Start a radio station that doesn't have much power.
You can start a radio station without a FCC license.nonprofits, schools, churches, community groups and unions can find low-powered radio stations useful.The FCC doesn't usually give out permits for commercial free radio.There are other ways to get heard on the radio.
Step 1: Understand unlicensed radio.
Part 15 of the FCC's rules discusses unlicensed broadcasting using a low powered transmitter.The range of these devices is 200 feet.The transmitters are manufactured by the FCC and have indicators for you to see.You have to accept any interference from a higher powered radio station.
Step 2: You can find an available frequencies on the radio.
If you want to take into account the expenses of a low power radio station, you should seek out availability.Commercial radio stations can bleed into your radio station.You can find a station without radio programming by searching through your local stations.The key is to find a static channel.Make sure there are no other voices or sounds in the background.You are in good shape if there are a few clean stations in a row.You will not be able to find a station like this in a metropolitan city.You can find stations in your area by visiting radiospark.org/rfree.
Step 3: You can find out what station your community needs.
A radio station is needed in a community that does not have one.If other people in your community want the same type of programming, consider it.flyers with information about your radio station is a good way to get feedback.In community active spots like a coffee shop, library, or a venue space, hang the flyers.It is legal to make money from advertisements if the station becomes popular.Say on the flyer, "What do you want to hear on radio?" in big bold letters, and then explain what your station does."
Step 4: A list of equipment is necessary.
It will help you keep track of what you need by making a quick list of all the equipment you will need to power the station.Basic sound equipment includes microphones, mixer, CD player, and antenna.Take a quick inventory of the media devices you own.To find a rough price of the gear you need, do a basic search online.
Step 5: Your station's mission and vision should be created.
Your organization's mission statements are meant to be brief.You can share the philosophy model of your radio station in this area.Your goals and performance standards are included.To make it memorable, credible, inspiring, and simple are some of the goals to strive for.There are some mission statements for nonprofits online.Here's an example from the station, "We're reflecting and adding to the rich stew of arts, culture and community involvement that is Asheville."While having a global reach through our online stream with over 1.7 million hits a month, we're bringing music, news, and the unusual to the airwaves at 103.3FM.
Step 6: Raise money.
Depending on how far you plan to go, raising money in the beginning can benefit your long term goals.There are organizations that could be interested in your radio station.You should draft a letter explaining your goals once you find a local organization.There are many websites that allow you to raise money.
Step 7: You need to gather your equipment.
Your source equipment may include a CD player, cassette player or record player.If you are a music based station, it will benefit you if you have this equipment.You can get used audio equipment from websites.
Step 8: A reliable computer can be used.
There are many benefits to having a computer.The bulk of your station's broadcast can be generated with a computer playing music, sounds, and even your own voice.Many radio stations record shows on computers and play them over the air.A computer will help you cut down on your audio costs.You can use a computer to host your radio show.
Step 9: A microphone and audio console are required.
If you don't plan to play music alone, you should invest in at least one microphone.To switch between multiple audio outputs, you will need an audio mixer.A good quality microphone is the Sennheiser MD 421 or the Shure SH 55.If you don't want to deal with audio equipment, there are other options.There is a microphone that goes into your computer.The mics offer a range in quality.If you are starting to feel overwhelmed, consider getting help from a tech savvy friend.
Step 10: Other audio equipment can be obtained.
You will need cables to attach everything together.Most transmitters have an 18” jack, so you need to use the right converters for your mixer.There are cables for microphones and audio players.You don't need to worry about this step if you went with theusb microphone.Depending on how many people plan to talk, you will need one or two sets of headphones.You should have at least two headphones for future endeavors.If you use more than one pair of headphones, you will need a splitter.
Step 11: A Part 15 Transmitter can be purchased.
You can find a professional grade, low powered transmitter on the internet.The options are verified by the FCC.You can spend a small amount of money or a large amount.A mono transmitter is better for a cleaner signal.Some transmitters have an antenna, but they aren't as powerful or reliable.
Step 12: You can use a good antenna.
A good antenna is needed for long transmission.It's possible that an antenna that works well on one frequency isn't as good on another.You will probably have more luck shopping online than in an audio store.A custom antenna can be purchased.If you want a custom antenna, check out radio brandy.
Step 13: There are a few programs.
Music specials can be prepared if your station is dedicated to music.There are programs related to science on your station.The length of your programs could be 30 minutes or an hour.You could talk for 10 minutes every hour of a music show.Pick some programs for individual days and plan for a week of broadcasting.It's important for programs to be consistent.Each show is exciting, that's the key to planning programs.Throw on a song when you're unsure.
Step 14: Everything can be plugged in.
You should make sure that everything is connected and plugged in.To make sure everything is in the right place, follow each cable and double check each end.If you want to check the levels on your computer, do a quick test of your broadcast.
Step 15: To get to the station, tune in.
If you want, you can power your transmitter on and tune to the radio frequencies that aren't occupied by another station.Use a normal radio if you haven't found a station yet.Take a look at the channels that aren't broadcasting.
Step 16: Broadcasting should begin.
A friend can listen to the station in a separate room.You can not have the radio in the room with you.The microphones can create feedback that can be heard over the radio.You can listen to the radio in the same room if the microphone is turned off.
Step 17: Think about the future.
Eventually you can build a legitimate station if you build your station up to fit your own means.It is a good idea to start broadcasting with a Part 15 transmitter.Local businesses can be reached for advertising slots if you develop a fan base.You can announce an advertisement opening on a popular time slot if you are a successful station.The FCC doesn't open applications for low powered stations.You can upgrade your transmitter to a more powerful device if they do soon.You can stream your show in a variety of ways once you start broadcasting.