. This document aims to inform programme makers of
the many issues surrounding PMSE spectrum.
Subjects of particular interest in this update are concerned with Digital Switchover
timings and the provision of more specific information regarding frequencies affected
by the introduction of DAB in Band III (174- 217MHz).
3/8/2006 VHF Frequencies Withdrawn from Programme Makers
Ofcom has instructed us to withdraw all Programme Making and Special Event (PMSE)
use from the band 209 - 217 MHz by 31st December 2007. This is to clear the band
for additional Digital Audio Broadcasting services (DAB). Ofcom expects to licence
new DAB services from January 2008.
The band is used for a range of PMSE purposes including broadcasters' programme
links for news reporting and professional wireless microphones.
UK Wireless Microphone Licences
As some of the 15 frequencies that make up our UK-wide VHF Wireless Microphone
licences are in this band, the option for a 2-year licence has been immediately
withdrawn. The 1-year licence will continue to be available until 1st January 2007.
Although frequencies below 209 MHz do not have to be surrendered, they may not be
useable due to interference from high-power DAB transmissions and so are at risk
of change.
When a new set of frequencies has been agreed we hope to make a new 2-year licence
available to programme makers.
27/3/2006 Spectrum Information Sheet
The spectrum used for Programme Making &
Special Events is currently facing a number of significant changes including: Digital
TV Switchover; Auction of 1488 - 1491 MHz; Digital Audio Broadcasting and European
Digital TV in 174 - 230 MHz; Auction of 2500 - 2690 MHz band.
An information sheet has been produced which aims to provide you with a brief description of these significant developments and how they could affect your use in future.
1/11/2005 Licensing Policy for VHF Band III, Sub-band 3
Ofcom have published a consultation document concerning the re-allocation of four blocks of spectrum in VHF Band III, Sub-band 3, for Terrestrial Digital Audio Broadcasting (T-DAB). These have been designated 10B, 10C, 10D and 11A and cover the frequency range 210.88 to 217.696 MHz.The re-allocation of this spectrum would have consequences for PMSE users operating Talkback, Audio Links and Radio-microphones, which operate on a non-interference to broadcasting basis. The following frequencies may be affected:
| Band | Use | Proposed T-DAB Block |
|---|---|---|
| 211.91875 to 212.19375MHz | Coordinated Talkback |
10B
|
| 215.26875 to 215.49375 MHz | Coordinated Audio Links | 10D |
| 216.00000 to 217.10000 MHz | Shared & Co-ord Radio-microphones | 11A |
Via the consultation process, users have the opportunity to voice their views on
the spectrum re-allocation and on the future needs of PSME in this band in general.
The closing date for responses to the consultation is 16th November 2005.
The consultation document can be found at
www.ofcom.org.uk/consult/condocs/vhf/