RFU adopt REFcomms system for International matches

The Rugby Football Union (RFU) have purchased six REFcomms systems from leading wireless specialists, Raycom.
Communications between match officials has become a vital issue in controlling games and making the correct decisions under the spotlight of live television. REFcomms is specifically designed to allow automatic communications between the referee and touch judges, as well as assessors who can monitor all conversation from the pitch. The referee’s feed is also sent to the Sky TV and REFlink for live transmission to spectators and viewers.
The system has been designed to be durable enough for security and military usage as well as standing up to the rigours of an international rugby game. REFcomms uses two UHF frequencies, which are effective over 1 Km and are approved for the purpose. The referee has full duplex (transmit and receive simultaneously) communications at all times and his body pack is a ‘Talk-Thru’ repeater that adds his conversation to the incoming feeds from the touch judges. The two touch judges have a push-to-talk system, which allows them to hear all of the comments on the pitch but only one of them at a time can talk to the referee. Each official has a lightweight earpiece and microphone that will not interfere with the ability to move quickly around the pitch. The video judge receives the combined feed from the referee’s repeater as do the broadcasters.
REFcomms operates on conventional nine volt alkaline batteries, allowing up to four hours of constant operation so there are no fears of the system dying during injury time. The wireless components are supplied by Pastega, a company with a great deal of experience in the broadcast industry and an enviable reputation for build quality and performance. The system is backed by Raycom’s 24/7 hotline which is seldom needed once the officials are familiar with the system. The number of participants can be increased to eight, allowing REFcomms to be used for other applications and other sports.
Raycom, www.raycom.co.uk
(GB)