We’re far more than a web shop. We can help you get the very best from your professional audio products in many ways, from helping you choose exactly the right equipment to RF system design, problem solving and repairs.
When designing a wireless system, there are many things that can trip you up and compromise performance, including:
• Gain structure and headroom – Just like in audio, it’s important that all items in the system have appropriate gain and that the overload margin isn’t compromised by any part of the chain, sometimes known as the ‘weakest link effect’.
• Frequency choice – In any given situation, it is important to use frequencies that are noise-free and don’t interfere with each other through intermodulation or overload. Even when frequencies seem “clear,” multiple transmitters can interact and create new, unwanted signals (intermodulation products). Careful frequency coordination and transmitter power management are needed to avoid this hidden trap.
• Antenna selection and placement – Using the wrong type of antenna, poor placement, or improper polarization can dramatically reduce system performance. Directional antennas, diversity systems, and careful attention to cable loss are critical to getting the best results.
• Cable quality and losses – Coaxial cables introduce loss, especially at higher frequencies. Using low-quality cables, excessive cable lengths, or wrong connectors can reduce signal strength and introduce unexpected failures.
• Identifying and mitigating effects of noise – Studios, theatres, locations, etc., can be a minefield of unwanted noise from video screens, lights, SDI video, and other sources. Careful planning of antenna placement, screening, frequency choice, and other crucial factors is required to ensure that wireless performance isn’t compromised.
• Environmental factors – Moisture, temperature extremes, and physical obstructions like metal structures or crowds can dramatically impact RF reliability. Planning for real-world conditions is vital.
• Regulatory compliance – Different regions have different rules about which frequencies can be used. Ignoring local licensing and spectrum regulations can result in fines, interference, or system failure.
• The right tool for the job – There’s a wide range of good wireless mic and IFB/IEM products on the market from different manufacturers, and they all have their specific strengths. At Raycom, we really understand the relative benefits of each brand, whether analogue or digital, and you can rely on our unbiased advice to choose the best option for your specific needs.
• Always perform a full spectrum scan before setup and again just before going live. RF conditions can change rapidly, especially in busy environments.
• Use true diversity receivers whenever possible. Systems with two antennas and two independent receiver circuits dramatically reduce the risk of dropouts compared to simple antenna diversity setups.
• Keep transmitters and receivers properly separated. Too much RF energy near a receiver can cause overload, even if they are on different frequencies. Physical separation, good gain structure, and careful power management are crucial.
• Avoid poor transmitter placement – Body-worn transmitters can have their RF output severely reduced if pressed against skin, covered by metal, or hidden inside clothing without consideration for signal path. Proper placement can make a big difference.
• Ignoring RF gain settings on antennas and boosters – Active antennas and antenna distribution systems often have gain controls. Setting them incorrectly can cause overload at the receiver or excessive noise if underpowered.
• Have backups ready. Spare antennas, cables, batteries, and a backup wireless unit can save a show if something unexpected happens.
If you’re working with just a few wireless channels in a simple setting, you can often manage things yourself without too much trouble. But once the setup gets larger — or the environment gets busier or more unpredictable — that’s when bringing in a professional can really make a difference. Complex locations, busy events, or mixed wireless systems can all throw up unexpected challenges, and a properly designed RF setup will save you a lot of stress on the day. Things like careful frequency planning, good antenna placement, and making sure you’re on the right side of the local regulations can all help keep everything running smoothly.
It’s also worth getting advice if you’re mixing different types of kit, setting up in a new country, or just want peace of mind that your system will perform when it matters most. A bit of expert input early on can often prevent hours of last-minute troubleshooting later. Whether you need full system design, help fine-tuning what you already have, or simply a second pair of eyes, we’re always happy to help.
There are a few things to check before contacting the experts at Raycom:
If these don’t sort out the problem, then give our team at Raycom a call on 01789 777 040 and get some advice from our friendly, expert team.
