Our series on site security comes to an end with this installment from Kevin Kidd. As we publish this, Comex Copper is still close to $3.00 per pound, with scrap continuing to sell for double what new copper cost just a few years ago. As readers of this series know, I use an […]

Although this series was sparked by the increase in thefts of copper from ground systems, the need for site security affects all stations. Whether AM or FM, you do not need vandals ripping out air conditioning coils, or breaking into the building. In this installment, Kevin Kidd explains some solutions that will work […]

Securing – and protecting – a transmission site takes more than an occasional visit. Thieves do know when a company appears unconcerned about a site. Kevin Kidd continues with his survey on how to reduce the damage that can occur from unwanted visitors. Last time we discussed the F in the acronym FLAP […]

Without a secure transmitter site, a broadcast station cannot properly maintain its on-air operations. That is why protection from everything from lightning to vandalism and theft is a high priority. As to the latter, Kevin Kidd has some good suggestions to share. He hopes you will FLAP, too. Let us start with an […]

Copper prices have become a major cost for broadcasters. Even though it has dropped from over $4.60 a pound to the low $3.00 range, even scrap metal prices are still well above the wholesale costs just a few years ago. Unfortunately, drug addicts and other thieves see transmitter sites as pretty easy “banks” […]

It startles people to learn that half of an AM antenna is invisible, hidden under the dirt, grass, parking lots, etc., that surround radio towers. We know towers need periodically to be inspected and maintained with fresh paint and guy wire retensioning. Ground system also needs regular attention. Kevin Kidd offers some tips […]