. . . explained that current second-adjacent frequency restrictions keep LPFM stations out of urban areas because of lack of frequency space. Ms. Doyle also explained that there was no technical reason not to grant these waivers, as FM translators operating at higher power levels than LPFM stations already use second adjacent frequencies without incident. The same frequency rules that are already in place for these stations should be implemented for LPFM: if a station on a second-adjacent frequency will not interfere with an existing station, then the FCC should grant an LPFM license to a broadcaster for that frequency.
“Translators” are transmission towers that extend a full power radio station’s signal beyond its initial reach. Everybody has been guesstimating of late how many LPFMs will be available in various markets once the FCC opens a new application window. Prometheus has a zip code lookup program that can help you determine availabilities in your area. From the vantage point of my zip code in San Francisco, it appears that two are available, but only via FCC waivers. REC Networks calculates them at 96.1 FM and 96.9, presuming the dismissal of grid translator applications.
