99X returns to Atlanta, HD radio proven useless?

[upstate29651]

The new 97.9 translator in Atlanta is broadcasting WWWQ-HD2, which is where the old 99X is. Since so few folks seem to be unwilling to adopt HD radio, can one make the case that this translator of an HD-2 signal proves that theory correct?

G

 

[SUPERCASTER]

Virtually no one is listening, (or even interested) that's makes what makes transmitting HD radio signals useless, not how many stations are transmitting that annoying, jamming hiss.

 

[hipporadio]

This is a futile attempt to “extend the life” of a LEGENDARY radio station that Crumulus decided to kill and replicate on an non-promoted “HD” channel. I guess few [if any] were listening : NOT THE CASE with the former 97.7 WOXY format that ended-up on the HD-2 channel of non-com 91.7 WVXU in Cincinnati –which HAS sold HD radios there.

I might suggest that this is LESS about the attributes of “HD” Radio than it is about the complete lack of commitment of the indictable big and little Dickeys to ANYTHING commendable in radio broadcasting. So, the innovative and venerable former 99.7 WNNX is to “survive” on a ultra-low-power translator [at where]? Help me make a pre-set LMAL-ROTF!... They are a penny stock corporate broadcaster awaiting the attention of a Federal DA :-X

 

[Play Freebird]

I might suggest that this is LESS about the attributes of “HD” Radio than it is about the complete lack of commitment of the indictable big and little Dickeys to ANYTHING commendable in radio broadcasting. So, the innovative and venerable former 99.7 WNNX is to “survive” on a ultra-low-power translator [at where]? Help me make a pre-set LMAL-ROTF!...

While I share your distaste for the Dickeys' management style, the coverage of this translator might surprise you. Its ERP is 250 watts at 305 meters (1000 ft) HAAT from a non-directional panel antenna mounted on a tall tower about 4 miles from the center of Atlanta. Here's the predicted 60 dBu contour:

http://www.fcc.gov/fcc-bin/FMTV-service-area?x=FX1291669.html

There are some FM stations with comparable "QRP" signals pulling respectable ratings in other major markets, like WPPZ in Philadelphia which earned nearly a 4 share in the most recent Arbitron survey (tied for 9th place with two Class Bs) with a "meager" 270 watts at 338 meters.

Many FM stations in Europe also succeed with seemingly small signals; for instance, most of the commercial facilities in Munich, which transmit from the 291 m Olympic Tower with only 320 watts. If you put the power in the midst of the people, QRP can be quite effective.

 

[Chuck]

While I share your distaste for the Dickeys' management style, the coverage of this translator might surprise you. Its ERP is 250 watts at 305 meters (1000 ft) HAAT from a non-directional panel antenna mounted on a tall tower about 4 miles from the center of Atlanta. Here's the predicted 60 dBu contour:

http://www.fcc.gov/fcc-bin/FMTV-service-area?x=FX1291669.html

There are some FM stations with comparable "QRP" signals pulling respectable ratings in other major markets, like WPPZ in Philadelphia which earned nearly a 4 share in the most recent Arbitron survey (tied for 9th place with two Class Bs) with a "meager" 270 watts at 338 meters.

Many FM stations in Europe also succeed with seemingly small signals; for instance, most of the commercial facilities in Munich, which transmit from the 291 m Olympic Tower with only 320 watts. If you put the power in the midst of the people, QRP can be quite effective.

I can vouch for the viability of low power, especially if the antenna is high enough, and located near population centers. In fringe areas it may not penetrate buildings very well, but it certainly works well in a car. Come to think of it, HD, at least in its current form, doesn't always penetrate buildings very well either.

A few years ago, a local full power station had a transmitter melt down. While they were waiting for parts, I loaned them our spare 300-watt transmitter. Connected to their 400+ foot antenna, it worked remarkably well. They operated that way for several days and very few people seemed to notice the difference. Normally, they had an ERP of 65 KW. I suspect that if you could get everyone to power down (that will never happen) then an amazing amount of electric power could be saved.