What is LPFM?
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LPFM stands for "Low Power FM", and is a license class created by the FCC, designed to allow community groups, churches, schools and other civic organizations to establish a legal radio station.
How large is the signal, and how far can it reach?
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LPFM, by mandate, may not broadcast more than 100 watts. Because of this, typical "reach" of the signal is around eight miles in diameter. However, if you remember your math, that's around 43 square miles! And for a city the size of Trenton, that's a far piece.
Can I buy advertising on LPFM stations?
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LPFM is strictly non-commercial, and advertising would be in violation of license. It may be sponsored (also called "underwriting") by businesses and individuals in the community.
What is the Trenton Radio Project?
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The TRP is, right now, a single individual who thinks that the LPFM medium is the perfect choice to bring community-operated radio to Trenton.
When you get involved, he'll ask you the same question about the TRP. How will you answer?
What kind of programming is available for LPFM?
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Whatever the community desires! Typical LPFM stations make their programming choices based on the needs of the community. We can host our own shows if we'd like. We can play music if we pay royalties to music licensing firms. If we receive strong financial commitments, we could even purchase syndicated programs.
The best part is that we can air whatever we choose, within reason.
What good is a 100 watt radio station, since there are so many other choices on the radio?
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Fair question. There are so many media choices available, so some people might dismiss a small station. But consider this: In our many media choices, how many of them do original programming? How many look to their own communities for stories and news? Many commercial radio stations homogenize their broadcasts, playing the same songs as hundreds of other radio stations across the country. There are fewer stations nowadays that center their broadcast around home-grown community interests.
LPFM is designed to ignore the mold. For those who remain loyal to commercial radio, that's fine by us! The intent is to broadcast Trenton's interests, and enriching the surrounding media.
How long will it be before the station is up and running?
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There's a lot of work to be done between now and airtime. There are legislative measures that must occur on the national side, and organizing of the Trenton Radio Project on this side. Even if the FCC did its work tomorrow, they may not open the doors to new applicants for months. It could be a long wait.
Or it could happen soon. And that's why the organizing must be done now.
What groups or individuals can get involved?
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For disclosure's sake, the Trenton Radio Project has no affiliations with any one group, or variety of groups at this time. Our first priority is to establish community interest, and form a non-profit. And the output of our work will hopefully be to the greater good, and not to any one particular interest group.
However, TRP will open its doors to any community organization, based on a strong request to handle the stewardship of the Trenton Radio Project with an eye on the entire community.
Who owns the Trenton Radio Project?
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Right now, the Trenton Radio Project doesn't even exist on paper. Once the non-profit has been formed, however, then it will be "owned" by the non-profit organization.
How much does it cost to operate an LPFM station?
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That's a really good question, because that hasn't been completed or discussed yet. Things like:
- Where will we broadcast?
- What kind of equipment do we need?
- What about remote programming?
- Insurance?
- Utilities?
- How much support will the community offer for this kind of station?
I don't live in Trenton, but I'm interested in LPFM for my community.
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First things first, take everything you see here and start running.
Second, get in touch with your federal legislators. Tell them the FCC is dragging their feet.
Third, build a website and send out emails to your community. Explain the potential in LPFM. Show them the benefits. Talk to your neighbors. Get them involved.
Fourth, get support from the Prometheus Radio Project. They've been doing this for a long time, and they know the ropes. They're well organized, and an excellent support system for LPFM hopefuls.
Can I become a member? How can I get involved?
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There are no guidelines on membership as of yet. However, you may email Eric Geater and ask all the questions you'd like about the TRP.
Frequently Asked Questions about LPFM & the TRP