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

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  • Question
    How can I develop fans with a 200 ft broadcast?
    Community Answer
    You can create a neighborhood station.
  • 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.
  • Question
    How can I start my own FM channel?
    Community Answer
    Follow the instructions listed in the article above.
  • Question
    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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • Question
    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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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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