Information Station Specialists is the best known source of travelers information stations, highway advisory radio, advisory signs and services needed to reach motorists with public service information. Learn more about Information Station Specialists.
               Information Station Specialists website 
 
 










Related Links

InfOspot (Talking House) Brochure PDF.

Legacy Talking House Sign Art & Instruction Manual

"Radio for Churches during Coronavirus"
from The Public's Radio by Aaron Read, Apr 6, 2020 
Examples of Use
 
See an example of how APA Music & Pictures uses InfOspot at mobile music shows.
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Savannah National Wildlife Refuge Uses InfOspot 
See why the Savannah National Wildlife Refuge chose InfOspot instead of the Internet to deliver interpretive services to visitors.
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See how the Gerald R Ford International Airport uses information radio to share pilot-ground communications. 
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InfOspot Stations Used in Conjunction with Billboards 
CBS Outdoor of NY uses InfOspot with billboards. Pictured above (click thumbnail to view) is at the Midtown Tunnel Exit, where traffic moves slowly enough for people to tune in.
 

InfOspot
AM Radio Transmitter System		  
InfOspot  ̶  originally known as the (((Talking House))) l®  radio transmitter system  ̶  iInfOspot is a FCC-certified professional, license-free radio station available for government, nonprofit and individual applications. It is the most affordable solution for local area broadcasting, offering the widest latitude in frequency flexibility, audio quality, broadcast content and programming convenience.

Designed to operate under FCC Part 15 Rules, InfOspot is capable of up to 100 milliwatts of power, yielding a range of up to 1/2 mile when mounted 20 feet above ground. The InfOspot System offers unprecedented flexibility and affordability when compared to higher powered, licensed systems:
  • No FCC license is required. It is certified under FCC Rules Part 15.219.
  • Any program content may be broadcast, including information, music or commercials.*
  • Any AM frequency 540-1700 kHz may be utilized. The frequency is easily changed using front panel controls.*
  • InfOspot Systems utilize the most trusted, time tested Part 15 Transmitter to generate the broadcast signal.
  • The system’s Range Extender Outdoor Antenna and Tuner may be mounted at any height above the ground, due to the exclusive coaxial Transmitter-to-Antenna linkage.
  • Integral 5-minute / dual message digital voice recorder / player for simplified message creation.
  • Security key prevents unauthorized transmitter control tampering.
The Complete System
The InfOspot System Includes the TH.5 Transmitter with digital voice recorder / player, RE.2.5 Range Extender Outdoor Antenna and Tuner with Mount and 25’ of RG.6 Coaxial Cable.
Custom Professional Package Options
 
Line Conditioner Kit adds isolation from noisy power or audio connections. 
Quick-Setup Stand deploys Range Extender quickly. Lightweight and portable, it includes a fiberglass mast that telescopes 19’ for max range.
 
Additional Coaxial Cable in various standard lengths. 
Portability Package Deploy without delay. Add a rolling carry case with a power strip to incorporate your InfOspot options.
Audio Management Software for message creation, processing and for upload to one or multiple stations via network / wireless. 
External Digital Audio Player allows operation via USB/Flash drive for highest quality and convenience. 
Audio Adapter XLR cables from mic or sound source to 3.5 mm (1/8") can plug directly into the transmitter.
Dynamic Hand Microphone for high quality live broadcasts and recordings on the transmitter’s internal digital audio player.
PC Mic and Headphones for laptop to use with external digital message player.. 
Mixer with EQ To mix multiple sources and/or for automatic mic override of background program.
Indoor / Outdoor Cabinet to house transmitter and audio components. Includes 19” rack rails. 
Signal Measurement Radio Receiver for FCC compliance tests. Includes batteries and correlation chart. 
FASTrack Custom Quick-Erect Portable Sign FHWA / NFPA-approved for use on streets, this sign and stand stow together as a unit and are available in 3 colors with custom text and optional text overlays.
Transmitter Only Want indoor operation and a range of 250'? Purchase the transmitter alone. A 3-meter wire antenna is included that works  with the transmitter’s internal auto-tuner.
Range Extender Only If you already own an InfOspot Transmitter and want to convert it to enhance quality and range, order the Range Extender separately.
Click here to email us for pricing or to place an order. See below for planning / purchasing options.
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      (*) FCC rules do not allow the broadcast of objectionable content or the use of a frequency that causes interference to other radio stations.
Who operates InfOspot systems?
  • Airports for parking and construction information; for tower-pilot communications at landing/take-off observation areas.
  • Audio Visual/Production Companies that work with sound systems for auditorium and outdoor productions.
  • Auto Dealers to speak to shoppers in their lots when sales representatives are not present.
  • Banks, Pharmacies and Restaurants to promote specials to patrons in drive-thrus.
  • Historical Sites and Societies to tell visitors about area history and interpretation of sites and buildings.
  • Churches for parking and patron information, schedules of programs and events, drive-in services. See an example of the portable package set up by a church during COVID-19.
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  • Departments of Transportation at rest areas, toll collection areas and weigh stations.
  • Drive-Ins.
  • Events, such as concerts, graduations, drive-in movies.
  • Funeral Homes / Cemeteries.
  • Historic Sites. See the Nez Perce National Historical Park example.
  • Hospitals & Public Health to broadcast at PODs (Points of Medicine Distribution), updates on health status, procedures and patron information.
  • Industry/Military to get critical information to visitors or truckers at loading docks, facility gates, weigh stations or check points.
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  • Microbroadcasters to provide radio formats to specialized listening audiences.
  • Outdoor Advertising in association with billboards along highways and in cities. See "Billboard Use," in the far-left column.
  • Outdoor Recreation for interpretation and visitor information at parks and recreation areas. See the Upper Delaware Scenic and Recreational River example.
  • Real Estate to speak with prospective buyers about developments and properties 24 hours a day.
  • Schools to broadcast student-created programming; sports play-by-play, for emergencies and parent reunification after incidents.
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  • Theaters to announce show times and to promote upcoming attractions.
  • Tourism Industry at visitor centers to broadcast information on current events and attractions.
  • US Borders and Highway Checkpoints to speak to motorists about regulations and procedures.
  • Vehicle Assembly Plants for testing of AM radio receivers on assembly lines.
  
Customer Sampling  
Planning & Purchasing Options     
Planning Assistance. Call 616.772.2300 x102 (9-5 Eastern) or email us to discuss your radio station project, request a quote or to place an order.

There are several ways to purchase, listed below. Shipping cost is included within the contiguous United States, charging only for fast freight shipping, shipping to Alaska, Hawaii or shipping outside the United States, which can involve third-party agents.

Credit Card. Call 616.772.2300 x102 (9-5 Eastern) to purchase via credit card.

Sole Source. We frequently are the only source for the products and services we offer and can send you support letters to affirm that for your purchasing documentation. 		HGACBuy. If you are a state or local government agency anywhere in the US and you are a HGACBuy cooperative member - or want to join as an end user - you can purchase our products without the necessity of going out to bid. Membership is free to villages, towns, cities, townships, counties, state agencies, departments, authorities, districts, councils or nonprofits doing work for such entities. Here's how to join.

Competitive Process. If you must seek competitive bids or quotes, we can supply specifications (in text form) so you can easily integrate them into bid documents.

Purchases by Governmental Entities can be made by purchase order, agency order on letterhead, VISA/MC (up to $3,500) or simply by signing and returning our quote sheets. Standard terms are Net 30 days.
Service
Within 30 days from the order date, you may return to us (in original condition with original packaging) any new InfOspot product, requesting service, replacement or a refund (minus Information Station Specialists’ original freight and handling). Repairs and labor required to bring a returned product back to marketable condition may be subtracted from a requested refund.

You must contact us before shipping the product back to receive instructions and a RMA (Return Merchandise Authorization).
Customer Reviews
“Everything worked great for our first drive-in worship! We got a nice strong signal throughout the parking lot. ”
Pastor Paul Gebo
Christ Lutheran Church, Stockton, IL
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“...have been impressed since installing the Talking House Radio Transmitter in our home.... I am just the typical guy who started working on old tube type AM radios. What a wonderful way to give new clear voices to old radios throughout the house.”
Tim Tucker
Amazon Customer
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“Our drive-in movie couldn't have gone better. So thankful for your help.”
Kerri Sandusky
First United Church of Christ, Tipton, IA
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“We wish to thank you for all your help in our purchasing of a radio system. For someone who was not sure what was needed you took out all the guess work.”
Tom Barden
St. Andrews Episcopal Church, Wayne, ME
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“So we did a test broadcast today of a church service with only the pastor and one reader and a woman with a guitar. And it was terrific - the speech quality was excellent…and the sound quality of the music was very good as well. All in all, it was a complete success... thanks very much for helping to make this happen!”
Phil Hirsch
Lamb of God Lutheran Church, Erie, PA
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“I want to thank you for this helpful product. We ordered the transmitter for our church services. I was unaware that low-power AM transmitters were allowed under FCC Part 15. It worked like a charm.”
Gary Adams, Pastor
Kelham Baptist Church, Oklahoma City, OK
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"Works really well. Used for outdoor church service because of covid pandemic. Transmitter was installed and hooked into sound board inside church with only the included antenna hooked up, also inside church. The signal was broadcasted all the way around the (decent sized) church. Clear signal in every car. Was used with music and speaking. Sound quality wasn't perfect but it was better than I expected it to be considering it's an AM transmitter. Definitely worth the money."
Steven
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“I like the see through glass on the Range Extender. I can easily look up and check the peak from the ground. I want to purchase another one very soon, as I am pleased with this one. I will talk to some other churches and ministries about installing a radio station.”
Bishop Ramon - DeMaria, TX
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“Works really good. Much stronger signal and will do what Church needs it to do and then some. I may purchase another exact setup, for me, in the near future. I really like the design and construction of the antenna/tuner!”
Terry Ballard - Hermitage, TN

Frequently Asked Questions
(Mouse over for answers.)
How can the InfOspot Transmitter operate without a license?
The InfOspot TH.5 Transmitter is FCC-certified (ID #DLB5LTT98) and approved for broadcasting under Part 15.219 of FCC rules, which allow unlicensed operation of a certified 100mw AM transmitter without a license as long as the antenna + ground does not exceed 3 meters. See: 15.219 - Operation in the band 510-1705 kHz.
 
What are the FCC rules governing use of InfOspot?
Unlicensed Broadcasting

These are the regulations that apply to operators who want to broadcast without a license on the AM band. These regulations outline the technical details regarding field strength, power, and transmitter frequency accuracy, and permitted spurious emission limits. The original and full texts of these various sections are below, however, the most pertinent regulations for most Part 15 broadcasters include . . .

15.209 - Radiated emission limits
15.219 - Operation in the band 510-1705 kHz
15.221 - Operation in the band 525-1705 kHz.

Licensed

Part 90.242 of the rules of the Federal Communications Commission governs the licensing and operation of Travelers Information Stations (TIS). See also TIS FAQs.
 
Is there a way to broadcast with more signal coverage?
Yes, if you have an outdoor antenna. The same FCC rules contained in Part 15.219 govern use of both indoor and outdoor antennas. But an outdoor antenna and especially one mounted high above the ground will yield more range. The new Range Extender provides a way for you to do this. The Range Extender may be purchased with a new Talking House Transmitter system or added to an existing Talking House Transmitter System. Consider also the InfOspot system, which can include the i A.M. Radio option, the Range Extender option and other ancillary options, such as message players and weatherproof cabinets.

Yes, if you are an educational institution. Special provisions were enacted by the FCC in 1990 that allow unlicensed broadcasting of an AM signal that remains contained within the campus or grounds of the institution. No content, antenna, or output-power restrictions are enforced, and no license is required under FCC Rules Part 15.221. See also Extended Range.

Yes, if you are a governmental agency and/or if you provide emergency medical response. See FCC Rules Part 90.242 which govern this form of broadcasting under Travelers Information Stations. Up to 10 watts of power are allowed, and a license is required. See also Extended Range.
 
When I connect my InfOspot Transmitter to the Range Extender Outdoor Antenna and Tuner, is the coaxial cable between them considered part of the ground lead?
It is not. The FCC certified the InfOspot Transmitter for operation with the interconnecting coaxial cable to its Outdoor Antenna and Tuner as a complete system. Any length of coaxial cable may connect the Transmitter with the Antenna and Tuner, because the cable itself is not part of the antenna system. The InfOspot Transmitter is also certified to operate on its own with a 3-meter wire (indoor) antenna.
 
Why haven't you come out with a FM version of the InfOspot System?
The FCC rules for unlicensed FM broadcasting under FCC Part 15 limit the range of FM systems to just a few feet. But under the corresponding AM rules, you can produce a ¼ to ½ mile signal. That is partly because the FM rules include a signal intensity limitation that keeps the signals contained within100 feet.

To make matters worse, due to the much shorter wavelength, FM signals are more easily blocked and fade more quickly.

In addition, the FM band is much more congested than the AM band, making an unused / quiet FM channel very difficult to find.The legal range of AM non-licensed transmitter signals is not as severely restricted as FM, because AM Transmitters enjoy a 5000:1 power advantage over their FM counterparts. Even accounting for the lower antenna efficiency, legal AM transmitters have a typical range of up to 2500 feet depending on the antenna mounting height and location.

See "The Legal Range of FM Non-Licensed Transmitter Signals," a whitepaper by Paul Dobosz, 2020.
     
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©  1983-2020  • Information Station Specialists, Inc. •  All Rights Reserved
PO Box 51, Zeeland, Michigan, USA, 49464-0051, Phone 616.772.2300, Fax 616.772.2966, Email Form

The USA's best known source for information radio station equipment, related products and technical services.

 Trademarks: 2X Signal Booster, ALERT AM Emergency Advisory Radio System, ANXX AM Radio Antenna, AP55 Digital Message Player, ENcast Emergency Notification Broadcast System, FAS6000 Flashing Beacons & Controller, FASTrack Quick-Erect Sign, FlashCAST Internet Broadcast Service, Flashing ALERT Sign System, FlexPlane Factory-Assembled Groundplane, Free-Radiate On-Premise Radio Broadcast System, HearMoreInfo Internet Broadcasts, HPR0990 High Performance Antenna, i A.M. Radio Transmitter, Information Station Specialists, InfoRadio Format, Information Station Classic, Information Station IP, InfOSpot License-Free Radio Station, IP8 Digital Message Player, IP76 Digital Message Player, ITS6000 Highway Advisory Radio Network, LIGHTNING LED Portable Changeable Message Sign, NX.8.R Digital Message Player, EventCAST Portable Information Radio Service, RadioSAFE Wide Area Emergency Broadcast System, RadioSTAT Portable Emergency Advisory Radio Station, Severe Storm Detector, Signal Measurement Radio Receiver, Stealth Sign, StreamCAST Internet Broadcast Service, SS3000 Free-Standing AM Radio Antenna System with Tower, Stylized ISS Logo, SX200 Wattmeter, Talking House AM Radio Transmitter, TR6000 Transmitter Model HQ5.0, TR6000 Transmitter Model 15.73, VoiceStar Portable Highway Advisory Radio Station (with or without Changeable Message Sign), VP9000 Vertical Profile Antenna Support and Grounding System, Wireless Audio Link.

Information Radio Stations is a generic term synonymous with Travelers Information Stations (TIS), Highway Advisory Radio Stations (HAR) / Highway Information Systems & Low Power Radio Stations (LPR). Operation of the stations is governed by FCC Part 90.242 Rules. A FCC license is required. Information Radio Stations may be fixed or portable. Subcomponents may include transmitter, antenna and ground system, digital voice player, wateter, cabinet with conventional or Corbin locks, lightning arrestors for RF, power and telephone lines, coaxial cable. Most stations employ black maximized antennas to discourage ice accumulation and security measures to prevent unauthorized program access. Options include synchronization, battery backup, solar power, remote programming by local, network or telco, multi-station audio distribution via RF or LAN / WAN or wireless network.