Monday Morning Coffee and Technical Notes

August 3, 2026 View as Webpage

Cybersecurity Update

We have posted several articles lately about the Commissions plans to increase security against cyber attacks to broadcast program streams.

Broadcasters must comply with the FCC rule change by September 29, 2026.

By that date, stations should have completed the three-step plan to strengthen security for any internet-connected part of the program chain, including EAS, automation systems, processors, STL, RDS encoders, and transmitters.

The three-step plan requires broadcasters to use strong, dedicated passwords of at least 15 characters with no dictionary words; install the latest security updates on all internet-connected hardware and software in the program chain; and place all program-chain access behind a properly configured firewall.

read more here

ABA Engineering Academy

As a quick reminder the ABA Engineering Academy Radio Engineering class is coming up in September. Seating is limited so get your registration in to ensure a seat.

These courses are intended for individuals at all levels of experience, including newcomers and experienced engineers, as well as those seeking to deepen their understanding of the technical aspects of broadcasting.

The next Radio Engineering class will be offered the week of September 28th – October 2nd. The television class is scheduled October 26th – 30th.



This 5-day class is held at the ABA Training Center in Hoover, AL (Birmingham). Discount rates for students are available at area hotels. More information about daily subjects covered and online registration is available here.

Schematics

Most engineers, especially those under 30 probably don’t remember “schematics”. Today most technical equipment problems are fixed by removing a defective module and replacing with a new one.

However, there was a day when an engineer would take the non-functional device to the work bench, open it up and replace a failed part. This required a schematic.

A technical schematic is a visual representation that illustrates the components and relationships within a system using standardized symbols and lines. It focuses on the functional aspects of the system rather than its physical layout, making it easier to understand how different parts interact and operate together.

Seasoned engineers remember the Sams “Photofact” which was a significant part of the history of technical documentation in electronics. Founded in 1946 by Howard W. Sams, the company initially focused on producing radio schematics and repair manuals. Over the years, it became well-known for its Photofact service, which provided detailed service data and schematics for various electronic devices, including radios and televisions. This service became a standard reference for technicians and repair shops, greatly influencing the electronics repair industry.

You might be surprised by how many new broadcast engineers don’t know how to solder—or may not even own a soldering iron. Isn't soldering one of the core skills one is expected to know? In my day — when dinosaurs roamed the Earth — learning to soldering was as important as learning ohms law.



I admit that sitting at the workbench, breathing in the scent of a soldering iron, can almost be as satisfying as the aroma of fresh coffee brewing.

ABA 80^th Anniversary Tour

The Alabama Broadcasters Association is celebrating 80 years of service to Alabama Radio and Television stations. As a “thank you” for all the support the ABA is hosting a number of receptions around the state.

These receptions are opened to all broadcasters, civic leaders and anyone interested in learning more about the ABA.

Make your plans to join us at the next reception in Tuscaloosa on Wednesday August 26^th. 

It will be held at the University Club from 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM. Click here for more information

August Engineering Webinar

The monthly engineering webinar is scheduled for Tuesday August 18^th starting at 10:00 AM central.

This month’s program will feature an overview of the Alternative Broadcast Inspection Program (ABIP). This program is a joint project between the State Broadcasters Associations and the FCC.

An approved engineer will visit your station and review all required current FCC Rules and Regulations. Once the inspector is completed the station will be issued a Certification of Compliance. Should any issues need to be addressed, the station will be given a period of time to correct the issue after which the certificate will be issued.



The ABIP will give the engineer and manager peace of mind that their operation is in complete compliance with all current FCC regulations.

Make sure you to mark your calendars to join in for this most important program. Click here to register.

Pro Audio – Dynamic Effects

While using dynamic effects, including EQ can be an effective means of helping to glue all the sources in a mix together, using too much can destroy the final mix.

Grammy-winning mix engineer Chris Lord-Alge once was asked, “how to you know when the effect level is correct?” His answer was “if you can hear the effect, it is too much”.

Any type of added dynamic effects should never bring attention to itself. They are like the seasoning in a mix; they bring out the flavors and make everything pop.



A great technique to check the level of effects is by using the “mute” button. While listening to the composite mix, close your eyes then mute and unmute the effect track and listen to what it added or took away in the mix.

Sure some this may be surface rust, It still needs to be addressed!