NABA and APWPT are collaborating to ensure secure radio frequencies at live events

The shared aim is to collect relevant data on the use of wireless production equipment in the events industry and to determine how regulatory changes would affect the organisation of live events such as cultural performances and sporting events.

The two associations bring together broadcasters and media production professionals, RF managers, users and manufacturers of wireless microphones and cameras, cultural organisations, academics and trade unions. Together, they aim to safeguard wireless event productions. This can only be achieved by securing essential radio frequency bands (so-called ‘cultural frequencies’).

“Through this strategic partnership, NABA and the APWPT aim to work together to ensure that interference-free frequencies are available for all types of applications in the PMSE (Programme Making and Special Events) sector – through the mutual exchange of data and joint strategic planning,” says Jochen Zenthöfer, Chair of the APWPT. “We will communicate our commitment through advocacy with decision-makers and regulatory authorities, as well as through public relations work.”

NABA Director-General Rebecca Hanson added: “Wireless production technologies are fundamental to the live broadcasting of sport, entertainment and news, which viewers around the world watch every day. However, as demand for spectrum continues to grow and access is being reshaped by changes in regulatory policy, it is becoming increasingly important for broadcasters and media producers to have reliable access to interference-free spectrum.”

About the North American Broadcasters Association (NABA):

NABA is a not-for-profit association of North America’s most influential broadcasting organisations, which advocates on behalf of broadcasters’ interests both domestically and internationally. NABA’s mission is to identify technical, operational and regulatory issues and take action on matters affecting North American broadcasters. Both public and private broadcast network operators in Canada, Mexico and the United States work together to provide a unified voice for the North American broadcasting community. As a member of the World Broadcasting Union (WBU), NABA offers its members the opportunity to exchange information, identify common interests and reach a consensus on issues of international importance.

For further information or interview requests, please contact: Rayne Morgan | Director, Programmes & Engagement | [email protected]

About the Association of Professional Wireless Production Technologies (APWPT):

The APWPT is a global organisation of users and manufacturers of wireless production equipment, such as wireless microphones. The APWPT represents the interests of manufacturers and users of wireless radio systems in national and international regulatory and standardisation bodies and specialises in technical matters. It is a member of Working Group FM51 within the Electronic Communications Committee (ECC) of the CEPT, which focuses on PMSE and the flexible use of the 470–694 MHz frequency band. The APWPT also provides the industry with technical advice on frequency usage in various countries and supports the work and coordination of RF managers.

For further information, please contact: Jochen Zenthöfer | Chair | [email protected]