Low Power FM Broadcast Installation

Low Power FM Radio, or LPFM, is a form of FM broadcasting that transmits FM signals using very little energy--up to 100 watts of power. The signals are transmitted to a small geographical area within 3.4 miles, usually within a community. LPFM is a popular mode of communication among individuals and small organizations that want to spread the message within a limited area. The Federal Communications Commission--the FCC--regulates LPFM broadcasting in the United States.

Things You'll Need

Transmitter
Microphone
Station-in-a-box radio system

Instructions
1.Apply for a Low Power FM Radio license from the FCC. The licenses are usually awarded to nonprofit educational institutions and community organizations or agencies that provide important safety information to the local community. Your agency should be headquartered within 10 miles of the antenna. If you have met these criteria, apply for the license when the FCC issues a public notice indicating the availability of channels in your state. The notice will be open for at least 30 days and the information will be available on the FCC website, so make sure you check the website regularly.

2.Choose a broadcast transmitter for your station, based on your needs. Most LPFM stations use 50 to 100 watt transmitters. There are a wide variety of transmitters available on the market, ranging from $1,000 to $4,000. Your transmitter should have a nice front panel display, a simple audio processor and a built-in FM amplifier. If you want more punch in your signal, add an external audio processor to the transmitter. Check the instruction manual of the transmitter and make sure it's easy to understand and operate.

3.Choose a station-in-a-box radio system that has all the equipment mounted on a case with rack ears. There are three different varieties of racks that differ in the position of the mixer. Plug in the system to a power source and attach its coax cable to the transmitter. This will set up your station.

4.Fix a microphone with a mic stand to your radio system with the help of an audio cable that comes with the microphone. Choose a basic tabletop mic stand or go with a 12-inch extender one, especially if you like to stand up when you talk. Check your coverage map and make sure that the message is being transmitted clearly. The coverage map can be obtained from the FCC website. Some LPFM service providers can also make a customized map for your region. This computer-generated map will identify the area where your signal can be heard.

Tips & Warnings
1.The type of equipment you choose depends on the quality of transmission you want and also on your budget. Understand your needs and plan accordingly. The transmitters range from 10 watts to 100 watts. The entire project may cost you an upwards of $3000 depending on the type of equipment you choose.

2.Add additional audio processors to your transmitter if you need better quality.

3.Follow the instructions in your equipment user manual for best result. You may also consult a FM broadcast consultant who will help you set up the system.

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