WNAV’s Expanded FM Signal Receives FCC Approval

WNAV has received FCC approval for a major upgrade to its FM translator that will dramatically expand the station’s coverage in the Annapolis area. The FCC today granted a construction permit for a new translator, W260DW, which will operate on 99.9 FM with 170 watts from the Maryland Public Television tower in Crownsville. The signal will use a directional antenna beamed toward 140 degrees, focusing coverage on Annapolis and much of Anne Arundel County.

The approval follows WNAV’s request filed earlier this month after the station lost its transmitter site. The translator will move from 92.7 FM to 99.9 FM, with its antenna mounted approximately 640 feet above ground on the MPT tower. Although the translator’s power is only 170 watts, the much higher antenna location is expected to provide a substantial improvement in coverage compared to the current facility.

The directional antenna is designed to maximize service toward Annapolis while limiting the signal toward WFRE in Frederick.