Final FM Translator Window for AM Stations Closes

RADIO ONLINE | Friday, February 2, 2018

FCC

This week the FCC's Media Bureau took another step forward in the effort to revitalize AM radio, with broadcasters across the U.S. filing more than 850 applications in a filing window for new "cross-service" FM translators as part of Auction 100. These applications are in addition to the more than 1,000 applications from AM broadcasters for FM translator licenses in a previous 2017 filing window. The Commission swiftly granted most of the applications from the prior window with additional grants expected soon.

"The incredible interest in new cross-service translator stations demonstrates the commitment of AM broadcasters to enhancing their ability to provide quality service to their communities" said FCC Chairman Pai. "The Commission will continue to work with AM broadcasters to address their technical challenges and ensure the viability of AM radio."

AM radio stations that want to improve their service area with a clearer signal can do so by using an FM translator, which receives the AM signal and re-broadcasts it on an FM frequency. This is particularly useful for the many AM stations forced to reduce their AM power at night, since the FM translator can operate at the same power 24 hours a day with fewer opportunities for interference.

Last year, the Commission also provided broadcasters additional flexibility to locate these stations by relaxing the rules restricting the siting of cross-service translators. This recent translator station filing window builds on the Commission's continued efforts to address the needs of AM stations.

In the coming months, the Commission will complete the review of applications from the 2017 window and process the applications from the filing window that just closed.