RFree - more than a channel finder!

We are very excited to announce the public launch of the beta version of Rfree, a free and open source software for LPFM community radio applicants and the engineers developed by Prometheus Radio Project.  This web-based software offers technical support for Low Power FM (LPFM) applicants.

Check the RFree user guide. Click in the image below to access manual.

In order to be eligible to apply for a LPFM license, there must be an available channel in your proposed area of transmission.  Rfree will allow you to do a preliminary study of the availability of frequencies in your community and give you further information on the coverage area, interference levels, and spacing to other channels.  In other words, you’ll be able to see clearly what’s available on the radio dial and what the possibilities are for potential frequencies in your city or town.

Rfree frequency searches will show users a tri-colored chart of channels that have various levels of FCC application difficulty (Green=easy, yellow=possible, and red=impossible but worth investigating). As a result, not all available frequencies shown to be available comply with the rules defined by the FCC in the same manner; you may have to work with an engineer to prove that your frequency will not cause interference to other existing stations.

Logging into Rfree:

To get started using Rfree users must first create an account on RadioSpark.org, an online portal created by Prometheus Radio Project with the intention of providing guidance and support for applicants of LPFM licenses. Once logged into RadioSpark, users can access Rfree and start their frequency search. You can access through the link in RadioSpark http://rfree.radiospark.org/ or through our discussion forum  in http://radiospark.org/rfree

Click the RFree button on the right to use the software.  No Rfree Button?  Log in first or get an account with the Join box (on the right) or the new user account form.  Scroll down on this page if you have RFree Questions, want to learn what it can do, or join the discussion.

Because Rfree is linked to users’ RadioSpark account, the software will allow them to save their frequency searches for various locations. Users will be able to retrieve past searches and compare results saved with their profile.

By creating an account on RadioSpark users are making their information available to Prometheus so that we may be able to support applicants throughout the application process. RadioSpark is an open and accessible forum for community radio applicants. Participation will grant applicant groups the opportunity connect with engineers, community radio novices and experts to ask questions, share resources, and connect with allies. Once you have created an RadioSpark account you can access Rfree!