plers connect it to transmitter output. It delivers numerous demodulated signals. They report the performance of FM transmitter.

COST ESTIMATE
   The ratings of FM transmitter, antenna, radio-frequency cable, and tower depend upon the desired coverage and its geography. Ordinary FM receivers can catch signals within Primary Coverage Area only. Sophisticated ones can also receive in Secondary Coverage Area.
   One may budget an amount similar to the cost of bare transmitter to purchase antenna and accessories. They include dummy load, dehydrator, automatic voltage regulator, audio console and power distribution panel.
   Several test instruments are essential in an FM station. Most critical are spectrum analyser, audio analyser, FM demodulator, field strength meter, RF power meter, oscilloscope, multimeter and programme amplifier. They may cost

about Rs. 30 lacs. A Diesel Generating set is necessary to keep the station working when normal supply fails. Its rating depends upon the load of FM transmitter system, studio system, air conditioning and lighting.
   Tower design considers height of the tower, weight of the antenna, extreme wind speeds, and soil condition at site. These parameters depend on site. That is why it is not possible to provide here the cost of tower and related civil work.
   Property cost differs widely in a metro and a small town. Feasibility of a project largely depends on it. Space required by a typical FM station may be as follows. (Refer to box below)

Setting up an FM broadcasting station
   Right at the outset the investor carries out radio survey and selects a suitable site. He obtains permission from Wireless Planning &

Co-ordination wing and  Special Advisory Committee on Frequency Allocation. He procures equipment, erects the tower and installs and commissions the total system. He organises training for technicians in operation and maintenance of equipment. Lastly he arranges for prompt after-sales and annual maintenance services.
   The investor faces a dilemma about the source of equipment. Second-hand imported transmitters might be available at ‘bargain prices’. One ought to consider two issues before buying.
   With rapid technological progress, electronic components are out-dated in short the use-and-throw culture has influenced industrial products too. Spares are often not available towards end of life-span of the equipment.
   Any breakdown or deterioration in quality of transmission hits the broadcaster’s business very swiftly. Patrons feel it instantly, endangering their

loyalty to the station and hence its revenue. Only indigenous companies with proven track record can provide prompt and reliable after-sales service that the broadcasters, require. All India Radio has a network of 103 FM transmitters in the country. Bharat Electronics (BEL) and Gujarat Communications & Electronics (GCEL) have supplied the lion’s share. The remaining few are from Harris Broadcast and Eddystone Radio.
   FM transmitters made in India have attained international standards and entered those markets. For instance, GCEL is executing a turnkey contract worth $ 3.2 million in Uganda. It involves 10 FM transmitting stations, 13 satellite down-link and a satellite up-link station. Thus the private investor is assured of adequate knowhow within the country to meet the total requirement of his FM broadcasting project.
Vasant Dave works with Gujarat Communications & Electronics Ltd., Baroda. nn

Carpet Area
(sq. ft)

Sound Proofing
(sq. ft)

A.C
(cu.ft.)