Q & A
Are there any program restrictions?
Generally, there are no restrictions on program content for unlicensed broadcasters. Of cource, laws regarding slander and defamation do apply. Licensed Traveler’s Information Radio Stations must strictly comply with content rules which prohibit music and commercials.
Can I air advertisements?
Yes – non licensed stations may sell and air commercials and accept paid sponsorships.
What about FM?
Part 15 of the Federal Communication Regulations does allow unlicensed broadcasting in the FM band (88 to 108 Mhz. However the power output regulations are extremely low, effectively allowing coverage of only up to 300 feet.
What is pirate radio?
Pirate radio stations are illegal stations that typically operate without licenses and at power levels that can interfere with licensed stations on the same or nearby frequencies. ‘Pirate” stations, like their namesake, have also been built and operated on ships anchored just outside of territorial waterways as a way of evading local broadcast regulations.
Despite its exciting allure, this web site, i A.M.radio and Radio Systems does not advocate or endorse any illegal use of the airwaves – especially as legal, unlicensed opportunitieses abound.
What is low-power radio?
Until recently, low-power radio was a generic term meaning almost any unlicensed or licensed low output power (1/10th of a watt to 1000 watt) radio transmitter or staion.
However, since its adoption in 2000, Low Power now more commonly refers to licensed, non-commercial 10 to 100 watt “LPFM” FM stations. See fcc.gov/lpfm for more information.
What is micro-broadcasting?
Micro-Broadcasting is a minimum for “low-power” or “Part-15” very local area, unlicensed broadcasting. Recently it has also been applied to webcasting audio content, also known as “narrow-casting
How about Internet Broadcasting?
Because the Internet is free and unregulated by its very nature it represents great opportunity for “micro- broadcasters” looking to extend their reach globally. Many unlicensed broadcasters “simulcast” their programs on the Internet via a plethora of streaming and down-load techniques.
But for others the Internet is the antithesis of the very local nature that attracted them to low-power radio. Here the allure and fascination of wireless technology keeps them bound to the ether and away from the ‘Ethernet”.
Can I get a license?
Yes (and no.) In most cities in the US the airwaves are quite simply, full. For many years now new licenses have not been available and rather were sold; usually for millions of dollars. This is outside of the budget of most part-15 enthusiast.Low-Power FM non-commercial licenses have created some opportunities, but here too competition is steep and most “windows” on available licenses are now closed. If you are serious about applying for a license – you need a consultant to advise you and help prepare their application. One of our favorites is Clarence Beverage of Communications Technology Inc. Find him at commtechrf.com/index.asp
What is talking house?
Talking House is a company that has pioneered the market of Real-Estate radio and sold thousands of part-15 transmitters to real estate agents world-wide. In 2009 the company was acquired by Radio Systems Inc and the product and market expanded to encompass the I A.M. Radio band.
Can I build my own transmitter and operate it?
Yes, it is legal to build and operate you own part-15 radio. Several kits and schematic diagrams are available on-line. But your home-built unit must still comply with power and spurious transmission regulations.
Where can I get more information?
Radio Systems is a big fan of a web-site called hobbybroadcaster.net whose mission it is “to educate and inform those interested in harnessing the power of license-free low power AM and FM radio broadcasting.” For all things Travelers Information you should check out Information Staion Specialists
How about studio equipment?
For studio gear the hobbyist and economically minded can patch together almost any type of consumer or band equipment with pretty good results. For an upgrade take a look at Radio Systems’ “school” mini studio package or our fully pro gear at radiosystems.com.
