Technical Standards and Operating Requirements for FM

Broadcasting Stations in the Philippines (1991 Revised Edition)

By:

Technical Standards Committee of the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster sa

Pilipinas

Arcadio Carandang, Jr. --- Chairman

Leoncio Galang --- Vice-Chairman

Carlos Saliuan, Jr. --- NTC Representative

Alfredo Ceralde --- Member

Romualdo Lintag --- Member

Salvador Castillo --- Member

Filomeno Babas --- Member

Ernesto Claudio --- Member

Rolando Agbay --- Member

Endorsed by:

MIGUEL C. ENRIQUEZ

Chairman – Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas

ANDRE S. KAHN

President – Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas

Approved by:

MARIANO E. BENEDICTO II

Commissioner – National Telecommunication Commission

CONTENTS OF FM BROADCASTING

Section

1. Introduction

2. Definition of Terms

3. Allocation of Frequencies for FM Broadcast Stations

4. Classes of FM Broadcast Stations

5. Technical Requirements

6. Broadcast Auxiliary Services

7. Operating Requirements

8. FM Broadcast Translators and Signal Boosters

9. Public Information File

10. Annexes

FM BROADCAST STANDARDS

1. INTRODUCTION

The increasing Importance of the role of FM broadcasting in the

Philippines has encouraged broadcast engineers and the National

Telecommunications Commission to pool their resources together and come

up with technical standards and rules and regulations relating to FM

broadcast.

These technical standards and regulations were derived from CCIR

recommendations, relevant engineering data and rules and regulations of

the Federal Communications Corn- mission, and other data supplied by

manufacturers of radio equipment and by licensees of FM broadcast stations.

These standards and regulations shall be revised from time to time to be

effective and compatible with technical progress.

2. DEFINITION OF TERMS

2.1 FM broadcast band

That portion of the radio frequency spectrum from 88 MHz to 108 MHz.

The band is divided into 100 channels.

2.2 FM broadcast channel

A band of frequencies 200 kilohertz wide and is designated by its

center frequency. Channels for FM broadcast stations begin at 82.1

megahertz and continue in successive steps of 200 kilohertz to and including

107.9 megahertz.

2.3 FM broadcast station

A station employing frequency modulation in the FM broadcast band

and intended to be received by the general public.

2.4 Frequency Modulation

A system of modulation where the instantaneous frequency varies in

proportion to the instantaneous amplitude of the modulating signal, and the

instantaneous radio frequency is independent of the frequency of the

modulating signal.

2.5 Center frequency

The carrier frequency allocated by the Authority.

2.6 Frequency Swing

The instantaneous departure of the frequency of the emitted wave

from the center frequency resulting from modulation.

2.7 Antenna height above average terrain (HAAT) means

a. The height of the radiation center of the antenna above the

terrain 3 to 16 kilometres from the antenna. (Generally, a different

antenna height will be determined for each radial direction from the

antenna. The average of these various heights is considered as the

antenna height above average terrain).

b. Where circular or elliptical polarization is employed the

antenna height above average terrain shall be based upon the height

of the radiation center of the antenna which transmits the horizontal

components of radiation.

2.8 Antenna field gain

The ratio of the effective free space field intensity produced at 1.6

kilometres in the horizontal plane expressed in millivolts per meter for one

(1) kilowatt antenna input power, to 137.6 millivolts per meter.

2.9 Antenna power gain

The square of the ratio of the root- mean-square free space field

strength produced at 1.6 kilometers in the horizontal plane, in millivolts per

meter for one (1) kilowatt antenna power, to 137.6 millivolts per meter. This

ratio should be expressed in decibels (dB). (If specified for a particular

direction, antenna power gain is based on the field strength in that direction

only).

2.10 Effective radiated power (ERP)

The product of the transmitter power (transmitter output power less

transmission line loss) multiplied by (a) the antenna power gain or (b) the

antenna field gain squared. Where circular or elliptical polarization is

employed, the term “effective radiated power” is applied separately to the

horizontal and vertical components of radiation.

2.11 Field intensity

“Field intensity” as used in these standards shall mean the electric

field intensity in the horizontal direction.

2.12 Free space field intensity

The field intensity that would exist at a point, in the absence of waves

reflected from the earth or other reflecting objects.

2.13 Service area

As applied to FM broadcasting, means the service resulting from an

assigned effective radiated power and antenna height above average terrain.

2.14 Radio-frequency (R .F.) Protection Ratio

The value of the radio-frequency wanted-to-interfering signal ratio that

enables, under specified conditions, the radio-frequency protection ratio to

be obtained at the output of a receiver.

2.15 Percentage modulation

The ratio of the actual frequency swing to the frequency swing defined

as 100 percent modulation, expressed in percentage. For FM broadcasting

stations, a frequency swing of 75 kilohertz is defined as 100 percent

modulation.

2.16 Multiplexing

In its simplest sense, multiplexing implies that two or more

independent sources of information are combined for carriage over a single

medium, namely, the radio frequency “carrier”, and then are separated at

the receiving end. In stereophonic broadcasting, for example, program

information consisting of left and right audio signals are multiplexed onto an

FM carrier for transmission to receivers which subsequently recover the

original audio signals.

2.17 FM Stereophonic Broadcast

The transmission of a stereophonic program by a single FM broadcast

station utilizing the main channel and a stereophonic sub-channel.

2.18 Channel

A transmission path. The distinction between the concept of a

“Channel” and a “signal” are not always clear. The usage herein

distinguishes between transmission channels; e.g., main channel,

stereophonic subchannel, etc., and left and right audio “signals”.

2.19 Composite Baseband Signal

A signal which is the sum of all signals which frequency-modulates the

main carrier. The signal can be represented by a formula which includes all

signal components: the main channel signal, the modulated stereophonic

subcarrier, the pilot subcarrier and the SCA subcarrier(s).

2.20 FM Baseband

The frequency band from 0 Hertz (Hz) to a specified upper frequency

which contains the composite baseband signal.

2.21 Main Channel

The band of frequencies from 50 (or less) Hz to 15,000 Hz on the FM

baseband which contains the main channel signal.

2.22 Main Channel Signal

A specified combination of the mono phonic or left and right audio

signals which frequency-modulates the main carrier.

2.23 Stereophonic Sound

The audio information carried by plurality of channels arranged to

afford the listener a sense of the spatial distribution of sound sources.

Stereophonic sound includes, but is not limited to, biphonic (two channel),

triphonic (three channel) and quadrophonic (four channel) services.

2.24 Stereophonic Sound Subcarrier

A subcarrier within the FM broadcast baseband used for transmitting

signals for stereophonic sound reception of the main broadcast program

service.

2.25 Stereophonic Sound Subchannel

The band of frequencies from 23 2.34 Cross-talk kHz to 99 KHz

containing sound subcarriers and their associated sidebands.

2.26 Subchannel

A transmission path specified by a subchannel signal occupying a

specified band of frequencies.

2.27 Subchannel Signal

Subcarrier(s) and associated sideband(s) which frequency-modulate

the main carrier. It is synonymous with “subcarrier”, as in the stereophonic

subcarrier or SCA subcarrier.

2.28 Pilot sub-carrier

A pilot sub-carrier serving as a control signal for use in the reception of

FM stereophonic broadcast.

2.29 Left (or Right) signal

The electrical output of a microphone of a combination of microphones

placed so as to convey the intensity, time, and location of sounds originating

predominantly to the listener’s left (or right) of the center of the performing

area.

2.30 Left (or Right) stereophonic channel

The left (or right) signal as electrically reproduced in the reception of

an FM stereophonic broadcast.

2.31 Stereophonic separation

The ratio of the electrical signal caused in the right (or left)

stereophonic channel, to the electrical signal caused in the left (or right)

stereophonic channel, by the transmission of only a right (or left) signal.

2.32 Frequency Deviation

The peak difference between the instantaneous frequency of the

modulated wave and the carrier frequency.

2.33 Injection Ratio

The ratio of the frequency swing of the FM carrier by a subchannel

signal to the frequency swing defined as 100 percent modulation, expressed

in percentage. The total injection of more than one subchannel signal is the

arithmetic sum of each subchannel.

2.34 Cross-talk

An undesired signal occuring in one channel caused by an electrical

signal in another channel.

2.35 Linear Crosstalk

A form of “crosstalk” in which the undesired signal(s) is created by

phase or gain inequalities in another channel or channels. Such crosstalk

may be due to causes external to the stereophonic generator consequently it

is sometimes referred to as “system crosstalk”.

2.36 Nonlinear Crosstalk

A form of crosstalk in which the undesired signal(s) is created by

harmonic distortion or inter-modulation of electrical signal(s) in another

channel or channels. Such crosstalk may be due to distribution within the

stereophonic generator or FM transmitter consequently it is sometimes

referred to as “transmitter crosstalk”.

2.37 SCA

The term SCA is an acronym for a “Subsidiary Communications

Authorization.”

2.38 Index of cooperation

As applied to facsimile broadcasting, is the product of the number of

lines per inch, the available length in inches, and the reciprocal of the line-

use ratio (e.g. 105 x 8.2 x 8/7 = 984).

2.39 Line-use ratio

As applied to facsimile broadcasting is the ratio of the available line to

the total length of scanning line.

2.40 Available line

Means the portion of the total length of scanning line that can be used

specifically for picture signals.

2.41 Rectilinear scanning

The process of scanning an area in a predetermined sequence of

narrow straight parallel strips.

2.42 Optical density

The logarithm (to the base 10) of the ratio of incident to transmitted or

reflected light.

Table 1. ALLOCATION OFFREQUENCIES FOR FM BROADCAST

STATIONS

Channel-designation of FM broadcast frequencies are shown in the table

below.

Channel No.

Frequency

(MHZ) Channel No.

Frequency

(MHZ)

201 88.1 251 98.1

202 88.3 252 98.3

203 88.5 253 98.5

204 88.7 254 98.7

205 88.9 255 98.9

206 89.1 256 99.1

207 89.3 257 99.3

208 89.5 258 99.5

209 89.7 259 99.7

210 89.9 260 99.9

211 90.1 261 100.1

212 90.3 262 100.3

213 90.5 263 100.5

214 90.7 264 100.7

215 90.9 265 100.9

216 91.1 266 101.1

217 91.3 267 101.3

218 91.5 268 101.5

219 91.7 269 101.7

220 91.9 270 101.9

221 92.1 271 102.1

222 92.3 272 102.3

223 92.5 273 102.5

224 92.7 274 102.7

225 92.9 275 102.9

226 93.1 276 103.1

227 93.3 277 103.3

228 93.5 278 103.5

229 93.7 279 103.7

230 93.9 280 103.9

231 94.1 281 104.1

232 94.3 282 104.3

233 94.5 283 104.5

234 94.7 284 104.7

235 94.9 285 104.9

236 95.1 286 105.1

237 95.3 287 105.3

238 95.5 288 105.5

239 95.7 289 105.7

240 95.9 290 105.9

241 96.1 291 106.1

242 96.3 292 106.3

243 96.5 293 106.5

244 96.7 294 106.7

245 96.9 295 106.9

246 97.1 296 107.1

247 97.3 297 107.3

248 97.5 298 107.5

249 97.7 299 107.7

250 97.9 300 107.9

2.43 Experimental Period

The period between 12 midnight to 5:00 a.m. local standard time

(1600-2100 (MT). This period may be used for experimental purposes in

testing and maintaining apparatus by the licensee of any FM broadcast

station on its assigned frequency and not in excess of its authorized power,

provided no interference is caused to other stations maintaining a regular

operating schedule within such period.

2.44 Operating Power

This is the product of the plate voltage (Ep) and the plate current(Ip) of

the last radio stage and efficiency factor, F, expressed: Operating Power =

Ep x Ip x F. This is the indirect method of determining the operating power of

each FM station for the purpose of specifying the operating power range of

FM transmitters. The factor F shall be established by the transmitter

manufacturer for each type of transmitter and shall be specified in the

instruction book (s) supplied to each customer with each transmitter.

2.45 Last radio stage

The oscillator or radio-frequency- power amplifier stage which supplies

power to the antenna.

2.46 Qualified technician

As applied to FM broadcasting means a person who is a holder of any

class of Radio Telephone Operator’s License or its equivalent except those

mentioned in Section 7.4 as issued by the existing regulatory body.

3. ALLOCATION OF FREQUENCIES FOR FM BROADCAST STATIONS

(See Table 1.)

4. CLASSES OF FM BROADCAST STATIONS

4.1 Class-A Stations

A Class-A station shall have an authorized transmitter power not

exceeding 25 kilowatts and an Effective Radiated Power (ERP) not

exceeding 125 kilowatts and limited in antenna height of 2,000 feet

above average terrain. The minimum transmitter power shall be 10KW.

Class A station shall only be allowed in Metro-Manila and Metro-Cebu.

4.2 Class-B station

A Class-B station shall have an authorized transmitter power not

exceeding 10 kilowatts and an Effective Radiated Power not exceeding

30 kilowatts, and limited in antenna height of 500 feet above average

terrain. The minimum transmitter power shall be I KW.

4.3 Class-C stations

A Class-C station is a non-commercial, community station having

an authorized radiated power not exceeding 1,000 watts (ERP).

4.4 Class—D Station

A class-D station shall have an authorized transmitter power not

exceeding 10 watts.

Educational stations shall be allowed to operate with Class- D

transmitter power.

4.5 All classes of FM stations shall be protected to the I mV/m

contour or 60 dBu contour.

4.6 Table of Assignments

The frequency assignments for the cities of Manila, Laoag, Legaspi, Cebu,

Davao, and Zamboanga shall be selected from table 2.

Table 2

Channel

Frequency

(MHz)

202 88.3

206 89.1

210 89.9

214 90.7

218 91.5

222 92.3

226 93.1

230 93.9

234 94.7

238 95.5

242 96.3

246 97.1

250 97.9

254 98.7

258 99.5

262 100.3

266 101.1

270 101.9

274 102.7

278 103.5

282 104.3

286 105.1

290 105.9

294 106.7

298 107.5

4.7 Radio Frequency Protection Ratios

4.7.1 The following radio frequency protection ratios (Table 3) provide

for the minimum physical separation between stations and protection

of stations from interference.

Table 3

RADIO-FREQUENCY PROTECTION RATIOS (dB)

(based on the horizontal component of radiation)

Frequency Spacing (KHz) R.F. Signal Ratio

0 60dBu : 15dBu

200 60dBu : 53dBu

400 60dBu : 80dBu

4.7.2 Intermediate frequency amplifiers of most FM broadcast

receivers are designed to operate on 10.7 mega Hertz. For this

reason the assignment of two stations in the same area, one with

a frequency 10.6 or 10.8 mega-Hertz removed from that of the

other, should be avoided if possible.

4.7.3 FM Broadcast Stations shall not be authorized to operate in

the same city or in nearby cities with a frequency separation of

less than 800 kHz.

4.7.4 The nature and extent of the protection from interference

accorded the FM broadcast stations is limited solely to that which

results from the application of the radio frequency protection

ratio.

4.7.5 A commercial broadcast entity may establish only one

primary FM radio station within the geographical boundaries of

any province.

5. Technical Requirements

5.1 Safety Requirements

5.1.1 Conformity with Electrical Wiring Rules

All equipment using electrical power shall conform with the

provisions of the Philippine Electrical Code and the Philippines

Electronics Code so as to ensure the safety of property,

equipment, personnel and the public in general.

5.1.2 All component parts shall be in accordance with

generally accepted standards or those of the International

Standards.

5.2 Transmitting Facilities

5.2.1 Location and Layout

a. Any site particularly suitable for FM broadcasting in an

area, in the absence of other comparable sites, may be shared

by and be made available to as many applicants as possible.

b. The transmitting site should be selected consistent with

the purpose of the station, i.e., whether it is intended to serve a

small city, a metropolitan area, or a large region. The location

should be so chosen that line-of-sight can be obtained from the

antenna over the principal city or cities to be served.

5.2.2 Antenna System

a. It shall be standard to employ horizontal polarization.

However, circular or elliptical polarization of the clockwise or

counter-clockwise rotation may be employed, if so desired.

b. The antenna must be constructed such that it is clear of

surrounding buildings or objects that would cause shadow

problems.

c. In the event a common tower is used by two or more

licensees for antenna and/or antenna supporting purposes, the

licensee who owns the tower shall assume full responsibility for

the maintenance of the tower structure, its painting and lighting

requirements. In case of shared ownership, only one licensee

shall assume such responsibility.

For the protection of air navigation, the antenna and supporting structure

shall be painted and illuminated in accordance with ATO regulations.

5.2.3 Transmitter and Associated Equipment

a. Electrical Performance Standards

The general design of the FM broadcast transmitting

system (from input terminal of microphone preamplifier,

through audio facilities at the studio through lines or other

circuits between studio and transmitter, through audio

facilities at the transmitter, and through the transmitter,

but excluding equalizers for the correction of deficiencies

in microphone response) shall be in accordance with the

following principles and specifications:

1) The transmitter shall operate satisfactorily in

the operating power range with a frequency swing of

±75 kilohertz, which is defined as 100 percent

modulation.

2) The transmitting system shall be capable of

transmitting a band of frequencies from 50 to 15,000

Hertz. Pre-emphasis shall be employed in accordance

with the impedance-frequency characteristics of a

series inductance-resistance network having a time

constant of 75 microseconds (See Annex Fig. 2). The

deviation of the system response from the standard

pre emphasis curve shall lie between two limits. The

upper of these limits shall be uniform: (no deviation)

from 50 to 15,000 Hertz. The lower limit shall be

uniform from 100 to 7,500 Hertz and 3 dB below the

upper limit; from 50 to 100 Hertz and the lower limit

shall fall from the 3 dB limit at a uniform rate of 1dB

per octave (4dB at 50 Hertz); from 7,500 to15,000

Hertz, the lower limit shall fall from the 3 dB limit at

a uniform rate of 2 dB per octave (5dB at 15,000

Hertz).

3) At any modulating frequency between 50

and 15,000 Hertz and at modulation percentages of

25, 50 and 100 percent, the combined audio

frequency harmonics measured in the output of the

system shall not exceed the root-mean- square

values given in the following table:

Modulator Frequency Distortion

50 to 100 Hz 3.50%

100 to 7500 Hz 2.50%

7,500 to 15,000 Hz 3.00%

4) Measurements shall be made employing a

75- microsecond de-emphasis in the measuring

equipment and 75-microsecond pre-emphasis in the

transmitting equipment, and without compression, if

a compression amplifier is employed. Harmonics

shall be included to 30,000 Hertz.

5) It is recommended that none of the three

main divisions of the system (transmitter, studio to

transmitter circuit, and audio facilities) contribute

over one-half of these percentages since at some

frequencies the total distortion may become the

arithmetic sum of the distortion of the divisions.

6) The transmitting system output noise level

(frequency modulation) in the band of 50 to 15,000

Hertz shall be at least 60 decibels below 100 percent

modulation (frequency swing of ±75 kilohertz).

The measurement shall be made using 400

Hertz modulation as a reference. The noise

measuring equipment shall be provided with a

standard 75- microsecond de-emphasis; the ballistic

characteristic of the instrument shall be similar to

those of the standard VU meter.

7) The transmitting system output noise level

(amplitude modulation) in the band of 50 to 16,000

Hertz shall be at least 50 decibels below the level

representing 100 percent amplitude modulation. The

noise-measuring equipment shall be provided with a

standard 75 microsecond de-emphasis; and the

ballistic characteristics of the instrument shall be

similar to those of the standard VU meter.

8) Automatic means shall be provided in the

transmitter to maintain the assigned center

frequency within the allowable tolerance of (± 2000

Hertz).

9) The transmitter shall be equipped with

suitable indicating instruments for the determination

of operating power and with other instruments as are

necessary for proper adjustments, operation, and

maintenance of the equipment.

10) Adequate provision shall be made for

varying the transmitter output power to compensate

for excessive variations in line voltage or for other

factors affecting the output power.

11) Allowances shall be provided in all

component parts to avoid overheating at the rated

maximum output power.

12) If a limiting or compression amplifier is

employed, precaution should be maintained in its

connection in the circuit due to the use of pre-

emphasis in the transmitting system.

13) Any emission appearing on a frequency

removed from the carrier by between 120 kHz, and

240 kHz, inclusive, shall be attenuated at least 25

decibels below the level of the un-modulated carrier.

14) Any emission appearing on a frequency

removed from the carrier by more than 240 kHz and

up to and including 600 kHz shall be attenuated at

least 35 db below the level of the unmodulated

carrier.

15) Any emission appearing on a frequency

removed from the carrier by more than 600 kHz shall

be attenuated at least 43+ 10 Log10 (Power, in

watts) decibels below the level of the unmodulated

carrier, or 80 decibels, whichever is the lesser

attenuation.

b. Construction

In general, the transmitter shall be constructed either on

racks and panels or in totally en-closed frames protected as

required by the Philippine Electronics Code and the Philippine

Electrical Code and those set forth below:

The transmitter shall comply with the following:

1) Enclosure. The transmitter shall be enclosed in a metal

frame or grille, or separated from the operating space by a

barrier or other equivalent means. All metallic parts shall be

connected to ground.

2) Grounding of controls. All external metallic handles and

controls accessible to the operating personnel shall be effectively

grounded. No circuit in excess of 100 volts shall have any part

exposed to direct contact. A complete dead front type of

switchboard is preferred.

3) Interlocks on doors.

a) All access doors shall be provided with interlocks

which will disconnect all voltages in excess of 350 volts

when any access door is opened.

b) Means shall be provided for making all tuning

adjustment, requiring voltages in excess of 350 volts to be

applied to the circuit, from the front of the panels with all

access doors closed.

c) Proper bleeder resistors or other automatic means

shall be installed across all capacitor banks to lower any

voltage which may remain accessible with access door

open to less than 350 volts within 2 seconds after the

access door is opened.

d) All plate supply and other high voltage equipment,

including transformers, filters, rectifiers and motor

generators, shall be protected so as to prevent injury to

operating personnel.

e) Power equipment and control panels of the

transmitter shall meet the above requirements exposed

220 volts AC switching equipment on the front of the

power control panels is not recommended

c. Wiring and Shielding

1) The transmitter panels or units shall be wired in

accordance with standard switchboard practice, either with

insulated leads properly cabled and supported or with rigid bus

bar properly insulated and protected.

2) Wiring between units of the transmitter, with the

exception of circuits carrying radio-frequency energy, shall be

installed in conduits or approved fiber or metal raceways e.

Indicating instruments for protection from mechanical injury.

3) Circuits carrying radio- frequency energy between units

shall be coaxial, or two-wire balanced lines, or properly shielded.

4) All stages or units shall be adequately shielded and

filtered to prevent interaction and radiation.

d. Metering equipment

1) All instruments having more than 1,000 volts potential

to ground on the movements shall be protected by a cage or

cover. (some instruments are designed by the manufacturer to

operate safely with voltages in excess of 1,000 volts on the

movement).

2) In case the plate voltmeter is located on the low

potential side of the multiplier resistor with the potential of the

high potential terminal to the instrument at or less than 1,000

volts above ground, no protective case is required. However, it is

good practice to protect voltmeters subject to more than 5,000

volts with suitable over-voltage protective device(s) across the

instrument terminal in case the winding opens.

3) Transmission line meters and any other radiofrequency

instrument which may be necessary for the operator to read,

shall be so installed as to be easily and accurately read without

the operator having to risk contact with circuits carrying high

potential radio-frequency energy.

e. Indicating Instruments

1) Each FM broadcast station shall be equipped with

indicating instruments for measuring the direct plate voltage and

current of the last radio stage and the transmission line radio

frequency power.

2) In the event that the plate voltmeter or plate ammeter

in the last radio stage is defective, the operating power shall be

maintained by means of the radio-frequency power meter.

f. Installation

1) The installation shall be made in suitable quarters.

2) Since an operator must be on duty at the transmitter

control during operation, suitable facilities for his welfare and

comfort shall be provided at the control point.

g. Other technical data.

An accurate circuit diagram, as furnished by the

manufacturer of the equipment, shall be retained at the

transmitter location.

5.2.4 Monitoring Equipment

a. Frequency Monitor

1) The licensee of each station shall have in operation,

either at the transmitter or at the place where the transmitter is

controlled, a frequency monitor of a type approved by the

Commission which shall be independent of the frequency control

of the transmitter.

2) In the event that the frequency monitor becomes

defective, the station may be operated without such equipment

pending its repair or replacement for a period not in excess of 60

days without further authority of the Commission: Provided,

That:

a) Appropriate entries shall be made in the operation

log of the station to show the date and time the monitor

was removed from and restored to service.

b) The Engineer in Charge of the Region in which the

station is located shall be notified both immediately after

the monitor is found to be defective and immediately after

the repaired or replacement monitor has been installed

and is functioning properly.

c) The frequency of the station shall be compared

with an external frequency source of known accuracy at

sufficiently frequent intervals to insure that the frequency

is maintained within the tolerance. An entry shall be made

in the station log as to the method used and the results

thereof.

3) If conditions beyond the control of the licensee or

permittee prevent the restoration of the monitor to service within

the above allowed period, informal request may be filed with the

Engineer in Charge of the Region in which the station is located

for such additional time as may be required to complete re pairs

of the defective instrument or equipment.

Modulation Monitor

The modulation monitor (deviation monitor) Is an optional requirement

for an FM station. The FM station may refer to the monitoring section of the

Authority, to the Standards Authority of the KP or to other FM stations for

modulation measurements.

5.3. Stereophonic Transmission Standards

a. The modulating signal for the main channel shall consist of the sum

of the left and right signals.

b. A pilot subcarrier at 19,000 Hertz plus or minus 2 Hz, shall be

transmitted that shall frequency-modulate the main carrier between

the limits of 8 and 10 percent.

c. The stereophonic subcarrier shall be the second harmonic of the

pilot subcarrier and shall cross the time axis with a positive slope

simultaneously with each crossing of time axis by the pilot subcarrier.

d. Amplitude modulation of the stereophonic subcarrier shall be used.

e. The stereophonic subcarrier shall be suppressed to a level less than

one percent modulation of the main carrier.

f. The stereophonic subcarrier shall be capable of accepting audio

frequencies from 50 to 15,000 Hz.

g. The modulating signal for the stereophonic subcarrier shall be equal

to the difference of the left and right signals.

h. The pre-emphasis characteristics of the stereophonic subchannel

shall be identical with those of the main channel with respect to phase

and amplitude at all frequencies.

i. The sum of the side bands resulting from amplitude modulation of

the stereophonic subcarrier shall not cause a peak deviation of the

main carrier in excess of 45 percent of total modulation (excluding SCA

subcarriers) when only a left (or right) signal exists; simultaneously in

the main channel, the deviation when only a left (or right) signal exists

shall not exceed 45 percent of total modulation (excluding SCA

subcarriers).

j. The maximum modulation of the main carrier by all SCA subcarriers

shall be limited to 10 percent.

k. At the instant when only a positive left signal is applied, the main

channel modulation shall cause an upward deviation of the main

carrier frequency; and the stereophonic subcarrier and its sidebands

signal shall cross the time axis simultaneously and in the same

direction.

l. The ratio of peak main channel deviation to peak stereophonic

subchannel deviation, when only a steady state left (or right) signal

exists, shall be within plus or minus 3.5 percent of unity for all levels of

this signal and all frequencies from 50 to 15,000 Hertz.

m. The phase difference between the zero points of the main channel

signal and the stereophonic subcarrier sidebands envelope, when only

a steady state left (or right) signal exists, shall not exceed plus or

minus 3 degrees for audio modulating frequencies from 50 to 15,000

Hz.

Note: If the stereophonic separation between left and right

stereophonic channels is better than 29.7 decibels at audio modulating

frequencies between 50 to 15,000 Hz it will be assumed that (I) and

(m) of this section have been complied with.

n. Cross- talk into the main channel caused by a signal in the

stereophonic subchannel shall be attenuated at least 40 decibels

below 90 percent modulation.

o. Cross-talk into the stereophonic subchannel caused by a signal inthe

main channel shall be attenuated at least 40 decibels below 90 percent

modulation.

p. For required transmitter performance the maximum modulation to

be employed is 90 percent (excluding pilot subcarrier) rather than 100

percent.

q. For electrical performance standards of the transmitter and

associated equipment, 100 percent modulation is referred to include

the pilot subcarrier.

5.4 Subsidiary Communications Authorization (SCA)

5.4.1 Permissible uses of the SCA must fall within one or both of

the following categories:

a. Transmission of programs which are of a broadcast

nature, but which are of interest primarily to limited segments of

the public wishing to subscribe thereto. Illustrative services

include: background music, storecasting, detailed weather

forecasting; special time signals; and other material of a

broadcast nature expressly designed and intended for business,

professional, educational, religious, trade, labor, agricultural, or

other groups engaged in any lawful activity.

b. Transmission of signals which are directly related to the

operation of FM broadcast stations; for example: relaying of

broadcast material to other FM and standard AM broadcast

stations; remote cueing and order circuits; remote control

telemetering functions associated with authorized STL operation,

and similar uses.

5.4.2 An application for the SCA shall specify the particular

nature and purpose of the proposed use. If visual transmission of

program material is contemplated, the application shall include certain

technical information concerning the visual system, on which the

Authority shall rely in issuing an SCA. If any significant change is

subsequently made in the system, revised information shall be

submitted. The technical information to be submitted is as follows:

a. A full description of the visual transmission system.

b. A block diagram of the system, as installed at the station, with

all components, including filters, identified as to make and type.

Response curves of all composite filters shall be furnished.

5.4.3 SCA operations may be conducted without restriction as to time,

so long the main channel is programmed simultaneously.

5.4.4 Nature of the SCA

a. The SCA is of a subsidiary or secondary nature and shall not

exist apart from the FM license or permit. No transfer or assignment of

it shall be made separate from the FM broadcast license and failure to

transfer the SCA with the FM license renders the SCA void. Any

assignment or transfer of an SCA shall, if desired, be requested as part

of the main station’s transfer or assignment application. The licensee

or permittee must seek renewal of the SCA at the same time it applies

for its renewal of FM license or permit; failure to renew the latter

automatically terminates the SCA.

b. The grant or renewal of an FM license or permit shall not be

furthered or promoted by the proposed or past operation under an

SCA; the licensee must establish that his broadcast operation is in the

public interest wholly apart from the SCA activities.

5.4.5 Multiplex Operations Engineering Standards

a. Frequency modulation of SCA subcarriers shall be used.

b. The instantaneous frequency of SCA subcarriers shall at

all times be within the range 20 to 75 kHz; Provided, however,

that when the station is engaged in stereophonic broadcasting,

the instantaneous frequency of SCA subcarriers shall at all times

be within the range 53 to 75 kHz.

c. The arithmetic sum of the modulation of the main carrier

by SCA subcarriers shall not exceed 30 percent: Provided,

however, that when the station is engaged in stereophonic

broadcasting, the arithmetic sum of the modulation of the main

carrier by the SCA subcarriers shall not exceed 10 percent.

d. The total modulation of the main carrier, including SCA

subearriers, shall meet the requirements of 6.2.2.

e. Frequency modulation of the main carrier caused by the

SCA subcarrier operation shall, in the frequency range 90 to

15,000 Hz, be at least 60 dB below 100 percent modulation:

Provided, however, that when the station is engaged in

stereophonic broadcasting, frequency modulation of the main

carrier by the SCA subcarrier operation shall, in the frequency

range 50 to 53,000 Hz, beat least 60 dB below 100 percent

modulation.

f. The center frequency of each SCA subcarrier shall be

kept at all times within 500 hertz of the authorized frequency.

5.4.6 Facsimile engineering standards

The following standards apply to facsimile broadcasting under

SCA operations.

a. Rectilinear scanning shall be employed, with scanning

spot progressing from left to right and scanned lines progressing

from top to bottom of subject copy.

b. The standard index of cooperation shall be 984.

c. The number of scanning lines per minute shall be 360.

d. The line-use ratio shall be 7/8, or 315 degrees of the full

scanning cycle.

e. The 1/8 cycle or 45 degrees not included in the available

scanning line shall be divided into 3 equal parts, the first

15 degrees being used for transmission at approximately

white level, the second 15 degrees for transmission at

approximately black level, and the third 15 degrees for

transmission at approximately white level.

f. An interval of not more than 12 seconds shall be

available between two pages of subject copy, for the

transmission of a page-separation signal and/or other

services.

g. Amplitude or(frequency-shift) modulation of the

subcarrier shall be used.

h. Subcarrier modulation shall normally vary approximately

linearly with the optical density of the subject copy.

Negative modulation shall be used, i.e., for amplitude

modulation of subcarrier, maximum subcarrier amplitude

and maximum radio frequency swing on black; for

frequency modulation of subcarrier, highest instantaneous

frequency of subcarrier on black.

j. Subcarrier noise level shall be maintained at least 30 dB

below maximum (black) picture modulation level, at the

radio transmitter input.

k. The facsimile subcarrier transmission shall be conducted

in the frequency range between 22 and 28 KHz. Should

amplitude modulation of the subcarrier be employed the

subcarrier frequency shall be 25 Khz with sidebands

extending not more than 3 KHz in either direction from the

subcarrier frequency. Should frequency modulation of the

subcarrier be employed the total swing at the subcarrier

shall be within the range from 22 to 28 kHz, with 22 kHz

corresponding to white and 20 kHz corresponding to black

on the transmitted copy. In multiplex operation, the

modulation of the FM carrier by the modulated subcarrier

shall not exceed 5 percent. In simplex operation, the

modulation of the FM carrier by the modulated subcarrier

shall not exceed 30 percent.

I. During periods of multiplex facsimile transmission,

frequency modulation of the FM carrier caused by the aural

signals shall, in the frequency range from 20 to 30 kHz, be

at least 60dB below 100 percent modulation. Frequency

modulation of the FM carrier caused by the facsimile

signals shall, in the frequency range from 50 to 15,000

hertz, be at least 60 dB below 100 percent modulation.

5.5 Studio, Equipment & Allied Facilities

5.5.1 The studio being the recognized source of program materials and

other forms of intelligence of various kinds and content, must be properly

equipped to faithfully respond to these impressions and produce the same to

the highest degree possible, up to the turnover point which is the transmitter

input.

5.5.2 Studio Location and Layout

a. Each studio shall be associated with a control room from which

the operational area of the studio may be viewed with. However, when

the studio arid control rooms are integrated into one, an announcer

shall perform simple front panel type functions like level adjustments

and switchings during his/her board hours.

b. Studios and control rooms shall be so constructed that they

are adequately insulated from sources of extraneous noise and

vibration, and the acoustic treatment of such studios and control

rooms shall be in accordance with good engineering practice.

5.6 Emergency Equipment & Facilities

5.6.1 Alternate Main Transmitter

a. The regular and the optional main transmitter shall be

co-located in a single place.

b. The external effects from both regular and alternate

main transmitters shall substantially be the same as to

frequency and stability.

5.6.2 Auxiliary Transmitter

a. An auxiliary transmitter may be provided and may be

installed in the same location as the regular main transmitter or

in another location.

b. Its operating power shall not be less than 10% or never

greater than the authorized operating power of the main

transmitter.

c. A licensed operator shall be in control whenever an

auxiliary transmitter is placed in operation.

d. When installed in a location different from that of the

regular main transmitter, a type- approved modulation monitor

and a frequency monitor are required to be installed with it.

5.7 Spare Component Parts

In order to cut down-times during scheduled on-air operations, a

reasonable variety and number of spare components appropriate to

the equipment installed at the site shall be kept on hand.

6. BROADCAST AUXILIARY SERVICES

6.1 Broadcast auxiliary services fall under these three

categories:

a. Studio-to-Transmitter Link (STL)

b. Remote Pick-up Broadcast Station

c. Communications, Coordination, and Control Link.

6.2 The frequency bands and transmitter power output

authorized for the above services are as follows:

a. Studio-To-Transmitter Link

Band A 300-315 MHz

Band B 734-752 MHz

Band C 942-952 MHz

The maximum power allowable for STL Bands A, B, and C shall 15 watts.

b. Remote Pick-up Broadcast Station

Band A 315-325 MHz

Band B 450-451 MHz

Band C 455-456 MHz

The maximum power allowable for Remote Pick-up Bands A, C shall be 35

watts.

c. Communications, Coordination and Control Link

Band A 4-12 MHz (non-exclusive)

Band B 25.67-26.1 MHz

Band C 162.235-162.615 MHz

166.250 and 170.150 MHz

Band D 432.5-433 MHz

437.5-438 MHz

The maximum power allowable for Communications, Coordination and

Control Link shall be:

Band A - 100 watts (SBS)

Band B - 160 watts (ERP)

Band C - 160 watts (ERP)

Band D - 200 watts (for repeater)

6.3 The National Telecommunications Commission shall

authorize the employment of any one or all of these broadcast transmission

services to a station depending on the necessity and availability of

frequencies for the purpose. Any AM or FM station authorized to operate is

entitled to use any broadcast transmission services relevant to the efficient

operation of the station where the use of physical lines or cables is not

feasible.

7. OPERATING REQUIREMENTS

7.1 Hours of Operation

7.1.1 Minimum Operating Schedule - The licensee of each FM

station shall maintain a minimum operating schedule of two thirds of

the total hours that it is authorized to operate, except in emergencies

when, due to causes beyond the control of the licensee, it becomes

impossible to continue operating. The station may cease operations for

a period not exceeding 10 days.

7.1.2 Broadcast outside of the authorized regular operating

schedule (as before regular sign-on schedules and/or beyond the

regular sign-off schedules) may be aired without prior authorization

from the appropriate regulatory body provided the program falls under

an emergency category or of very important relevance to the station’s

existence. The information shall be entered in the program and

operating logs at the time the broadcast was aired.

7.1.3 If a permanent discontinuance of operations is being

contemplated, then the licensee shall notify the appropriate regulatory

body in writing, at least two (2) days before the actual discontinuance

is affected.

7.2 Other Operating Requirements

7.2.1 The center frequency of each FM broadcast station shall be

maintained within 2000 Hertz of the assigned center frequency.

7.2.2 The percentage of modulation shall be maintained as high

as possible consistent with good quality of transmission and good

broadcast practice and in no case less than 85 percent nor more than

100 percent on peaks of frequent recurrence during any selection

which normally is transmitted at the highest level of the program

under consideration

7.2.3 The operating power of each Station shall be maintained as

near as practicable to the authorized operating power, and shall not

exceed the limits of 5 percent above and 10 percent below the

authorized power, except that in an emergency when it becomes

impossible to operate within the authorized power, the station may be

operated with reduced power.

The operating power of each station shall be determined by the

indirect method. This is the product of the plate voltage (Ep) and the

plate current (Ip) of the last radio stage, and an efficiency factor, F;

that is, Operating Power = Ep x Ip x F

The efficiency factor, F, shall be established by the transmitter

manufacturer for each type of transmitter.

7.2.4 The station equipment shall be so operated, tuned and

adjusted that emissions outside of the authorized channel do not cause

harmful interference to the reception of other radio stations. FM

broadcast stations shall maintain the bandwidth occupied by their

emissions in accordance with the specifications set forth in this

section. Stations shall achieve the highest degree of compliance

practicable with their existing equipment. In either case, should

harmful interference to the reception of other radio stations occur, the

licensee may be required to take such further steps as may be

necessary to eliminate the interference.

7.2.5 If a limiting or compression amplifier is employed, care

should be maintained in its use due to pre emphasis in the transmitting

system.

7.3 Posting of Station and Operator Licenses

7.3.1 The station license and other instrument(s) of station

authorization shall be posted in a conspicuous place and in such a

manner that all terms are visible, at the place the licensee considers to

be the principal control point of the transmitter. At all other control

points listed on the station authorization, a photocopy of the station

license and other instrument(s) of station authorization shall be

posted.

7.4 Operators Requirements

7.4.1 Radio Operators holding a valid radiotelephone first class

operator’s license, except as provided for in paragraph 7.4.2 of this

section, shall be in actual charge of the transmitting apparatus and

shall be on duty either at the transmitter location or remote control

point.

7.4.2 A station which is authorized with a power of 10 kilowatts

or less may be operated by persons holding commercial radio

operator’s license of any class, except those with an aircraft

radiotelephone operator authorization or a temporary limited

radiotelephone operator class license, when the equipment is so

designed that the stability of the frequency is maintained by the

transmitter itself within the limits of tolerance specified, and none on

the operations , except those specified in sub-paragraphs (a) through

(d) or this paragraph, necessary to be performed during the course of

normal operation, may cause off- frequency operation or result in any

unauthorized radiation. Adjustments of the transmitting equipment by

such operators, except when under the immediate supervision of a

radio-telephone first class operator, shall be limited to the following:

a. Those necessary to commence or terminate transmitter

emissions as a routine matter.

b. Those external adjustments that may be required as a

result of variations of primary power supply.

c. Those external adjustments which may be necessary to

insure modulation within the limits required.

d. Those adjustments necessary to effect any change in

operating power which may be required by the station’s

instrument(s) of authorization. Should the transmitting apparatus

be observed to be operating in a manner inconsistent with the

station’s instrument of authorization and none of the above

adjustments are effective in bringing it into proper operation, a

person holding other than a radio telephone first class operator’s

license and not acting under the immediate supervision of a

radio-telephone first class operator, shall be required to

terminate the station’s emissions.

7.4.3 A station shall employ at least one full-time first class

radiotelephone operator whose primary duty shall be to effect and

ensure the proper functioning of the transmitting equipment.

7.5 Log Requirement

The licensee or permittee of each FM broadcast station shall

maintain separate program and operating logs and shall require

entries to be made as follows:

7.5.1 In the program log

a. An entry of the time each station identification

announcement (call letters, frequency and location) is made.

b. An entry briefly describing each program broadcast such

as “music”, “drama’’, “speech” ,etc. together with the name at

the beginning and ending of the complete program. If a

mechanical record is used, the entry shall show the exact nature

thereof, such as “record”, “transcription”, etc. and the time it is

announced as a mechanical record. If a speech i made by a

political candidate, the name and political affiliation of such a

speaker shall be entered.

c. An entry showing that each sponsored program

broadcast has been announced as sponsored, paid for, or

furnished by the sponsor.

d. An entry showing, each program of network origin, the

name of the network originating the program.

7.5.2 In the Operating log

a. An entry of the time the station begins to supply power

to the antenna, and the time it stops.

b. An entry of the time the program begins and ends.

c. An entry of each interruption to the carrier wave, its

cause, and duration; or an interruption of program transmission.

d. An entry of the following every 30 minutes:

1) Operating constants of the last radio frequency

stage (total plate current and plate voltage)

2) Any other entry required by the Instrument of

Authorization.

7.6.3 If a maintenance log is kept aside from the

operating log, the following entries are recommended:

a. An entry of the time and result of the test of

auxiliary transmitter.

b. A notation of all frequency checks and

measurements made independently of the frequency

monitor and of the correlation of these measurements with

frequency monitor indications.

c. A notation of the calibration check of automation

recording devices. An entry of the data and time of

removal from the restoration to service of any of the

following equipment in the event it becomes defective:

1) Final R.F. stage plate voltmeter readings.

2) Final R.F. stage plate voltmeter readings.

3) Transmission line radio frequency voltage current,

or power meter readings.

4) The entries required concerning quarterly

inspections of the condition of the tower lights and

associated control equipment and an entry when

towers are cleaned and! or repainted.

5) Entries which describe fully any experimental

operation of transmitter.

6) Any other entries required by the current

Instrument of Authorization of the station and the

provisions of this subpart.

7.5.4 A log must be kept of all operations during the

experimental period. If the entries required above are not applicable

thereto then the entries shall be made so as to fully describe the

operation.

7.5.5 Logs of FM broadcast stations shall be retained by the

licensee or permittee for a period of two (2) years: Provided, however,

that logs involving communications incident to a disaster or which

include communications incident to or involved in an investigation by

the appropriate regulatory body and concerning which the licensee or

permittee has been notified, shall be retained by the licensee or

permittee until he is specifically authorized in writing by the

appropriate regulatory body to destroy them: Provided further, that

logs incident to or involved in any claim or complaints of the licensee

or permittee has notice, shall be retained by the licensee or permittee

until such claim or complaint has been fully satisfied or until the same

has been barred by the statute limiting the time for the filing of suits

upon such claims.

7.5.6 Each log shall be kept by the person or persons competent

to do so, having actual knowledge of the facts required, who shall sign

the log when starting duty and again when going off duty. The logs

shall be made available upon request by an authorized

representative(s) of the appropriate regulatory body during reasonable

hours of the day.

7.5.7 A log shall be kept in orderly manner in suitable form, and

in such detail that the data required for the particular class of station

concerned are readily available. Key letters or abbreviations may be

used if proper meaning or explanation is contained elsewhere in the

log.

7.5.8 No log or portions thereof shall be erased, obligated, or will

fully destroyed within the period of retention provided by the rules.

Any necessary correction may be made only by the person originating

the entry who shall strike out the erroneous portion, initial the

correction made, and indicate the date of correction. Rough log(s) may

be transcribed into condensed form but in such cases the original

rough or memoranda and all portion(s) thereof shall be preserved and

made part of the complete log.

7.6 Operation under Subsidiary Communications

Authorizations

7.6.1 Operations conducted under a Subsidiary Communications

Authorization (SCA) shall conform to the uses and purposes authorized

by the Authority in granting the SCA application. Prior permission to

engage in any new or additional activity must be obtained from the

Authority pursuant to application therefore.

7.6.2 Super audible and sub audible tones and pulses may, when

authorized by the Authority, be employed by SCA holders to activate

and deactivate subscribers’ multiplex receivers.

The use of these or any other control techniques to delete main

channel material is specifically forbidden.

7.6.3 In all arrangements entered into with outside parties

affecting SCA - operation, the licensee or permittee must retain control

over all material transmitted over the station’s facilities, with the right

to reject any material which it deems inappropriate or undesirable.

Subchannel leasing agreement shall be reduced to writing, kept at the

station, and made available for inspection upon request.

7.6.4 The logging announcements and other requirements

imposed on logs and station identification are not applicable to

material transmitted on authorized subcarrier frequencies.

7.6.5 To the extent that SCA circuits are used for transmission of

program material, each licensee or permittee shall maintain a daily

program log in which a general description of the material transmitted

shall be entered once during each broadcast day; Provided however,

that in the event of a change in the general description of the material

transmitted, an entry shall be made in the SCA program log indicating

the time of each such change and a description thereof.

7.6.6 Each licensee or permittee shall maintain a daily operating

log of SCA operation in which the following entries shall be made

(excluding subcarrier interruptions of five minutes or less):

a. Time subcarrier generator is turned on.

b. Tine modulation is applied to subcarrier.

c. Time modulation is removed from subcarrier.

d. Time subcarrier generator is turned off.

7.6.7 The frequency of each SCA subcarrier shall be measured as

often as necessary to ensure that it is kept at all times within 500 Hz of

the authorized frequency. However, in any event, the measure shall be

made at least once each calendar month with not more than 40 days

expiring between successive measurements.

7.6.8 Program and operating logs for SCA operation may be kept

on special columns provided on the station’s regular program and

operating log sheets.

7.6.9 Technical standards governing the SCA operation shall be

observed by all FM broadcast stations engaging in such operation.

7.7 Operation During Emergency

When necessary to the safety of life and property and in response to

dangerous conditions of a general nature, FM broadcast stations may, at the

discretion of the licensee and without further Commission authority, transmit

emergency weather warnings and other emergency information.

Examples of emergency situations which may warrant either an

immediate or delayed response by the licensee are:

Tornadoes, typhoons, floods, tidal waves, earthquakes, extra-heavy

rains, widespread fires, discharge of toxic gases, widespread power failures,

industrial explosions, and civil disorders. Transmission of information

concerning school closings and transportation problems is appropriate. In

addition, and if requested by responsible public official, emergency point-to-

point messages may be transmitted for the purpose of requesting or

dispatching aid and assisting in rescue operations.

8. FM BROADCAST TRANSLATORS AND SIGNAL BOOSTERS

8.1 Definition of Terms

8.1.1. FM Broadcast Translator. A station in the broadcasting

service operated for the purpose of retransmitting the signals of an FM

radio broadcast station without significantly altering any characteristic

of the incoming signal other than its frequency and power output, in

order to provide FM broadcast service to the general public.

8.1.2. Commercial FM translator station. An FM broadcast

translator station which rebroadcasts the signals of a commercial FM

radio broadcast station.

8.1.3. Non-commercial FM translator station. An FM broadcast

translator station which rebroadcasts the signals of a non- commercial

FM radio broadcast station.

8.1.4 Primary FM station. The FM radio broadcast station

radiating the signals which are retransmitted by an FM broadcast

translator station or by an FM booster station.

8.1.5. FM broadcast booster station. A station in the broadcasting

service utilizing a signal booster that operates on the same frequency

as the primary FM station.

8.1.6. Rebroadcast. Means reception by radio of the program of a

radio station, and the simultaneous or subsequent retransmission of

such program by a broadcast station.

8.2 Licensing Policies

8.2.1 Purpose and Permissable Service - FM Translators provide a

means whereby the signals of FM broadcast stations may be

retransmitted to areas within the province in which direct reception of

such FM broadcast stations is unsatisfactory due to distance or

intervening terrain barriers. The FM translator shall be located within

the province in which its primary station is located. The maximum

translator power allowable is 100 watts. A maximum of 2 translator

stations may be licensed for each primary station.

8.22. An FM translator may be used only for the purpose of

retransmitting the signals of an FM broadcast station which is received

directly through space, converted, and suitably amplified.

8.2.3. The transmissions of each FM translator shall be intended for direct

reception by the general public and any other use shall be incidental thereto.

8.2.4. The technical characteristics of the retransmitted signals

shall not be deliberately altered so as to hinder reception on

conventional FM broadcast receivers.

8.2.5. An FM translator shall not deliberately retransmit the

signals of any station other than the station it is authorized by license

to retransmit. Precautions shall be taken to avoid unintentional

retransmission of such other signals.

8.2.6. FM broadcast booster stations provide a means whereby

an FM radio broadcast station may provide service to areas of low

signal intensity in any region within the province. An FM broadcast

booster station shall be located within the 1 millivolt per meter

predicted flat terrain contour and within the province in which its

primary station is located. An FM broadcast booster station is

authorized to retransmit the signals of the primary station only. It shall

not retransmit the signals of any other station nor make independent

transmission, provided, however, that locally generated signals may be

used to excite the booster apparatus for the purpose of conducting

tests and measurements essential to the proper installation and

maintenance of the apparatus. The maximum allowable power of a

booster station is 100 watts. A maximum of 2 booster stations may be

licensed for each primary station.

8.2.7 The transmission of an FM broadcast booster station shall

be intended for direct reception by the general public. Such stations

will not be authorized to establish a point-to-point FM radio relay

system.

8.2.8 An FM broadcast translator station or an FM booster station

with a power of 100 watts or less may be operated by a person

designated by and under the control of the licensee and need not be a

licensed operator.

8.2.9 An authorization for a commercial FM translator station or

booster station shall not be granted if its signal shall interfere with any

existing principal station, FM booster station or FM translator station as

provided for in the FM radio frequency protection ratio.

8.2.10 An authorization for FM translator station or booster

station shall not be granted should the predicted 1 millivolt per meter

field strength contour extend into the boundary of another province.

8.2.11 Each application for an FM broadcast booster station shall

include a statement concerning the steps which have been taken in

the design and location of the equipment to insure that the areas of

service from the primary FM station will not be degraded by operation

of the FM booster station.

8.3 Operational Requirements

8.3.1 Unattended Operation

A station authorized under this subpart may be operated

without a licensed radio operator in attendance if the following

requirements are met:

a. The translator shall be equipped with suitable

automatic circuits which will place it in a non-radiating

condition in the absence of a signal on the input channel.

b. The on-and-off control (if at a location other than

the transmitter site) and the transmitting apparatus shall

be adequately protected against tampering by

unauthorized persons.

c. The Authority shall be supplied with the name,

address and telephone number of a person or persons who

may be contacted to secure suspension of operation of the

translator promptly, should such action be deemed

necessary by the Authority. Such information shall be kept

by the licensee.

d. An application for authority to construct a new

station pursuant to this subpart or to make changes in the

facilities of such a station, which proposes unattended

operation, shall include an adequate showing as to the

manner of compliance with this section.

8.3.2 Power Limitations

a. The power output of the final radio frequency amplifier

of a station authorized under this subpart shall not exceed 100

watts.

1) Stations employing multiple radio frequency

amplifiers will be licensed as a single station provided that

the total power output shall not exceed 100 watts.

2) No limit is placed upon the effective radiated

power which may be obtained by the use of horizontally

and vertically polarized directive transmitting antennas.

8.3.3 Emissions and Bandwidth

a. The license of an FM translator or FM booster station

authorizes the transmission of either F3 or F9 emission

(frequency modulation).

b. Standard width FM channels

Will be assigned and the transmitting apparatus shall be

operated so as to limit spurious emissions to the lowest

practicable value. Any emission including intermodulation

products and radio frequency harmonics which are not essential

for the transmission of the desired aural information shall be

considered to be spurious emissions.

c. The power of emissions appearing outside the assigned

channel shall be attenuated below the total power of the

emission as follows:

Distance of emission Minimum Attenuation

from center frequency

between unmodulated

carrier

120 to 240 kHz 25 dB

over 240 and up to 600kHz 35 dB

over 600khz 60dB

d. Greater attenuation than that specified in paragraph c)

of this sub-section may be required if interferences result outside

the assigned channel.

8.3.4 Consideration should be given to accessibility of the site at

all times of the year and to the availability of facilities for the

maintenance and operation of the FM translator.

8.3.5 Equipment and Installation

a. Applications for new station or for changes in the

facilities of existing stations will not be accepted for filing unless

the transmitting apparatus to be employed is type-accepted.

b. Transmitting antennas, antennas used to receive signals

to be rebroadcast, and transmission lines are not subject to the

requirement for type-acceptance.

c. The following requirements must be met before the

translator or booster equipment will be type-accepted by the

Authority.

1) The frequency converter and associated amplifiers

of an FM translator shall be so designed that the electrical

characteristics of a standard FM signal, including

stereophonic subchannel, introduced into the input

terminals will not be significantly altered by passage

through the apparatus except as to frequency and

amplitude. The overall frequency response of the

apparatus within its assigned channel when operating at its

rated power output and measured at the output terminals,

shall provide a smooth curve, varying within limits

separated by no more than 3 decibels.

2) Radio frequency harmonics at the output

terminals of the transmitter shall be attenuated at least 60

decibels below the fundamental output carrier level. All

other emissions appearing outside the assigned channel

shall conform with the specifications set forth in paragraph

(3) below.

3) The local oscillator or oscillators employed in the

translator equipment shall, when subjected to variations in

ambient temperature between minus 30 degrees and plus

50 degrees Centigrade and in primary supply voltage

between 85 percent and 115 percent of the rated value, be

sufficiently stable to maintain the output carrier frequency

of the translator within plus or minus 0.005 percent of its

assigned frequency, assuming zero variation of the

received primary station signal from its assigned

frequency.

4) The apparatus shall contain automatic circuits

which will maintain the power output constant within 2

decibels when the level of the signal at the input terminals

is varied over a range of 40 decibels and which will not

permit power output to exceed the maximum rated power

output under any condition. If a manual adjustment is

provided to compensate for different average signal levels,

provision shall be made for determining the proper setting

for the control and if improper adjustment of the control

could result in improper operations, a label shall be affixed

at the adjustment control bearing a suitable warning.

5) The apparatus shall be equipped with automatic

controls which will place it in a non radiating condition

when no signal is being received on the input channel,

either due to absence of a transmitter signal or failure of

the receiving portion of the translator or booster. The

automatic control may include a time-delay feature to

prevent interruptions in the operation of the station caused

by fading or other momentary failures of the incoming

signal.

6) The amplifying devices employed in the final radio

frequency amplifier shall be of the appropriate power

rating to provide the rated power output of the translator

or booster. The normal operating constants for operation at

the rated power output shall be specified. The apparatus

shall be equipped with suitable meters or meter jacks so

that appropriate voltage and current measurements may

be made while the apparatus is in operation.

7) Wiring, shielding, and construction shall be in

accordance with accepted principles of good engineering

practice.

d. The exciter employed to provide a locally generated and

modulated input signal to the Translator shall be type- accepted

and shall meet the following specifications for type-acceptance

by the Authority.

1) The local oscillator or oscillators employed in the exciter,

when subjected to variations in ambient temperature between

minus 30 degrees and plus 50 degrees centigrade, and in

primary supply voltage between 85 percent and 115 percent of

the rated value, shall be sufficiently stable to maintain the output

center frequency of the exciter within plus or minus 0.005

percent of the frequency assigned to the primary station.

2) Automatic means shall be provided for limiting the level

of the audio frequency voltage applied to the modulator to insure

that a frequency swing in excess of 75 kHz will not occur under

any condition of modulation.

3) Wiring, shielding, and construction shall be in

accordance with accepted principles of good engineering

practice.

e. Type-acceptance will be granted only upon a satisfactory

showing that the apparatus is capable of meeting the requirements of

paragraphs c) and d) of this subsection. The following, procedures shall

apply:

1) Any manufacturer of apparatus intended for use by a

station authorized under this subpart may request type-

acceptance by following the procedures set forth by the

Authority.

2) Apparatus for use by stations authorized under this

subpart which has been type-accepted by the Commission will

normally be authorized without additional measurements by the

applicant.

3) Other rules concerning type-acceptance, including

information regarding withdrawal of type- acceptance,

modification of type-accepted equipment and limitations on the

findings upon which type-acceptance is based, are set forth by

the Authority.

f. The installation of an FM translator or booster station employing

type-accepted apparatus may be made by a licensed technician or licensed

engineer.

g. Simple repairs, such as the replacement of tubes, fuses or other

plug-in components and the adjustment of non critical circuits which require

no particular technical skill may be made by a qualified person. Repairs

which require the replacement of attached components, adjustment of

critical circuits, or technical measurement, shall be made only by a licensed

technician or licensed engineer.

h. Any test or adjustment which require the radiation of signals for

their completion and which could resulting improper operation of the

apparatus, shall be made by or under the immediate supervision of a

licensed First-class radio-telephone operator or licensed engineer.

The transmitting antenna may be designed to produce either

horizontal or vertical polarization, or a combination of horizontal and vertical

polarization. Separate transmitting antennas are permitted if both horizontal

and vertical polarization is to be provided.

8.3.7 Equipment Changes

a. No change, either mechanical or electrical, maybe made

in the FM translator or booster apparatus which has been type-

accepted.

b. Formal application is required for any of the following

changes to be made on NTC Form in the case of FM broadcast

translator stations and FM broadcast booster stations:

1) Replacement of the translator or booster as a

whole.

2) A change in the transmitting antenna system,

including the direction of radiation or directive antenna

pattern.

3) Any change in the overall height of the antenna

structure.

4) Any change in the location of the translator or

booster except a move within the same building or upon

the same pole or tower.

5) Any horizontal change in the location of the

antenna structure which would (i) be in excess of 500 feet

or (ii) would require notice to the Air Transportation Office

(ATO).

6) Any change of input or output frequency of a

translator.

7) Any change of primary station of a translator.

8) Any change of authorized transmitter operating power

output.

9) Any change in authorized principal community or area

being served.

10) Other equipment changes not specifically referred to

above.

8.4 Technical Operation and Operators

8.4.1. Frequency tolerance

The licensee of an FM translator station shall maintain the

center frequency at the output of the translator within 0.01

percent of its assigned frequency. The output frequency of an FM

booster station shall be the exact frequency of its primary

station.

8.4.2. Frequency monitors and measurements

a. The licensed of a station authorized under this

subpart is not required to provide means for measuring the

operating frequency of the transmitter. However, only

equipment having the required stability will be approved

for use by an FM translator or booster.

b. In the event that a station authorized under this

subpart is found to be operating beyond the frequency

tolerance prescribed in Subsection 8.4.1. The licensee shall

promptly suspend operation of the station and shall not

resume operation until the station has been restored to its

assigned frequency. Adjustment of the frequency

determining circuits of an FM translator or booster shall be

made by a licensed technician or licensed engineer in

accordance with Subsection 7.3.5.C

8.4.3. Time of operation

a. An FM translator is not required to adhere to any regular

schedule of operation. However, the licensee of an FM translator

is expected to provide a dependable service to the extent that

such is within its control and to avoid unwarranted interruptions

to the service provided.

b. If an FM translator station is inoperative for 10 days or

more, the licensee shall promptly notify the Authority in writing

where the station is located, promptly describing the cause of

the in operation and the steps being taken to place the translator

in operation again and the licensee shall promptly notify the

Authority promptly when operation is resumed.

c. Failure of an FM translator station to operate for a period

of 30 days or more, except for causes beyond the control of the

licensee, shall be deemed evidence of discontinuance of

operation and the license of the station may be cancelled at the

discretion of the Authority.

d. An FM translator shall not be permitted to radiate during

extended periods when signals of the primary station are not

being retransmitted.

8.4.4. Station inspection

The licensed of a station authorized under this subpart

shall make the station and the records required to be kept by the

rules in this subpart available for inspection by representatives of

the Authority.

8.4.5. Posting of station license

a. The station license and any other instrument of

authorization or individual order concerning the construction of

the station or the manner of operation shall be kept in the

station records file maintained by the licensee so as to be

available for inspection upon request, to any authorized

representative of the Authority.

b. The call sign of the translator or booster together with

the name, address, and telephone number of the licensee or

local representative of the licensee, if the licensee does not

reside in the community served by the translator or booster, and

the name and address of a person and place where station

records are maintained, shall be displayed at the translator or

booster site on the structure supporting the transmitting

antenna, so as to be visible to a person standing on the ground

at the transmitter site. The display shall be maintained in a

legible condition by the licensee.

8.4.6 Operator requirements

a. An operator holding a valid restricted radio telephone

operator permit shall observe the operation of a station

authorized under this subpart by obtaining reception of its

transmissions.

b. In the event of malfunction, or upon notice by the

Authority, the operator shall immediately cause the operation of

the station to cease until the malfunction is corrected or until the

conditions requiring suspension of operation are corrected.

8.4.7 Additional orders

In cases where the rules contained in this part do not cover

all phases of operation or experimentation with respect to

external effects, the Authority may make supplemental or

additional orders in each case as may be deemed necessary.

8.5 Other Operating Requirements

8.5.1. Station Records

a. The licensed of a station authorized under this

subpart shall maintain adequate station records, including

the current instrument of authorization, official

correspondence with the Authority, maintenance records,

contracts, permissions for rebroadcast, and other pertinent

documents.

b. The records to be maintained where an antenna

structure is required to be marked or lighted shall be

governed by the provisions of the Air Transportation Office

(ATO).

c. Station records shall be retained for a period of 2 years.

8.5.2 The licensee of an FM translator shall not rebroadcast the

programs of any FM broadcast station without obtaining prior consent

of the primary station whose programs are proposed to be

retransmitted. The Authority shall be notified of the call letters of each

station rebroadcast and the licensee of the FM translator shall certify

that written consent has been received from the licensee of the station

whose programs are retransmitted.

8.5.3 An FM translator is not authorized to rebroadcast the

transmissions of any class of station other than a primary FM broadcast

station.

9.6 PUBLIC INFORMATION FILE

An updated Public Information File shall made available at all

times to the NTC inspector or to any interested party. The Public

Information File shall be kept on file at each broadcast station and shall

contain the following:

a. A copy of the station license.

b. Documents as to mode of ownership whether

partnership, corporation or single proprietorship including trade

name as registered in the Department of Trade.

c. Documents on all changes of transmitter equipment,

including the incorporated changes in the license and the

corresponding construction permits.

d. Copies of the Program Standards, the Technical

Standards, the NTC compilation of laws, regulations, circulars

and memoranda.

e. Evidence of membership in the KBP, or any other

broadcasters’ organization.

10. ANNEXES

A. Prediction of Coverage

Figure 1. F(50,50) Field Strength Chart for FM Channels and Sliding

scale for use with Figure 1.

Figure 2. Standard Pre-Emphasis Curve

Figure 3. Sample Form For Prediction of Service Area and interference

Studies.

ANNEX A

1. Prediction of coverage

A.1.1 All predictions of coverage made pursuant to this section

shall be made without regard to interferences and shall be made only

on the basis of estimated field strengths.

A.1.2 In predicting the distance to the field strength contours,

the F(50, 50) field intensity chart (figure 1), shall be used. If the 50

percent field intensity is defined as that value exceeded for 50 percent

of the time, this F(50, 50) chart gives the estimated 50 percent field

intensities exceeded at 50 percent of the locations in decibels above 1-

microvolt per meter. The chart is based on an effective power of 1-

kilowatt radiated from a half wave dipole in free space which produces

an unattenuated field strength at 1.6 kilometers of about 103 dB above

1- microvolt per meter (137.6 millivolts per meter).

A.1.3 To use the chart for other powers, the sliding scale

associated with the chart should be trimmed and used as the ordinate

scale. The sliding scale is placed on the chart with the appropriate

graduation for power in line with the horizontal 40 dB line on the chart.

The right edge of the scale is placed in line with the appropriate

antenna height graduations, and the chart then becomes direct

reading (in microvolt per meter and dB above 1 microvolt per meter for

this power and antenna height.) Where the antenna height is not

provided, the signal strength or distance is determined by the

interpolation between the curves connecting the equidistant scale.

Dividers may be used in lieu of the sliding scale. In predicting the

distance to the field strength contours, the effective radiated power to

be used is that in the horizontal plane in the pertinent direction. In

predicting other field strengths over areas not in the horizontal plane.,

the effective radiated power to be used is the power in the direction of

such areas; the appropriate vertical plane radiation pattern must, of

course, be considered in determining this power.

A.1.4 The antenna height to be used with this chart is the height

of the radiation center of the antenna above the average terrain along

the radial in question. In determining the average elevation of the

terrain, the elevations between 3 and 16 kilometers from the antenna

site are employed. Profile graphs shall be drawn for eight radials

beginning at the antenna site and extending 16-kilometers there from.

The radials should be drawn for each 45 degrees of azimuth starting

with True North. At least one radial must include the principal

community to be served even though such a community may be more

than 16-kilometers from the antenna site. However, in the event none

of the evenly spaced radials include the principal community to be

served, then one or more such radials are drawn in addition to the

eight evenly spaced radials, such additional radials shall not be

employed in computing the antenna height above average terrain. The

profile graph should indicate the topography accurately for each radial,

and the graphs should be plotted with the distance in kilometers as the

abscissa and the elevation in meters above mean sea level as the

ordinate. It is not necessary to take the curvature of the earth into

consideration in this procedure as this factor is taken care of in the

charts showing signal strength. The average elevation of the 13-

kilometer distance between 3 and 16 kilometers from the antenna site

should then be determined from the profile graph, for each radial. This

may be obtained by averaging a large number of equally spaced

points, by using a planimeter, or by obtaining the median elevation

(that exceeded for 50 percent of the distance) in sectors and averaging

these values.

A.1.5 In cases where the terrain in one or more directions from

the antenna site departs widely from the average elevation of 3 to 16

kilometers sector, the predicted method may indicate contour

distances that are different from what may be expected in practice. For

example, a mountain ridge may indicate the practical limit of service

although the prediction method may indicate otherwise.

Reprinted from FCC 73.313