If LPFM stations operating under a time share arrangement wish to temporarily alter their schedules for a specific event, they should follow these steps:
FAQ Tag: low power fm
Is there a chance of utilizing the broadcasting hours that are not used by the school during vacation and holiday periods, given that you are in a time share agreement with them?
Yes, it’s possible to utilize the broadcasting hours that are not being used by the school during vacation and holiday periods. Since you are in a time-share agreement with the school, you could potentially make arrangements to broadcast during those periods when the school is closed. This way, you could maximize your station’s airtime and ensure compliance with the broadcasting requirements outlined in the rules. Just be sure to coordinate with the school and follow any necessary procedures to make use of the available hours.
How can we meet the requirement to broadcast for 36 hours a week as a school that is closing for summer vacation?
As a school that is closing for summer vacation, you might be concerned about meeting the requirement to broadcast for 36 hours a week as specified by the regulations. According to §73.850 of the rules, schools are not required to broadcast on weekends or during periods designated as vacation or recess on the school calendar.
I heard that I may have to give announcements for the first year for third adjacent channel stations. What is this about?
Certainly. The requirement you’re referring to is part of the LPFM station’s initial program test period. During the first year of operation, LPFM stations are required to conduct an initial program test for a period of at least 36 hours. This test period helps ensure that the station’s operations do not cause interference to any authorized stations, especially those on third adjacent channels.
I’ve come across information suggesting that installing HD Radio at my station would enable me to operate a commercial HD-2 station. Can this be confirmed?
This statement contains a misconception. It’s important to differentiate between broadcasting and subsidiary services. Broadcasting encompasses services that can be received using a standard radio, without any special arrangements or subscriptions. On the other hand, subsidiary services are not accessible to the general public and necessitate a subscription for reception. In digital television, multicast streams are considered broadcasting. This same argument could apply to multicast digital radio. Since these streams can be received with a standard HD radio without any subscription or access control, they are classified as broadcasting. Consequently, they would remain subject to the non-commercial requirements outlined in section 399B of the Communications Act.
Is my station obligated to adhere to point pledges like those related to local programming and main studio requirements?
Yes, your station may be subject to point pledges that relate to specific requirements such as local programming and main studio obligations. These pledges usually apply to LPFM stations that were part of a mutually exclusive (competing) application process and were granted their construction permits based on certain criteria, including points awarded by the FCC. The points system helps determine which applicant is granted the construction permit in cases where there is competition for a limited number of available frequencies. The specific obligations tied to these point pledges depend on the circumstances of your station’s application and grant.
Is it possible for one LPFM station to broadcast the same content as another LPFM station simultaneously?
Yes, it is possible for two LPFM stations to simulcast programming, but there are certain restrictions to consider. The two LPFM stations cannot be engaged in a time brokerage agreement or a management agreement. This means that they can share and broadcast the same programs simultaneously, but one station cannot provide compensation (cash or other considerations) to the other station, as that would constitute a time brokerage agreement. Additionally, both stations must maintain separate and independent management teams; one station cannot manage the operations of the other.
Can an LPFM/NCE station to interrupt its programming in order to raise funds for another organization (such as the Red Cross) during a local disaster?
Yes, LPFM/NCE stations can interrupt their programming to raise funds for another organization, such as the Red Cross, during a local disaster. The FCC recognizes the importance of providing emergency information and assistance to the public in times of crisis. These stations are allowed to engage in fundraising activities to support disaster relief efforts and provide vital information to their communities. However, it’s important to ensure that such interruptions are done in compliance with FCC regulations and guidelines and that the fundraising efforts are genuine and transparent.
Do LPFM stations have an obligation to broadcast a certain amount of local programming?
No, LPFM (Low Power FM) stations are not specifically required to broadcast a minimum amount of local programming according to the FCC regulations. However, some LPFM stations might choose to prioritize local content as part of their mission to serve their community. The regulations for LPFM stations are generally more flexible compared to full-power stations, allowing them to decide on their programming approach based on their community’s needs and their station’s goals.
If I intend to broadcast old-time radio programs on an LPFM/NCE station, is it necessary to edit out the historical commercials, even those promoting products that no longer exis
It’s generally advisable to exercise caution when broadcasting old-time radio programs that include historical commercials. The context of these commercials and their impact on your station’s compliance with regulations should be carefully considered. Some commercials might be harmless from a regulatory standpoint, especially if they promote products that no longer exist. However, it’s always a good idea to review the content of the commercials and ensure that they do not violate any current advertising regulations or guidelines set by the FCC for LPFM/NCE stations. If in doubt, consulting with a legal professional experienced in broadcast regulations would be a prudent step to take.