PCS-Electronics

Even with an exellent forum (the best I have found onthe subject) it is still very difficult for a novice wanna-be FM station to decide on a set up that will work for our needs.

I have read many posts..visited Radio Free Berkley..Radio Free San Diego...Veronicas...ad nauseum...trying to learn about LPFM. You guys are the best.

I think I landed on most components..let me know if I'm off base here...and a few questions still.

PCS 15W FM transmitter

Behringer VMX1000 Pro DJ Mixer

CD Player

2 Behringer mikes

Laptop for MP3 player

I aim to broadcast 3-4 nights a week and will have a few hours of talk..and a few hours of music.
I would like 4-5 miles coverage radius...but that's where I need antenna help...or more power?

I plan on an attic antenna in 2 story house...Live in totally flat geographical area.
Which antenna would work mounted horizonaly in this type of application?

Also is a tunable antenna preferable? Meter?

Also I've read much on the subject of low pass filters but still don't grasp the concept. Are these necessary to insure no "splatter" etc?

And what separation (physically) of components is recomended?

Thanks for all your help...

Hoot

Hmmmmm...

Guess I was a tad premature in my opinion on this forum??

Hoot

Split this request into audio and transmitter part, its too broad of a question.

You need to make sure your transmitter and audio gear are separated so you don't get RF into your audio equipment.

If you're looking for best home stereo coverage, mount your antenna horizontally. For best car coverage, mount your entenna vertically. Most commercial broadcasters use circular polarization, but low power operators have to pick a polarization.

Your selection of equipment is very good, by the way.

Thank you Frank..

I am naturaly a tad nervous about commiting a couple thou to this project..because of my ignorance of the subject.

Im' trying to do some of the foot work to determine best location for LPFM brodcaster and antenna etc...and all the components I will need..

still studying available literature on internet...

Still not sure if I need PSWR meter...dummy load...frequency counter..and which antenna for particualar transmiter and physical location...

I will continue to learn more so that my questins can be more educated...But to be honest..I am a little concerned about responce from PCS...none...because if I need tech help after purchace will their responce be this slow in coming?

Hoot

This is a forum where customers exchange info and I chip in when I can.

For support write directly to us via website (contact us).

I would only put the aerial horizontal if there was no other choice.