Implementing decision 2014/641 - 2014/641/EU: Commission Implementing Decision of 1 September 2014 on harmonised technical conditions of radio spectrum use by wireless audio programme making and special events equipment in the Union (notified under document C(2014) 6011) - Main contents

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

L 263/29

Programme making and special events (PMSE) equipment covers a wide variety of video and sound transmission applications which are increasingly important for the development of the media and entertainment industry in the Union. They include broadcasting, cultural, musical and theatrical performances, and social and sporting events. PMSE equipment is used for professional and non-professional purposes, from local to Union-wide events. Wireless microphones are the most common and widespread type of wireless audio PMSE equipment; associated systems include portable in-ear monitor and talkback systems and audio links.

The Commission, in its Communication of 26 September 2012 to the European Parliament, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions (2), recognised cultural and creative industries as one of Europe's most dynamic economic sectors and an essential driver of cultural diversity in Europe. Decision No 243/2012/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council (3), in particular its Article 8(5), further stresses the importance of PMSE and requires Member States, in cooperation with the Commission, to seek to ensure the necessary frequency bands for such equipment, in accordance with the Union's objectives to improve the integration of the internal market and access to culture. Moreover, under Article 6(6) of that Decision, Member States need to examine ways and, where appropriate, take technical and regulatory measures to ensure that the freeing of the 800 MHz band does not adversely affect users of PMSE equipment.

The current regulatory framework is not fully harmonised across the EU Member States with regard to spectrum used by PMSE equipment due to historical discrepancies in national frequency plans and in the management of varying national demands and local needs. Although many Member States apply European Radiocommunications Committee (ERC) Recommendation 70-03, and Annex 10 thereto (4), and ERC Recommendation 25-10, and Annex 2 thereto (5) which provide guidance on the frequency bands and technical parameters for PMSE equipment, these recommendations do not legally guarantee the harmonisation of spectrum used by PMSE equipment across the Union.

Harmonising the spectrum used by PMSE equipment should contribute to the internal market objectives by improving the quality and efficiency of spectrum use; providing long-term visibility and legal certainty for access to relevant spectrum bands throughout the Union; stimulating research and development, e.g. the digitalisation of PMSE equipment and other aspects of efficiently using spectrum; encouraging investment by manufacturers in PMSE technology; lowering prices; allowing economies of scale; fostering cross-border portability of equipment and interoperability; and avoiding the sterilisation of unused spectrum.

Although the spectrum needs of wireless audio PMSE equipment vary significantly, between 8 MHz and 144 MHz (6), depending on specific local and temporary needs, professional users indicates their daily spectrum needs for wireless audio PMSE applications at 96 MHz in the...