| | Handheld
or Body Pack
Handheld wireless microphones resemble wired
mics, without the cord. The speaker and singer can move freely about the space
without getting tripped up by long cords. A handheld mic is also useful when
there are multiple speakers who need to be heard.
A wireless bodypack transmitter consists of two parts:
the bodypack which is a small module that can be attached to the user,
and a very small microphone. The
microphone can clip-on (referred to as a lavalier) or worn as a head
piece (referred to as a headset mic). Since the bodypack transmitter
is worn, it is only used by one person. Wireless body packs allow the
singer or speaker to move freely for a hands-free presentation.
Antenna Systems
Antenna systems increase range and allow you to tie all the units together
in one distribution amplifier. They enable you to combine up to 16 units
on just two remote antennas. This is both convenient and an efficient use
of space. It can diminish most interference-related problems that occur in
a large or set-obstructed venue where wireless units are being run off their
own individual antennas.
UHF vs. VHF
Wireless systems come in two types: VHF & UHF. VHF, which stands for Very
High Frequency, occupies the low end of the frequency spectrum (basically 89.00
MHz to 216.00 MHz). Wireless began with the VHF frequency band, so there’s
a lot of it out there. The chances of running into another VHF system are very
high as the FCC designates this low power band for a variety of uses: cordless
and cellular phones, radio, TV, pagers, walkie-talkies, etc, as well as other
industrial and government signals. On the other hand, systems in the UHF (Ultra
High Frequency) band transmit with greater power. The FCC has allocated more
banks of frequencies in the UHF band (approximately 450.000 MHz to 999.000
MHz) for broadcast uses. So, even though UHF is becoming increasingly more
crowded, it covers a much wider spectrum than VHF. The chances of interfering
with another system are less likely.
Frequency-Agile
"Frequency-agile” means having the option to select from multiple
channels within a single unit. Almost all the manufacturers on the market offer
frequency-agile systems. Don’t settle for anything less. Single-frequency
units are dangerous these days. All wireless mics work within existing television
channels. If you try to operate a wireless audio system on frequencies that are
already occupied by these channels, interference may render your system unusable.
There’s nothing worse than spending a lot of money on a unit, excited to
try it out, and hear nothing but the morning news from your local TV station.
This is why frequency-agile is so important, especially when coordinating multiple
wireless units.
Frequency Coordination
All wireless technology, including wireless mics, in-ear monitors, walkie-talkies,
wireless communication devices, digital lighting, etc, must be carefully
coordinated so that the frequencies won’t interfere with each other
or other local RF sources. The best way to minimize most types of interference,
whether you are dealing with a single wireless unit or multiple units, is
by first doing some frequency coordination.
As your wireless dealer, Wireless First will coordinate you wireless system
with the available frequencies in your area.
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