REC has been working on adding a better service contour dataset across the various REC tools and services. 

Until now, service contour in REC systems has been defined by power, antenna height and directional pattern. This new functionality takes this one step farther by using a different FCC dataset that not only shows an FM station's service contour, but it also takes terrain into consideration. 

In the REC Broadcast Query Tool, many "current" FM faciltiy records have had their maps enhanced to show this new service contour data.  When "View Map" is clicked, the map will now show the actual 60 (or 57 or 54) dBu service contour.

The Federal Communications Commission has released a public notice announcing the dates for the LPFM filing window for new stations. This time, it will be a single nationwide window that will be open from October 15 through October 29, 2013.

The FCC has also released the new Form 318. This is the form that must be filed electronically during the window.

(ARTICLE OBSOLETE.  MAINTAINED FOR HISTORICAL PURPOSES.)

LPFM channel searches are now available again on your mobile phone using the new myLPFM/Mobile. 

myLPFM/Mobile works using a web browser and does not require the installation of any apps.

myLPFM/Mobile is a light version of the desktop myLPFM website that allows for:

• Searching of channels,
• Determination of HAAT,
• Determination of ERP,
• Channel reports,
• Received interference,
• Second adjacent channel waiver potential,
• Mapping service contour,
• Mapping 10-mile community presence zone,
• Population/demographic reports,
• Reject reports,
• Dialscapes,
• Wide area searches, and
• Tower searches.

While myLPFM/Mobile currently does not support profiles (saved locations) like its desktop counterpart, you can easily transfer a search from myLPFM desktop to myLPFM/Mobile by scanning the QR code on the desktop website with your mobile phone.  This will bring up the same search on your mobile phone.  Simply bookmark your search and it is saved.

To access myLPFM/Mobile, use your mobile phone browser and visit the website

myLPFM.com

REC has released a new version of the SuperCoordinator report that looks at not just the availability of LPFM channels nationwide but also the potential quantity per metropolitan area by "constructing" a new LPFM station in as many ZIP codes as possible without stations previously "constructed" interfering with other stations being constructed further into the report.

The FCC is enacting a new policy that will give non-commercial student operated FM stations a one-time fine reduction for certain administrative violations of the FCC rules.

The FCC has announced this policy change in a consent decree the Commission recently reached with William Penn University of Oskaloosa, Iowa.  William Penn, a small liberal arts college has been operating KIGC-FM for over 30 years and has an annual budget of around $6,650 per year.  The station was recently cited for public file and ownership file violations which could have amounted to approximately $20,000 in fines. The station’s public file shortcomings and financial situation was noted in their renewal application.