TRANSLATORS AND SATELLATORS
The use of a translator is a very effective and efficient way to provide an extended outreach of Christian radio to people who would not otherwise receive it from a local station.
WHAT IT DOES:Technically, the translator consists of a very sensitive receiver and small transmitter. A good receiving site is selected and a high gain antenna is used to pick up Mars Hill Network signals from one of its sources. This signal is re-broadcast on another frequency in the FM band (hence, the name translator). Usually, an entire town or village will hear the re-broadcast signal. The equipment is not complex and uses little electricity, but does need to be housed within a dry indoor area near the antenna. The antenna needs to be placed on a tall structure at the highest possible elevation. Some groups have effectively used a farm silo on a hill; others have placed theirs on a tall building, while others have had to erect a tower to facilitate their antenna.
WE'RE TOO FAR AWAY! If the area in question is too far away for any Mars Hill Network signal to reach it, even marginally, there is the option of a satellator. A satellator receives the Mars Hill signal over our satellite frequency.
HOW IT CAN BE DONE: This is a project that can be taken on by a church, a group of churches or a group of interested Christians from several churchs with the Mars Hill Network's help. The cost involved is about $10,000, usually a total one-time cost. Other expenses that may need to be considered are land (rent), tower, and/or payment for the small amount of electricity that is needed. In some cases, the Mars Hill Network might be able to help with the initial expenses. We can also help with the technical details.
TECHNICAL DETAILS: Basically, the technical details consist of selecting the site for the translator, obtaining the equipment, filling out and filing with the FCC the proper applications for approval and the preparing and testing of the equipment. The Mars Hill Network will assist you or take care of this process for you.
LOCAL BROADCASTING: Can the local group broadcast on the system themselves besides re-broadcasting signals from the Mars Hill Network? To a limited degree. The FCC does allow short messages to be broadcast on the translator, if desired, once per hour by the responsible group. There will be some slight additional cost for equipment to do this. Otherwise, the station runs unattended. No personnel are needed.
WHAT'S NEXT? Please think and pray about it. If you feel led of the Lord to persue a translator in your area, organize a group of others who feel the same way and give us a call. We would be happy to talk with you about the possibilities.