Monday Morning Coffee and Technical Notes

November 9, 2026 View as Webpage

Sage Endec Software Update

Sage Alerting Systems has released a free firmware update, version 96-2 (also known as 96-02), for US users running Rev96 or Rev96-1.

This update contains a security update, and is mandatory. Per FCC 47 CFR 11.35(d)(2), security updates must be installed promptly (see below for more information).

Version 96-2 removes compromised eMudhra root certificates used to secure TLS connections for alert audio servers. This release also resolves SMTP email attachment compatibility issues with some mail servers and allows the use of '&' and '+' in web GUI passwords.

Please review the release notes and download the update using the links below:



 - Release Notes: https://www.sagealertingsystems.com/rev96-2-release-notes.pdf

 - Download Page: https://www.sagealertingsystems.com/rev96-2download.html

You must install this update before the National EAS Test on November 17th. ENDECs must already be running any version of Rev96.

For questions, please email Sage support at support@sagealertingsystems.com or call 914-872-4069 and press 1 for support. If prompted, please leave a message and we will return your call.  

Updating ETRS Form One

The FCC has reminded EAS participants updating software or replacing equipment after filing an ETRS form must update their ETRS Form One filing to reflect the equipment and software version that they will use on the day of the nationwide test.

Once you have updated the Sage Endec firmware to version 96.02 update previous forms in ETRS by selecting the “My Filings” menu option and then clicking on the record for that form. Once in the form scold down to “firmware” and select 96.02. Delete any other version in

FEMA will conduct a nationwide EAS test on November 17, 2026, and all EAS Participants are required to take part in this test.

FEMA will transmit the nationwide test of the EAS at 2:20 p.m. Eastern Time (ET) using the Integrated Public Alert and Warning System (IPAWS). If conditions on that date require the rescheduling of the test, it will be conducted on December 3, 2026.

Engineers should ensure the station EAS equipment receives and decodes correctly, the Required Weekly Test (RWT) from IPAWS each Monday at 11:00 AM local time.



ETRS Form Two, reporting on the receipt of the test, is due by 2:20 p.m. ET on November 19. 

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2027

I realize the new year is still several weeks away, but it is important to start laying out your broadcast calendar for 2027.

A major item is the filing dates for the various reports and documents required by the FCC. I always post a one-month ahead reminder as well.

Several states including Alabama and Georgia will be required to file their license renewal form by December 1^st, 2027. Don’t let this one slip up on you!

Engineers should make sure to post reminders of weekly Station Log reviews, quarterly tower light system inspections, and AM stations are reminded of the annual equipment performance measurements (also know as NRSC).



Add non-FCC related items such as broadcast conventions (State Broadcasters Association and the NAB Convention schedule for April 3 – 8), SBE meetings, Engineering training, holidays and personal days (anniversary).

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ABA 80^th Anniversary Tour

Across the state this year, the ABA has been celebrating the wonderful partnerships between broadcasters and community stakeholders, PLUS inducted legendary broadcasters into our Hall of Fame.

So far ABA has hosted receptions at 8 different cities around the state. The final stop on the tour will in Birmingham on November 18^th.



The Birmingham reception will be held at Ross Bridge Resort in Birmingham.

Register here for the Birmingham reception.

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Earl said these splicing blocks had DNA samples of everyone that ever work a the station !

Pro Audio – Measure twice, cut once

There’s an old saying among carpenters: ‘Measure twice, cut once.’  

That thought also applies to mixing live audio, especially if you are using a digital console with layers.

In the heat of moment, it is easy to forget what layer you are on and adjust the wrong source. While we always stress the need to keep your eye on the stage, it is also important to stay alert with the setup of the console.

This is really important if using a house mixer that you may not familiar with.