FCC Greenlights Power Increase For HD Radio

The FCC has decided to allow FM stations to use asymmetric sideband power is a significant development for the radio broadcasting industry. This change means that FM stations can now operate with different power levels on the upper and lower digital sidebands, which can enhance digital FM coverage while minimizing interference with adjacent analog stations12.

This flexibility is expected to help broadcasters optimize their digital signal coverage, making digital radio more accessible and reliable for listeners. By allowing stations to adjust power levels independently on each sideband, they can better protect adjacent analog stations from interference3.

It’s a move that should support the broader adoption of digital radio, providing a more robust and flexible broadcasting environment. How do you think this will impact the radio industry, especially in terms of digital adoption and listener experience?

\The new rules will streamline the notification process for FM stations adopting this technology. Stations can now notify the Commission of changes to their digital power levels using Form 2100, Schedule 335-FM, without the need for ongoing experimental licensing. This change is expected to lead to increased adoption of digital broadcasting among FM stations and enhance the reach and quality of digital radio.

The rulemaking followed petitions from the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB), Xperi Corporation, and National Public Radio (NPR), who have long advocated for increased flexibility in FM digital broadcasting. The FCC acknowledged their studies, which demonstrated that many stations could operate at higher digital power levels on one sideband while protecting neighboring analog signals by reducing power on the other sideband. The FCC also noted that such operations have not led to significant interference in tests.

The FCC's decision affects nearly all FM stations, except for those operating on Channel 300 (107.9 MHz), which still require experimental authorization for asymmetric sideband use due to concerns about interference with the Aeronautical Radio Navigation Spectrum.