UPDATE: The FCC has moved the deadline for filing comments to Monday, March 1, 2010.

Last month, the FCC announced that wireless systems must cease operation in the 700 MHz frequency band by June 12, 2010.

In reading through their 103-page document, it’s clear the FCC doesn’t attach the same urgency to the operation of wireless systems that we do in professional audio. (Read more about the situation here)

Therefore, it is crucial that you write and send a double-spaced comment letter to the FCC (at www.fcc.gov/cgb/ecfs) regarding the importance of reliable wireless systems to your business and livelihood! The deadline is midnight on Monday, March 1.

Sample comment letter for the FCC below:

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Dear Sir or Madam:

With regard to 08-166, 08-167 and 10-24, I’m concerned as a professional sound engineer and user of wireless microphones. I own a dozen systems and often rent others for use in live concert sound. I’m writing to encourage the FCC’s expansion of licensing under Part 74 to include theaters, performing arts centers, sports facilities, churches, educational and government institutions, which all benefit enormously from reliable wireless microphones used for public assembly.

Unlicensed use under Part 15 - sharing spectrum with unlicensed consumer services (TVBDs) - would eventually be catastrophic to my business and to live events in general. I urge you to expand the categories of licensed wireless microphone use under Part 74.

Respectfully submitted,
Name
City, State
E-mail address
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With your double-spaced comment letter ready, simply:
1. Visit the FCC’s “Electronic Comment Filing System” home page at www.fcc.gov/cgb/ecfs
2. Click on the “Submit a Filing” link under the “ECFS Main Links” section (NOT Express)
3. Click “Add Another Proceeding…” TWICE, and enter 08-166, 08-167 and 10-24.
4. Continue filling out the form, entering all the required (*) fields.
5. Attach your letter, preferably as a PDF on your letterhead, or at least as a Word doc.

Note that Audio-Technica, Shure, and Sennheiser are also offering to assist:
—Write to Shure at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) for help with the process or find instructions here;
—Audio-Technica has instructions here;
—Sennheiser has offered assistance in filing a PDF of your comments with the FCC. Contact Sennheiser for more information.

The time is now, literally. Again, the FCC’s comment period ends at midnight on Monday, March 1. Please take 15 minutes to save your wireless systems while you still have the chance.

Thank you,
The Editors of ProSoundWeb & Live Sound International