Do Cell Phones Interfere With Wireless Microphones?

Do cell phones interfere with wireless microphones? Our cell phones and other wireless devices are known to emit electromagnetic fields, causing obstruction and noise in microphone signals. Speaker wires act as an antenna and can detect signals transmitted by nearby cellphones, which causes this to buzz.

GSM Buzz Interference

A mobile phone using GSM standards communicates on a tower frequency along with other mobile phones. And since the allotted frequency band is very restricted, its signals take turns causing a leak into the audio signal path. This interference is caused by the rapid rate of signals turning on/off between phone and cell site. It introduces "false voltages" to audio frequencies as the signal is then converted into audio by the electronic components within the device such as the nearest amplifier or speaker. The leaked signals exist in the form of electromagnetic waves and enter wherever wires offer them to do so, such as unshielded cables. That is why the use of ferrite cores are so effective because they filter out GSM frequencies that were unintentionally converted into audio.

How To Prevent Cellphone Interference

So, we have answered the question do cell phones interfere with wireless microphones. Noises in microphones caused by mobile phone interference can surely be annoying. Here are some ways on how to avoid it.

1. Switch off your phone. It is the simplest and most obvious solution. Since your mobile phone can interfere with the microphone, it is best to switch it off. In events such as talks, or game shows the host usually request to switch off mobile devices as required by most audio engineers to avoid signal interference.
2. Keep your phone away from audio equipment. The further mobile phones are away from audio equipment, the lesser its signal can cause to interfere.
3. Another right way to eliminate GSM interference is by adding a ferrite core into the cable. Ferrite cores filter out radio frequency interference - acting as an antenna - a cable unintentionally collects. Allowing audio signals to pass through without any interruption. Most audio technicians already use this since it wouldn't be easy to ask crowds on big events like concerts to turn off their mobile devices.

Other Problems With Wireless Microphone

Here are some problems commonly encountered when using a wireless microphone.

• Static - Microphone static is caused by microphones being too far away from its receiver, or probably the battery of the wireless mic is draining out, or the mic is experiencing signal interference. Get your mic closer to the receiver. If static continues, change the batteries.
• Changing channels - When you connect your microphone through infrared to a receiver, it tends to change its setting. When this happens, all you need to do is put a little gaff tape on the receiver. Remove it only when you need to sync again and cover it up when you are done.
• Signal blockage - Signal loss is common with wireless devices. Walls, metals, and our human body can cause signal blockage. To gain signal, move the receiver around and look for the right spot.

Conclusion

Problems with microphones can't be avoided, especially in live performances. Always make sure to test your microphones first before the show.