Q&A for How to Start a Low Power FM Radio Station

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How can I develop fans with a 200 ft broadcast?

Community Answer

You can create a neighborhood station.

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Question

As a kid, how can I earn the money for a license to start a radio station

Community Answer

You could babysit or mow lawns to earn the money for a license.

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Question

How can I start my own FM channel?

Community Answer

Follow the instructions listed in the article above.

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How far can your station broadcasting area be with a good antenna?

Community Answer

It depends upon the amount you spend on the antenna. A small antenna's area goes up to 20-25 feet.

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Question

How do I determine the signal of my antenna?

Community Answer

It's written on the transmitter on a tag, or it should be on the packaging and/or instruction manual.

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Question

Do the FCC rules affect people or countries outside America, or, more precisely, countries in Africa, Nigeria, West Africa?

Community Answer

No. FCC rules only apply to the United States.

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Question

How much money do I need to start?

Community Answer

It depends on the type of antennae and the cord you use. As you develop, you can get more money from fundraisers, so you can get better equipment.

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Question

The 200 ft radius doesn't go far. Can I have more than one transmitter?

Community Answer

Buy powerful transmitter (ex. 5kw transmitter) and the Coaxial Cable. Consider the height of your antenna.

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What is the average cost to run a radio station?

Community Answer

The cost varies widely depending on how large or small you are planning to do your radio station.

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Question

Would transmission go farther if the antenna is placed on a hill?

Community Answer

Yes, as there is less buildings and earth to block FM waves. AM waves pass through objects easier however, they lose their quality that way.

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Question

Does the FCC allow low power FM stations to run all the time?

Community Answer

If by "low power" you mean operating under Part 15, the answer is yes. The biggest reason that stations "sign off" at various times has to do with something called skywave propagation, wherein at night, a station's signal can reach much further than during the day. However, this is almost entirely a phenomenon of AM radio frequencies. At frequencies you would use, it is essentially nonexistent, so you can operate 24/7 with no problem. NOTE: If "clear" dial space is limited (e.g. in cities), courtesy dictates that you share the frequency with other nearby community stations, e.g. - you broadcast church services on Sunday morning, then shut down to allow local little league broadcasts.

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Question

Can I run this station without a transmitter?

Community Answer

Only if you are streaming it on the Internet. Otherwise, you will be your station's only listener.

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Question

Can I start a radio station from my bedroom with a transmitter?

Maura Behan

Community Answer

Yes, you can start a small radio station from your bedroom with a transmitter, but there are legal and technical considerations. In the U.S., you need to comply with FCC regulations, which might require a license if your transmitter's power exceeds certain limits. For very low-power broadcasting, sometimes referred to as "Part 15" broadcasting, you might not need a license, but the range will be limited. Ensure you research local laws and technical requirements to avoid interference with licensed broadcasts.

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