Part of being a live audio engineer includes understanding and using RF (wireless) gear. In order to coordinate frequencies (make sure devices are tuned to compatible frequencies) and avoid interference from other sources like DTV and nearby RF gear, it’s vital to be able to see what the frequency spectrum is and find open frequencies. Otherwise you’re playing Russian roulette. There are many options when it comes to RF scanning. Some are handheld. Some are based around a computer.

This device is a stand alone unit that can be combined with a computer.

RF Explorer’s RACKPRO – rack mount RF scanner

Here is an alternative link to the same information:

RackPro

RackPro – demonstration video

Here is the PC software that comes with the RackPro unit.

Clear Waves – white space finder

Here is the Mac software that can be combined with RackPro.

RF Venue

Here is IAS (Intermodulation Analysis System) software by Professional Wireless

Professional Wireless IAS

Here are some handheld scanner options:

Various RF scanner hardware / analysis software links