FCC Rule Change: Boon to AM Broadcasters

 

In other recent news from the Federal Communications Commission, a Report and Order adopted on Monday, June 29 changes FM translator rules to allow AM radio stations to use currently authorized FM translator stations (i.e., those now licensed or authorized in construction permits that have not yet expired) to rebroadcast their AM signals. No portion of the 60-dBu contour of any such translator service may extend beyond the smaller of two defined areas: a 25-mile radius from the AM broadcaster site; or the w-mV/m daytime contour of the AM station.

This rule change was based on two deciding factors: the unique role that AM broadcasting plays in American communities and the audio fidelity issues that plague AM broadcasting. Often, AM stations are a valuable source of local programming focusing on issues unique to the community. Unfortunately, AM broadcasting has lost listener share, and one factor in that loss has been the interference that scrambles AM broadcasts at night. It is hoped this change will boost AM broadcasters, but leave low-powered FM stations free of potential interference since the change applies only to existing FM translators. View the Report and Order on the FCC website.

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