Radio stations are stations that transmit sound through radio waves, sometimes using metadata, to reach an audience. The radio stations therefore, are to some extent categorized as transmitters and receivers. In general terms, radio stations operate on frequencies which are used for communication or entertainment. In some ways, they can also be classified as information services.
The majority of the radio stations originate their sounds through broadcasting service providers who pass the encoded radio signals from a transmitter to an antenna in the air for transmission. The signals are usually again reflected back to the listener. In most cases, terrestrial radio stations are controlled by the governing bodies while satellite radio stations can be operated commercially. However, both types of radio stations use the same transmission services.
In radio stations that are transmitted from a transmitter fixed in the earth, the station may be operated by a station manager, technician or other operators who make all the necessary decisions. The station manager makes all decisions in regard to the content of the programming, marketing strategy, promotions, advertising, direction and sales of the station. At times, the station manager may be the sole owner of the radio station. A station manager is typically elected for a fixed term of one year, though it is not uncommon for them to be hired on a term-by-term basis.
In the case of new York radio stations, the process of starting up is relatively simple because there are a large number of FM stations that have already been started. In order to get a license to operate, however, a station must successfully complete an application called an application for a license to operate. This application is reviewed by the FCC (Federal Communication Commission) and then either approved or disapproved. The license will tell the FCC if the station meets all the FCC requirements and the FCC approves or disapproves the license.
In order to qualify for a new York radio license, a station must be able to attract at least five percent of the total listenership of the local audience each week. The listeners must be able to find the station on a list of music listings published by conventional media such as magazines, newspapers and radio stations. The stations must also be able to draw listeners to their signal by having reasonable access to local programming. The licenses for radio stations are renewed every year, generally on a month-to-month basis, with the latest renewal date occurring just before the start of each season. Stations are often requested to run promotional ads during the most popular holiday periods such as Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s, although this can vary depending on the station’s ratings.
In order to obtain a radio station license, it is essential to submit detailed plans for operations including advertising and promotion strategies. In addition, applicants must prove that their proposed business will generate a financial return. For example, if a station is to provide music for the home and school community, the applicant should show how revenue from advertisements will benefit these institutions. A successful application process for a new York radio station is based on a thorough review of a station’s proposals, including a presentation of financial statements. These financial statements usually include bank statements, income statements, rent checks and other receipts.