Posted by Chris Tarr on May 11, 2009 at 15:09:18:
In Reply to: Re: CC Madison Automation posted by Jake on May 11, 2009 at 11:35:56:
: : "Not true at all. That requirement was lifted several years ago. You can run completely unattended."
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: :
: : Wow really? Is that because of new technology that auto-records? Or are transmitter readings just not required anymore?
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: From my understanding, if you are an EAS station, you need someone there in the building at all times. If you have multiple stations, one person would suffice.
: Transmitter readings need to still be done, however I think the engineers typically take care of that now.
: That's just my 2 cents... Chris, let me know if I am wrong....
You're wrong. :)
The FCC ruling on transmitter readings is that now you only need to prove compliance and you can do that any way you want. For example I have a computer system that logs all of the transmitter readings automatically every couple of hours (by the way there is no longer any requirement on intervals between readings either).
Additionally the remote control systems will notify me and my assistants immediately if any critical parameters are exceeded.
As for EAS, as long as your system is set to auto-forward the required alerts you're good to go.
You can remain automated 24/7 as long as your EAS system forwards the appropriate alerts and you can prove that you're in compliance and can maintain "positive control" of the transmitter including the ability to shut it down within the required time (usually 30 minutes) if the parameters become out of tolerance.