Radio Ink has reported that the FCC has presented its final IBOC rules. From the initial release on the FCC website:
- There will be no schedule for mandatory conversion to digital
- AM Night will be authorized
- FM stations can use extended digital hybrid mode
- Stations must simulcast a digital signal at least as good a analog
- Stations can use a flexible bandwidth policy – digicasting, multichannel, etc.
- Brokering is OK, with restrictions
- Same program content rules as main channels – no swearing, fake contests, political access, etc.
- The FCC is looking for comment on some remaining issues:Â Limits on subscription broadcasting, public interest limitations.
MB Docket – 99-325 is still open for comments on some items. A link to the Report and Order will be added here when it becomes available.