By Carol DiCaro
The FCC requires you to have a license to operate a radio station. Much like your driver’s license to operate a motor vehicle, if you fail to keep your station license active and up to date with the most current information then you may get into trouble and lose your operating privileges. Here are four steps to help guide you on the path to a successful FCC license.
Radio systems are expensive so it is best to know what channels or frequency bands are available for your radio project before investing a lot of time and money into equipment where there may not be suitable channels available. RF engineering can help you determine what spectrum is available, analyze the potential for interference and compatibility, and locate an acceptable frequency.
AFC has a wide array of RF engineering capabilities. Services include reviewing searches for a single frequency or a range of frequencies within any given band frequencies based on location and distance. Our search databases include regularly updated FCC granted licenses as well as all applications in progress. Our search engine is unique, allowing quick and accurate listings of co-channel and adjacent channel information with easy-to-read reporting.
AFC is also capable of producing advanced RF coverage and interference plots. Our RF engineering tools are integrated with our search engine to assure fast and accurate reports. Furthermore, AFC microwave services can perform link planning, frequency studies and provide microwave frequency protection.
AFC has a fully qualified engineering staff, experienced in frequency coordination and interpreting FCC Rules and Regulations.
With the onset of ULS and electronic-only application submission, preparing an accurate, quality application for coordination is more important than ever. Errors and omissions on an application can cause delays in the licensing process and may even subject your application to a return or dismissal. Attention to preparation detail will ensure faster coordination.
AFC employs its own computerized and integrated Form 601 system and process to ensure accuracy and speed. AFC has developed and implemented its own system, assuring direct control of the application from data entry to electronic transfer to the FCC.
Using AFC to help prepare your applications assures a compatible and quality product for submission to coordination.
Whether you are applying for a new station license or a modification of a current license, before an application for a radio license is granted or even accepted for review by the FCC, the application must obtain certification from an FCC designated frequency coordinator for your radio service. The process involves a complex search in AFC’s extensive database to determine the compatibility of the proposed frequencies with existing licenses and pending applications in the geographic vicinity of the applicant.
AFC is your leading FCC-certified public safety services frequency coordinator with a full-time staff of dedicated professionals and over 50 APCO member volunteers at the local level dedicated to public safety frequency coordination.
AFC’s modern, highly automated frequency coordination process and knowledgeable staff will speed you along the path to obtaining your FCC license. AFC is unique in that it provides its own direct pipeline to the ULS system. We do not use any third-party outsourced providers to deliver applications, which allows a much higher degree of control.
An FCC license is a dynamic instrument that includes periodic time-sensitive evolution to maintain its good standing and your authority to continue operations on your radio system. Making sure that your license is current and up to date is imperative to help protect your radio system.
AFC’s license management process provides peace of mind knowing that your licenses are being closely monitored by professionals using a specialized database to analyze current license data direct from the FCC ULS system. By continually monitoring your licenses, our automated system effectively addresses any issues, preventing FCC enforcement action and/or fines that can be up to $10,000 per day per violation and ensuring future FCC changes and time-sensitive requirements are adhered to and supported.
As an FCC-certified frequency coordinator, APCO-AFC is ready to answer your questions about the licensing process. We offer prompt and courteous service at competitive rates. Contact AFC at (888) APCO-911 / (888) 272-6911 or [email protected].
Carol DiCaro is APCO AFC Processor.
