Quantum5X on Ice: NHL OKs New RefMicHD

The new transmitter features integrated on/off switch

Wireless-sports-systems developer Quantum5X announced at this week’s SVG Summit that the National Hockey League has implemented the company’s custom solution for on-referee audio for the 2018-19 NHL season. The RefMicHD is a model QT5100 transmitter with the on/off switch physically integrated into the transmitter’s form factor.

Quantum 5X CEO Paul Johnson shows off the new RefMicHD.

Previously, the NHL had been using the QT5100 transmitter along with a separate on/off element.

The RefMicHD combines all of those functions in a single unit. The RefMicHD underwent trials during regular-season games last season.

Q5X CEO Paul Johnson pointed out the unit’s functionality during a break in the Summit sessions at the New York Hilton: the RefMicHD can be activated at any time, before or after the referees suit up for the game; the transmitter’s performance and status can be monitored during the game; and the transmitter can be turned off between periods or if the official forgets to deactivate the on switch, all remotely, using a remote control that can manage multiple RefMicHD units.

The RefMicHD is compatible with receivers from both Shure and Lectrosonics.

All functions of the new RefMicHD can be accessed wirelessly and remotely.

RefMicHD kits are assigned to each of the league’s 31 arenas, with the system’s electronics installed in a dedicated rack in each venue. Q5X’s PlayerMic, which is used by the league for one game per week, is shipped by the league to each week’s game site.

“The PlayerMic is in use by the NBA and MLB,” Johnson said, “but this is the first time we’ve had our receivers used on both the player and the officials’ sides.”