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Proposed Rule2021-10716

Wireless Microphones in the TV Bands, 600 MHz Guard Band, 600 MHz Duplex Gap, and the 941.5-944 MHz, 944-952 MHz, 952.850-956.250 MHz, 956.45-959.85 MHz, 1435-1525 MHz, 6875-6900 MHz and 7100-7125 MHz Bands

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Published

July 1, 2021

Issuing agencies

Federal Communications Commission

Abstract

In this document, the Commission aims to enhance the spectral efficiency of wireless microphones by permitting a recently developed type of wireless microphone system, termed herein as a Wireless Multi- Channel Audio System (WMAS), to operate in certain frequency bands. This emerging technology would enable more wireless microphones to operate in the spectrum available for wireless microphone operations, and thus advances an important Commission goal of promoting efficient spectrum use. The Commission proposes to revise the applicable technical rules for operation of low-power auxiliary station (LPAS) devices to permit WMAS to operate in the broadcast television (TV) bands and other LPAS frequency bands on a licensed basis. The Commission also proposes to update the existing LPAS and wireless microphone rules to reflect the end of the post-Incentive auction transition period and update references to international wireless microphone standards.

Full Text

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<title>Federal Register, Volume 86 Issue 124 (Thursday, July 1, 2021)</title>
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[Federal Register Volume 86, Number 124 (Thursday, July 1, 2021)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 35046-35058]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [<a href="http://www.gpo.gov">www.gpo.gov</a>]
[FR Doc No: 2021-10716]

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FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION

47 CFR Parts 15 and 74

[ET Docket No. 21-115, RM-11821; FCC 21-46; FR ID 26756]

Wireless Microphones in the TV Bands, 600 MHz Guard Band, 600 MHz
Duplex Gap, and the 941.5-944 MHz, 944-952 MHz, 952.850-956.250 MHz,
956.45-959.85 MHz, 1435-1525 MHz, 6875-6900 MHz and 7100-7125 MHz Bands

AGENCY: Federal Communications Commission.

ACTION: Proposed rule.

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SUMMARY: In this document, the Commission aims to enhance the spectral
efficiency of wireless microphones by permitting a recently developed
type of wireless microphone system, termed herein as a Wireless Multi-
Channel Audio System (WMAS), to operate in certain frequency bands.
This emerging technology would enable more wireless microphones to
operate in the spectrum available for wireless microphone operations,
and thus advances an important Commission goal of promoting efficient
spectrum use. The Commission proposes to revise the applicable
technical rules for operation of low-power auxiliary station (LPAS)
devices to permit WMAS to operate in the broadcast television (TV)
bands and other LPAS frequency bands on a licensed basis. The
Commission also proposes to update the existing LPAS and wireless
microphone rules to reflect the end of the post-Incentive auction
transition period and update references to international wireless
microphone standards.

DATES: Comments are due August 2, 2021. Reply comments are due August
30, 2021.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Hugh Van Tuyl, Office of Engineering
and Technology, 202-418-7506, <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#7d35081a15532b1c13290804113d1b1e1e531a120b">[email&#160;protected]</a>.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: This is a summary of the Commission's Notice
of Proposed Rulemaking, ET Docket No. 21-115, RM-11821, FCC 21-46,
adopted and released April 22, 2021. The full text of this document is
available for inspection and copying during normal business hours in
the FCC Reference Center (Room CY-A257), 445 12th Street SW,
Washington, DC 20554. The full text may also be downloaded at: <a href="https://www.fcc.gov/document/fcc-looks-open-door-new-wireless-microphone-technologies-0">https://www.fcc.gov/document/fcc-looks-open-door-new-wireless-microphone-technologies-0</a>. People with Disabilities: To request materials in
accessible formats for people with disabilities (braille, large print,
electronic files, audio format), send an email to <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#7c1a1f1f494c483c1a1f1f521b130a">[email&#160;protected]</a> or
call the Consumer & Governmental Affairs Bureau at 202-418-0530
(voice), 202-418-0432 (tty).

Synopsis

1. In this Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM), the Commission
proposes to revise the applicable technical rules for operation of part
74 low-power auxiliary station (LPAS) devices to permit a recently
developed type of wireless microphone system, termed herein as a
Wireless Multi-Channel Audio System (WMAS), to operate in the broadcast
television (TV) bands and other part 74 LPAS frequency bands on a
licensed basis. This emerging technology would enable more wireless
microphones to operate in the spectrum available for wireless
microphone operations, and thus advances an important Commission goal
of promoting efficient spectrum use. The Commission propose and seek
comment on technical rules for WMAS operations under our part 74 LPAS
rules for licensed wireless microphone operations as well as the
particular frequency bands in which WMAS wireless microphones would be
permitted to operate. The Commission also seeks comment on whether to
permit WMAS under the part 15 rules that allow unlicensed wireless
microphone operations in the TV bands, the 600 MHz guard band, and 600
MHz duplex gap. The Commission also proposes to update our existing
part 74 LPAS and part 15 technical rules for wireless microphones,
which already rely on certain European Telecommunications Standards
Institute (ETSI) standards, to incorporate the latest version of that
standard where appropriate. Finally, the Commission proposes to update
the wireless microphone rules to reflect the end of the post-Incentive
auction transition period. Its aim in this proceeding is to enhance the
spectral efficiency of wireless microphone use. The Commission does not
intend to alter the existing spectrum rights--or expectations regarding
access and availability of spectrum--vis-[agrave]-vis all the various
authorized users, whether broadcast licensees, white space device
users, the wireless microphone users themselves, or others, that share
frequency bands with wireless microphones.
2. Background. Many types of users employ wireless microphones in a
variety of settings including theaters and music venues, film studios,
conventions, corporate events, houses of worship, and internet
webcasts. Wireless microphone operations range from professional uses,
with the need for numerous high-performance microphones, to an
individual consumer's use of a handheld microphone at a conference or
in a karaoke bar. These devices are authorized for operations both on a
licensed and unlicensed basis, depending on the frequency band. Most
licensed wireless microphones operate under the part 74 rules for low
power auxiliary stations (LPAS) on a secondary basis. Under those
rules, they can operate on unused spectrum in the TV bands (both VHF
and UHF), a 4-megahertz portion of the 600 MHz duplex gap, certain
frequencies in the 900 MHz band, the 1435-1525 MHz band (shared with
federal Aeronautical Mobile Telemetry (AMT) service), and portions of
the 7 GHz band. Entities eligible for part 74 licenses include
broadcast station licensees and networks, certain cable television
operators, motion picture/TV producers, and professional sound
companies and venue operators that routinely use 50 or more wireless
microphones. Unlicensed wireless microphones also operate in certain
bands under the part 15 rules--including the VHF and UHF-TV bands where
they generally share the same basic technology used by licensed LPAS
wireless microphones (although unlicensed operations are limited to
lower, more restrictive power levels than licensed operations).
3. Historically and currently, most wireless microphones--both
licensed and unlicensed--operate on unused spectrum in the TV bands
where they share use of unused TV band spectrum with unlicensed white
space devices. The spectrum available for these devices has decreased
in recent years as a result of the Commission's actions that repurposed
some portions of the TV bands for wireless services and repacked the TV
bands. In 2015 and 2017, the Commission took several actions focused
either on promoting more efficient use of the spectrum by both licensed
and unlicensed wireless microphone operations in the repacked

[[Page 35047]]

TV bands, 600 MHz guard band, and 600 MHz duplex gap, or finding
spectrum in additional frequency bands that could be used to
accommodate licensed wireless microphone operations.
4. Petition for rulemaking. On August 17, 2018, Sennheiser
Electronic Corporation (Sennheiser) filed a petition for rulemaking
requesting that the Commission modify the part 74 LPAS rules for
licensed wireless microphones. Specifically, it requests that the
Commission define a new class of wireless microphone, which it terms a
``Wireless Multi-Channel Audio System (WMAS),'' that digitally combines
the signals of multiple LPAS wireless microphones into a wider channel
than currently permitted in the TV bands or other LPAS frequency bands.
Sennheiser states that other wireless microphone manufacturers are
developing similar systems. Sennheiser specifically requests that such
systems be permitted to operate with a maximum channel bandwidth of 6
megahertz, the same size as an entire TV channel, rather than 200
kilohertz channels as the rules currently allow for LPAS devices in the
TV bands, and that they be permitted to operate not only in the TV
bands, but also in the 600 MHz duplex gap and in the 941.5-944 MHz,
944-952 MHz, and 1435-1525 MHz bands that also are available for
licensed LPAS wireless microphone operations. Sennheiser explains that,
rather than placing each wireless microphone on its own separate
frequency, as under current technical rule specifications, WMAS
digitally combines the signals from multiple devices into a 6-megahertz
channel, eliminating intermodulation and permitting denser use of the
spectrum while lowering the average power spectral density across the
channel. Sennheiser notes that a potential downside of authorizing WMAS
is the possibility that an operator connects too few devices on the
wider channel to realize WMAS's potential for improved spectrum
efficiency, and proposes rules that would require WMAS devices to
operate a minimum of 12 wireless microphones in a 6-megahertz channel.
Sennheiser asserts that this technology will improve spectrum
efficiency by allowing an increased number of devices to operate in a
6-megahertz channel and thus help to counter a severe spectrum shortage
for wireless microphones.
5. The Commission sought public comment on the Sennheiser petition.
Two wireless microphone manufacturers, Alteros and Shure, filed
comments, as did Microsoft, whose concern focuses on white space device
operations. Sennheiser, Microsoft, and the Aerospace and Flight Test
Radio Coordinating Council (AFTRCC), which must approve any LPAS
operations in the 1435-1525 MHz band, filed reply comments. Commenters
generally support increasing the spectral efficiency of wireless
microphones, but raise some potential concerns about Sennheiser's
proposals. In particular, Alteros and Microsoft express concerns that
WMAS not adversely affect the coexistence of wireless microphones
systems made by different manufacturers and request that the Commission
not adopt rule changes that benefit only a single manufacturer.
Alteros, Shure, and Microsoft argue that the minimum number of wireless
microphones that should be required in a 6-megahertz band should be
higher than the 12 suggested by Sennheiser. In addition, Microsoft
expresses concern about the potential impact that permitting WMAS
operations may have on white space device operations. While Microsoft
does not oppose using WMAS on TV band frequencies and in the 4-
megahertz portion of the 600 MHz duplex gap in which licensed LPAS
wireless microphones are authorized, it opposes permitting WMAS
operations in the unlicensed 6-megahertz portion of the 600 MHz duplex
gap, which it views as critical for white space devices because this
spectrum is available for white space device operations throughout the
United States. Alteros asks that any rule changes apply to all part 74
LPAS frequency bands, including the expanded 900 MHz bands and the
1435-1525 MHz band. In its initial comments, Shure suggests that the
Commission consider permitting WMAS in only certain bands as a
preliminary matter, and in particular consider not permitting WMAS
operations in the 1435-1525 MHz band initially due to concerns that
specific equipment authentication and software-based controls for
coordination with AFTRCC in that band are under development, but in
more recent filings Shure now indicates its support for permitting WMAS
in all frequency bands available for licensed wireless microphone
operations under the part 74 LPAS rules--including the TV bands, the
600 MHz duplex gap, and the 900 MHz bands, the 1435-1525 MHz band, and
the 7 GHz band. AFTRCC states that it has no objection to the petition
as long as the current coordination and authentication requirements for
the 1435-1525 MHz band are not modified. Shure and Microsoft also
generally request that the Commission examine the compatibility of WMAS
with other systems or operations in the frequency bands in which WMAS
would operate.
6. In its most recent ex parte filings, submitted in December 2020
and January 2021, Shure recommends that the Commission update the
technical rules consistent with the updated 2017 version of the ETSI
standard concerning wireless microphones. Shure notes that this latest
version already permits certain types of WMAS devices in Europe and
thus would allow the United States to harmonize its wireless microphone
rules and promote greater spectral efficiency for wireless microphone
operations. It also notes that updating the rules to reflect the newest
version of the ETSI standard would allow the Commission to reference a
single document for both the single carrier emission limits as well as
the limits for WMAS.
7. Discussion. The Commission proposes to amend the part 74 LPAS
technical rules to permit the use of WMAS in most of the LPAS frequency
bands where wireless microphones are currently permitted to operate. If
adopted, WMAS devices would be a new type of wireless microphone system
that, by using wider channelization than currently is permitted for
wireless microphones under part 74 along with a more efficient
operating protocol, would enable more microphones to be deployed within
the same amount of spectrum. Three wireless microphone manufacturers--
Sennheiser, Alteros, and Shure--request that the Commission permit WMAS
in certain frequency bands, and Microsoft and AFTRCC also generally
support WMAS provided that their concerns can be addressed.
Specifically, the Commission proposes and seeks comment on the
definition of WMAS, the frequency bands in which WMAS would be
permitted, and the appropriate technical requirements (e.g., spectral
efficiency, channel bandwidth, maximum power, and emission masks) that
would govern operation of these systems. As part of its proposal, the
Commission specifically proposes applying technical rules for WMAS
consistent with the recently updated ETSI standard for WMAS. The
Commission also takes this opportunity to propose updating its existing
technical rules for currently authorized part 74 LPAS wireless
microphones, which already rely on certain ETSI standards, in order to
incorporate the applicable portions of the recently updated ETSI
standard. In addition, the Commission also seeks comment on whether the
Commission should revise the part 15 technical rules for unlicensed
wireless microphone devices

[[Page 35048]]

that operate in the TV bands, the 600 MHz guard band, and the 600 MHz
duplex gap to permit WMAS operations for those devices in some or all
of those frequency bands, and whether the Commission should revise the
part 15 wireless microphone rules to require use of an updated ETSI
standard. Finally, the Commission proposes and seeks comment on
updating its rules to reflect the end of the post-Incentive Auction
transition.
8. Revisions to the part 74 LPAS Rules to Authorize WMAS. In its
petition, Sennheiser proposes that the Commission use the term
``Wireless Multi-Channel Audio System'' for this new type of wireless
microphone device, and to broadly define this system as ``[a] system
that digitally combines the signals of multiple low power auxiliary
station devices onto one radio-frequency channel.'' Shure agrees.
Alteros asks that any definition not limit the system to use by a
single company such as Sennheiser. The Commission notes that the most
recent version of the ETSI standards uses the same name for this
system, ``Wireless Multi-Channel Audio System,'' though it does have a
slightly different definition, namely a ``wireless audio transmission
system[] using broadband transmission technique for microphone and in-
ear monitor systems, and other multichannel audio [Programme Making and
Special Events] use.''
9. Discussion. The Commission proposes to adopt the terminology
proposed by Sennheiser, as well as the definition it proposes. The
Commission seeks comment on this proposed designation and definition.
Is it appropriate for the type of wireless microphone system the
Commission proposes to permit? Would a different name or definition be
more appropriate? If so, how should the proposed name or definition be
modified to provide more accuracy or a better description of WMAS?
10. Frequency Bands of Operation. In its petition, Sennheiser
specifically requests that WMAS be permitted to operate in the TV
bands, in the 600 MHz duplex gap, and in the 941.5-944 MHz, 944-952
MHz, and 1435-1525 MHz bands that also are available for licensed LPAS
wireless microphone operations. Alteros asks that any WMAS apply to all
part 74 LPAS frequency bands, including the expanded 900 MHz bands and
the 1435-1525 MHz band, while Shure similarly supports permitting WMAS
in all frequency bands available for licensed wireless microphone
operations under the part 74 LPAS rules--including the TV bands (VHF
and UHF), the 600 MHz duplex gap, the 900 MHz bands, the 1435-1525 MHz
band, and the 7 GHz band.
11. Discussion. The Commission proposes to allow WMAS to operate in
most of the bands where part 74 wireless microphones are permitted to
operate, including the VHF-TV bands (54-72 MHz, 76-88 MHz and 174-216
MHz), the UHF-TV band (470-608 MHz), the 653-657 MHz segment of the 600
MHz duplex gap, and the 941.5-944 MHz, 944-952 MHz, 952.850-956.250
MHz, 956.45-959.85 MHz, 1435-1525 MHz, 6875-6900 MHz and 7100-7125 MHz
bands. These are all of the frequency bands available for LPAS
operations in which the Commission believes that wireless microphones
using a wider channelization system are technically feasible and thus
could enable more efficient use of the limited spectrum available for
wireless microphone operations. The Commission is not, however,
proposing to allow WMAS operation in the 26.100-26.480 MHz, 161.625-
161.775 MHz, 450.000-451.000 MHz and 455.000-456.000 MHz bands because
the Commission believes that the available spectrum (1 megahertz or
less in each band) make them less suited for WMAS operation.
12. The Commission seeks comment on this proposal. Are all of the
bands where the Commission has proposed to permit WMAS operation
suitable for such operation? The Commission's goal is to promote more
efficient use of spectrum for LPAS operations and it is mindful that
not all LPAS operations would use WMAS and that other operations share
the affected frequency bands. Thus, the Commission seeks to permit WMAS
while not adversely affecting these other operations. Are there special
considerations that should be taken into account for any of the bands
proposed for WMAS? In the TV bands wireless microphones are secondary
to broadcast TV stations and share use of spectrum unused by
broadcasters with white space devices. Wireless microphones are
secondary to both federal and non-federal systems operating in the
941.5-944 MHz band and the 1435-1525 MHz band and are secondary to
broadcast or other licensed services in the 944-952 MHz and portions of
the 952-960 MHz, the 6875-6900 MHz and the 7100-7125 MHz bands, and
wireless microphone operations must be coordinated under specified
coordination requirements. Would WMAS operations in any of the proposed
bands raise concerns about adversely affecting incumbent systems or
authorized users? For instance, when coordinating WMAS operations, are
there any additional interference mitigation techniques or technologies
that would be necessary or can be used to help prevent harmful in-band
interference? Are specific rules needed to reflect that all uses
continue to be available and that users have flexibility to operate
equipment and devices that best meet their needs? In light of recent
changes to the 6 GHz band, the Commission invites specific comment on
WMAS operation in the 6875-6900 MHz and the 7100-7125 MHz bands. To
what extent are LPAS operations making use of these bands? If the
Commission authorizes WMAS generally, how might this affect use of
these bands by part 74 wireless microphone operations? Should WMAS not
be authorized in these bands, or should part 74 wireless microphones no
longer be permitted to operate in these bands altogether, considering
the recent changes and expected future usage of this spectrum?
13. Are there any other LPAS bands where the Commission should
permit WMAS to operate? Would it be feasible or appropriate to allow
WMAS operation in any of the bands that the Commission has proposed to
exclude? Is there a minimum amount of bandwidth necessary for WMAS to
operate? How does the amount of available channel bandwidth affect
efficiency? Does the number of microphones that can be supported
increase linearly with increasing spectrum or is there a different
relationship? Finally, the Commission asks that commenters discuss the
costs and benefits associated with their recommended approach regarding
the authorization of WMAS in particular frequency bands. In particular,
the Commission seeks information and data about operations in these
bands and any other bands that commenters suggest for WMAS use. This
information and data should include details regarding current wireless
microphone usage, such as quantitative measures describing how many
microphones are used per channel at various locations, how wireless
microphones are used and the types of users as well as how these
measures, uses and users would change if WMAS were used instead of
currently authorized wireless microphones that operate using narrower
bandwidths.
14. Technical Requirements. In this section the Commission proposes
and seeks comment on technical requirements for WMAS devices. Because
the current part 74 rules for wireless microphones are based on the use
of narrower bandwidths than would be used for WMAS operation, the
Commission will need to specify appropriate and possibly different

[[Page 35049]]

technical requirements for these wider bandwidth systems for wireless
microphones, including output power limits and emission masks.
15. Bandwidth. The part 74 rules limit wireless microphones
operating in the TV bands and 600 MHz duplex gap to a 200 kilohertz
maximum bandwidth. Wireless microphones operating in the 941.5-944 MHz,
944-952 MHz, 952.850-956.250 MHz, 956.45-959.85 MHz, 1435-1525 MHz,
6875-6900 MHz and 7100-7125 MHz bands do not have bandwidth limits
specified in the part 74 rules, but are required to meet the emission
masks specified in the 2011 ETSI wireless microphone standard, i.e.,
ETSI EN 300 422-1 v1.4.2 (2011-08) [``EN 300 422-1 (2011)''], which
precludes the use of wide bandwidths, e.g., 1 megahertz or greater.
Accordingly, the Commission's existing rules would preclude WMAS
operations as proposed by Sennheiser (i.e., use of a 6-megahertz
channel for the wireless microphone system). The Commission notes that
the most recent version of the ETSI standard, established in 2017,
permits WMAS to operate using wider channels up to 20 megahertz.
16. Discussion. The Commission proposes to allow WMAS devices to
use a 6-megahertz maximum bandwidth as suggested by Sennheiser and
Shure, subject to any technical or other limitations inherent to the
particular frequency band. A 6-megahertz channel corresponds to the
size of channels in the TV bands where many part 74 wireless
microphones currently operate. The Commission also notes that no
commenter suggested a larger channel size for WMAS. Under the
Commission's proposal, the bandwidth of a WMAS device could be smaller
than 6 megahertz, either by system design or as needed to comply with
the amount of spectrum available under the Commission's rules. For
instance, the bandwidth of a WMAS device for licensed wireless
microphone operations in the 4 megahertz of spectrum available for LPAS
operations in the 600 MHz duplex gap (653-657 MHz) would be limited to
4 megahertz, and the amount of spectrum available in each of the
952.850-956.250 MHz and 956.45-959.85 MHz bands is less than 6
megahertz. The Commission further proposes that for WMAS devices
operating in the TV bands, the 6 megahertz (or less) WMAS channel must
fall entirely within a single TV channel (2-36) that is available for
part 74 wireless microphones in accordance with the separation
requirements under Sec. 74.802(b). This requirement will prevent a
WMAS device from occupying portions of two unused TV channels
simultaneously, potentially excluding other uses that require a full 6-
megahertz channel, such as unlicensed white space devices or other
wireless microphone operations using WMAS.
17. The Commission seeks comment on these proposals. In particular,
it seeks comment on whether 6 megahertz is the appropriate maximum
channel size for WMAS part 74 LPAS wireless microphone devices in the
TV bands and other frequency bands (apart from the smaller sized 4-
megahertz portion of the 600 MHz duplex gap), or whether the Commission
should allow larger channel sizes. For example, Shure notes that the
2017 ETSI standard EN 300 422-1 V2.1.2 (2017-01) [``EN 300 422-1
(2017)''] permits a channel bandwidth of up to 20 megahertz for WMAS
systems. If the Commission were to allow channel sizes greater than 6
megahertz, in which bands should the Commission allow them? For
instance, should a wider channel for WMAS be permitted only outside the
TV bands (e.g., in the 944-952 MHz band, the 1435-1525 MHz band or the
6875-6900 MHz and 7100-7125 MHz portions of the 7 GHz band) that do not
involve pre-existing 6-megahertz channels? Are 6-megahertz wide
channels for WMAS appropriate in all of the bands outside the TV bands
(for example in the 944-952 MHz band where other services use a channel
plan consisting of 25 kHz segments)? Should WMAS operating in bands
outside of the TV bands also be required to operate within the limits
of a single channel as defined by the channel plans of the other
services using those bands (for example in the 6875-6900 MHz band where
the channel plans of other services are based on 25 megahertz channel
sizes, should WMAS systems be required to fall entirely within one of
the existing channels)? Should wider channels be allowed within the TV
bands at locations where there are two or more contiguous unused
channels available for licensed LPAS wireless microphone use?
18. In addition, the Commission seeks comment on co-existence
between WMAS and other operations with which it would share the
spectrum. Would wider channel bandwidths make spectrum co-existence and
sharing more difficult with narrower bandwidth wireless microphones, or
between WMAS devices produced by different manufacturers? Should the
Commission adopt any requirements to better enable co-existence and
sharing between different types of wireless microphone systems? Would
permitting channels wider than 6 megahertz for WMAS in the TV bands
potentially alter the balance between licensed LPAS wireless microphone
operations and white space devices that share available unused channels
in the TV bands? The Commission also seeks comment on whether there
should be a minimum bandwidth specified for WMAS. For example, because
the Commission proposed to exclude spectrum bands where 1 megahertz or
less is available for wireless microphones, should the Commission
restrict WMAS to a minimum 1-megahertz bandwidth? Is there a different
minimum that should be specified, or should the Commission not specify
a minimum bandwidth at all? The Commission seeks comment on how
specifying a minimum or maximum bandwidth may affect spectrum
efficiency and the ability for systems of different types (e.g.,
currently authorized wireless microphones and WMAS wireless
microphones) to co-exist. The Commission also seeks comment on the
costs and benefits with respect to equipment cost and spectrum usage of
specifying specific minimum and maximum bandwidths for WMAS.
19. Spectral Efficiency. In its petition requesting that the
Commission authorize WMAS, Sennheiser notes that a potential downside
is the possibility that an operator connects too few devices on the
wider channel to realize WMAS's potential for improved spectrum
efficiency. To ensure that users operating WMAS would use spectrum as
or more efficiently than currently authorized wireless microphones
(e.g., wireless microphones restricted to 200 kilohertz in the TV
bands), Sennheiser proposes that operators be required to operate a
minimum of 12 wireless microphones on a WMAS in a 6-megahertz channel.
Alteros contends that there should be a minimum of 24 wireless
microphones in a 6-megahertz channel, while Shure proposes WMAS use a
minimum of 3 wireless microphones per 1-megahertz of spectrum.
Microsoft states more generally that the Commission should encourage
that WMAS maximize efficient use.
20. Discussion. Sennheiser, Alteros, and Shure agree that the
Commission should establish spectral efficiency requirements for WMAS
devices to ensure sufficient use of the spectrum by any WMAS, although
they disagree on what those should be. As suggested by Shure, the
Commission proposes that WMAS devices comply with a spectral efficiency
requirement of at least three audio channels per megahertz (18 audio
channels per 6 megahertz) to ensure that these wider bandwidth devices
do not occupy more spectrum than necessary. This proposal is consistent
with ETSI's

[[Page 35050]]

requirement that WMAS must have at least one mode that supports a
minimum of three audio links per megahertz. The Commission believes
that Sennheiser's suggestion of 12 channels per 6 megahertz does not
represent an improvement over what is currently achievable with
existing technology. The Commission is also concerned that Alteros'
suggestion of 24 channels per 6 megahertz might not be achievable in
some cases, such as when an operator needs to use many very high-
quality audio channels. The Commission therefore proposes to require
WMAS devices to operate with a minimum spectral efficiency of three
audio channels per megahertz as suggested by Shure. The Commission
believes that a spectral efficiency requirement specified over one
megahertz may be more appropriate and more flexible than a requirement
specified over the WMAS device maximum channel bandwidth because it
provides an easier method to scale total power to different bandwidths,
thus allowing manufacturers to produce devices in which the bandwidth
could be varied as necessary based on the number of audio channels
required and the spectrum available for use in any particular frequency
band while also ensuring more efficient use of spectrum for wireless
microphone operations.
21. The Commission seeks comment on these proposals. In particular,
the Commission seeks comment on whether the proposed spectral
efficiency metric is appropriate. How does this metric, which would
require at least 18 wireless microphones within a 6-megahertz channel,
compare to what is achievable using the types of analog and digital
microphones permitted under existing rules? How should an audio channel
be defined in this context? Should the metric be higher or lower, and
if so why? The Commission also seeks comment on whether there are any
other spectral efficiency metrics that the Commission could specify in
place of, or in addition to, the number of audio channels. For example,
the audio for actors in a stage production or vocalists performing a
concert may need the highest quality audio while lower quality audio
may be acceptable for other uses. Should a spectral efficiency
requirement consider the type of audio channel, e.g., voice or high
quality, in a specification of the minimum number of channels required
per megahertz of spectrum? Alternatively, would a minimum data rate
(e.g., X bits per second per megahertz) be more appropriate rather than
tying efficiency to number of audio channels? If so, what data rate
would be appropriate and over what bandwidth? Commenters should provide
details regarding advantages or disadvantages of such an approach as
compared to the proposed three audio channel per megahertz efficiency
requirement. How could a spectral efficiency requirement be enforced at
the equipment authorization level, at the time of licensing, and/or in
the field? That is, in addition to ensuring that the equipment can meet
any spectral efficiency requirement during the equipment approval
process, are there ways to ensure that WMAS users actually operate in
accordance with any spectral efficiency requirement? Should a condition
be placed on a LPAS license stating the requirement that users
employing WMAS must meet that standard?
22. What are the costs and benefits of establishing a spectral
efficiency requirement for WMAS devices? Is a higher efficiency
requirement more difficult or expensive to meet, and does it limit
wireless microphone operators' ability to make use of the spectrum? On
the other hand, what are the costs of not establishing a spectrum
efficiency requirement, or not taking other steps to ensure that WMAS
would be used efficiently, with respect to white space device
operations or other users' operations that share use of the same
frequency bands that would be available for WMAS use? The Commission
seeks any quantitative support regarding the answers to these
questions.
23. Output Power. Under the current part 74 rules, wireless
microphones in the TV bands are limited to 50 milliwatts equivalent
isotropically radiated power (EIRP) in the VHF band, 250 milliwatts
conducted power in the UHF band, 20 milliwatts EIRP in the duplex gap,
250 milliwatts conducted power in the 1435-1525 MHz band, and 1 watt
conducted power in all other bands. These power limits apply to each
individual wireless microphone, so that if, for example, there are 12
wireless microphones operating in close physical proximity within a
single 6-megahertz channel, the total power within that channel will be
12 times greater than if there were a single wireless microphone. The
Commission notes that, as a practical matter, wireless microphones
generally operate at less than the maximum power the rules allow due to
a number of considerations, such as the need to extend battery life,
reduced interference between wireless microphones, and because the
maximum power is simply not necessary in many applications.
24. Sennheiser did not request higher power for WMAS devices than
the part 74 rules currently allow for wireless microphones. It states
that WMAS devices would operate at a lower power spectral density (PSD)
which allows for greater frequency re-use, thereby improving spectrum
efficiency over a geographic region with heavy wireless microphone use.
However, Shure argues that the Commission should clarify that the
current part 74 power limits are limits per channel, and that WMAS
should be allowed to use PSD levels up to 750 milliwatts per megahertz
in the UHF-TV band and most other bands available for wireless
microphones under part 74. Shure argues that this PSD limit is
equivalent to a single channel power limit of 250 milliwatts (i.e.,
three audio channels per megahertz).
25. Discussion. The Commission proposes to allow WMAS to operate at
up to the same maximum power levels as other part 74 LPAS devices, but
seeks comment on whether it should allow higher power levels as Shure
suggests or make other changes to the power limits for WMAS. What is
the appropriate maximum power level for each of the bands where WMAS
would operate? Should the power limit be expressed in terms of PSD,
absolute maximum power, or some combination of the two, and should they
be conducted or radiated (EIRP) limits? Should the power be capped or
permitted to scale with the number of audio channels being delivered?
For example, should more power be permitted if a WMAS provides more
channels than any minimum the Commission might specify? For example, if
the Commission were to adopt its proposal to require at least three
audio channels per megahertz, should the Commission permit more power
for a device that provides four or more audio channels per megahertz?
How does the power the Commission permits and/or the way it specifies
it affect re-use distance between systems? Commenters should specify
how whatever power limit it supports provides the ability to re-use
WMAS in crowded areas (e.g., among the many theaters in New York's
theater district). Should WMAS devices be required to incorporate
transmit power control to limit power to the minimum necessary for a
particular application? What are the costs and benefits of higher or
lower power limits and a requirement to incorporate transmit power
control? To the extent that the higher power levels are considered, as
proposed by Shure, should they be permitted in particular bands or in
all bands? For instance, should higher power be precluded from the
6875-6900 MHz and

[[Page 35051]]

7100-7125 MHz bands in light of recent changes to the 6 GHz band?
26. The Commission also seeks comment on the potential for WMAS to
affect licensed broadcast services in the TV bands, other uses of the
TV bands such as unlicensed white space devices, as well as other
licensed and unlicensed operations where authorized in portions of the
900 MHz, 1.4 GHz, and 7 GHz bands. How would WMAS power levels and
wider bandwidths affect the potential of these devices to cause harmful
interference to broadcast services in the TV bands or to authorized
services in other bands? Is WMAS more or less likely to affect
broadcast services or other authorized services than the wireless
microphones currently permitted under part 74? Similarly, what impact
would WMAS have on unlicensed white space devices that operate in the
TV bands and in the upper 6-megahertz portion of the 600 MHz duplex
gap? Would WMAS make it more difficult for white space devices to
operate, or would the potentially greater spectral efficiently of WMAS
have a positive effect on the availability of spectrum for white space
devices by reducing the number of TV channels that wireless microphones
would need to use in a given area? Could WMAS devices and currently
authorized wireless microphones co-exist within the same channel? Or do
they need to operate on distinct channels thereby potentially using
more spectrum than is used today when only currently authorized
microphones are used? How would the power limit affect such co-
existence?
27. In addition, the Commission seeks comment on whether there is a
need to modify the rules to resolve an inconsistency in the power
limits for part 74 wireless microphones that operate in the TV bands.
Section 74.861(e)(1) specifies the power limit for wireless microphones
in the UHF-TV band in terms of conducted power, while the power limits
for wireless microphones in the VHF-TV bands and the duplex gap are
expressed in terms of EIRP. This difference stems from the 2015
Wireless Microphone R&O when the Commission changed the power limit for
wireless microphones in the VHF-TV band from a conducted limit to an
EIRP limit to make the VHF-TV band more usable by wireless microphones.
However, the Commission did not address the power limit for wireless
microphones in the UHF-TV band in that proceeding, leaving it unchanged
as a conducted power limit (250 milliwatts). Should the Commission
modify the power limit for part 74 wireless microphones in the UHF-TV
band (470-608 MHz) from a conducted limit to an EIRP limit, consistent
with rules for part 74 wireless microphones in the VHF-TV bands and
part 15 wireless microphones in both the VHF and UHF-TV bands? What are
the advantages and disadvantages of such a change? What would be the
impact in terms of benefits and costs on manufacturers and users? How
would such a change affect the interference potential of part 74
wireless microphones, either within or outside of the UHF-TV band? How
would such a change affect existing, already approved microphones?
Commenters should provide information regarding why any equipment or
uses may need any accommodations, such as grandfathering, based on any
advocated changes in this matter.
28. Emission Mask. Part 74 wireless microphones operating in the
bands where the Commission is proposing to allow WMAS operations are
currently required to comply with emission masks associated with the
2011 version of ETSI EN 300 422-1 (2011), which the Commission adopted
for wireless microphones under the part 74 LPAS rules in 2015. As
discussed above, these emission masks limit wireless microphones to
bandwidths of less than one megahertz and are therefore not suited to
WMAS. An updated ETSI standard, EN 300 422-1 (2017), specifies an
emission mask that is applicable to WMAS (as defined in the ETSI
standard), and Shure suggests in a recent ex parte filing that the
Commission incorporate that updated version into the Commission's
rules. Shure also suggests that the Commission adopt a requirement that
transmitter intermodulation distortion comply with limits in section
8.5.3 of EN 300 422-1 (2017) and that the Commission modify the
existing part 74 wireless microphone rules to specify the transmit
masks in this standard. Shure underscores that by updating the
Commission's rules consistent with the ETSI standards for wireless
microphones, including WMAS, the Commission would be harmonizing our
rules and thereby benefit the wireless microphone community. Shure also
notes that ETSI currently is in the process of further revising and
updating the standards relating to WMAS, and Shure recommends that the
Commission adopt the updated standards if ETSI adopts them.
29. Discussion. The Commission proposes to require WMAS devices to
comply with the updated 2017 version of ETSI standard EN 300 422-1
(2017) concerning the transmit mask as suggested by Shure. This
proposal is consistent with the current part 74 wireless microphone
rules that require wireless microphones to comply with ETSI transmit
emission masks (2011 version). The Commission proposes to require that
WMAS emissions outside the band where the emission mask is defined
comply with the spurious emission limits in Section 8.4 of ETSI EN 300
422-1 (2017). If ETSI updates its applicable standards for WMAS during
the pendency of this rulemaking, the Commission requests comment on
whether the Commission should instead adopt the later version instead
of the 2017 version. In proposing to update its technical rules by
adopting the 2017 ETSI standard relating to WMAS, the Commission seeks
to achieve the additional benefits associated with harmonizing the
Commission's rules with the latest technologies for wireless
microphones.
30. The Commission seeks comment on its proposal and on the costs
and benefits associated with it. Are the ETSI transmit emission masks
for WMAS devices and the spurious emission limits sufficient to protect
authorized services in adjacent bands? Will they adequately protect
broadcast TV and other authorized services? Will these emission limits
allow for sharing spectrum between wireless microphone systems, both
wider bandwidth WMAS and narrower bandwidth devices operating under the
current LPAS rules? What impact would WMAS operating under these limits
have on white space devices? Would different emission limits be more
appropriate, and if so, which ones and why? What are the costs and
benefits of requiring devices to meet the ETSI emission limits or any
alternative limit suggested by commenters?
31. The Commission also seeks comment on whether there is a need to
adopt the ETSI intermodulation distortion limits as suggested by Shure.
Shure requests that the Commission make clear that combining multiple
users on a single antenna is conceptually distinct from the applicable
emissions mask, and suggests that transmitter intermodulation
distortion comply with limits in EN 300 422-1 (2017). Is there a need
for intermodulation distortion limits as Shure suggests? If so, are the
ETSI limits appropriate or would some other limits be more appropriate?
What are the costs and benefits of adopting ETSI or some other
intermodulation distortion limits?
32. Other Considerations. The Commission also seeks comment on
whether there are other technical issues that it should consider and
address when establishing rules permitting use

[[Page 35052]]

of WMAS for wireless microphone operations under the Commission's part
74 LPAS rules. If the Commission were to permit WMAS, it seeks comment
on any technical issues that would facilitate the Commission's approval
of these new devices under its certification procedures. For instance,
are the measurement procedures in EN 300 422 (2017) sufficient for
these devices? Are there any other industry standards applicable to the
testing of WMAS devices?
33. Updating Technical Rules for Existing part 74 LPAS Wireless
Microphones to Revised ETSI Standards. The existing technical rules for
part 74 LPAS wireless microphones incorporated certain ETSI standards
that date to 2011. These ETSI standards currently apply to each of the
bands in which the Commission is proposing to authorize WMAS--
specifically, the VHF-TV bands (54-72 MHz, 76-88 MHz and 174-216 MHz),
the UHF-TV band (470-608 MHz), the 653-657 MHz segment of the 600 MHz
duplex gap, and the 941.5-944 MHz, 944-952 MHz, 952.850-956.250 MHz,
956.45-959.85 MHz, 1435-1525 MHz, 6875-6900 MHz and 7100-7125 MHz
bands. As Shure notes, these ETSI standards recently have been updated.
34. Discussion. The Commission takes this opportunity to propose
updating the existing part 74 LPAS device rules to require the use of
an updated ETSI standard that applies to those type of devices (i.e.,
non-WMAS wireless microphones). Specifically, the Commission proposes
to update the existing part 74 wireless microphone rules to specify the
transmit emission masks and spurious emission limits in EN 300 422-1
(2017) in place of the emission masks in the 2011 version of this
standard which are currently specified in the rules. The Commission
also proposes to slightly reorganize the rule sections specifying the
emission masks and spurious emission limits to make them easier to
follow, i.e., separate paragraphs specifying the mask for analog
systems, the masks for digital systems, and the spurious emission
limits outside the masks.
Incorporation by reference: The proposed standard specifies minimum
performance requirements and methods of measurement for assistive
listening devices, wireless microphones and in-ear monitoring systems
and applies to equipment operating on radio frequencies up to 3 GHz
using analog, digital and hybrid (using both analog and digital)
modulation. This document is available at no charge from Harmonised
European Standard at <a href="https://www.etsi.org/deliver/etsi_en/300400_300499/30042201/02.01.02_60/en_30042201v020102p.pdf">https://www.etsi.org/deliver/etsi_en/300400_300499/30042201/02.01.02_60/en_30042201v020102p.pdf</a> and is thus
reasonably available to interested parties.
35. While the spurious emission limits in the 2011 and 2017
versions of the ETSI standard are the same and the newer emission masks
are very similar to the older ones, there is one significant difference
in the masks for digital wireless microphones. Specifically, the 2011
standard defines the emission mask for digital systems over a frequency
range from one megahertz below to one megahertz above the wireless
microphone carrier frequency, whereas the newer 2017 standard defines
the emission mask over a frequency range from 5 x B below to 5 x B
above the carrier frequency, where B is the wireless microphone
bandwidth in megahertz. This difference means that digital wireless
microphones that comply with the newer emission masks could potentially
operate with a wider bandwidth than those that comply with the older
mask defined in the 2011 standard. The Commission recognizes that
section 5.1 of ETSI 300 422-1 (both 2011 and 2017) specifies a maximum
wireless microphone bandwidth of 200 kilohertz at frequencies below 1
GHz and 600 kilohertz at frequencies above 1 GHz, but the part 74 rules
do not specify a bandwidth limit outside of the TV bands and duplex
gap, and they do not require compliance with the ETSI bandwidth limits.
36. The Commission seeks comment on the proposal to apply the ETSI
2017 standard for emission masks and spurious emissions to the types of
wireless microphones currently permitted under part 74. Should the
Commission update the rules to require using the transmit emission
masks and spurious emission limits in ETSI EN 300 422-1 (2017)? What
are the advantages or disadvantages of the modified frequency range of
the masks for digital systems? Would it provide manufacturers any
additional flexibility? Would it affect how efficiently users could use
the spectrum? Is there any need to limit the digital system emission
masks to a frequency range to +/-1 MHz from the carrier frequency as
the current rules require? The Commission also seeks comment on any
updates to the ETSI standard that are currently in progress. When is a
new version expected to be available, and how does it differ from the
2017 version? Finally, for commenters who support updating the rules
for microphones currently permitted under part 74 to the newer 2017
ETSI standard, the Commission seeks comment on whether to also adopt an
appropriate timeframe to transition to the newer requirements and
discontinue certifying equipment under the 2011 standard's emission
mask and spurious emissions requirements. The Commission is mindful
that any new planned wireless microphone model roll-outs not be
disrupted, but also seek to update the rules as expeditiously as
possible to garner the benefits they would provide. What impact would
imposing the updated emission masks and spurious emission limits from
the 2017 standard have on the ability to certify existing equipment?
Would equipment being developed to comply with the existing rules also
comply with updated rules consistent with the 2017 standard? Or, if a
transition period is needed, is 6 months or 1 year a reasonable
timeframe to alter the equipment approval process and phase out the
rules adopted consistent with the 2011 standard to not impede existing
equipment developments?
37. Revisions to the Technical Rules for part 15 Unlicensed
Wireless Microphone Operations in the TV Bands, the 600 MHz Guard Band,
and the 600 MHz Duplex Gap. The Commission notes that Sennheiser and
other wireless microphone manufacturers did not request that WMAS
operations be permitted under the part 15 rules for unlicensed wireless
microphone operations in the TV bands, the 600 MHz guard band, or the
600 MHz duplex gap. The Commission also notes that Microsoft expresses
concerns about permitting WMAS in these bands. Given, however, that the
Commission's rules permit wireless microphones to operate on an
unlicensed basis under part 15 of the rules in the VHF-TV bands (54-72
MHz, 76-88 MHz and 174-216 MHz), the UHF-TV band (470-608 MHz), the
614-616 MHz segment of the 600 MHz guard band, and the 657-663 MHz
segment of the 600 MHz duplex gap, that the rules currently provide
that unlicensed wireless microphones in these bands must comply with
emission masks and spurious emission limits defined in the 2011 version
of the ETSI standard for wireless microphones, that wireless
microphones in these bands often historically have used the same
underlying technologies regardless of whether they operate on a
licensed basis under part 74 or an unlicensed basis under part 15, and
that oftentimes the same users may operate both licensed and unlicensed
wireless microphones, the Commission seeks comment on the extent to
which update the applicable rules for these devices to be consistent
with the most recent ETSI standard as

[[Page 35053]]

it is proposing for licensed LPAS wireless microphones, and whether the
Commission should otherwise permit use of WMAS for unlicensed wireless
microphones in any of these bands.
38. Background. The Commission generally applies the same technical
rules to unlicensed and licensed wireless microphones operations in the
TV bands and the 600 MHz duplex gap, with certain differences relating
to operation. In the TV bands, the technical requirements applicable to
unlicensed wireless microphones are the same as those under part 74,
while the maximum permissible power for unlicensed wireless microphones
in the UHF-TV band is lower (i.e., 50 milliwatts) than permitted for
licensed LPAS wireless microphone operations (i.e., 250 milliwatts) in
that band. The rules for operation the 600 MHz duplex gap (652-663 MHz)
differ between unlicensed wireless microphone and licensed part 74 LPAS
wireless microphone operations in that licensed LPAS wireless
microphones may operate in a 4-megahertz portion (653-657 MHz), while
unlicensed wireless microphones may operate in a separate 6-megahertz
portion (657-663 MHz), both limited to 20 milliwatts EIRP. Unlicensed
wireless microphones share this 6-megahertz portion of the 600 MHz
duplex gap with unlicensed white space devices, which operate under
other part 15 rules. The emission mask and the spurious emission limits
that apply to unlicensed wireless microphones in the TV bands and the
600 MHz guard band and duplex gap are the same as those that apply to
licensed LPAS devices.
39. Microsoft asks that the Commission prohibit WMAS use by
unlicensed wireless microphone operators in the TV bands and the 600
MHz duplex gap if such operations would be inconsistent with other
existing part 15 technical rules. It notes that the current rules
governing unlicensed wireless microphones allow such devices to operate
with a higher spectral density than part 15 white space devices.
Microsoft expresses concern that permitting 6-megahertz WMAS systems
for unlicensed wireless microphones could ``break this careful balance
and allow co-channel operation with [w]hite [s]pace devices at
significantly higher power levels than the FCC intended.'' It asserts
that the 6-megahertz channel in the 600 MHz duplex gap is especially
critical for white space device operations because that is the only
channel available for white space device operations throughout the
entire United States.
40. Discussion. Consistent with its proposals to update the
emission masks and spurious emission limits in the existing part 74
LPAS rules for licensed wireless microphones (i.e., wireless
microphones that are limited to 200 kHz channels), the Commission
similarly proposes to update the part 15 rules to specify the transmit
emission masks and the spurious emission limits in EN 300 422-1 (2017)
in place of the emission masks and spurious emission limits in the 2011
version of this standard which are currently specified in the rules.
While the newer masks are very similar to the older ones, there is one
significant difference in the masks for digital wireless microphones.
Specifically, the older masks for digital systems were defined over a
frequency range from one megahertz below to one megahertz above the
wireless microphone carrier frequency, whereas the newer masks are
defined over a frequency range from 5 x B below to 5 x B above the
carrier frequency, where B is the wireless microphone bandwidth in
megahertz.
41. The Commission seeks comment on this proposal. Should the
Commission update the rules to require the use of the transmit emission
masks in ETSI EN 300 422-1 (2017)? What are the advantages or
disadvantages of the modified frequency range of the masks for digital
systems? Would it provide manufacturers any additional flexibility?
Would it affect the efficiency of spectrum use? Is there any need to
limit the digital system emission masks to a frequency range to <plus-
minus>1 MHz from the carrier frequency as the current rules require?
The Commission also seeks comment on any updates to the ETSI standard
that are currently in progress. When is a new version expected to be
available, and how does it differ from the 2017 version? How would
updating the rules to harmonize with the ETSI standard create or hinder
opportunities for wireless microphone manufacturers? What are the
ramifications on the ability to easily manufacturer and sell these
products on a global scale?
42. While the Commission notes that Sennheiser and other wireless
microphone manufacturers did not request that WMAS operations be
permitted for unlicensed wireless microphone operations in the TV
bands, 600 MHz guard band, or the 600 MHz duplex gap, and that
Microsoft opposed permitting WMAS in the unlicensed portion of the 600
MHz duplex gap, the Commission nonetheless seeks comment on whether
WMAS should be permitted for unlicensed wireless microphone operations
in any of these bands, and, if so, any technical rules or restrictions
that should apply. The Commission recognizes that there are unlicensed
entities that operate wireless microphones in UHF bands that have a
need to operate a large number of wireless microphones, but do not fall
into any of the categories of entities eligible for a license under
part 74 of the rules, and thus must operate wireless microphones on an
unlicensed basis in the TV bands, the 600 MHz guard band, and the
unlicensed portion of the 600 MHz duplex gap.
43. If the Commission were to allow WMAS under part 15 of the
rules, in which bands should they be permitted to operate? Should they
be allowed in only the TV bands, or also in the 600 MHz guard band,
where unlicensed wireless microphones are permitted, and in the
unlicensed upper 6-megahertz portion of the duplex gap (657-663 MHz)?
Alternatively, should the Commission allow WMAS in the TV bands and the
600 MHz guard band, but not in the unlicensed portion of the 600 MHz
duplex gap given the concerns raised by Microsoft? If the Commission
were to allow such operation, what technical requirements should apply?
Specifically, should they be permitted to operate with the current
power limits of 50 milliwatts EIRP in the TV bands and 20 milliwatts
EIRP in the 600 MHz guard band and 600 MHz duplex gap? Should the same
bandwidth and spectral efficiency requirements apply as the Commission
proposed for licensed WMAS? Would the ETSI emission masks and spurious
emission limits that the Commission proposes for part 74 licensed WMAS
devices be suitable for unlicensed WMAS devices?
44. The Commission does not intend to take any action in this
proceeding that would constrain spectrum availability for or otherwise
adversely impact the use of this spectrum for white space device
operations. Accordingly, the Commission also seeks comment on the
impact of permitting WMAS operations, both licensed and unlicensed, on
part 15 white space devices which can operate in the VHF and UHF-TV
bands and in the upper segment (657-663 MHz) of the 600 MHz duplex gap.
White space devices must share spectrum with unlicensed wireless
microphones on an equal basis but may not operate on channels at
locations and at times that have been registered in the white space
database for use by licensed wireless microphones. Would the rules the
Commission is proposing for part 74 WMAS negatively impact white space
devices in any way? Could the higher spectral efficiency of WMAS
devices actually improve the availability of spectrum for white space
devices since the same number of licensed wireless

[[Page 35054]]

microphones could potentially operate in fewer channels?
45. Finally, for commenters who support updating the rules for part
15 unlicensed wireless microphones to the newer 2017 ETSI standard, the
Commission seeks comment on whether to also adopt an appropriate
timeframe to transition to the newer requirements and discontinue
certifying equipment under the 2011 standard's emission mask and
spurious emissions requirements. What impact would imposing the updated
emission masks and spurious emission limits from the 2017 standard have
on the ability to certify existing equipment? Would equipment being
developed to comply with the existing rules also comply with updated
rules consistent with the 2017 standard? Or, if a transition period is
needed, is 6 months or 1 year a reasonable timeframe to alter the
equipment approval process and phase out the rules adopted consistent
with the 2011 standard to not impede existing equipment developments?
46. Similarly, the Commission seeks comment on whether allowing
part 15 unlicensed WMAS devices would have any negative impact on white
space operations, or whether that could improve the availability of
channels for white space devices due to the higher spectral efficiency
of WMAS devices? In particular, the Commission seeks comment on whether
allowing unlicensed WMAS devices to operate in the upper 6-megahertz
segment of the 600 MHz duplex gap would be a problem for white space
devices as Microsoft suggests? Under the current rules, unlicensed
wireless microphones may operate in the duplex gap with a power level
of up to 20 milliwatts EIRP. Because unlicensed wireless microphones
have a bandwidth limit of 200 kilohertz, multiple unlicensed wireless
microphones can operate in the duplex gap simultaneously, resulting in
a total radiated power level of well over 20 milliwatts in the 6-
megahertz band where they operate. Could WMAS permit the operation of
multi-channel wireless microphones in the duplex gap at lower total
power or power spectral density levels than the current rules permit,
and thus reduce the likelihood of interference to white space devices?
Are there other factors that could affect the coexistence of unlicensed
wireless microphones and white space devices in the duplex gap or the
TV bands?
47. Updating Wireless Microphone Rules Following the End of the
Post-Incentive Auction Transition. Wireless microphones, both licensed
and unlicensed, were previously permitted to operate in the 600 MHz
band (former TV channels 38-51) that was reallocated for wireless
services in the Incentive Auction R&O. In that action, the Commission
established a 39-month period during which TV stations would transition
out of the 600 MHz band, and decided that wireless microphones would no
longer be able to operate in the 600 MHz service band after this
transition period, although they could still operate in the 600 MHz
guard band(s) and 600 MHz duplex gap. In 2015 and 2017, the Commission
established rules for both licensed and unlicensed wireless microphones
that operate in the 600 MHz service band, certain segments of the 600
MHz guard band(s) and 600 MHz duplex gap, as well as transition
requirements to implement the Commission's decision that all wireless
microphones must cease operation in the 600 MHz service band at the end
of the 39-month transition period. After the end of the transition
period on July 13, 2020, wireless microphone operations in the 600 MHz
band are limited to segments of the 600 MHz guard band and 600 MHz
duplex gap as specified in the part 15 and 74 rules.
48. The Commission proposes to modify the part 74 and part 15 rules
to reflect the end of the 39-month transition period. Some of these
changes are not substantive and simply implement previous Commission
decisions. Because the Commission is proposing to amend the part 74 and
part 15 wireless microphone rules to allow WMAS and update references
to ETSI standards, the Commission is including these additional changes
in the proposed rules. The Commission seeks comment on whether these
proposed changes are appropriate and whether there are any other rules
not included in the proposed rules that also should be updated to
reflect the end of the transition period.
49. Part 74. The Commission proposes to modify the list of
frequencies in Sec. 74.802(a) that are available for low power
auxiliary stations by removing the 614-698 MHz band (former TV channels
38 to 51) and replacing it with the 653-657 MHz band (a segment of the
600 MHz duplex gap), which is the only portion of the 600 MHz band now
available under part 74. The Commission also proposes to modify the
technical requirements in Sec. 74.861(e)(1) to remove the reference to
the 614-698 MHz band in paragraph (ii) and to add the frequency band
for the segment of the duplex gap where wireless microphones can
operate in paragraph (iii). The Commission also notes that a number of
part 74 rules specify deadlines related to the post-Incentive Auction
transition or other rule changes that have since passed. For example,
Sec. Sec. 74.802(f) and 74.851(i) through (l) contain provisions
related to the now ended 600 MHz band transition. Section 74.870(c)
lists 600 MHz band frequencies for Wireless Video Assist devices that
are no longer available after the end of the transition, and Sec. Sec.
74.861(d)(3), (e)(6) and 74.870(i) contain transition dates that have
passed. The Commission seeks comment on its proposals to modify these
rules as well as whether there are any other part 74 rules that can be
removed or modified.
50. Part 15. The Commission proposes to make certain edits to the
part 15 rules to remove unnecessary references to transition dates that
have passed and to make the rules clearer and easier to follow.
Specifically, with regard to Sec. 15.236, the Commission proposes to
amend paragraph (a) to remove the definition of 600 MHz service band
since it is no longer available for wireless microphone use, as well as
the definition of Spectrum Act, since it is not referenced anywhere
else in this rule section. The Commission also proposes to remove
paragraph (c)(2) which lists the 600 MHz service band as being
available for unlicensed wireless microphones and paragraph (e)(2)
which lists minimum required separation distances from 600 MHz service
band licensees, as well as modify paragraph (d)(1) to remove a
reference to the 600 MHz service band. The Commission further proposes
to remove section 15.236(c)(6) which requires that prior to operation
in 600 MHz service band, 600 MHz guard band(s) or 600 MHz duplex gap,
wireless microphone users must rely on the white space database to
determine that their intended operating frequencies are available for
unlicensed wireless microphone operation at the location where they
will be used, and to make corresponding revisions to the white space
rules to reflect the removal of this section. This requirement appears
unnecessary after the end of the post-incentive auction transition
since with the removal of all TV stations from the 600 MHz band, there
are no licensed services to protect in either the 600 MHz guard band or
the upper 6-megahertz portion of the 600 MHz duplex gap. The Commission
also proposes to remove Sec. 15.37(i) (transition provisions for
compliance with modified wireless microphone rules) since the
certification, manufacturing, marketing and operational cutoff dates
have all passed and there does not appear to be a need to retain this
section. The

[[Page 35055]]

Commission further proposes to remove Sec. 15.37(k) (disclosure
requirements for unlicensed wireless microphones capable of operating
in the 600 MHz service band) since all marketing of unlicensed wireless
microphones that operate in the 600 MHz service band is now prohibited,
so there does not appear to be a need for this rule on consumer
disclosure.
51. The Commission seeks comment on these proposals. Does the
Commission need to retain any of the rules that it proposes to
eliminate? Is there a need for a rule specifically prohibiting
unlicensed wireless microphone operation in the 600 MHz service band,
or is it sufficient to simply remove all rules related to operation in
this band, thus indirectly indicating that such operation is
prohibited? With regard to the proposed removal of Sec. 15.236(c)(6),
the Commission notes that the Spectrum Act states that operation of
unlicensed devices in the 600 MHz guard bands ``shall rely on a
database or subsequent methodology as determined by the Commission.''
While the Commission is proposing to remove the database access
requirement for unlicensed wireless microphones operating in the guard
bands (including duplex gap) as no longer necessary, it believes the
fact that these bands are now unavailable to licensed services
nationwide constitutes a subsequent methodology that will ensure
unlicensed wireless microphones do not cause harmful interference to
licensed services, thus complying with the requirements of the Spectrum
Act. The Commission seeks comment on this assessment.

Procedural Matters

52. Paperwork Reduction Act Analysis. This document does not
contain proposed information collection(s) subject to the Paperwork
Reduction Act of 1995 (PRA), Public Law 104-13. In addition, therefore,
it does not contain any new or modified information collection burden
for small business concerns with fewer than 25 employees, pursuant to
the Small Business Paperwork Relief Act of 2002, Public Law 107-198,
see 44 U.S.C. 3506(c)(4).
53. Initial Regulatory Flexibility Analysis. As required by the
Regulatory Flexibility Act, the Commission has prepared an Initial
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis (IRFA) of the possible significant
economic impact on a substantial number of small entities of the
proposals addressed in this document. The IRFA is found in Appendix C
at <a href="https://www.fcc.gov/document/fcc-looks-open-door-new-wireless-microphone-technologies-0">https://www.fcc.gov/document/fcc-looks-open-door-new-wireless-microphone-technologies-0</a>. The commission requests written public
comment on the IRFA. Comments must be filed in accordance with the same
filing deadlines as comments filed in response to the Notice of
Proposed Rulemaking and must have a separate and distinct heading
designating them as responses to the IRFA. The Commission's Consumer
and Governmental Affairs Bureau, Reference Information Center, will
send a copy of this document, including the IRFA, to the Chief Counsel
for Advocacy of the Small Business Administration, in accordance with
the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
54. Ex Parte Presentations. This proceeding is a ``permit-but-
disclose'' proceeding in accordance with the Commission's ex parte
rules. Persons making ex parte presentations must file a copy of any
written presentation or a memorandum summarizing any oral presentation
within two business days after the presentation (unless a different
deadline applicable to the Sunshine period applies). Persons making
oral ex parte presentations are reminded that memoranda summarizing the
presentation must (1) list all persons attending or otherwise
participating in the meeting at which the ex parte presentation was
made, and (2) summarize all data presented and arguments made during
the presentation. If the presentation consisted in whole or in part of
the presentation of data or arguments already reflected in the
presenter's written comments, memoranda, or other filings in the
proceeding, the presenter may provide citations to such data or
arguments in his or her prior comments, memoranda, or other filings
(specifying the relevant page and/or paragraph numbers where such data
or arguments can be found) in lieu of summarizing them in the
memorandum. Documents shown or given to Commission staff during ex
parte meetings are deemed to be written ex parte presentations and must
be filed consistent with rule 1.1206(b). In proceedings governed by
rule 1.49(f) or for which the Commission has made available a method of
electronic filing, written ex parte presentations and memoranda
summarizing oral ex parte presentations, and all attachments thereto,
must be filed through the electronic comment filing system available
for that proceeding, and must be filed in their native format (e.g.,
.doc, .xml, .ppt, searchable .pdf). Participants in this proceeding
should familiarize themselves with the Commission's ex parte rules.
55. Filing requirements. Pursuant to Sec. Sec. 1.415 and 1.419 of
the Commission's rules, 47 CFR 1.415, 1.419, interested parties may
file comments and reply comments on or before the dates indicated on
the first page of this document. Comments may be filed using the
Commission's Electronic Comment Filing System (ECFS). See Electronic
Filing of Documents in Rulemaking Proceedings, 63 FR 24121 (1998).
<bullet> Electronic Filers: Comments may be filed electronically
using the internet by accessing the ECFS: <a href="http://www.fcc.gov/ecfs/">http://www.fcc.gov/ecfs/</a>.
<bullet> Paper Filers: Parties who choose to file by paper must
file an original and one copy of each filing. If more than one docket
or rulemaking number appears in the caption of this proceeding, filers
must submit two additional copies for each additional docket or
rulemaking number.
<bullet> Filings can be sent by commercial overnight courier, or by
first-class or overnight U.S. Postal Service mail. All filings must be
addressed to the Commission's Secretary, Office of the Secretary,
Federal Communications Commission.
<bullet> Commercial overnight mail (other than U.S. Postal Service
Express Mail and Priority Mail) must be sent to 9050 Junction Drive,
Annapolis Junction, MD 20701.
<bullet> U.S. Postal Service first-class, Express, and Priority
mail must be addressed to 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554.
<bullet> Effective March 19, 2020, and until further notice, the
Commission no longer accepts any hand or messenger delivered filings.
This is a temporary measure taken to help protect the health and safety
of individuals, and to mitigate the transmission of COVID-19. See FCC
Announces Closure of FCC Headquarters Open Window and Change in Hand-
Delivery Policy, Public Notice, 35 FCC Rcd 2788, 2788-89 (OS 2020).
<a href="https://www.fcc.gov/document/fcc-closes-headquarters-open-window-and-changes-hand-delivery-policy">https://www.fcc.gov/document/fcc-closes-headquarters-open-window-and-changes-hand-delivery-policy</a>.
56. People with Disabilities: To request materials in accessible
formats for people with disabilities (braille, large print, electronic
files, audio format), send an email to <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#6c0a0f0f595c582c0a0f0f420b031a">[email&#160;protected]</a> or call the
Consumer & Governmental Affairs Bureau at 202-418-0530 (voice), 202-
418-0432 (TTY).
57. Additional Information. For additional information on this
proceeding, contact Hugh L. Van Tuyl, <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#337b46545b1d65525d67464a5f735550501d545c45">[email&#160;protected]</a>, (202) 418-
7506.

[[Page 35056]]

Ordering Clauses

58. It is ordered, pursuant to the authority found in Sections
4(i), 301, 302, and 303 of the Communications Act of 1934, as amended,
47 U.S.C. 154(i), 201, 302a, 303, and Sec. Sec. 1.407 and 1.411 of the
Commission's Rules, 47 CFR 1.407 and 1.411, that this Notice of
Proposed Rulemaking is hereby adopted. The petition for rulemaking of
Sennheiser Electronic Corporation, RM-11821, is hereby granted to the
extent discussed herein, and shall be consolidated into ET Docket No.
21-115.
59. It is further ordered that notice is hereby given of the
proposed regulatory changes described in this Notice of Proposed
Rulemaking, and that comment is sought on these proposals.
60. It is further ordered that the Commission's Consumer and
Governmental Affairs Bureau, Reference Information Center, shall send a
copy of this Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, including the Initial
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis, to the Chief Counsel for Advocacy of
the Small Business Administration.

List of Subjects

47 CFR Part 15

Communication equipment, Computer technology, Incorporation by
reference, Labeling, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements.

47 CFR Part 74

Communications equipment, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements.

Federal Communications Commission.
Marlene Dortch,
Secretary.

Proposed Rules

The Federal Communications Commission proposes to amend 47 CFR
parts 15 and 74 as follows:

PART 15--RADIO FREQUENCY DEVICES

0
1. The authority citation for part 15 continues to read as follows:

Authority: 47 U.S.C. 154, 302a, 303, 304, 307, 336, 544a, and
549.

Sec. 15.37 [Amended]

0
2. Remove and reserve paragraphs (i) and (k).
0
3. Amend Sec. 15.38 by revising paragraphs (a) and (e) to read as
follows:

Sec. 15.38 Incorporation by reference.

(a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this part
with the approval of the Director of the Federal Register under 5
U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. All approved material is available for
inspection at the Federal Communications Commission's Reference
Information Center, located at the address of the FCC's main office
indicated in 47 CFR 0.401(a), Tel: (202) 418-0270, and is available
from the sources listed elsewhere in this section. It is also available
for inspection at the National Archives and Records Administration
(NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA,
email <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#c6a0a3a2b4a3a1e8aaa3a1a7aa86a8a7b4a7e8a1a9b0">[email&#160;protected]</a> or go to <a href="http://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html">www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html</a>.
* * * * *
(e) The European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI), 650
Route des Lucioles, F-06921 Sophia Antipolis Cedex, France, <a href="https://www.etsi.org">https://www.etsi.org</a>.
(1) ETSI EN 300 422-1 V2.1.2 (2017-01): ``Wireless Microphones;
Audio PMSE up to 3 GHz; part 1: Class A Receivers; Harmonised Standard
covering the essential requirements of article 3.2 of Directive 2014/
53/EU'' Copyright 2017 (<a href="https://www.etsi.org/deliver/etsi_en/300400_300499/30042201/02.01.02_60/en_30042201v020102p.pdf">https://www.etsi.org/deliver/etsi_en/300400_300499/30042201/02.01.02_60/en_30042201v020102p.pdf</a>) IBR
approved for Sec. 15.236(g).
(2) [Reserved]
* * * * *
0
4. Amend Sec. 15.236 by revising the section heading and paragraphs
(a), (c), (d)(1), (e) and (g) to read as follows:

Sec. 15.236 Operation of wireless microphones in the bands 54-72 MHz,
76-88 MHz, 174-216 MHz, 470-608 MHz, 614-616 MHz and 657-663 MHz.

(a) Definitions. The following definitions apply in this section.
(1) Wireless Microphone. An intentional radiator that converts
sound into electrical audio signals that are transmitted using radio
signals to a receiver which converts the radio signals back into audio
signals that are sent through a sound recording or amplifying system.
Wireless microphones may be used for cue and control communications and
synchronization of TV camera signals as defined in Sec. 74.801 of this
chapter. Wireless microphones do not include auditory assistance
devices as defined in Sec. 15.3(a).
(2) 600 MHz duplex gap. An 11 megahertz guard band at 652-663 MHz
that separates part 27 600 MHz service uplink and downlink frequencies.
(3) 600 MHz guard band. Designated frequency band at 614-617 MHz
that prevents interference between licensed services in the 600 MHz
service band and channel 37.
* * * * *
(c) Operation is permitted in the following frequency bands.
(1) Channels allocated and assigned for the broadcast television
service.
(2) The 657-663 MHz segment of the 600 MHz duplex gap.
(3) The 614-616 MHz segment of the 600 MHz guard band.
(d) * * *
(1) In the bands allocated and assigned for broadcast television:
50 mW EIRP.
* * * * *
(e) Operation is limited to locations at least four kilometers
outside the following protected service contours of co-channel TV
stations:

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Protected contour
Type of station ------------------------------------------------------------------------
Channel Contour (dBu) Propagation curve
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Analog: Class A TV, LPTV, translator Low VHF (2-6)............. 47 F(50,50).
and booster. High VHF (7-13)........... 56 F(50,50).
UHF (14-51)............... 64 F(50,50).
Digital: Full service TV, Class A TV, Low VHF (2-6)............. 28 F(50,90).
LPTV, translator and booster. High VHF (7-13)........... 36 F(50,90).
UHF (14-51)............... 41 F(50,90).
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

* * * * *
(g)(1) Analog systems. Emissions within the band from one megahertz
below to one megahertz above the carrier frequency shall comply with
the emission mask in section 8.3.2 of ETSI EN 300 422-1 (incorporated
by reference, see Sec. 15.38).

[[Page 35057]]

(2) Digital systems. Emissions within the band from 5 x B below to
5 x B above the carrier frequency, where B is the wireless microphone
bandwidth in megahertz, shall comply with the emission mask in section
8.3.3 of ETSI EN 300 422-1 (incorporated by reference, see Sec.
15.38).
(3) Spurious emission limits for analog and digital systems.
Emissions outside of the bands listed in paragraphs (g)(1) and (2) of
this section shall comply with the limits specified in section 8.4 of
ETSI EN 300 422-1 (incorporated by reference, see Sec. 15.38).
0
5. Amend Sec. 15.703 by revising the definition of ``White space
database'' to read as follows:

Sec. 15.703 Definitions.

* * * * *
White space database. A database system approved by the Commission
that maintains records on authorized services and provides lists of
available channels to white space devices.
0
6. Amend Sec. 15.713 by removing and reserving paragraph (a)(2),
revising paragraph (a)(3) and removing and reserving paragraphs (f) and
(i) to read as follows:

Sec. 15.703 White space database.

(a) * * *
(2) [Reserved]
(3) To register the identification information and location of
fixed white space devices.
* * * * *
(f) [Reserved]
* * * * *
(i) [Reserved]
* * * * *

Sec. 15.715 [Amended]

0
7. Amend Sec. 15.715 by removing paragraph (q).

PART 74--EXPERIMENTAL RADIO, AUXILIARY, SPECIAL BROADCAST AND OTHER
PROGRAM DISTRIBUTION SERVICES

0
8. The authority citation for part 74 continues to read as follows:

Authority: 47 U.S.C. 154, 302a, 303, 307, 309, 310, 336 and
554.

0
9. Amend Sec. 74.801 by adding a definition for ``Wireless Multi-
Channel Audio System'' to read as follows:

Sec. 74.801 Definitions

* * * * *
Wireless Multi-Channel Audio System. A system that digitally
combines the signals of multiple low power auxiliary station devices
onto one radio-frequency channel.
0
10. Amend Sec. 74.802 by revising paragraph (a) to read as follows:

Sec. 74.802 Frequency assignment.

(a) Frequencies within the following bands may be assigned for use
by low power auxiliary stations:
26.100-26.480 MHz
54.000-72.000 MHz
76.000-88.000 MHz
161.625-161.775 MHz (except in Puerto Rico or the Virgin Islands)
174.000-216.000 MHz
450.000-451.000 MHz
455.000-456.000 MHz
470.000-488.000 MHz
488.000-494.000 MHz (except Hawaii)
494.000-608.000 MHz
653.000-657.000 MHz
941.500-944.000 MHz
944.000-952.000 MHz
952.850-956.250 MHz
956.45-959.85 MHz
1435-1525 MHz
6875.000-6900.000 MHz
7100.000-7125.000 MHz
* * * * *
0
11. Amend Sec. 74.861 by revising paragraphs (d)(4), (e)(1), (5) and
(7), the introductory text to paragraph (i) and paragraph (i)(1) to
read as follows:

Sec. 74.861 Technical requirements.

* * * * *
(d) * * *
(4)(i) Analog systems. For the 941.5-944 MHz, 944-952 MHz, 952.850-
956.250 MHz, 956.45-959.85 MHz, 1435-1525 MHz, 6875-6900 MHz and 7100-
7125 MHz bands, emissions within the band from one megahertz below to
one megahertz above the carrier frequency shall comply with the
emission mask in section 8.3.2 of ETSI EN 300 422-1.
(ii) Digital systems. For the 941.5-944 MHz, 944-952 MHz, 952.850-
956.250 MHz, 956.45-959.85 MHz, 1435-1525 MHz, 6875-6900 MHz and 7100-
7125 MHz bands, emissions within the band from 5 x B below to 5 x B
above the carrier frequency, where B is the wireless microphone
bandwidth in megahertz, shall comply with the emission mask in section
8.3.3 (Figure 4 below 2 GHz or Figure 5 above 2 GHz) of ETSI EN 300
422-1.
(iii) Wireless Multi-Channel Audio Systems. For the 941.5-944 MHz,
944-952 MHz, 952.850-956.250 MHz, 956.45-959.85 MHz, 1435-1525 MHz,
6875-6900 MHz and 7100-7125 MHz bands, emissions within the band from 5
x B below to 5 x B above the carrier frequency, where B is the wireless
microphone bandwidth in megahertz, shall comply with the emission mask
in section 8.3.4 of ETSI EN 300 422-1. The operating bandwidth (B) may
not exceed 6 megahertz, and the device must transmit at least three
audio channels per megahertz.
(iv) Spurious emission limits. Emissions outside of the emission
masks specified in paragraphs (d)(4)(i) through (iii) shall comply with
the limits specified in section 8.4 of ETSI EN 300 422-1.
(e) * * *
(1) The power may not exceed the following values.
(i) 54-72, 76-88, and 174-216 MHz bands: 50 mW EIRP
(ii) 470-608 MHz band: 250 mW conducted power
(iii) 653-657 MHz band: 20 mW EIRP
* * * * *
(5) The operating bandwidth shall not exceed 200 kilohertz, except
that a wireless multi-channel audio system may have an operating
bandwidth not exceeding 6 megahertz and must transmit at least three
audio channels per megahertz. For wireless multi-channel audio system
devices operating in the TV bands, the 6 megahertz (or less) channel
must fall entirely within a single TV channel (2-36) that is available
for part 74 LPAS use under Sec. 74.802(b). The provisions of Sec.
74.802(c) regarding frequency of operation within TV channels do not
apply to wireless multi-channel audio systems.
* * * * *
(7)(i) Analog systems. Emissions within the band from one megahertz
below to one megahertz above the carrier frequency shall comply with
the emission mask in section 8.3.2 of ETSI EN 300 422-1.
(ii) Digital systems. Emissions within the band from 5 x B below to
5 x B above the carrier frequency, where B is the wireless microphone
bandwidth in megahertz, shall comply with the emission mask in section
8.3.3 of ETSI EN 300 422-1.
(iii) Wireless Multi-Channel Audio Systems. Emissions within the
band from 5 x B below to 5 x B above the carrier frequency, where B is
the wireless microphone bandwidth in megahertz, shall comply with the
emission mask in section 8.3.4 of ETSI EN 300 422-1 V2.1.2 (2017-01).
(iv) Spurious emission limits. Emissions outside of the bands
listed in paragraphs (e)(7)(i) through (iii) shall comply with the
limits specified in section 8.4 of ETSI EN 300 422-1.
* * * * *
(i) The standards required in this section are incorporated by
reference into this section with the approval of the Director of the
Federal Register under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. All approved
material is available for inspection at the Federal Communications
Commission's

[[Page 35058]]

Reference Information Center, located at the address of the FCC's main
office indicated in 47 CFR 0.401(a), Tel: (202) 418-0270, and is
available from the sources in this paragraph (i) For information on the
availability of this material at NARA, email <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#7d1b18190f181a5311181a1c113d131c0f1c531a120b">[email&#160;protected]</a> or
go to go to <a href="http://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibrlocations.html">www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibrlocations.html</a>.
(1) European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI), 650
Route des Lucioles, F-06921 Sophia Antipolis Cedex, France, https://
www.etsi.org/
(i) ETSI EN 300 422-1 V2.1.2 (2017-01): ``Wireless Microphones;
Audio PMSE up to 3 GHz; part 1: Class A Receivers; Harmonised Standard
covering the essential requirements of article 3.2 of Directive 2014/
53/EU'' Copyright 2017 (<a href="https://www.etsi.org/deliver/etsi_en/300400_300499/30042201/02.01.02_60/en_30042201v020102p.pdf">https://www.etsi.org/deliver/etsi_en/300400_300499/30042201/02.01.02_60/en_30042201v020102p.pdf</a>).
(ii) [Reserved]
(2) [Reserved]

[FR Doc. 2021-10716 Filed 6-30-21; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6712-01-P

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