Here is a typical question we get: Basically, my question right now is about range. I have done a lot of research
on Part15
radio and I am currently running an (Uncertified Kit). But it is not reaching
very far.
So I am looking into the Rangemaster. I realize that the range
of a transmitter is subject to many
conditions, some of them out of our
control (such assoil conditions). But could you give me an average
estimate on how far the Rangemaster can be expected to reach? I am working
with a local pastor who
has four churches and he wants a radio
transmitter at each of his churches. But we need at least a
range of 1 mile
radius to cover the towns these churches are in. I live near (town). I
checked the ground
conditions on the FCC map and most of (Area) is
in the 8 range as far as soil conductivity.
We are in a small town and there
are not very many metal structures nearby.
I have heard wonderful
reports of 3 mile and 6 mile ranges for some Part15 transmitters,
but I am
beginning to realize that these are not the averages.
These guys are
just really lucky or else exaggerating. I just need good clear sound
out to a mile.
If I can at least get that far I'll be satisfied (or, I
should say,
the church will be satisfied since it will be their
transmitter I am setting up).
Response:
The key to getting great range is to start out with a
great technical person.
If you have a non-technical person or an electrical tech
then you will do
no better then the average 1-2 miles range. Be careful about transmitters that
advertise "no technical knowledge needed." Getting good range
on
Part 15 AM is a science. You need a technician who knows radio (radio guru
type)
who knows and can correctly implement the legal tricks for getting
good
range. People who you may hear of that are getting great range didn't
just throw
it up and by accident got great range, they worked hard for it.
Be cautious with other so called "high performance" transmitters, they typically
haven't put the quality into there product RangeMaster has.
For example most transmitters will become much less efficient on lower
frequencies because it makes the parts cheaper.
Great range on AM is mostly the ground, andaudio processing See our Hints page
On another subject, be cautious using uncertified
illegal kits, especially in Florida and New Jersey.
In Florida there is a State
law concerning illegal transmitters that carries a maximum 5 year prison
sentence.
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