Warning to Overpower FM Translators

Overpower FM translators be warned. The FCC recently handed out a $12,000 fine against an FM translator licensee in California because FCC inspections revealed the translator was operating above its licensed power. The licensee even argued that the higher transmitter power output (TPO) was required to achieve its authorized effective radiated power. The FCC rejected the argument, stating that a grant of a construction permit, or at the very least, grant of an STA is required to exceed an FM translator licensee’s authorized TPO. So, for you FM translator owners out there, be sure to get approval or seek a license modification before exceeding your licensed and authorized TPO.