TABLE OF CONTENTS

Foreword								1

General Information						2

General Operating Policy						3

	I.	BASIC WORK POLICIES				4
		1-1	Student Worker Levels
		1-2	Time Cards
		1-3	Staff Meetings
		1-4	Staff E-Mail / Mail Boxes
		1-5	Security
		1-6	Visitors
		1-7	Interviews
		1-8	Housekeeping
		1-9	Telephone Use
		1-10	Phone / Pager Numbers
		1-11	Voice Mail
		1-12	Whom To Call

	II.	GENERAL STAFF POLICIES			8
		2-1	Serious Equipment Malfunction
		2-2	Station Production
		2-3	Production Booth Sign-Up/Use
		2-4	Student WISU Studio Use

	III.	PROGRAMMING					9
		3-1	Program Policy-General
		3-2	Underwriters
		3-3	Music Policy
		3-4	Station Promotions
		3-5	Contests/Give-Aways

	IV.	BOARD OPERATORS: SPECIFIC POLICIES	11
		4-1	Monitoring
		4-2	Pre-Shift Arrival Time
		4-3	Shift Changes
		4-4	Substitutes
		4-5	Station ID’s
		4-6	DJ Talk
		4-7	Skimmer

		4-8	Dead Air
		4-9	Output Levels
		4-10	Programs Ending Early/Late
		4-11	Music Libraries
		4-12	Weather Forecasts
		4-13	Listener Phone Calls/Requests
		4-14	Public File
		4-15	Station Keys
		4-16	Listener Complaints
		4-17	Suspension Policy
		4-18	News Computer
		4-19	Computer Use
		4-20	Representation

	V.	LOGS							17
		5-1	Guidelines
		5-2	Log Corrections/Changes
		5-3	Log Errors
		5-4	Discrepancy Sheet
		5-5	Sample Transmitter Log

	VI.	TECHNICAL OPERATIONS			20
		6-1	Sign-On Procedure
		6-2	Meter Reading Procedure
		6-3	Sign-Off Procedure
		6-4	Adjusting Transmitter Output Power
		6-5	Remote Control Functions
		6-6	Checking Stereo Operation
		6-7	Putting Studio A On-Air
		6-8	Routing Switcher
		6-9	Remote Broadcasts
		6-10	Emergency Phone Procedures

	VII.	EMERGENCY ALERT SYSTEM
		7-1	The Role of EAS
		7-2	WISU and the EAS
	           7-3	The EAS Receiver

FOREWORD

WISU OPERATING MANUAL

THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THE WISU OPERATING MANUAL WILL COVER DAY-TO-DAY OPERATING PROCEDURES, AND IS TO BE USED IN CARRYING OUT DAILY RESPONSIBILITIES IN EACH DEPARTMENT AT THE STATION.

THE PURPOSE OF THIS MANUAL IS TO SUPPORT THE EFFICIENT AND EFFECTIVE OPERATION OF WISU.  OF COURSE, NOT EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW CAN BE PUT INTO A SMALL BOOKLET.  THE OPERATION OF OUR DIGITAL EQUIPMENT, REMOTE EQUIPMENT, AND SOME SPECIAL PATCHING PROCEDURES ARE BEST LEARNED AND TAUGHT PERSON-TO-PERSON.  BUT VIRTUALLY EVERYTHING ELSE IS IN HERE.

ONCE YOU HAVE READ THIS MATERIAL YOU MAY HAVE QUESTIONS THAT COULD BE ANSWERED BY THE STATION MANAGER OR A DIRECTOR.

GENERAL INFORMATION

1.	WISU is a non-commercial educational FM broadcast station.*

2.	The licensee for WISU is: Board of Trustees, Indiana State University, Terre Haute, Indiana 47809.

3.	Broadcast frequency is 89.7 megahertz.

4.	Effective radiated power is 13,500 watts.

5.	Transmitter output power is 5,000 watts.

6.	Antenna height above average terrain is 518 feet.

7.	Transmitter:  Harris HT-5FM.

8.	Chief Engineer:  Mr. Jeff Steinmiller,  Campus: 3190;  
	Home: _____________.  Pager: 832- ________.

9.	Radio Engineer:  Mr. Dan Watson,  Campus: 3239.  Pager:  832-0004.  
	Home: 898-2215.

10.	Station Manager:  Mr. David Sabaini,  Campus: 3248; Home:777-7777;
	Pager: xxx-xxxx; Cellular: xxx-xxxx

11.	WISU Student Assistant Manager:______________, Home: __________
	Pager: xxx-xxxx.

12.	WISU News/Sports Fax #: 2xx-xxxx; Music/Office Fax: 2xx-xxxx

13.	WISU e-mail address: cmwisufm@ruby.indstate.edu
	WISU Web Page Address: http://wisu.indstate.edu

NOTE:	Any University equipment that is lost, stolen or damaged while in your possession, or under your control is your responsibility.  

*Non-commercial educational broadcast station--A radio or television broadcast station, which under the rules and regulations of the FCC is licensed by the FCC as a non-commercial educational broadcast station, and which is owned and operated by a public agency or non-profit private foundation, corporation, or association.

GENERAL OPERATING POLICY

In the following pages, you will find specific information regarding the operation of WISU-FM.  However, a general overview is appropriate as a beginning reference.

WISU-FM is a non-commercial, educational radio station licensed to Indiana State University.  WISU does not broadcast commercials or promotional announcements for businesses or other for-profit entities.  No announcements are to be made on-air unless specifically approved by the Station Manager or his/her designee.

WISU is NOT a student station--rather, it is a University station STAFFED by students.  University personnel determine the programming and operative policies.  Nobody is here to "play radio".

WISU exists for two primary reasons:  (1) to present programming which is generally consistent with the educational, cultural and artistic purposes of Indiana State University, and (2) to provide students interested in a career in radio broadcasting with a laboratory experience.  It is for these reasons that no indecent, profane, false or superfluous material is to be broadcast over WISU-FM.

Every employee at WISU-FM, whether volunteer, for credit, or paid, is responsible for reading this manual and understanding its contents.

Every Board Operator must pass the "WISU Checklist" (a quiz based on the material covered in this manual) every semester.

STRIVE FOR PROFESSIONALISM!

I.  Basic Work Policies
1-1  Student Worker Levels 

There are five levels of student workers at WISU: 1)Probationary/ Trainee; 2) Credit/Practicum; 3) Volunteer; 4) Paid; Director.  Normally, students must progress through the first two stages before being offered a paid position.
	1.	Probationary/Trainee - Unpaid.  The normal probationary period for all 
		employees is two semesters.
	2.	Credit/Practicum - Unpaid, academic credit.  The normal practicum 
		employment period is two consecutive semesters after being released from 
		Probation.  Before registering for either COMM 200/300, you MUST
		see the Station Manager!
	3.	Volunteer - Unpaid, no academic credit.  Those student workers who have 
		successfully completed their probationary period and who elect not to take 
		a Practicum to receive academic credit for working at WISU, may continue to 
		gain experience working as a volunteer.  Students may hold volunteer status 
		for an unlimited number of semesters.
	4.	Paid - No new student worker at WISU may be considered for a paid position 
		until satisfactorily completing the probationary period and either the Credit/
		Practicum or Volunteer levels.  Paid positions are normally limited to no more 
		than six (6) hours per week.
	5.	Director - Each semester, WISU awards seven partial tuition waivers to 
		students who have been placed in leadership roles at the station.  These 
		Waivers are payment for 10 hours of work per week at the station.  Although 
		Directorship titles may change with the needs of the station, typically awarded 
		are: Student Asst. Station Manager, Production Director, News Director,
		Sports Director, and Music Directors.  Applications for Directorships are
		usually taken during Spring Semester.

NOTE: 	You are encouraged to determine what, if any, Financial Aid (e.g. Work/Study) you may be eligible for. 

1-2  Time Cards

All students being paid to work at WISU will be given a time card every two weeks.  It is the responsibility of each paid student to:  (1) log your paid hours on your time card, (2) sign your time card, and (3) write your Social Security number on the upper right-hand corner of your time card. Students must supply required paperwork and identification to the  Student Employment Programs Office prior to beginning duties in order to be placed on ISU student payroll.

1-3  Staff Meetings

Staff meetings will be held as seldom as possible.  However, when staff meetings are scheduled, they are important and mandatory.

If you must miss a staff meeting, you must notify a station official in ADVANCE.  Failure to attend a staff meeting or notify an official in advance of your absence could result in your suspension.

1-4  Staff E-Mail / Mail Boxes

All students working at WISU, regardless of department or pay status, must supply their e-mail address to their departmental director the first week of each semester, and whenever it is changed.  E-mail is the primary means of staff communication, therefore, you should check your e-mail at least once per week.  

Every staff member will be assigned a mail slot in the Staff Room.  All mail and other important communication will be placed in these boxes. Check your box every week.

1-5  Security

It is station policy that the double main doors and the north entrance door to WISU are locked at 9 p.m., or when the last board operator for the day has begun his/her shift.  This is for your safety.  The key for the main WISU doors is located in Master Control.  If anyone needs access to WISU after hours, they should arrange entry in advance.

At sign-off the Board Operator should:  (1) put away all CD's, tapes, and logs; (2) turn off all appropriate switches; (3) lock the doors to Master Control; (4) make sure the doors to Studio A, Newsroom, Music Library, audio booths, offices and classroom are locked, (5) LOCK THE MAIN DOORS AS YOU LEAVE.

Theft of or intentional damage to any WISU equipment, material or facility will result in immediate termination and University disciplinary procedures.

1-6  Visitors

Due to the nature of our operation, limited space, and good programming, visitors in Master Control must be limited.    NO MORE than (1) visitor is allowed in Master Control at any time.  Visitors may not remain for more than 15 minutes.

1-7  Interviews

No interviews, either live or recorded, are to be broadcast on WISU without the prior approval of the Station Manager.

1-8  Housekeeping

Workspace at WISU is common area.  This means that several people will be working in the same area on any given day.  Messiness is not only a distraction, but can result in inefficiency, errors, and damage to our equipment.

While the University custodial staff performs some routine cleaning services, our staff can assist in keeping a professional environment by cleaning work areas after each use.  For example, board operators can pick up Master Control after their shift; newspeople can pick up the Newsroom after each newscast, etc.

NO SMOKING IS ALLOWED IN ANY STUDIO, or anywhere else in Dreiser Hall.

NO FOOD OR DRINK IS ALLOWED IN ANY STUDIO.

1-9  Telephone Use

To dial on-campus numbers, dial only the last 4 digits.  To dial off-campus (as of 5/11/98), dial 97 for an outside line.  To learn how to operate the telephones, or for SUVON (i.e. in-state phone network calls.  Dial 98-AC-number) or long distance calls, see the Station Manager.

WISU telephones are not to be used for personal calls.  Excessive personal calls during your shift could result in your suspension.  The only WISU telephone number to be released to the public, or mentioned on-the-air is: 237-3256.  The WISU telephone system automatically rings-through to the other numbers in Master Control if 237-3256 is busy, so publicizing those numbers is unnecessary and not authorized.

1-10  WISU Telephone Numbers (area code 812)

(also see “General Information in the front of this booklet)
	• WISU Master Control:		
	• WISU Student Asst. Manager:	
	• WISU Student Asst. Mgr. Pager:
	• WISU FAXES:			
	• WISU News/Sports:		
	• Production Booths:		
	• WISU Engineer:			
	• Station Manager:			
	• Station Manager Pager:		
	• Dept. of Communication:		
	• Radio Engineer pager:		

1-11 WISU Voice Mail

All telephones at WISU are connected to the ISU Voice Mail system.  After four (4) rings, callers will hear electronic messages pertinent to the extensions they've called, including Master Control.  If a message has been left, you'll hear an interrupted dial tone when you pick up the line.

To retrieve messages, simply dial xxxx from the extension, press the last x digits of that extension number when asked for "your pass code", and press the "x" key when told.  BE PREPARED TO WRITE MESSAGES DOWN!

1-12  Whom To Call

In the event of any problem you can't handle:  technical, programming, personnel or other, call the following station officials in order:

	1.  Station Manager
	2.  Student Asst. Manager
	3.  Radio Engineer
	4.  Chief Engineer

Leave messages on answering machines and pagers if you don't reach a human!  Call each of the above after the problem has been solved.

	II.  GENERAL STAFF POLICIES

2-1  Serious Equipment Malfunction

If a problem arises with the transmitter or remote control, or if a major piece of equipment fails (e.g. the audio console), call the engineer and the Station Manager.  (See section 1-11)

2-2  Station Production

High-quality productions for on-air use are encouraged.  In general, production falls into three categories:  (A) program production; (B) Public Service Announcements (PSA's); and (C) Promotional Announcements (promos).

(A)  The creation of new, original programming is encouraged.  However, before production is formally started, you must:  (1) present a detailed written proposal to the Station Manager, and (2) supply a recorded sample of the proposed program, if possible.  The Station Manager must approve all productions before being broadcast.

(B)  Public Service Announcements are submitted to WISU frequently.  If you are interested in producing one, see the Production Director.

(C)  There should be a recorded promo for every program on WISU.  Promos "promote" WISU programming.  Promos, like PSA's, should be either :30 or :60 in length.  Have the copy for any promo approved in advance by the Station Manager. 

2-3  Production Booth Sign-Up/Use

Sign-up sheets for Audio Production Booths 1, 2 and 3 will be posted every two weeks in DH 210.  Only students currently enrolled in radio or television production courses and WISU Staff may use these booths unless permission has been given from the Director of Audio Operations.  (Also see sections 1-5 and 2-4)

2-4  Student WISU Studio Use

Only WISU Staff is permitted to use WISU MCR at all times.  Only WISU Staff, and advanced production students are permitted to use Studio A.  WISU production always has priority in all WISU Studios.  Sign-up sheets are posted every two weeks.  "Permanent" studio time may be secured from the Station Manager every semester.

No audio production facility is to be used after midnight under any circumstances

NO ONE MAY USE WISU MCR FOR PRODUCTION WITHOUT PERMISSION!!

III.   PROGRAMMING

3-1  Program Policy - General

WISU strives to build a faithful audience.  That audience expects scheduled programming to air at regularly scheduled times.  Therefore, board operators are NOT to make changes in programming.  If programming changes are needed, Station Management will make them. 

3-2  Underwriters

WISU is associated with a variety of program underwriters.  An underwriter is a business or organization that funds programming on WISU.  WISU, in turn, announces periodically that support has been given.  If you are responsible for broadcasting an underwriting announcement, treat it with the utmost dignity, and make sure it airs at the proper time(s). 

3-3  Music Policy

All music aired on WISU should conform not only to the guidelines set forth in the General Operating Policy, but also to the traditional criteria established in the various formats.  For example, the Jazz programs should contain Jazz music by new and established Jazz artists, NOT "cross-over" material such as soul, urban contemporary, rock, etc.  THIS POLICY HOLDS FOR ALL WISU MUSIC FORMATS.

No unapproved cuts are to be broadcast.  Similarly, no board operator should alter or otherwise write on the approved track listing for each C.D.

3-4  Station Promotions

All printed, published or broadcast promotional matter in addition to "personal appearances" must be approved in ADVANCE by the Station Manager.  Do not play a recorded promo for the program currently being broadcast. (e.g. Underground Air promo during Underground Air).

3-5  Contests/Give-Aways

All contests and give-aways must be approved in advance by the Station Manager.  No employee is to approach a business, recording label, or other entity to secure or 
request "prizes" without prior approval of the Station Manager.

IV.  BOARD OPERATORS:  SPECIFIC POLICIES

4-1  Monitoring

Federal regulations state that the board operator on duty must monitor (listen to) the off-air signal.  Therefore, board operators are not to play CD's, MD’s, etc., (except those being broadcast or cued for broadcast) during their shift, nor are they to be wandering around the building.  The reason:  if you are not monitoring the off-air signal, you could be unaware of problems such as transmitter failure, etc.

4-2  Pre-Shift Arrival Time

The station policy is that board operators are to be in Master Control at least 15 minutes before a shift.  Arriving late may be grounds for suspension.

4-3  Shift Changes

Board Operators must stay on duty until the next scheduled operator takes over.  If the next operator is late:  (1) call that person, (2) call a station official, (3) stay on duty until someone arrives.  DO NOT LEAVE THE STATION UNATTENDED OR SIGN-OFF!

4-4  Substitutes

Board operators may occasionally need to be excused from a scheduled board shift.  In such cases, the scheduled board operator is the sole person responsible for finding an acceptable (trained) substitute.  The person needing a substitute must fill out a "Substitution Slip" (posted on entry bulletin board), and notify Student Assistant Manager when they have secured a qualified substitute. 

4-5  Station I.D.'s

The FCC requires stations to give a legal I.D. at the top of every hour.  Our legal I.D. is:  "WISU, Terre Haute".  Nothing more is needed, although you may wish to say something like:  "You're listening to Real Good Radio from Indiana State University, WISU, Terre Haute."  What you say before or after the I.D. will depend on your particular shift; just remember that you must include "WISU, Terre Haute".  NOTE:  "WISU-FM 90, Terre Haute" is NOT a legal I.D., and should not be used at the top of the hour.

It is station policy to identify our station at every break.  It is at these times that you can use the "WISU-FM 90" type of I.D.  NOTE:  ALL MUSIC FORMATS TAKE THIS TYPE OF BREAK AT LEAST EVERY 20 MINUTES (i.e. when scheduled - on schedule, on the log).  NEVER PLAY MORE THAN 3 SONGS WITHOUT BREAKING AND I.D.’ING.

4-6  DJ Talk

As a training facility, WISU strives to help its staff improve their on-air delivery.  Generally, with the exception of news, sports, and interview programs, announcers should limit their talking segments to 30 seconds per break.  We do not attempt to educate our listeners, particularly during music programs.  Do not tell listeners more than they need to know about a piece of music.  Give the performer, and recording label plus a short, appropriate bit of information.

DO NOT: call attention to technical problems or your mistakes; make fun of announcements, people or music appearing on WISU; comment on (or even mention) other radio stations; editorialize.

4-7  Skimmer

A “skimmer” is a recording device utilized by on-air talent to record (skim) anything put on-air using the studio mics.  The WISU skimmer is the cassette deck in MCR.  To use it, put a 90 or 120 minute cassette in the deck, press “Record” and “Pause”, put mics to be recorded in “Audition” on the console.  Anytime the Mic pot is then keyed on, the cassette begins recording.  It pauses again when the Mic pot is turned off.  This allows you to record an entire shift on one cassette.

4-8  Dead Air

"Dead air" is the radio term for unwanted silence.  Dead air often occurs because the board operator was wandering around the building or not monitoring the off-air signal.  (See sec. 4-2).  Dead air is a turn-off to our listeners and is unprofessional.  If you are prone to having dead air during your shifts, you are subject to suspension.

4-9  Output Levels

Much of our programming, especially on-mic speaking, has widely varying volume (levels).  Board operators are required to watch the V.U. meters on the control board to be sure acceptable levels are being maintained.  The board meters, except for the most quiet music passages, should be very close to, and occasionally into the "red" on the V.U. meters.  The Optimod will prevent distortion.  Low levels and irregular levels make us sound unprofessional and muddy.  Keep all levels, CD, Mic, etc., near the red on the meters.

4-10  Programs Ending Early/Late 

It is not uncommon for recorded programs to either run short (end early), or run long (end late).

If a program runs short (ends early), you have several options:

	1.	read the weather
	2.	read "LIVE" PSA's or news wire "fill" material
	3.	play recorded PSA's or Promos, but NEVER more than two in a row
	4.	play fill music that is appropriate to the program that just ended

NOTE: 	Do not start the next program early!

If a program runs long or ends late, observe the following procedures:

	1.	DO NOT, UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES, END A RECORDED PROGRAM 
		BEFORE IT IS COMPLETE even if the program runs substantially long!

	2.	When the long program ends, give a legal I.D. and go into the next program.

	3.	If the next program is "LIVE", it should end at its regular time.  That is, it does 
		not run long simply because the preceding program ran long.

4-11  Music Libraries

The WISU Music Libraries are to be kept neat and in order.  All Board Operators are responsible for re-filing the music they use during their shift.  No WISU music holdings are to be taken out of the building!

4-12  Weather Forecasts

Terre Haute is in Vigo (pronounced VEE-go) County.  Any time an updated weather forecast is printed from the Web, it should be brought to the Board Operator immediately.

The weather should be read as scheduled, but at least every half-hour all day.  Do not read wind speed or direction unless they are over 20 mph.

4-13  Listener Phone Calls/Requests

All phone calls from WISU listeners should be handled with the utmost courtesy.  If a listener needs information that you cannot provide, transfer the call to a station official.  If the call is made after business hours, ask them to call back on the next business day.  Be polite, even if the caller is rude.

WISU does not "dedicate" songs.  If you receive a request, tell the caller you'll "do your best" to play it.

Do not announce or otherwise promote any on or off campus parties or dances, even for ISU groups.

Listener calls are not to be put on-the-air without the prior approval of the Station Manager.

4-14  Public File

The FCC requires that all broadcast facilities maintain a Public File.  The WISU Public File is kept in the Station Manager's office and is available for review by anyone (including the public at large) during regular business hours.

The Public File contains a variety of documents, including the license application for WISU, EEO material, engineering reports, and correspondence.

If anyone approaches you about viewing the WISU Public File, direct him or her to the Station Manager during regular business hours.  BE COURTEOUS.

4-15  Station Keys

All student requests for keys to the station should be directed to the Station Manager.

The so-called "Weekend Keys" are kept at the University Security Office and are available only to those students designated at the beginning of each semester by the station management.

Any student found to have keys to any room/office at WISU without permission is subject to both termination and possible University action.

4-16  Listener Complaints

In the event a listener calls with any complaint regarding the station, the board operator on duty must:  1) take caller's name and phone or address (if they'll give it); 2) write a brief summary of the complaint; 3) tell the caller you've written their name, number and complaint down, and will give it to the Station Manager; and 4) turn the note into the Station Manager immediately via staff mailbox or in person.

4-17  Suspension Policy

Suspension of personnel is one of three possible disciplinary measures--the others being termination and reprimand.  Suspension implies that, while an employee has been relieved of his/her duties at the present time, there is a possibility for reinstatement.  The normal length of a suspension will be one semester.  An employee who has been suspended may, after the suspension has expired, apply for reinstatement.

4-18  News Computer

Both the Board Operator and the Newsperson on duty should monitor the News Room computer.  News and Sports are fed to WISU via e-mail on this computer.  Go to Netscape, click the Envelope icon on the bottom right-hand corner.  The password is “radio”.  This should be checked at least once an hour.  Always leave the news computer on!   Make sure to read the most recent feeds.

If the news computer "locks up", turn it off and re-start it and Netscape. In the event of serious malfunction, contact the Station Manager or the WISU Engineer.

4-19  Computer Use

The general staff, providing that a station official has approved access to the offices may use computers other than the news computer at WISU.  WISU work always has priority on these machines.  Unauthorized personnel should alter no existing databases or hard drives in any way.  One incident will result in loss of privileges.  The WISU Web Server is NOT for personal use!

4-20  Representation

Any person representing WISU either in the office area or outside the studios during remotes, etc. is expected to dress and behave in a professional manner.

VI.  LOGS

5-1  Guidelines

Every Board Operator is responsible for knowing how to keep the Transmitter Log.

The Transmitter Log is extremely important.  The FCC requires that we take transmitter readings no less than once every 3 hours.  THE BOARD OPERATOR ON DUTY IS RESPONSIBLE FOR TAKING METER READINGS AT LEAST ONCE EVERY THREE (3) HOURS.  These readings are logged in the appropriate spaces on the Transmitter Log.  (See section 6-2.)  Always check the Transmitter Log at the start of your board shift to determine when you need to take the next meter reading.  These readings are essential to determine if our transmitting equipment is operating correctly.  

Check the Tower Lights (LED light # 8 on remote control) during the last shift of the night and enter it on the Transmitter Log.

5-2  Log Corrections/Changes

On occasion, the Board Operator may be required to make a change and/or correction in the log.  This is done by (1) making a single line through the error or change, (2) printing the change or correction immediately above the line you just drew, and (3) placing your initials beside the change or correction.

Board Operators should sign their full names on the Transmitter Log at the start of their shifts.

NOTE: Only blue or black ink is to be used on the logs.  NO PENCIL OR COLORED 
PENS.

5-3  Log Errors

If a Board Operator has committed a log error, the Assistant Manager will post the Operator's name near the control room.  Any Board Operator with a log error must see the Assistant Manager to correct the error within one week of the error.

5-4  Discrepancy Sheet

The Discrepancy Sheet is attached to the daily Transmitter Logs.  It should be used by the Board Operator to report anything that "is not as it should be," but primarily Traffic problems such as missing or misplaced items, bad MD’s or CD's, outdated promos or PSA's and the like.

VI.  TECHNICAL OPERATIONS

6-1  Sign On Procedure

1.	Turn on all appropriate power switches.

2.	Turn on FM Monitor (open panel and press red "PWR" button).

3.	Information Removed.

4.	WAIT FOR 3 MINUTES.

5.	Information removed... YOU'RE ON THE 
	AIR!!!  CONGRATULATIONS!!!

NOTE:	If you do not get a reading on the green meter at this point, go back and 
		repeat steps 3 through 5 above.

6.	Get DigiLink ready.  1) make sure proper format shows on “sign-on line, 
	2) click on “Manual”, load sign-on announcement from ID under “Categories”,
	or play its “Hot Key, 3) begin announcement precisely at sign-on time.

6-2  Meter Reading Procedure

1.	THIS IS EASY!!!  To read Final voltage, go to Channel 2 on the remote control 
	unit, and write the number that appears under "VALUE" on the log.  

	DO NOT INCLUDE THE CHANNEL NUMBER.

2.	To read final current, go to channel 3, and write the number displayed on the 
	screen under "value".  INCLUDE THE DECIMAL POINT, BUT NOT THE 
	CHANNEL NUMBER.

6-3  Sign Off Procedures

1.	Information removed.

2.	WAIT FOR 3 MINUTES.

3.	Information removed.

4.	Turn off all appropriate power switches and lock up station.

6-4  Adjusting Transmitter Output Power

When reading the remote control  (power output percentage), if the reading is below 90.0, you will need to raise the transmitter power.  If the reading in position #4 is above 105.0, you will need to lower the transmitter power.

To raise or lower the transmitter output power, go xxxxxxxxx on the remote control.

To raise the power, while in xxxxxx, press the "up" arrow for 3 seconds; to lower power press the "down" arrow for 3 seconds.

After pressing an arrow key, go back to xxxxxxxx and make sure the reading is between 90.0 and 105.0.  If it isn't, repeat the above steps.  If the power cannot be adjusted up or down, and is outside of the 90.0 to 105.0 range in xxxxxxxx, CALL AN ENGINEER IMMEDIATELY!

NOTE:  Even if your original readings are high or low, log your original readings on the Transmitter Log, then raise or lower the output, and make a note of what you did on the Transmitter Log (i.e. "raised output to 99.3%") - include your initials and the time.

6-5  Remote Control Functions

The Remote Control Unit  performs all vital transmitter functions.  The table below shows you what the various positions control. 

To change functions, press the white button labeled "CHAN" on the remote control unit.  The red numeral under "Channel" on the red display screen indicates what function below the remote control can perform.

Information Removed.

6-6  Checking Stereo Operation

To determine that WISU is broadcasting in stereo, simply check the green "Stereo" light on the Optimod in the remote control rack.  If the light is on, WISU is in stereo.

If the light is off, flip the stereo/mono switch on the Optimod to the "stereo" position.

6-7  Putting Studio A On-Air

From time to time it may be necessary for WISU to broadcast from Studio A.  To do this:

Go to the Arrakis System Routing Switcher in the far right rack in MCR.  Turn the first black wheel to position #X.  The other wheels don't matter for this procedure.

You can now go on the air from Studio A using the PGM channel on the audio console in Studio A.

6-8  Routing Switcher

The Arrakis Routing Switcher that we referred to above, located in MCR, is a versatile piece of equipment.  It essentially takes the place of a patch panel.  

The normal positions for the four black wheels are (left to right) q-x-y-z.

Taking these wheels off the positions listed above could have consequences of confusion and/or elimination of some studio equipment.  Before using the Routing Switcher, see the Station Manager or an engineer.

6-9  Remote Broadcasts

The telephone interface makes remote broadcasts and listener phone calls easy to air. The interface runs through both the MCR and Studio A Boards.

When making or receiving a call using the telephone interface, use the single line telephones that are attached to the interface boxes themselves.

To answer a line, or to get a line to make a call, make sure the pot for the telephone is in CUE.  Then, press the "Air" button;  2) keeping the "Air" button pressed, next press the button for the line you wish to use (either 1, 2, 3, or 4);  3) then release both buttons.  The red and green lights on the line in use should be lit.  When finished, press "release" and the button for the line you are using.  Both lights should go out - if they don't, repeat this last step.  (Also see Appendix I)

On local telephone remotes, the remote announcers will call the Board operator in MCR.  On remotes outside of the local calling area, the Board Operator will call the remote announcers using a long distance access code provided by Station Management.

When the MARTI is to be used for a remote, the engineer will need to turn on the MARTI receiver in MCR.  Once this is done, the MARTI feeds through the board in MCR like any other audio source.  If the MARTI is to be used, be sure to tell the engineer in advance to have the receiver turned on.

Look at the daily log to see if there is a special sheet attached regarding that day's remote.

6-10  Emergency Phone Procedures

If you need to get a program on the air that involves using phone lines and the phone hybrid is not working, follow these instructions:

	1.	Disconnect the phone from the phone hybrid (Symetrix) control box in the 
		Control room.

	2.	Connect this phone into the jack located in the right hand rack.  The jack is on 
		the front of the rack about in the middle of the rack.  It’s labeled 4779.

	3.	Get a double patch cord or two single patch cords from Studio A.

	4.	There is a jack panel on the rack farthest to the right.  It is just below where 
		you found the phone jack.

	5.	Patch on this jack panel from the bottom holes below the label 4779 to the 
		bottom holes labeled SW 15.

	6.	On the rack switcher (that's the tan box on the right rack with the four thumb 
	wheel switches), change the right thumb wheel from #3 where it was set, to #15.

	7.	Now you will get line 4779 on pot 7 position B-4.

	8.	If you have calls for on-air coming in on 3255 and 3256 forward these lines to 
		4779 so you can get them on the air.  (Call the ISU operator to find out how to 
		do this.)

	9.	You will have to operate your program from Master Control.

	10.You will answer your broadcast calls on the phone you just moved.  The 
		phone will have to be off the hook to place the calls on the air.  It must stay off 
		the hook for the entire call!

	11.If you have problems doing this, contact the Station Manager or an 
		engineer for more help.

	12.If you regularly run a phone program make sure you can do this procedure 
		before you will actually need to!

VII.  Emergency Alert System

7-1  The Role of EAS

The Emergency Alert System (EAS), the successor to the old Emergency Broadcast System (EBS), was put into full effect nationally on January 1, 1998.  The EBS, which had been around for decades, was deemed outmoded and ineffective.  The EAS, on the other hand, utilizes modern technology to the fullest to help protect the public. WISU has two pieces of EAS equipment: the Sage ENDEC Encoder/Decoder (the machine with the LED screen), and the EAS Receiver. 

The EAS is intended to warn the public in the event of an emergency.  Typically, these emergencies are weather related, however, they may also include hazardous situations like chemical spills, or even warnings of attacks by enemies of the nation.  It is your job as a board operator to know the basic operations of our EAS equipment, and what your role is in relation to those operations.  If you don’t, and we are inspected, you’ll have a $500 FCC fine to pay.

7-2  WISU and The EAS

WISU participates in the EAS in four ways: 1) receive and log weekly tests from WZZQ, 2) conduct and log our own weekly tests, 3) receive, relay and log monthly tests from WZZQ, and 4) relay and log actual emergencies.  

1) Once each week, WZZQ, the primary EAS station in Terre Haute, will run a test of its EAS equipment.  When this happens, our EAS receiver will print out the information from the slot on the upper right corner of the Sage ENDEC EAS Encoder/Decoder.  When the test is complete, pull the paper out GENTLY until you can read all the printing, and tear the print out off by lifting it UP.  The print out should then be stapled to that days log, and you should note on the log that an EAS Test was received by writing the time and initialing the proper space.

2) Conducting the WISU Weekly Tests is a simple matter.  The test will be scheduled on the log.  When you are to conduct an EAS Test, follow these steps: a) play the “EAS Intro” on the Digilink, b) after the intro, press the button under “WEEK” on the EAS machine, c) next, press the button under “PROCEED” (you will hear the tone start...it automatically goes through the board and to the transmitter), d) when the tone ends, play the “EAS Outro” on the DigiLink and tear off the print out as above and staple it to the log.  Also note on the log that the EAS Test was transmitted by writing the time and initialing.

3) Once a month, in place of the weekly test, WZZQ will transmit a “monthly” test.  This is identical to the weekly test, except that our job is to log as above, then “Relay” this test within 15 minutes of receiving it (or within 15 minutes of sign-on if received before we are on the air).  If you do not relay it within 15 minutes of receipt, and we are on the air, the EAS equipment will do it automatically by cutting into whatever is on-air at that time.  You will know you have received a monthly test if the ENDEC screen reads: “P REQUIRED RMT”, and shows a count down timer.  If you receive a monthly test, simply plan to relay it after your next song...even if you aren’t scheduled for a break...then log it as you would any other EAS test.  To relay the monthly tests, follow these steps: a) play the “EAS Intro” on the DigiLink, b) press the button under the word “PEND”, c) press the button under the word “SEND”, d) press the button under the word “PROCEED”, e) when the tones end, play the “EAS Outro” on the DigiLink, tear off the print-out, and log as above. 

4) When an actual emergency exists (called an “ALERT” in EAS language), your job is fairly simple.  First, the “Incoming Alert” light on the front of the EAS will light.  Next, check the display.  You will see the word “LENGTH” with an amount of time after it.  This shows you how much time will be taken when running the incoming alert.  Beneath that on the display, you’ll see a letter (either P, D, or H) followed by the words “Filter Name” and a count down timer that indicates how long you have before the machine takes over.  A “P” filter means that the machine will play it automatically when the counter reads 00:00, a “D” filter means it won’t automatically play it, an “H” means it is being held for an appropriate break by station automation.

From this point, you can do any of the following: a) nothing.  If it is an actual emergency (as recognized by the EAS machine itself), it will automatically interrupt programming and play when the timer expires; b) listen to the audio that came in with the alert if you missed it the first time (by pressing “PEND”, then “CUE”); or c) send (relay) it before the timer hits zero by pressing “PEND” then “SEND”, then “PROCEED”.

Of course, LOG EVERYTHING that happens with the EAS!!  ALWAYS!!!

7-3 The EAS Receiver

The EAS Receiver, beneath the Encoder/Decoder, is basically a radio with three choices for you to get additional information in case of an emergency.  To use, simply turn the volume knob up (on the right hand side), and turn the tuner knob on the left side to the desired station: Position 1 is WZZQ.  Position 2 is WBOW.  Position 3 is NOAA Weather Radio (localized).