Common Terminology Used In Part 15 Radio Broadcasting

Description of "Part 15"
Part 15 is a portion of the Title 47 Code of Federal Regulations that covers a variety of electronic equipment that generates or emits radio frequency energy. These regulations define how unlicensed devices may be operated within the radio frequency spectrum. It is the responsibility of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to enforce these regulations within the United States. These regulations outline specifics such as the maximum allowed transmit power for a given frequency and transmission method, the type of radiating element or elements that may be employed as well as any field strength limitations. Industry Canada RSS-210 is the equivalent regulations for "Low Power License-Exempt Radiocommunication Devices (All Frequency Bands),"
Description of "Part 15 Certification"
Certification is given to a piece of equipment by the FCC when a manufacturer has successfully proven via lab testing that the equipment in question operates in compliance to applicable Part 15 rules. Devices that receive Part 15 certification must have their certification identification number attached to the unit.
Description of "Part 15 Compliant"
Some manufacturers may state that their assembled or kit transmitters comply with Part 15 regulations. This is not a guarantee that the equipment has been tested as there is usually no certification data submitted to the FCC. While the equipment may indeed operate within the parameters dictated by Part 15 regulations this does not necessarily mean the equipment will pass a field inspection from an FCC inspector.
Description of "Carrier Current" broadcasting
Carrier current broadcasting is a method where a low power AM broadcast transmitter utilizes the power lines as the radiating element instead of a conventional antenna. Commonly used in campus-limited broadcasting, carrier current allows a controlled broadcast environment, as the RF signal is usually unable to pass through the power transformers of the electric utility. Special methods are employed to couple the radio frequency signal to the power lines.
Description of "Leaky Coax" transmission
Leaky coax is a special type of coaxial cable that is designed to radiate or leak the signal traveling within it. In essence the cable is the antenna or radiator. This coax is designed to radiate the single by a controlled amount. Leaky coax systems are usually designed by engineers to conform with Part 15 regulations.
Description of "Pirate" broadcasting
Pirate broadcasting is the act of unlicensed broadcasting with transmitter power and signal strength exceeding that allowed in the Part 15 regulations. Quite often pirate broadcasters cause harmful interference to other radio services due to the lack of competent engineering or a lack of regard for licensed broadcasters. Pirate broadcasting is outside the scope of this site.



Why Broadcast?

Part 15 broadcasting lends itself to many different uses. A few examples that lend themselves to low power broadcasting include:

  • On Campus Radio Station
  • Realtor© Drive-by Advertising
  • Campground Radio
  • Resort and Tourist Attractions
  • Elder Community Radio
  • Neighborhood Radio
  • Play OTR On Antique Radios
  • Outdoor Sound Reinforcement

The fun is only limited by your own imagination. The hobby of Part 15 broadcasting may allow you to learn not only about radio broadcasting, but electronics theory as well.

Get ready to have some fun!

Coverage Area

Your legal coverage may span from a handful of feet to upwards of several miles. Determining factors include transmit power, antenna length & height as well as the broadcast frequency. The limits imposed under Part 15 greatly restrict the legal coverage attainable on the FM band. For maximum legal coverage it is recommended that you consider one of the many Part 15 AM band transmitters available for purchase. While you're free to use transmitters available in kit form, kit transmitters do not carry FCC certification and should you ever have a visit from an FCC field agent your operation may be more likely to be questioned. Operating with a certified Part 15 transmitter may prove to be an asset should you happen to get a visit from a field agent.

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