Jon
ALL wireless mics "broadcast on the air"
Fred,
Part 15 is specific to 49 mhz and 902-928 MHz
See below.........
|ATTENTION! The FCC has changed its licensing system again. Fortunately,
|most applications can now be done on the web. Form 601 replaces Form 600.
|I will update this FAQ as I learn more. In the meantime, see:
http://wtbwww05.fcc.gov/
Q: What? You need a license for a wireless mic?
A: That's what the FCC says, unless it operates in the 49 MHz, AM/FM
broadcast, or 902-928 MHz band. [Part 15, 90.113, 90.265(b)]
Q: What will happen to me if I use my wireless mic without a license?
A: Probably nothing. The FCC doesn't appear to be interested in
enforcing this requirement, but it may if you create interference or
someone files a complaint. Most wireless mic users are not even aware of
the licensing requirement. Many who are view unlicensed operation as
being no worse than driving at 5 MPH over the speed limit and choose to
"beg forgiveness rather than ask permission."
Q: Can anybody get a wireless mic license?
A: Only businesses, schools, charitable organizations, churches, and
hospitals are eligible under Part 90. Part 74 Subpart H covers wireless
mics used by broadcasters but is beyond the scope of this FAQ.
[90.75(a)]
Q: How difficult is it to get a license?
A: It's a little difficult to fill out the forms if you've never done it
before, but this FAQ should make it easier. If you follow the procedures
properly, the FCC will almost certainly grant the license. [90.143(a)]
Q: How long does it take to get a license?
A: Don't hold your breath. Remember, this is the government. It took me
18 weeks, including a week to fill out the forms. Your mileage may
vary. [90.143(b)]
Q: How much does a license cost?
A: $75 for 5 years. [90.149(a), 1998 FCC fee filing guide]
Q: How do I pick an operating frequency?
A: Find out which frequencies are available for the microphone(s) you
plan to buy. Next, monitor those frequencies for a week using a
scanner. You should search at least 100 kHz on either side of the
frequency of interest. Frequencies that contain weak or no signals
should be safe to use.
Q: What frequencies are available?
A: The following frequencies are available under Part 90 (MHz): 169.445,
169.505, 170.245, 170.305, 171.045, 171.105, 171.845, and 171.905.
[90.265(b)]
Q: What about other wireless mic frequencies not listed above?
A: Frequencies in the following bands may be used by broadcast stations
or networks, cable TV operators, motion picture producers, and TV program
producers under Part 74 Subpart H (MHz): 26.1-26.48, 54-72, 76-88,
161.625-161.775, 174-216, 450-451, 455-456, 470-608, 614-806, 944-952.
See CFR 47 Part 74 Subpart H for more information. [74.802(a),
74.832(a)]
Q: What if I'm not one of the entities listed above? Can I still use a
wireless mic?
A: The best thing to do in this situation is to call the FCC at
888-225-5322 and ask what frequencies you are eligible to use.
Q: I've decided to apply for a license. What do I need to do first?
A: You need to get an application from the FCC and a current copy of FCC
rules Part 90. You can buy the rule book from the US Government Printing
Office (202-783-3238) or your local Printing Office Book Store. Ask for
47 CFR Part 90. You can also download it from the FCC's web site at:
http://www.fcc.gov/oet/info/rules/ [Form 600 instructions]
Q: Where can I get the license application?
A: Call your local FCC field office or the main information line at
888-225-5322, and ask for Forms 600 and 159. You can also download them
from the FCC's web site at:
http://www.fcc.gov/formpage.html [90.117,
90.119(a)(1)]
Q: I have the forms and a copy of the rules. What do I need to do next?
A: First of all, fill out Forms 600 and 159. Each item must be complete,
correct, and typewritten, or the FCC will send it back, and you'll have
to start all over again. I wasted 10 weeks on my first attempt because
of some missing information. See the Appendix below for a guideline.
Next, make out a check or money order for $75.00, payable to "FCC." Mail
the forms and the $75 to: Federal Communications Commission, Wireless
Bureau Applications, P.O. Box 358130, Pittsburgh, PA 15251-5130.
[90.123(a), 90.123(b), 90.127(a)(2), 90.139(b), 90.141, 1998 FCC fee
filing guide]
Q: Does my application require frequency coordination?
A: No. The FCC will forward your application to the Government
coordinator for you. [90.175(i)(2), 90.265(b)(4)]
Q: How do I determine my geographic coordinates?
A: Get a USGS 7.5 minute topographic map for your area. Pinpoint your
location on the map and determine its coordinates to the nearest second.
I've also heard that you can obtain your coordinates from the county
assessor's office. Another possibility is to use a GPS receiver, if you
happen to have one handy. USGS maps cost a few dollars, and you can buy
them from the USGS (U.S. Geological Survey, Washington, D.C., 20242) or
sources listed in the yellow pages under "maps." [Form 600 instructions]
Q: What if I make a mistake on my application or change my mind?
A: You can amend or withdraw your application in writing any time before
the license is granted. Sign and submit it in the same manner as for the
original application. Contact the FCC at 888-225-5322 for assistance.
[90.131]
Q: How can I check on the status of my application?
A: First, there's no point in checking less than 60 days after you mail
your application, because the FCC won't have any information for you.
After 60 days, you can call 888-225-5322 for information. If they ask
for the filing number, tell them you don't have one yet. They will ask
for the applicant's name and zip code and the class of service (tell them
"business"). They will tell you the application status and give you a
filing number that you can use the next time you call. Check back once a
month.
Q: What do I do when the license arrives?
A: Post the license or a legible photocopy in plain sight near the
wireless mic receiver or PA system controls, and enjoy the use of your
microphone. [90.437(a), 90.437(b)]
Q: How do I renew my license after the five years is up?
A: The FCC will send you a renewal form, 574-R, within 60 days of the
license expiration. If no changes need to be made, or only the mailing
address or licensee name have changed (without changes in ownership,
control, or corporate structure), you can sign and send it back with
$75. [90.119(e), 90.135(d)]
Q: My license is about to expire, but the FCC didn't send me a renewal
form. Now what do I do?
A: If there are no changes, submit Forms 405-A and 159 to Federal
Communications Commission, 574R/405A Station Renewal, P.O. Box 358245,
Pittsburgh, PA 15251-5245. [90.119(b)(1), 1998 FCC fee filing guide]
Q: I received a renewal in the mail more than 90 days before my license
expires. Should I submit it?
A: Unless it is a 574-R from the FCC, it is a commercial solicitation from
a private company that will submit your application for a fee (in
addition to the FCC renewal fee). Save your money and do it yourself.
Q: What is the deadline for renewing my license?
A: You have to file a renewal application at least 30 but no more than 90
days before the expiration date, or apply for reinstatement within 30
days after the expiration date. Otherwise, the license will be
cancelled. [90.127(b), 90.149(b)]
Q: I submitted my renewal before the deadline, but the license expired
before I received the new one. Do I have to stop transmitting?
A: No, the license is still valid until the FCC has completed processing
of the renewal. [90.127(b)]
Q: I missed the renewal deadline. What can I do?
A: You can apply for a reinstatement up to 30 days after the license
expires. File Form 574-R or 405-A as you would for a renewal. If more
than 30 days have elapsed since the expiration, you must apply for a new
license. [90.119(b)(1), 90.127(b), 90.149(a), 1998 FCC fee filing guide]
Q: What do I do if I need to make a change to my license?
A: For changes in mailing address or licensee name (without changes in
ownership, control, or corporate structure):
If the license is not due for renewal, submit Form 405-A to Federal
Communications Commission, Gettysburg, PA, 17326. No fee is
required.
If the license is due for renewal, submit Forms 405-A and 159 (or
form 574-R, if you received one) to Federal Communications
Commission, 574R/405A Station Renewal, P.O. Box 358245, Pittsburgh,
PA 15251-5245, within 30 days of the expiration date. The fee is
$75.
For changes in frequency, number of transmitters, area of operation,
ownership, control, or corporate structure, submit Forms 600 and 159
to Federal Communications Commission, Wireless Bureau Applications,
P.O. Box 358130, Pittsburgh, PA 15251-5130. The fee is $45 (or $75 if
the license is due for renewal). [90.119(a)(3), 90.119(b)(2), 90.135,
1998 FCC fee filing guide]
Q: What can I do if someone else is using my frequency?
A: Not much. Wireless mics operate on a secondary basis, meaning that
you can't interfere with primary users (e.g., federal government) but
have to accept interference from them. If you are experiencing this kind
of interference, your only choice may be to change frequency. You might
be able to exchange your microphone for one that operates on a different
frequency or have the manufacturer re-tune it, but you'll need to get a
license for the new frequency. If the interference occurs only when your
wireless mic transmitter is off, you can probably eliminate the
interference by increasing the squelch threshold on your wireless mic
receiver. If you are experiencing interference from another wireless mic
user, you may be able to find out who it is by listening to their
transmissions. Failing that, walk or drive around with a scanner until
you pinpoint the source. It is probably less than a mile away. Contact
the other user and try to work out a compromise. [90.265(b)(4)]
Q: Do I need to announce my call sign at regular intervals?
A: No. Wireless mics are exempt from this requirement. [90.425(d)(9)]
Q: Who can I call for assistance?
A: Call the FCC customer assistance line at 888-225-5322. I don't
recommend calling the local field office, because one of them gave me bad
advice that resulted in my having to resubmit an application.
APPENDIX A: Information resources
FCC assistance:
call toll-free 888-225-5322
FCC rules:
http://www.fcc.gov/oet/info/rules/
FCC forms:
http://www.fcc.gov/formpage.html
1998 FCC fee filing guide:
http://www.fcc.gov/fees/98wtbguide.txt
Wireless microphone tutorials:
http://www.yale.edu/dramat/sound/wireless.html
http://www.audiosystemsgroup.com/wireless.htm
APPENDIX B: Filling out Form 600 (specific instructions for wireless mics)
Main Form
Filing Fee section:
(a) Enter "PALR" for a new license or renewal
Enter "PALM" for a license modification
(b) Enter "1"
(c) Enter "$75.00" for a new license or renewal
Enter "$45.00" for a license modification
(d) Enter "$75.00" for a new license or renewal
Enter "$45.00" for a license modification
1-8 Enter applicant information (name/address of organization applying
for license)
9-16 Enter contact information (if different from applicant)
17. Enter "N"
18. Enter "D"
19. Enter "I" for new license, "M" for modification, or "R" for renewal
20. If renewing or modifying an existing license, enter the call sign
21. Leave blank
22. Enter "P"
23. Enter "I"
24. Enter "N"
25. Enter "N"
26. Enter "IG"
27. Leave blank
28. Enter "N"
29. Enter "N"
30-33 Leave blank
34-37 Enter "N"
38. Enter "Y"
39. Fill in appropriate letter
Enter "I" if you are a sole proprietor
40. Enter name of person signing form
41. Enter title of person signing form
42-43 Sign and date the form. The application must be signed by the
applicant, if the applicant is an individual; by one of the
partners, if the applicant is a partnership; by an officer or
authorized employee if the applicant is a corporation; or by a
member who is an officer, if the applicant is an unincorporated
association. [1.1913(a), 90.125]
Schedules A, B, C
Not needed
Schedule D
Licensee Name: Enter name of applicant
Radio Service: Enter "IG"
Call Sign or Station Location:
Enter city, state if applying for a new license, otherwise enter call
sign
D1. Place a "N" in the brackets if applying for a new license
Place a "M" in the brackets to modify an existing license
Place a "R" in the brackets to renew an existing license
Place a "X" in the brackets to reinstate an expired license
Place a "A" in the brackets to transfer license to another party
D2. Leave blank
D3. If modifying an existing license, list proposed modifications.
Otherwise leave blank.
D4. Leave blank
D5-D6 Enter address and phone number of primary location where wireless
mic will be used
D7-D9 Leave blank
D10. Leave blank
D11. Enter "0"
D12. Describe your business or activity. Describe how wireless mic
will be used.
D13. Enter "90.75(a)(1)" if applicant is a business
Enter "90.75(a)(2)" if applicant is a church, school, or charity
Enter "90.75(a)(4)" if applicant is a hospital, clinic, etc.
D14. Leave blank
Schedule E
Licensee Name: Enter name of applicant
Radio Service: Enter "IG"
Call Sign or Station Location:
Enter city, state if applying for a new license, otherwise enter call
sign
E1. Look at the map used to derive the geographic coordinates. It
should say something like "North American Datum 1927." Enter "2"
for NAD27 coordinates, "8" for NAD83 coordinates, "O" for other.
Most maps are NAD27.
E2-E8 Leave blank
E9. Enter "0.2" on line G
E10. Enter "P on line G
E11. Enter your geographic coordinates on line G
This is the location of the wireless mic receiver
E12. Leave blank
Schedule F
Not needed
Schedule G
Licensee Name: Enter name of applicant
Radio Service: Enter "IG"
Call Sign or Station Location:
Enter city, state if applying for a new license, otherwise enter call
sign
LOC: Enter "G" (cross out the preprinted "A")
G1. Enter the wireless mic frequency in MHz
G2. Enter "MO"
G3. Enter the number of wireless mic transmitters you have (or will
have) that can be used on this frequency
G4. Enter "20K0F3E"
G5. Enter "0.05"
G6-G8 Leave blank
Add a line for each additional frequency you plan to use
APPENDIX C: Filling out Form 405A (coming soon)
APPENDIX D: Filling out Form 159
This form must accompany Forms 600 and 405A if a fee is owed.
1. Enter "358130" if filing Form 600
Enter "358245" if filing Form 405A
2. Enter the name of the person or company making the payment
3. Enter "$75.00" for a new license or renewal
Enter "$45.00" for a license modification
4-9 Enter address and daytime telephone number of payer
11-17 If applicant and payer names are different, enter applicant name,
address and daytime telephone number
19A If renewing or modifying a license, enter call sign
20A Enter "PALR" for a new license or renewal
Enter "PALM" for a license modification
21A Enter "1"
22A Enter "$75.00" for a new license or renewal
Enter "$45.00" for a license modification
23A Leave blank
24A Leave blank
25. Enter "0" in leftmost box, followed by:
Payer's social security of payer, if payer is an individual, or
Payer's taxpayer identification number
26. If applicant and payer names are different, enter applicant's social
security number or taxpayer identification number
27. Print your name in the blank and sign where indicated
28. Fill out this section if paying by credit card
APPENDIX E: Filling out Form 574R
Items 1-5: Should be already filled out by FCC
Item 6: Check all boxes that apply
Print name and telephone number of person signing the form.
Sign and date the form. The application must be signed by the applicant,
if the applicant is an individual; by one of the partners, if the
applicant is a partnership; by an officer or authorized employee if the
applicant is a corporation; or by a member who is an officer, if the
applicant is an unincorporated association. [1.1913(a), 90.125]
Applicant Classification: Check appropriate box
Part 15:
http://www.fcc.gov/Bureaus/Engineering_Technology/Documents/bulletins/oet63/oet63rev.pdf