How do I get into Low Powered Radio?

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In summary, the conversation discussed the process of legally getting into LP Radio, including setting up a system, obtaining a license, and understanding copyright aspects. One suggestion was to apply to help out at a college's low-power radio station. Another option was to get a HAM license, although it is not typically used for talk shows. The conversation also mentioned the possibility of volunteering at a children's hospital radio station. The FCC has requirements for starting a low-power commercial radio station, including being non-profit. It was also mentioned that the local community college used to have a radio station but no longer does. Additional suggestions were requested for places to check out.
  • #1
Bdoom
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I want to know how to begin legally getting into LP Radio. I want to learn how to set up a system, get a license and all the works. Does anyone know where I should start? I already saw the FCC FM radio application and it is insanely huge, but if anyone can decipher what they are saying it could be helpful. I realize the copyright aspects and everything, I just want to do talk shows anyways. (Sort of like c-span radio)
 
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  • #2
Bdoom said:
I want to know how to begin legally getting into LP Radio. I want to learn how to set up a system, get a license and all the works. Does anyone know where I should start? I already saw the FCC FM radio application and it is insanely huge, but if anyone can decipher what they are saying it could be helpful. I realize the copyright aspects and everything, I just want to do talk shows anyways. (Sort of like c-span radio)

I think I read in your previous posts that you are in high school now? Is that right? How long until you head to college? Many colleges have their own low-power radio station for campus, and you could apply to help out with the station, and eventually get a DJ slot or do a talk radio show like you mention.

If there is a college in your town now, you may still be able to ask them if you can help out. I can imagine that the FCC application is pretty big!

Another option for radio comm is to get your HAM license (see my footer). But you don't use HAM radio for talk show stuff. It's a good way to learn about building and using radios, though. :smile:
 
  • #3
There's a community college which I'm actually already apart of. I have my ID. I am in high school and college at the same time. I graduate in about 4 months from High school. Good idea though, maybe I should check out if they have one, I believe they do actually. However though, I want to later on make my own station. When it comes to HAM radio, I've heard of it before. It's like talking peer to peer to people right?
 
  • #4
berkeman said:
Many colleges have their own low-power radio station for campus, and you could apply to help out with the station, and eventually get a DJ slot or do a talk radio show like you mention.
That's exactly what a H.S. friend of mine did as a freshman while working on his BA in Radio-TV-Film. It was still a carrier current station then.
KJHK's roots go back to 1952, when KDGU signed on as a carrier current station on 630 AM. In 1956, it changed its calls to KUOK. Wilt Chamberlain hosted his own show on the station during his days as a KU student.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/KJHK

It looks like there are a lot of campus radio stations but what surprised me where the number of High School radio stations.
 
  • #5
If there is a children's hospital in your area, they may be looking for volunteers for their in-house radio station.

I imagine your spare time would be limited, but this work is pretty rewarding if you like working with kids.
 
  • #6
Bdoom said:
There's a community college which I'm actually already apart of. I have my ID. I am in high school and college at the same time. I graduate in about 4 months from High school. Good idea though, maybe I should check out if they have one, I believe they do actually. However though, I want to later on make my own station. When it comes to HAM radio, I've heard of it before. It's like talking peer to peer to people right?

It sounds like you are on a great track :smile:

Yes, HAM radio is basically peer-to-peer and dedicated to emergency communications. It can be used for routine comm when there is no emergency.

What kind of requirements does the FCC have for starting up a low-power commercial radio station? Or does it have to be non-profit?
 
  • #7
berkeman said:
It sounds like you are on a great track :smile:

Yes, HAM radio is basically peer-to-peer and dedicated to emergency communications. It can be used for routine comm when there is no emergency.

What kind of requirements does the FCC have for starting up a low-power commercial radio station? Or does it have to be non-profit?

http://www.fcc.gov/guides/low-power-fm-radio-lpfm

According to the above link, you must be non-profit. Also I just found out, my local community college doesn't have a radio station. They use to though.
 
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  • #8
Anyone else have any ideas for places to check out?
 

FAQ: How do I get into Low Powered Radio?

1. How do I obtain a license for Low Powered Radio?

To obtain a license for Low Powered Radio, you will need to first determine if you are eligible to apply. This typically involves being a citizen of the country where you plan to operate the radio, having a valid government-issued ID, and being at least 18 years of age. You will then need to complete an application and pass a written exam on radio regulations and operating procedures. The specific process and requirements may vary by country, so it is important to research the regulations in your area.

2. What is the maximum power allowed for Low Powered Radio?

The maximum allowed power for Low Powered Radio varies by country, but it is generally limited to a few watts. In the United States, for example, the maximum power allowed for Low Powered FM Radio is 100 watts. This limit is in place to prevent interference with other radio signals and to ensure fair use of the radio spectrum.

3. Do I need any special equipment to operate a Low Powered Radio station?

Yes, you will need some basic equipment to operate a Low Powered Radio station. This includes a transmitter, antenna, and other necessary components to broadcast your signal. It is important to ensure that all equipment used is compliant with the regulations in your area and does not exceed the maximum allowed power.

4. Can I use a Low Powered Radio station for commercial purposes?

In most cases, Low Powered Radio stations are intended for non-commercial use. This means they cannot be used to advertise or promote products or services for profit. However, some countries may have exceptions for community-based or educational organizations. It is important to research the regulations in your area to ensure compliance.

5. Are there any restrictions on the content I can broadcast on a Low Powered Radio station?

Yes, there are typically restrictions on the content that can be broadcast on a Low Powered Radio station. This may include limitations on profanity, political speech, and hate speech. It is important to research the regulations in your area and ensure that your content complies with them. Failure to do so may result in fines or revocation of your license.

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