GBS Proposes Major Shift in FM Broadcasting: Replace Main Transmitters with Distributed Systems
GeoBroadcast Solutions (GBS), the company behind the ZoneCasting technology, has proposed a fundamental shift in how FM radio stations operate in the U.S. In a recent filing with the FCC, GBS argues that broadcasters should no longer be required to maintain a central main transmitter. Instead, they propose that stations be allowed to use distributed transmission systems (DTS)—commonly known as booster networks—to provide more efficient, cost-effective, and reliable coverage.
The proposal was submitted in response to FCC Commissioner Brendan Carr’s “Delete, Delete” initiative aimed at eliminating outdated regulations.
Key Points
Eliminate Main Transmitter Requirement: GBS urges the FCC to remove or relax the rule requiring FM stations to operate a central main transmitter, calling it outdated and unnecessarily burdensome.
Support for Distributed Transmission Systems (DTS): DTS, which involves strategically placed low-power booster transmitters, can cover a station's service area as effectively—or even more effectively—than traditional high-power main transmitters.
Cost & Environmental Benefits: Eliminating main transmitters can lower infrastructure costs, reduce energy use, lessen insurance and real estate burdens, and eliminate the need for tall towers in environmentally sensitive areas.
Improved Urban Coverage & Resilience: DTS allows better service in urban and mountainous areas where terrain or buildings can interfere with signals. It also makes systems less vulnerable to natural disasters.
Case Study – KOAS (Las Vegas): GBS presented coverage comparisons showing that KOAS could maintain or improve service quality using only a distributed system, without relying on a traditional tower.
Regulatory Compatibility: The plan retains existing FCC spacing and contour rules, and boosters would continue to operate on the same frequency, ensuring no added interference or spectrum use.
Flexible Option, Not a Mandate: Broadcasters could still use main transmitters if desired. GBS emphasizes that its proposal simply introduces regulatory flexibility for those ready to innovate.
GBS is challenging decades-old FM broadcasting regulations by proposing a modernized, distributed approach to signal transmission. Their filing seeks to align radio broadcasting with current technology capabilities, allowing stations to reduce costs and enhance service quality without compromising regulatory compliance or public service.
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