LPFM Power Check

Feature avaialble for all myLPFM users.

This feature is for LPFM stations that are authorized to operate with less than 100 watts effective radiated power (ERP). By clicking on the speedometer Power Check icon, myLPFM will check your station's height above average terrain (HAAT) in two different terrain databases and compare it with the HAAT listed on your FCC authorization. We will display all three HAATs and what ERP is available at those HAATs.

'The Overnight Engineer' Shortchanged many LPFMs

Prior to September, 2019, LPFM applications were filed in the FCC's CDBS filing system. After an application for a LPFM construction permit or modification of facility was filed, the system would then, during an overnight process, calculate the HAAT and assign an ERP based on that calculation. We called this, 'The Overnight Engineer'. We had found that in many cases, this CDBS automated process miscalculated many LPFM station HAATs to heights higher than what was shown in the terrain databases used at the time. This resulted in LPFM stations being given less power than what they were entitled to.

What to do if the LPFM Power Check offers a higher ERP

First and foremost, you are not automatically permitted to make the change. Do not attempt it.

Instead, an application to modify the LPFM facility must be filed in LMS. This filing should include a statement showing the results of the check and which terrain database was used to perform the check. This application will need to be granted and then after the power increase is completed, a License to Cover application must be filed.

Terrain databases in myLPFM

myLPFM currently supports two terrain databases that are available on the FCC's Contours API:

• GLOBE30 - Uses 30 second terrain data. Usually gives the lower HAAT resulting in a higher ERP. GLOBE30 is effective anywhere in the world.
• NED-1 - National Elevation Database 1 second terrain data. NED 1 is only effective in the Continential United States.

Working with REC Networks

Over the years, we have helped many LPFM stations that were shortchanged by the Overnight Engineer. For assistance with getting an application filed to adjust your station's ERP, please email lpfm@recnet.com or call REC at 202 621-2355.