The Broadcasters' Desktop Resource

Greetings from your broadcast friends out on the Desert…
This is BDR Newsletter 895, Volume 18, #10 for September 30, 2026

ENTERING THE FOURTH QUARTER
October 1st is the start of the Q4 2026. For those keeping track, there are some FCC related filings that need to be done this month. that Issues & Programs list needs to be filed by the 10th of the month. If you have not done the quarterly tower lighting system inspection, today is the last day for that. (Not just noting the lights turn on, but an inspection of the entire lighting system ##). Also, each quarter presents an opportunity to review the station authorizations and maintenance logs. It is not required you do this at this moment, but with renewals coming up next year, have documentation of proper operation is a very good thing to have on hand.

## TOWER LIGHTING SYSTEMS
All to often, if you ask someone, the answer is “I check each quarter that the tower lights go on at night.” But that is only part of the requirement – the system includes all the control circuits, monitoring, and alarm/reporting. For example, did you know the sensor that turns the lights on and off has specific calibration points and needs to be pointed to the northern sky?

The inspection should be both electrical and visual; look for wiring and fixtures that are damaged, frayed, or otherwise failing. The results should be entered in a Maintenance Log.

WHITE STUFF AHEAD!
Yep … each part of the year has some maintenance items that need consideration. Does your station use de-icers on the antenna? If so, it is recommended that you take time now to check the Winter-based aspects of your operation. De-icers, ice shields, site heaters, etc, should be checked for proper operation while there is still time for repairs before Winter sets in.

MORE TIPS ON WINTERIZING YOUR SITES
You may have been though Winter at a site that freezes or you may be new to a location where ice and snow are a major issue during the year. This week, Jeff Welton stops by to share some of his checklist on things to do before the freeze hits. Perhaps you will have a tip or two to share back! No snow? There are still things you need to remember and prepare for as we into into the Winter months.

The Virtual Lunch Gathering will be at its usual time 2 PM Eastern/ 11 AM Pacific. We hope you will join us and learn things. The link for our presentation is at www.theBDR.net/TLG/ We will also be on YouTube live and the video will be archived on the BDR Lunch Gathering page.

… and do not forget, on the same page we have hundreds of videos you can use on subjects you will want to learn about.

And, one more thing, we do have a Tuesday Reminder list, if you wish to be reminded of each week’s program. Just reply to this email and ask!