Shure raised concerns about a proposed June 12 deadline to clear ...

by FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski (CD Dec 18 p1). “While it will be helpful to users and manufacturers for the FCC to announce its decision on the transition of 700 MHz wireless microphones and a specific date, we are concerned that such an expedited timeframe is simply not enough time for many users to accomplish all that needs to be done to replace these relatively complicated systems,” said a Shure spokesman. “Once users learn of the rule change, the replacement must be planned; bids must be solicited from vendors; funding for this unbudgeted expense must be secured; products must be acquired; and finally, the equipment must be installed and tested. This is not like buying a new cordless phone that merely needs to be taken out of the box, plugged in, and placed on the kitchen counter. For many users, it will be more like a kitchen renovation.” But CTIA President Steve Largent said he’s “pleased to see the Commission is moving forward on this important effort.” The association believes “clearing the 700 MHz is a necessary precursor to bringing spectrum to the market and will help facilitate broadband deployment around the country,” he said.