FEMA wants broadcasters to keep EAS audio clean and free of distortion
Jul 21, 2011 10:58 AM, By Michael Grotticelli
FEMA is looking forward to the implementation of the Common Alerting Protocol, a more functional and resilient emergency alert system.
FEMA has begun drafting a series of best practices for broadcasters that will help ensure that the audio during a nationwide presidential alert planned for Nov. 9 will be distortion free.
During a webinar last week, Manny Centeno, Emergency Alert System (EAS) test program manager for FEMA’s Integrated Public Alert and Warning System, said the government wants to make sure the existing EAS is ready for future improvements as the country begins a migration to the multimedia-compatible Common Alerting Protocol (CAP) delivery system.
“We are looking for a more functional and resilient EAS,” he said, which requires testing. The best practices, he said, relate to EAS antennas, receiver/tuners, equipment installation and configuration.
“The audio will go through several levels and there will be degradation, so we need to make sure it starts clean,” Centeno said. Though that sounds basic, he said it’s important that those who originate alerts make sure messages transmitted through the EAS system are clear and free of distortion.
EAS message reception at rural broadcast stations is more challenging, as it is in locations where there can be interference from man-made electric noise sources such as dimmers, overhead power lines, computers and electric motors — including fans, blowers and compressors.
Centeno said best practices include evaluating signal acquisition needs and selecting a suitable antenna, using an external antenna whenever possible, and using a whip or loop antenna for AM and a directional antenna for FM.
The Washington, D.C., location code will be used for the originating message during the November test because there is no location code for the entire country, Centeno said. Most EAS encoders/decoders can relay the Emergency Action Notification (EAN) that will originate out of FEMA without stations needing to re-program the device, he said, adding that more information on the EAN will be forthcoming.
The next FEMA webinar is slated for Aug. 15. At that time, the agency hopes to have draft best practices ready for discussion. A Sept. 1 webinar is scheduled to cover EAS equipment operation and maintenance.
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