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Carrier Current AM Radio

This is a system where an AM radio signal is modulated onto the AC power wiring inside a building. The entire electrical wiring grid of the building acts as a transmitting antenna. The system uses very low power so the range is typically less than a hundred feet, but the station can usually be picked up on any AM radio that is within the interior of that building.

This system is often used on college campuses because the intended audience is mostly within a building or a set of buildings. Because this system uses such low power, the FCC does not require that these types of stations be licensed.

Many campus radio stations have upgraded their carrier current systems to Leaky Cable FM systems because the FM systems have much better sound quality.

For more information on Carrier Current stations, check out the FCC's web site.


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