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.
Frequency Frequency
Channel No. (MHZ) Channel No. (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
Frequency
Channel (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
between unmodulated
from center frequency 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