The FCC has granted two Petitions for Rulemaking that propose changes to the digital audio broadcasting (DAB) technical rules. The proposed changes would permit additional FM stations to increase FM hybrid digital effective radiated power (FM Digital ERP) beyond the existing levels without the need for individual Commission authorization. In addition, the FCC proposes to allow a digital FM station to operate with asymmetric power on the digital sidebands. This would allow stations to operate with different power levels on the upper and lower digital sidebands, as a way to facilitate greater digital FM radio coverage without interfering with adjacent channel FM stations.
Comments and reply comments on the NPRM will be due 30 days and 45 days, respectively, after the item is published in the Federal Register.
You can access the FCC’s Notice of Proposed Rulemaking here.