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  • C-SPAN Radio HD FAQ
    1. What is HD Radio?
      Through digital technology radio stations are able to achieve a high fidelity sound with minimal signal disturbance under the right reception conditions.
      Also, a station is able to compress the signal and put multiple radio channels at the same place on the dial. For example, in the Washington, DC area C-SPAN Radio (WCSP-FM) is available at 90.1, 90.1HD1 & 90.1HD2. This is called multicasting.
      HD Radio is a trademark of iBiquity Digital Corporation. http://www.ibiquity.com
       
    2. How can I get C-SPAN HD signals?
      The C-SPAN HD channels are only available in the Washington, DC area. The HD radio service is free, but you need an HD receiver. HD receivers are available through on-line vendors and at most electronics retail outlets.
       
    3. What is on C-SPAN's HD channels?
      • 90.1 - WCSP-FM programming including a mix of Congressional hearings, Presidential speeches, Campaign 2008 coverage, House and Senate proceedings, the network Sunday Public Affairs programs and our unique history programs.
      • 90.1 HD- 2 - Gavel-to-gavel coverage of the House of Representatives and other
      • 90.1 HD- 3 - Gavel-to-gavel coverage of the Senate and Book TV.

       
    4. What is the difference between Satellite Radio and HD Radio?
      Satellite Radio is a nationwide service that requires a special receiver and payment of a monthly fee.

      C-SPAN Radio is available on XM Satellite Radio Channel 119.
      HD Radio broadcasting is a local service and does not require any additional payments. But you do need an HD Radio receiver to get HD Radio.

      C-SPAN HD Radio is available in the Washington, DC area.
       
    5. Even though I have an HD Radio I still can't get the C-SPAN Radio HD Radio signals
      The FCC currently limits the power for all HD radio stations to 10% of the analog FM power. WCSP is currently licensed for 1% of analog FM power. The WCSP transmitter transmits about 9600 of analog FM power. So, the HD signal is less than 100 watts. Signal reception will depend upon where you live and the kind of antenna you use. The WCSP transmitter would need to be upgraded to achieve a full legal FCC power in the HD carrier. The analog FM power would also need to be reduced to maintain the combined power WCSP limits set by the FCC. A plan to increase HD power is reviewed every year.
       
    6. Where can I find out more about HD Radio?
      There are a couple of websites that might be helpful: www.hdradio.com and www.ibiquity.com.