Clear-Com Launches FreeSpeak II Dect-Based Duplex Wireless Intercom System

Enhanced version of the popular integrated or standalone 1.9GHz roaming digital wireless 

At IBC 2014 Clear-Com® will announce the launch of FreeSpeak II™ wireless intercom system, an enhanced DECT-based offering that operates in multiple license-free DECT bands from 1.897-1.933GHz. FreeSpeak II delivers improved roaming capability for reliable wireless connections, superior digital ‘Clear-Com Sound’ for clear intelligibility and ultimate audio comfort, and innovative intercom features that make it a high performance wireless option. The system is ideal for deployment across large-scale, multi-zone production areas typically required in live events, broadcast and sports production.

More Users, Same Flexibility

FreeSpeak II allows large numbers of wireless beltpack users to simultaneously roam across an expansive production area without compromising on performance. Similar to its predecessor, FreeSpeak II can be implemented as a standalone base station wireless system or as an integrated wireless solution within Eclipse HX matrices, known as FreeSpeak II Integra. When using the base station, up to 20 full-duplex wireless beltpacks can be connected; in an integrated matrix setup, as many as 50 full-duplex wireless beltpacks can be used at the same time by strategically placing 10 or more distributed remote antennas to create an expansive coverage zone. These beltpack users are then able to directly communicate with any other remote or local matrix panel or other wireless or wired beltpack user who is on the Eclipse HX Matrix System network.

New Hardware, Better Experience

FreeSpeak II leverages the existing base station from its predecessor that has been updated to work with the new beltpacks and new active antennas. All-new five-channel, full-duplex FS II-BP wireless beltpack was uniquely designed for the rigorous demands of large-scale operations and continuous communication use. Ergonomically positioned controls, intuitive operation and rugged housing make the beltpack ideal for extended use under harsh conditions. Beltpacks are IP-65 rated for water and dust resistance for mobile productions. The Li-Ion battery for the beltpack can last over 18 hours on a full charge. Beltpack operations including battery health, RF status and Antenna link can be monitored in real-time via the base station or Eclipse HX version 7.6 software.

The newly-designed Active Antenna provides the cellular roaming capability that keeps wireless users connected to the base station or to the Integra Solution. Enhancements to the antenna systems now offer a much improved wireless performance and thereby delivering a reliable wireless connection for mobile intercom users. Locally-powered Antennas can be positioned up to 3,200ft away, or 800ft away when centrally powered from the base station. Five way Antenna Splitters extend the base station to create an expansive coverage area with up to 10 antennas.

Crystal-clear Sound, Ultimate Audio Comfort

FreeSpeak II beltpack users can continue enjoying the highly-intelligible and digitally-clear “Clear-Com Sound at 7kHz “commentator” audio bandwidth. This level of sound quality offers excellent audio experience and reduces the strain on the user’s ears after extended usage.Simon Browne, Director of Product Management, Clear-Com, said, “FreeSpeak is a proven duplex wireless solution for large-scale, multi-zone production areas. The introduction of the redesigned FreeSpeak II Beltpack and Antenna provides rugged and ergonomic operation, together with greatly improved radio and audio clarity that will delight our wireless users.”

The FreeSpeak II family of products, together with a wide range of other Clear-Com solutions, will be available for demonstration on Stand 10.D29 at IBC 2014.