KPFZ 88.1 FM Radio

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In January of 2013 we are doing the last four steps listed in the following breakdown of what is happening. We have some more work to do to make the new power transmitter work efficiently and safely.

Below is the steps outlined previously:
Here are the steps we will take on our way to a more powerful signal, which will greatly increase our coverage:

1)     Secure financing from County of Lake and LCCR Board.

2)     Hire Shivley’s in Maine to conduct antennae pattern testing (approx. $5,200 – this is what County of Lake has promised to pay).

3)     Hire Sacramento tower company to a) remove antennae from current tower.  b) take down/haul away current tower and guy wires.  c)  Install antennae and transmission line on new tower. (approx. $6,000 including new transmission line, parts). Note: Pete said the guys and the old tower are worthless and a liability.

4)     Hire Ruzicka Engineering surveying firm to survey site/certify.  Hire Bill Rett to certify correct installation. Hire Gray to petition FCC for permission to begin program testing/certify (we may get all this for free – as donations)

5)     Wait for FCC approval to begin program testing  (a few days to a few weeks – KPFZ will be off the air for this period)

6)     Go on-air for 30 day program testing period (our regular programming).

7)     If problems, shut down transmission, and re-do.  If no problems, apply to FCC for a new radio station license.

8)     Receive license for five year period (2011-2016).  KPFZ will move up in class from a Class A to a Class B1 FM station.

Time frame, once financing is secured, will be 3-6 months.  If major problems occur, maybe longer.  Our Construction Permit expires in December of 2012, so we have plenty of time.  It took approx 6-8 months to do this process the first time for our current 88.1 station.

At the end of November, 2009, KPFZ applied to the Federal Communications Commission for an increase in power and signal area. On December 18, 2009 the FCC approved this request.

KPFZ has 36 months to build this new version of 88.1, which will triple the station’s power from 100 to 300 watts. Once the money has been raised, new equipment will be purchased, antenna testing will be done back in New England, then the station will be built on a new tower on Mt. Konocti. KPFZ will be responsible for tearing down the old tower.

Following that, tests will be done to make sure the new 88.1 does not interfere with other stations. The new 88.1 will get to many places in Lake County where the current signal is not satisfactory, and even to some new places within and beyond county borders.

If you would like to donate to the power upgrade fund,call the KPFZ office at 263-3640. And thanks to Lorna Sue Sides, Sanda Wade, Harbin Hot Springs, Gayle McDonald-Gura, Charlotte Griswold, and others for their generous donations!

KPFZ’s Proposed New Signal Area