Micropower radio
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Micropower radio is a subset of pirate radio concerned with low-power radio broadcasting, usually less than about 100 watts radiated power and sometimes as low as 0.1 watt. Micropower radio transmits to a number of recipients ("listeners" or "viewers") that belong to a small local group. Beginning in the early 1990s, there has been a increase in micropower radio because of the need for such a services in local communities. Micropower radio gives an avenue for small groups and individuals to provide local neighborhood or community broadcasts of information, diversity, and entertainment. Micropower radio is usually a non-commercial service.
The Microradio Movement in the United States aims to change radio licencing laws. While never his intent to found a movement, Mbanna Kantako, founder of the Human Rights Radio Network, is often referred to as the founder or grandfather of the Microradio Movement.
In the US, the FCC requires licensed AM/FM radio and TV stations to transmit with at least 6000 watts of power. This makes the cost of setting up a radio station prohibitive for individuals and small communities.
Sources
Free Radio, Electronic Civil Disobedience by Lawrence Soley
External links
- Microradio.org (http://www.microradio.org/)
- Seizing the airwaves (http://www.freeradio.org/frb/bookad.htm)
- Mediageek pirate radio file (http://www.mediageek.org/pirate.html)
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