1997 Mercury Tracer Audio Guide 1st Printing - Page 19

Radio Frequency Information RADIO FREQUENCY INFORMATION The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and the Canadian Radio and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) establish the frequencies AM and FM stations may use for their broadcasts. Allowable frequencies are: AM 530, 540-1600, 1610 kHz in 10 kHz steps FM 87.9, 88.1-107.7, 107.9 Mhz in .02 Mhz steps Not all frequencies are used in a given area. Radio reception factors Three factors primarily affect radio reception: • Distance/strength. The farther an FM signal travels, the weaker it is. The listenable range of the average FM station is approximately 40 km (24 miles). This range can be affected by signal modulation. Signal modulation is a process radio stations use to increase their strength and/or volume relative to other stations. • Terrain. Hills, mountains, and tall buildings between your vehicle's antenna and the radio station signal can cause FM signal reception problems. Static can be caused on AM stations by power lines, electric fences, traffic lights, and thunderstorms. 19