Technical Information
Moody Radio in Valdez is heard over an FM translator station operating at 100W. With the type of directional antenna configuration that has been installed, this is just enough wattage for our signal to be heard adequately within the entire Valdez listening area. It is because we are a 'translator' station that we have an elongated station call sign, which is K220AD.
In the Lower 48 states east of the Mississippi, these translator stations are viewed more as 'neighborhood' stations and are allotted only 1 watt of power for operation. These stations would cover only small parts of a city. West of the Mississippi, translators are given 10 watts of power for operation. The same type of station in Alaska may operate with a 100 watt transmitter. In our situation, this is all that we need.
MBN in Valdez can be heard anywhere with the city proper, the airport area, Robe River Subdivision, the Aleyska terminal. With the proper antenna, the station can also be heard in the Alpine Woods and Nordic subdivisions up to the Keystone Canyon. Our antennas are directional. One is pointing at the airport area, and the other is 'looking' at the Lowe River valley. The signal that we hear in Valdez proper is actually the 'back feed' from these two antennas.
The signal that we are rebroadcasting originates at the Moody Bible Institute in Chicago, Illinois. Because the satellite used by Moody is so low on our Alaska horizon, it has become necessary for the signal to be down linked in Anchorage and then up linked to a second satellite more directly overhead. This double link results in a one second delay in actual live broadcast.
All equipment is fully automatic and is housed within the Alasscom building on the hill behind the animal shelter. There is no 'studio' where broadcasting takes place. We do produce local identification spots, however, which are required by the FCC. Local voices are recorded and mixed with music on computer before being copied to a tape cart. The cart player is activated at the top of each hour by an electronic clock, cutting into the network feed to provide the required local identification.
Reception
For best FM reception, locate portable radios near windows, especially if you are listening from within a metal building such as a trailer home.
Stereo component systems also require the addition of an external wire antenna. These insulated copper antennas come with new component systems and must be added before an FM signal can be adequately received. If you cannot locate the antenna that came with your system, one can easily be made from any light duty insulated electrical cord. Simply strip insulation on ends and separate cord halves as shown. Attach antenna leads the back of your FM receiver.
If you are experiencing any difficulty with your reception, do no hesitate to contact VCR for additional help.