I’ve chosen to write this instructable on how to troubleshoot wireless microphones systems because there are so many issues that can arise with a wireless microphone setup. Although this also applies to other wireless systems besides microphones, I’ll concentrate on them because that’s where I have the most experience.
Please let me know if I missed anything or if you would like me to add something to this tutorial. Additionally, if you are experiencing issues unrelated to wireless, I encourage you to check out my instructable “Audio Problems” or get in touch with me for assistance.
Please keep in mind that I can only cover a few problems you can run into with wireless. I will only cover the basics in this instructable.
Step 1: Static
Table of Contents
When a wireless microphone picks up static, it’s typically because the receiver is too far away, the battery is running low, or the signal is being interfered with. Interference will be discussed in a later step. Changing the battery or moving the microphone closer to the receiver are frequently the simplest solutions for dealing with static.
Move the receivers to a location backstage or onstage to get the mic closer to the receiver. There is already cable running from many venues’ backstage or onstage sections to their tech booths. Most people agree that using a wireless microphone system in this manner is the “proper” way to do it.
Step 2: Interference
You must change the frequency of the mic and receiver to an unoccupied frequency in order to eliminate interference on a microphone. Consult your owner’s manual for instructions on how to alter the frequency (unless you are a licensed operator who is exempt from Part 15 of the FCC rules and regulations).
Change it by at least 2 MHz up or down from where the interference was. To locate the optimal frequencies in your location, you mainly only need to fiddle around with it. You may also use a program for wireless spectrum analysis, but those are pricey and need pricey hardware.
Step 3: Channels “Mysteriously” Changing
When a microphone is infrared synced to the receiver, the microphone occasionally “Magically” switches to a different channel or modifies a setting. Although it doesn’t happen often, it does frequently enough to warrant note. This is a simple remedy; first, locate the infrared receiver on the microphone (I’ve included a picture of mine in this step), and then cover it with a little piece of gaff tape. Simply remove the gaff tape and replace it after syncing if necessary.
Step 4: Power Off
1. Most microphones have a power lock. This will keep the mic on, even if it is switched off. This is the most effective way. The only way to turn it off is to know how to remove the power lock, or to remove the battery once you turn the power lock on. Refer to your owner’s manual to see if your mic has a power lock, and how to turn it on.
Since Shure ULX is one of the most popular mics, I will tell you the process for that one. Press set, then mode together (set has to be pressed first) until you see Po L on the screen. It is now power locked. Generally, most mics (including Shure ULX) use the same key combination in order to unlock that they did to lock.
2. Place a piece of gaff tape or medical tape over the power switch. Most people will not remove the tape for fear of breaking the mic, and it also protects from accidentally bumping the switch off.
Step 5: Intermodulation
Interference and intermodulation are comparable. When two microphones or other wireless equipment crowd the same frequency, intermodulation occurs. Change your frequencies to one that is less busy if you want to solve this problem. Using an intermodulation analysis application, you can locate frequencies that are not congested.
IAS is one of the top programs on the market, yet IAS is highly pricey. The “Sennheiser Intermodulation and Frequency Management Software” application is a free download (AKA SIFM). If you use Sennheiser microphones, this is a great alternative because the software includes some of the primary model parameters pre-programmed. Other specifications can be added, but you must be aware of the existing ones.
Step 6: Copyright
Interference and intermodulation are comparable. When two microphones or other wireless equipment crowd the same frequency, intermodulation occurs. Change your frequencies to one that is less busy if you want to solve this problem. Using an intermodulation analysis application, you can locate frequencies that are not congested.
IAS is one of the top programs on the market, yet IAS is highly pricey. The “Sennheiser Intermodulation and Frequency Management Software” application is a free download (AKA SIFM). If you use Sennheiser microphones, this is a great alternative because the software includes some of the primary model parameters pre-programmed. Other specifications can be added, but you must be aware of the existing ones.
