RF Coordination

This SOP defines the standards and procedures for planning, configuring, operating, and monitoring wireless RF audio systems used by Maryland Productions (MP) and Event Revolution (RV). Proper RF coordination is critical for preventing dropouts, interference, and show-stopping failures.

Wireless systems must be planned deliberately and monitored continuously.

Purpose

  • Ensure reliable operation of all wireless audio systems.

  • Prevent RF interference and signal dropouts.

  • Standardize RF planning and coordination workflows.

  • Protect limited RF spectrum resources.

  • Support consistent performance across venues and event types.

Who This SOP Is For

  • Audio leads / A1s

  • RF technicians

  • Monitor engineers

  • Warehouse staff prepping wireless systems

  • Project Managers overseeing RF-heavy events

  • Authorized freelancers

Anyone deploying or operating wireless audio systems must follow this SOP.

Scope

This SOP applies to:

  • Wireless handheld microphones

  • Wireless bodypack systems

  • IEM (in-ear monitor) systems

  • Antenna distribution systems

  • RF coordination software and tools

This SOP does not replace FCC regulations or venue-specific RF rules.

RF Safety & Compliance

  • Operate wireless systems only within legal frequency bands.

  • Follow FCC regulations at all times.

  • Respect venue, broadcast, and public safety RF usage.

  • Do not transmit on unlicensed or prohibited frequencies.

Illegal RF operation is prohibited.

RF Planning & Pre-Production

  • Review event requirements: - Number of wireless channels - Microphones vs IEMs - Venue type and size

  • Identify potential RF challenges: - Broadcast TV presence - Other productions - House wireless systems

  • Select appropriate frequency bands.

Planning prevents failure.

Warehouse Prep

  • Verify wireless inventory and channel counts.

  • Check firmware versions on transmitters and receivers.

  • Inspect antennas, cables, and distribution units.

  • Label all RF equipment clearly by channel.

  • Install fresh batteries or charge rechargeables.

RF issues often start in prep.

RF Scanning

  • Perform RF scans on-site before coordination.

  • Scan with: - Receivers - Dedicated RF scanners

  • Identify: - Active RF signals - Noise floor - Problematic frequencies

Never rely on factory presets alone.

Frequency Coordination

  • Use coordination software when available.

  • Assign frequencies to avoid: - Intermodulation - Adjacent-channel interference

  • Separate mic and IEM frequency ranges when possible.

  • Document final frequency assignments.

Coordination must be deliberate.

Antenna Systems

  • Place antennas with clear line-of-sight to performers.

  • Avoid proximity to metal or LED walls.

  • Use antenna distribution systems correctly.

  • Verify correct cable lengths and types.

  • Maintain appropriate antenna spacing.

Antenna placement affects performance more than power.

System Setup & Testing

  • Verify transmitter-receiver pairing.

  • Test each channel individually.

  • Walk-test performers and stage areas.

  • Verify IEM coverage.

  • Monitor RF meters during testing.

Testing must simulate real use.

Operational Monitoring

  • Continuously monitor RF levels during the event.

  • Watch for: - Dropouts - Interference spikes - Battery levels

  • Respond immediately to issues.

  • Avoid making unplanned frequency changes mid-show.

RF vigilance is required.

Battery Management

  • Use fresh or fully charged batteries.

  • Track battery usage by show segment.

  • Replace batteries proactively.

  • Never reuse partially depleted batteries for critical roles.

Battery failures mimic RF problems.

Troubleshooting RF Issues

When issues occur:

  • Verify battery and power first.

  • Check antenna connections.

  • Confirm frequency integrity.

  • Isolate the affected channel.

  • Swap components methodically.

Do not guess—diagnose.

Post-Show Wrap-Up

  • Power down transmitters first.

  • Document RF issues or problem frequencies.

  • Reset frequencies if required.

  • Remove batteries as needed.

  • Inspect RF equipment during strike.

RF notes improve future shows.

Roles & Responsibilities

Audio Leads / A1

  • Oversee RF planning and coordination.

  • Approve frequency assignments.

  • Communicate with PMs and venue.

RF Technicians

  • Perform scans and coordination.

  • Monitor systems during operation.

  • Respond to RF issues.

Warehouse Staff

  • Prep and test RF equipment.

  • Maintain labeling and organization.

  • Remove faulty RF gear from service.

Project Managers

  • Identify RF-heavy requirements early.

  • Coordinate with venues and broadcasters.

Quality Control

  • RF scans performed for every wireless deployment.

  • Frequencies documented.

  • Antenna systems optimized.

  • Issues logged post-show.

Reliable RF is intentional, not accidental.