"As I suggested earlier, I think I'd stick with plain, vanilla, Part 15 certified (with that FCC number) equipment, using whatever antenna the equipment was certified with - at least until these situations are clarified."
It is unknown at this time why Gerry Gaule's transmitter was not compliant. Robert here has repeatedly posted that I.A.M. made changes to the Talking House V and then never recertified it - perhaps his assertions are being vindicated.
But I'd stand by my statement that using a certified transmitter (installed according to manufacturer instructions) is the best hope most people have if they want to broadcast legally under Part 15 guidelines. Unless, of course, you have very expensive test equipment and really know what you're doing.
As Phil has posted, range can be an indicator - it certainly is for FM. But AM brings with it a host of problems due to the greatly increased range possible. If you're getting a mile range, you could be legal according to his calculations (particularly if you're broadcasting across open terrain, with few obstructions). But you could also very well be illegal, particularly in a dense urban setting where there's tons of interference and buildings to absorb the signal.
Until the Gaule situation in particular is resolved, I'd err on the side of caution.
That is exactly what we're doing here at KDX.... operating with great caution.
Today I left for an errand, the AM transmitter was OFF.
As I rearrange the setup, I plan to change frequencies without notice and at times use no frequency, only ampifier/speaker.
I will set about 15-minutes per day aside as a receptive time, when I'm sitting at the door ready for an inspection. If nothing happens, I will have done my part.
I may give away free books on manners to unexpected company.
My parents have, on the farm, a quite well trained blue heeler (dog.) If he knows you as family or friend, you are fine. If he has never seen you before, or you are prowling where you don't have permission, you may be eaten alive.
Cuts way down on unexpectedly visits.
Radioboy you are boss material.
I would like to have you in charge of my group of stations.
Run it like the old RCA Corporation.
The recent shock wave set off by the demolition of The Crow Cluster and Jerry Gaule's AM station has mostly settled down, but unanswered questions remain. There will be further discoveries in the forums as time goes on, but here are some outcomes:
The Crow has announced his intentions to rebuild The Crow Network Cluster, Jerry Gaule has not quit and in fact is continuing to broadcast via his large list of output channels and we hope he'll be able to return to Part 15 AM, and KDX is taking the next step.
What did we shut down? All AM & FM program service transmitters which simulcast programming from kdxradio.com, which continues broadcasting on 2xMP3 streams and an AAC stream.
What is the next step?
As an interim measure KDX became an Experimental Part 15 Radio Station and this status has now become permanent.
As an experimental station our FM stations will only be turned on for short durations during actual use. One of the FMs is used as an audio editing channel, another is used as a wireless link for transferring vinyl discs into digital form, and a third links programming over to two AM transmitters. Eventually all FM will be closed as they are replaced by more exotic methods of transmitting our link signals.
The AMs are never run all three at once. Instead, we change frequencies during periods when we are sending programming for our listening pleasure. If not actually listening, the AM gets turned off.
At times when an inspection visit would not be convenient, perhaps while having dinner with a date, all transmitters are closed. Inspections only occur during station operation.
In the near future our Shortwave Service will begin sending, followed by a Long Wave station, and a new AM station for Indoor Antenna Testing.
Oh, and not to forget, we are in the process of building two outdoor "Ultimate Antennas" based on the PhilB Method.
One more thing.
The AMT 5000 has a professional control for precisely setting the input power to the final stage. This can be turned so low that the signal just barely makes it to the next room. During some times of day we lower the power as a way of "disappearing" into the static.
Hi Carl
I hope this is my old friend this web site looks so different. Hey how has Neil been and you ? Wow I have been out of contact so much that I really
lost touch with everything. Anyways don't give up on the Low power transmitters. Boy I know that I have been doing part 15 transmitters now for
about 40 or more years. Carl if you need my help with anything please let me
know. I know you me and Neil been in this for ever it seems.
Has anyone heard from Neil. Really I hope this is the correct website. I have
been so active in the part 15 transmitters on other sites over the years
the memory goes and this site looks so different.
Well I hope I have the correct Carl.
Your friend
Sean
It is good to see you posting here again.
The site changed ownership about a year ago and Mr. Janze, the new owner, has done a lot to improve the look and function here.
Please keep in touch.
Neil
I don't know if I'm the right Carl, I often wonder if I am.
But I remember your name from either this website or maybe other websites, so you are the right Seankw40.