FCC Power Increase FAQ
We’re very excited about the FCC’s approval of the power increase for FM HD Radio™ broadcasting!
In order to make this easier on you, we’ve compiled a quick list of things to consider.
Who: All FM HD Radio Stations.
What: Increase of FM power for HD Radio (IBOC).
When: Thirty (30) days after the rule is printed in the federal registry. Check back here for official OK to move forward. For now, you can take some action steps. See below.
Where: All over the US.
Why: Increased reception of your FM digital signal for your main channel and for new HD2/HD3 channels to reach more people with digital quality.
Some things you may be wondering about as you determine what’s best for your station(s):
Is this a mandatory power increase?
No. The FCC has given FM stations the opportunity voluntarily to make this power increase.
Is my station eligible?
Every FM station is able to increase 6DB. If you have a desire to go beyond that limit to the potential to the 10DB mentioned, look at criteria set forth in Order #DA-10-208 and apply to the FCC. If you find that it is cost prohibitive to go up all the way, you can go part way to get some benefit, but keep costs down.
I’m a GM. What’s my first step?
Talk to your engineers about what the options are for your specific FM station(s). Direct them to the FCC report and order found here. A summary of that for you: All stations can go up 6DB thirty days following the FCC’s publication in the federal registry. If you have the appropriate equipment and are ready to go before then, you will need to file an STA (Special Temporary Authority) with the FCC.
We have all the equipment and have STA approval. What’s next?
If that’s the case, then simply notify the FCC informally within 10 days of commencing elevated power operations. You can tell us too. Email here.
I think I want my station to ask for approval to go above the 6DB the FCC approved. What do I do?
Look at protections and criteria set forth in the FCC Report and Order #DA-10-208 (link to) to determine if your station is eligible for further upgrade and fill out a new application to the FCC. Based upon their clearances, you will be able to go up to 10DB or in any increments. That means that if you want to go up in increments instead of the full amount, that’s ok. It’s not a mandatory 6DB if you want to increase.
It may be cost prohibitive to go to certain levels. If the current equipment will take you up to 5DB, but not 6 and 6DB would cost you another $40K and that’s not cost effective, then you have the option to stay below 6DB, but still see some benefit by increasing incrementally.
What are some of the potential costs of a power increase?
While you may be able to increase power without these challenges, some increases may require some of these costs. Things to consider are:
- New transmitter
- New power
- New cooling
- New space
- Higher electric bill
Discuss all of these things with your engineers so you can make a well educated decision.
What if the increase causes interference in areas outside of my contour?
This rule specifically says that interference outside of protected contour is not an issue that is to be brought to the FCC. However, studies have shown that interference does not typically occur within an FM station’s approved contour.
If you have any questions about this opportunity, don’t hesitate to contact us at questions@ibiquity.com.
