KOLU’s new transmitter has passed it’s final test, which means we will be applying for our license to operate at 39,000 watts as soon as we receive the test report.

Testing of “Radio Frequency Radiation”, or “RFR”, was required by the Construction Permit authorizing us to increase power.  This was due to concerns by the Federal Communications Commission (“FCC”) that people near the tower could be subject to levels of radio signals that exceed standards that have been set for safety.

Engineer James Boyd “waving his wand”

We appreciate the work of James Boyd of Boyd Broadcast Technical Services, who drove up from Portland to conduct the tests.  Tuesday morning we placed the transmitter on the air at 39,000 watts and James conducted measurements near our tower and was able to confirm that the signals were within safe levels.  James will send us a report this week that will be part of our license application.  After a short review of the report, the FCC will authorize us to begin “Program Testing”, which simply means we can start broadcasting at nearly 10 times the power!

We’re hoping to have the application in to the FCC by Monday, June 1, with approval later in the week.

Once again, our heartfelt thanks to all our listeners for your prayers and financial support of this major project.  We all are about to enjoy the fruits of those efforts!