W0KIE

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

The W0KIE Satellite Radio Network [wʊkiː] (pronounced like wookiee) is a mostly talk radio network, listenable via C-band satellite. It has operated, almost continuously, since 1996. (It is named after the amateur radio callsign of its owner.)

The programming is of a less structured nature than traditional talk radio. There is special emphasis on programming for amateur radio operators, satellite tv enthusiasts and the sight impaired.

Although not the primary focus of the network, some show hosts do play music—a lot of which is not heard on traditional radio. Comedy and radio theater—old and new—are also often featured.

The format is reminiscent of freeform programming heard during the formative years of FM radio.

Also, the talk shows are usually an "Talk Radio" (minus the commercials) style format and do rely on LISTENER PHONE/ Skype [[1]] calls for true interaction. Discussions usually range from blind issues, current events, and special guests. Famous people have called in, too.

Most show hosts on the network are low-power radio advocates and would not object to having a wider audience by being carried on Part 15 or LPFM radio stations. Contact the show host to ask permission.

[edit] Listen

W0KIE programming can be heard via

Intelsat Americas 6 (IA6, aka T6) 93°W, C-band analog, transponder 1, 6.2 and 6.8 MHz wide band audio.
4DTV virtual channels
- T6 973 (6.2 MHz)
- T6 988 (6.8 MHz)
- T6 999 (6.2/6.8 MHz left/right)
- Radio Free Dishnuts
- WTND-LP 106.3 FM Macomb, IL

Requires WINAMP or a compatible MP3 player to listen to these streams. For the complete list of available audio feeds go to http://www.rfdradio.info/audio.html

- RFD 1 (16 kb/s mono - for dial up (modem) users MP3)
- RFD 2 (96 kb/s stereo MP3)
- REC Dial-A-Stream
- +1 (360) 526-6238 - option #1

In Macomb, Illinois, SOME w0kie programmes can be heard on 106.3 WTND-LP (about 80 percent of them)

Note that, while live programming is usually stereo, there may be times when the two subcarriers carry separate mono programming (thus the need for separate virtual channels).

[edit] History

5 April 1996
W0KIE is born on SBS6, Ku-band transponder 13b (12031MHz) originating via POTS extended fidelity audio feed to the Creek Nation Bingo uplink in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
18 June 1996
Houston AMSAT Net [2] joins the W0KIE Network.
Summer 1998
W0KIE uplink moves to Indian bingo uplink in Concho, Oklahoma north of El Reno, Oklahoma.
7 December 1998
W0KIE moves to GE-1 (W1), Transponder 12B, 5.7 MHz audio. Audio to uplink using RealAudio encoding via POTS dialup greatly improving audio fidelity. W0KIE retransmitted in FM band spectrum on TCI cable in Tulsa. Satellite air permit obtained from BMI and ASCAP and several Tulsa FM stations.
7 November 2000
W0KIE moves to Satcom C3, Transponder 24, 7.5 MHz audio at a TCI/AT&T uplink in Denver.
15 October 2001
W0KIE moves to GE7 (now known as AMC7), C-band transponder 5, 7.5 MHz wide audio.
Spring 2004
POTS line digital codec units are obtained, bringing a further improvement in fidelity and reliability over the aging and ailing frequency extender
Spring 2005
The uplink feed is moved to Vyvx in Denver. Policy at the new location allows internet access via DSL. A computer is installed to carry even higher fidelity audio to the subcarrier.
Summer 2005
Another subcarrier becomes available. W0KIE is now stereo!
8 December 2005
W0KIE moves to Intelsat Americas 6 (IA6, aka T6) 93°W, C-band analog, transponder 1, 6.2 and 6.8 MHz wide band audio.
13 December 2006
W0KIE Tests in Digital. Details are on the website.