New Nautel FM1 Small in Size, Big in Features

Las Vegas, Nevada, April 7, 2003 - Nautel is pleased to announce the introduction of a new model FM1, 1kW broadband FM Amplifier, the latest addition to Nautel's family of super reliable solid state FM transmitters. The FM1 requires only 3RU standard 19 inch rack mount space, proving that good things really do come in a small package.

Four amplifier pallets, conservatively rated in excess of 250W are operated in parallel. Should one fail, the remaining amplifiers continue working to keep the signal on-air at reduced power. Two DC ventilation fans ensure cool, reliable operation.

A rugged switch mode power supply unit accommodates a wide AC voltage range from 170V to 260V, without necessity for transformer tapping or adjustment. The 1kW FM amplifier may be operated in combination with either the Nautel NE50 Digital FM Exciter or the value priced NE30 Analog Exciter, either as a primary transmitter or a cost effective standby system. Combined systems using up to four FM1 are also available.

The FM1 features selectable linear mode operation to accommodate hybrid FM/IBOC transmission using common amplification or fully digital IBOC transmission for separate amplification. For example, a four unit linearized transmitter may be used in conjunction with a 40kW analog FM transmitter to drive an interleaved analog-digital antenna.

Nautel is demonstrating an FM1 operating in digital mode with the NE IBOC Digital Exciter at the NAB2003 Show, booth #N2312.

The first FM1 went on air two weeks ago at Radio CJLS in Yarmouth, Nova Scotia. CJLS Station Engineer Jim Harris put the FM1 to the test and had this to say, "It's a sweet little thing. It took less than an hour to install and put it on the air, and it's working like a charm - sounds great!"