FreeSpeak Cell scales up comms capacity

But that was before Clear-Com’s new FreeSpeak Cell, which could host up to 1,000 users on a single network. 

Chris Willis, SVP Sales, Clear-Com, said: “As the demands of broadcast have grown, more people are looking for the ability to have wireless communications so that they can roam more freely around a studio or sporting event. FreeSpeak Cell removes all the constraints around implementing wireless intercom. It uses either commercially available 5G or 4G networks or private networks, as the infrastructure for intercom.”  

FreeSpeak Cell can support up to 400 users on a single frame, but multiple frames can be networked together. Initially, it works with Clear-Com’s Eclipse matrix, but by the end of 2026 it will also run on Arcadia and Avalon. 

The beltpack itself has nine assignable keys.  

“You could have nine simultaneous talk and listens,” said Willis. “You can have connections to production, direction, and different camera controls.” 

The company has carried out tests in Germany, including at the Nürburgring, and at a live performance venue in the US. Willis thinks the system would be ideal for golf tournaments, where wireless camera systems can already operate on distant greens, but comms is often just two-way radio. 

“This means that you can put somebody out on the 17th hole with a cellular belt pack and they’ll have full intercom connectivity,” he explained. 

Stand Number: 10.D29 

Company: www.clearcom.com