Stephen Dunifer of Free Radio Berkeley gives a quick overview of how you can build your own micropower radio station with a range of 3-5 miles at a cost of about $500.
Current FCC regulations in the U.S. mandate a minimum broadcast power of 100 watts for non-LPFM stations and require such a high cost of entry that only the rich and well-endowed can have a voice. Micropower broadcasting is helping to restore grassroots democracy, bringing back the concept of open and free civic discourse among all citizens. Further, it is a direct challenge to a broadcast system based entirely on wealth.
Free Radio Berkeley IRATE (International Radio Action Training, Education) provides the latest micropower FM Radio broadcasting kits, UHF/VHF Television broadcasting kits, accessories, complete station packages, audio equipment, antennas, technical support, and training to ordinary citizens so that they can help liberate the airwaves and break the corporate broadcast media’s stranglehold on the free flow of news, information, ideas, cultural and artistic creativity. Most Free Radio Berkeley transmitters can operate directly from car batteries, thereby allowing the setting up of portable stations operating at strike lines, rallies, demonstrations, community events, fairs, and festivals — drive-by radio! A micropower FM broadcast station with a coverage radius of 12-15 miles can be put on the air for a cost ranging from $1000-$2000 — an affordable amount for any community desiring a voice.
Free Radio Berkeley IRATE is also involved in national and international outreach and organizing efforts. Their transmitters and other related equipment are being used by popular liberation struggle movements in a number of countries.
For more info, and to learn about their Summer Radio Camps and/or TV Broadcasting Workshops, visit:
http://www.freeradio.org/
Free Radio Berkeley
1442 A Walnut St
Berkeley, CA 94709
510-625-0314
xmtrman@pacbell.net
Filetype: mp4
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Download: How to Make a Radio Station
Tags: direct action, education, FCC, media, pirate radio
