Part 15 to LPFM Community Radio Revival
Posted on June 22, 2011
I know of no significant progress with KSJU 91.9 since they were issued a CP 2.5 years ago. Brian, the current pres of the local HAM club looked over the stats at the FCC (as did I a couple years ago), and says it doesn’t look like they can legally do what they expected to do, plus they lost their original antenna site for which the engineering data was calculated and sent in for their CP.
It will NOT be easy, but there ARE solutions to the coverage-without-interference (to currently active commercial FM stations on the same freq within 20 miles) dilemma, which will involve using a re-engineered directional main antenna plus license-free Part 15 microwave repeaters, and possibly even a second station.
So … here’s the gist of my ideas:
If KSJU fails to comply within the time limits and loses their CP, I can, with a couple friends, very likely apply for and get a CP when the next window opens sometime in early 2012 (best guess … no one knows for sure yet AFAIK).
Until then, I’m thinking seriously about investing in the Professional-grade Decade FM transmitter, which can operate under Part 15, but which can also be used as an Exciter for a more powerful linear amp:
http://www.decade.ca/en/products.php?prd=777560932
http://www.decade.ca/en/products.php?prd=1991104954
… This way we can operate under Part 15 during the early stages of engineering to apply for the CP, but, if and when we get it, easily connect the the amp to boost and test the signal to whatever ERP we determine will work under the regs. ITMT, we still have a professional platform to run experiments and collect data for the CP application, as well as collect programming materials and raise public awareness and enthusiasm.
Of course, when the time comes, we’ll be keeping ours ears, eyes, and hearts open to local community participation, and in close contact with Prometheus … However, for any of you who have waded through this type of process, I want to know if this sounds like a doable game plan …
TIA,
All the best,
Ken N.
http://fhtinyradio.com/
kenn@fhtinyradio.com
KF7PLC
