Shur Moves To Clear 700 MHz Band

The Federal Communications Commission decision to prohibit new distribution and sales of devices in the 700 MHz spectrum has drawn praise from Shure Inc., a supplier of wireless microphones, in-ear monitors and relation equipment operating in the band. Shure said it will help users vacate the spectrum.

The FCC introduced the ban to help accelerate the buildout of 4G wireless networks while at the same time preventing interference with first responders and public safety providers who use the 700 MHz band for mission-critical communications.

Mark Brunner, senior director of Shure's Global Brand Management operation, noted Shure has already been moving its product lines away from the 700 MHz band for nearly a decade. The company has also instituted what it calls "a very attractive trade-in rebate program" along with assistance in moving users to operate in the UHF TV band.

"It's time for one final push to prevent interference with the new users of the spectrum," said Brunner.

The move to help clear the 700 MHz spectrum completes an important component of the recent DTV transition and dovetails with FCC chairman Julius Genachowski's effort to make more spectrum available to ward off the "looming spectrum crisis" that he fears may be developing unless more spectrum is made available.