Wednesday 3 December 2014

ikim fm Pulau Pinang dan Perak Utara

Cadangan yang boleh dibuat untuk menambah mutu kualiti penerimaan ikim fm di Pulau Pinang dan Perak Utara

1. IKIM FM Pulau Pinang

Frekuensi: 102.7MHz
Kuasa (cadangan): 1 atau 2kW
Tempat pemancar: Bukit Genting
Kawasan liputan: Pulau Pinang, Seberang Perai dan Kedah Selatan

Kuasa pemancar ikim fm Pulau Pinang 102.7MHz ditambah, manakala pemancar kuasa rendah di Bukit Larut patut ditambah kerana bertindih dengan 102.7MHz dari Gunung Kledang Ipoh di Taiping dan Perak Utara.

2. IKIM FM Taiping

Frekuensi (cadangan): 105.7MHz
Kuasa (cadangan): 100W (percubaan); 250W atau 500W (kuasa maksimum)
Tempat pemancar: Bukit Larut
Kawasan liputan: Taiping, Parit Buntar dan Selama


Sunday 30 November 2014

105.7MHz in Perak

105.7MHz

In north region, there has 2 radio stations on 105.7MHz. Mainly Kedah FM from Gunung Raya Langkawi and Lite FM Gunung Ulu Kali Selangor.

Broadcast coverage of 105.7MHz

Lite FM (Perak listed only): Tanjung Malim, Slim River, Trolak, Sungkai, Bidor, Tapah, Langkap, Kampung Gajah, Bagan Datoh, Selekoh, Teluk Intan, Sungai Sumun, Chenderong Balai, Pasir Salak

Kedah FM (based on district only): Langkawi, Kubang Pasu, Alor Setar, Yan, Padang Terap, Perlis, Satun


In Taiping and Northwest Perak, 105.7MHz is empty. This frequency is suitable for IKIM FM

105.7MHz in Bukit Larut: Taiping, Parit Buntar, Semanggol, Bukit Merah, Bagan Serai, Batu Kurau, Padang Rengas, Selama, Lenggong, Kuala Kangsar, Beruas, Terong, Kuala Kurau, Kamunting, Simpang, Changkat Jering and Bandar Baharu

1. one FM Bukit Larut vs. Lite FM Gunung Ulu Kali

Co-channel interference areas: Teluk Intan, Ayer Tawar, Sitiawan, Bota, Seri Iskandar, Lumut, Pulau Pangkor, TLDM Lumut, Changkat Keruing, Parit, Batu Gajah, Kampar, Lambor Kanan, Tanjung Tualang, Teronoh

Alternative frequency: one FM 87.6MHz Gunung Kledang Ipoh and Lite FM 101.5MHz Gunung Ulu Kali

2. one FM Bukit Larut vs. Kedah FM Gunung Raya

Co-channel interference areas: Sungai Petani, North Seberang Perai, Gurun, Batu Feringghi, parts of Georgetown

Alternative frequency: one FM 87.8MHz Gunung Jerai and Kedah FM 97.5MHz Gunung Jerai or 90.5MHz Bukit Palong Baling or 105.1MHz Bukit Dedap Sik.

*105.7MHz Bukit Larut= 750W (max power; suggestion)

Saturday 11 October 2014

TUTORIAL: How to add your favorite radio stations that are not available on mobile apps?

Some of radio stations does not feature mobile app listening, instead only radio frequencies and website.



How to add your favorite radio stations to mobile apps?

Use PC to do it:

1. Go to tunein.com
2. Create your tunein account
3. Right top and select "PROFILE"
4. Create a new folder
5. Add the radio streaming ip address and the station name by clicking "Custom URL". Example: http://202.129.49.10:8050/
6. Click accept.
7. Your favorite radio is added into your tunein account.

Apps listening

1. Download tunein apps from Google Play Store (for Android devices) or App Store
2. Log in your tunein account.
3. Go to "favorites"
4. Your favorite radio stations that you added on custom URL (streaming address)
5. Then select your favorite radio and enjoy listening.

You can detect the ip address of a radio streaming online by clicking right and choose properties. The IP address will be appeared.

I have added several Radio Thailand radio stations on my tunein apps. Again, the radio stations that you added on your tunein account with their IP address are not opened to public because the radio stations are not on tunein, instead you customize their streaming address. If you want to listen to your favorite radio station on tunein, you have to log in your account unless your favorite radio station launches on tunein platform officially. Or you may help to add radio station as public broadcasting to tunein by clicking "broadcasters".

Monday 29 September 2014

IKIM.FM Kedah Timur (Baling, Sik)





Penerimaan ikim.fm 89.0MHz sangat lemah di Kedah Timur (Tenggara) kerana bertindih dengan Radio Parlimen Thailand Yala 89.0MHz dimana stesen Thai tersebut menggunakan frekuensi yang sama dengan ikim.fm Gunung Jerai. Walaupun Radio Parlimen Thailand Yala 89.0MHz tidak meliputi kawasan Kedah, tetapi ia boleh menyebabkan gangguan kepada liputan ikim.fm di Kedah Timur. Sebaliknya, ikim fm 89.0MHz Gunung Jerai boleh mengganggu kepada liputan Radio Parlimen Yala 89.0MHz di beberapa daerah Yala.

Di kawasan Perak Timur Laut, Pengkalan Hulu, Kelian Intan dan Gerik memang tidak boleh menerima siaran ikim.fm 89.0MHz dari Gunung Jerai, Kedah, dan 102.7MHz dari Gunung Kledang, Ipoh. Sebelum ini, saya pernah mengulas tentang frekuensi Taiping ikim.fm (105.7MHz). Walaupun ikim.fm mempunyai pemancar Taiping (Bukit Larut), pemancarannya tidak mesti sampai ke Gerik, Pengkalan Hulu dan Kelian Intan. Umumnya, pemancaran Bukit Larut hanya boleh sampai ke Lenggong sahaja.

Pada pandangan saya, ikim fm boleh menambah satu pemancar di Bukit Palong, bagi meliputi Baling, Sik, Pulau Pinang (Georgetown), Pengkalan Hulu, Gerik, Kelian Intan dan Selatan Thai seperti Yala dan Betong.

Contoh frekuensi yang boleh digunakan di Bukit Palong adalah: 103.1MHz, 103.9MHz, 105.5MHz.

102.7MHz- ikim.fm (Bukit Genting; Balik Pulau sahaja)
102.7MHz- Nasional FM (Bukit Dedap, Sik sahaja)
102.9MHz- Perlis FM (Padang Pauh; Perlis sahaja)
103.1MHz- <kosong>
103.3MHz- Radio Klasik (Bukit Larut; Taiping dan Perak Utara sahaja)
103.6MHz- ERA FM (Gunung Jerai; Pulau Pinang, Kedah dan Perlis)
103.9MHz- <kosong>
104.1MHz- PERAK FM (Bukit Larut; Taiping dan Perak Utara sahaja)

105.1MHz- Kedah FM (Bukit Dedap; Sik sahaja)
105.3MHz- TRAXX FM (Bukit Larut; Taiping dan Perak Utara sahaja)
105.5MHz- <kosong; cadangan untuk ikim.fm Bukit Palong 2kW>
105.7MHz- ikim.fm Bukit Larut (cadangan; 0.25kW)
105.7MHz- Kedah FM (Gunung Raya, Langkawi dan Kedah Utara sahaja)
105.9MHz- TRAXX FM (Bukit Dedap; Sik sahaja)
106.1MHz- Ai FM (Bukit Larut; Taiping dan Perak Utara sahaja)

Dengan pemancar ikim FM Bukit Palong (contoh: 105.5MHz), Pengkalan Hulu, Kelian Intan, Yala, Gerik, Pulau Pinang (Georgetown, Butterworth, Seberang Perai Utara) boleh menerima siarannya dengan jelas. Frekuensi ikim.fm di Pulau Pinang ialah 102.7MHz dari Bukit Genting, tetapi pemancarannya hanya terhad untuk kawasan Balik Pulau dan Bayan Lepas. Penerimaan ikim.fm 102.7MHz di Georgetown, Seberang Prai, Jelutong dan Gelugor lemah, tetapi masih boleh tala kepada frekuensi dari Bukit Palong (contoh: 105.5MHz). Penerimaan ikim.fm dari Bukit Palong (cadangan: 105.5MHz) di Georgetown dan Pulau Pinang akan jelas daripada 89.0MHz dan 102.7MHz.

Jika ikim.fm Bukit Palong menggunakan kuasa pemancar 2kW, manakala kuasa pemancar Bukit Larut mengguanakan 0.25kW mungkin cukup (maksimum 0.5kW).

Thursday 25 September 2014

Penerimaan IKIM.FM 89.0MHz di Kedah, Pulau Pinang dan Perak Utara





Penerimaan IKIM.FM 89.0MHz dari Gunung Jerai tiada signal di Pulau Pinang dan Perak Utara. Asasnya, pemancaran Gunung Jerai boleh meliputi Kedah, Perlis, Pulau Pinang dan Perak Utara.

Sebab utama IKIM.FM 89.0MHz dari Gunung Jerai tidak dapat meliputi kawasan Pulau Pinang dan Perak Utara ialah:

1. Frekuensi 89.0MHz yang IKIM.FM guna di Gunung Jerai berkongsi frekuensi yang sama dengan Radio Parlimen Thailand 89.0MHz dari Yala.

2. Wilayah Yala di Thailand terletak di sebelah timur Kedah dan utara negeri Perak.

3. Perbezaan frekuensi antara IKIM.FM 89.0MHz dan Radio Parlimen Thailand 89.0MHz adalah 0 kHz. Oleh kerana itu, kadar gangguan radio dan nisbah perlindungan (protection radio) tinggi.

Oleh kerana IKIM.FM 89.0MHz berkongsi frekuensi yang sama dengan Radio Parlimen Thailand, tidak semua kawasan Kedah akan menerima siaran IKIM.FM dari Gunung Jerai seperti kawasan Kedah Timur.

Jika IKIM.FM memperluaskan pemancar 89.0MHz untuk meliputi seluruh Kedah, Perlis, Langkawi, Pulau Pinang dan Perak Utara, gangguan radio antara IKIM.FM dan Radio Parlimen Thailand akan berlaku di kawasan Kedah Timur dan Yala barat yang terletak di sempadan Kedah-Yala.

Selain itu, Radio Parlimen Thailand 89.0MHz Yala akan menerima gangguan daripada IKIM.FM 89.0MHz di wilayah Yala. Tempat pemancarnya terletak di daerah Banang Sata, Wilayah Yala.

Radio Parlimen Thailand frekuensi Yala 89.0MHz khususnya meliputi Yala, Narathiwat dan Pattani, siaran ini boleh diterima di Kelantan Utara, Kedah Timur, Hulu Perak dan sedikit bahagian Perlis/Pulau Pinang.

Pertindihan antara IKIM FM 89.0MHz dengan siaran Thai 89.0MHz berlaku di kawasan seperti Kedah Timur, dan Hulu Perak.

Saya menerima siaran Radio Parlimen Thailand Yala pada 89.0MHz di Batu Feringgi, Pulau Pinang pada Disember 2013 apabila saya membuat "FM DX-ing" dalam kereta.

Tempat pemancaran IKIM FM 89.0MHz terletak di Gunung Jerai (LOWER).

Pada pandangan saya, oleh kerana frekuensi radio di wilayah utara Semenanjung Malaysia (Kedah) dah penuh, frekuensi Radio Parlimen Thailand Yala perlu 89.0MHz ditukar. Antara frekuensi yang boleh digunakan di wilayah Yala ialah: 101.5MHz, 104.6MHz atau 105.5MHz. Bagi saya, 105.5MHz ialah frekuensi yang paling sesuai untuk mereka.

Antara frekuensi kosong di Yala Thailand, 105.5MHz sangat seseuai kerana mempunyai jarak 200kHz dengan stesen berhampiran dengannya. Contoh: 105.7MHz Ai FM Telipot K. Bharu dan Kedah FM Gunung Raya.

Penggunaan frekuensi oleh stesen radio di Yala tidak boleh sama dengan stesen radio dari Gunung Jerai, Bukit Palong, Bukit Bakar, Telipot, Narathiwat. Jarak antaranya harus sekurang-kurangnya 200kHz.

Kawasan Kedah yang saling mengganggu antara IKIM.FM dengan Radio Parlimen Thailand ialah Sik Timur, dan Baling. Ini sebab penerimaan ikim.fm 89.0MHz lemah di Baling dan Seberang Prai Utara kerana mengelakkan pertindihan radio dengan Radio Parlimen Thailand.

Stesen radio lain di Gunung Jerai yang bertindih dengan radio dari wilayah Yala ialah:

1. RTM Radio Klasik 94.9MHz dengan Radio Thailand Yala 95.0MHz

2. THR Raaga 102.4MHz dengan MCOT Yala 102.5MHz

Perbezaan frekuensi hanya 100 kHz, kadar gangguan dan nisbah perlindungan lebih rendah daripada IKIM.FM. Gangguan antara dua buah radio kurang, walaupun masih ada.

Jika siaran Thai tersebut ditukar frekuensinya, penerimaan ikim fm 89.0MHz dari Gunung Jerai akan jelas di wilayah utara. Justeru, Perak Utara dan Pulau Pinang boleh menerima 89.0MHz dengan jelas. Mengenai siaran Thai tersebut, jika frekuensinya ditukar kepada 105.5MHz, Kedah-Perlis-Kelantan-Hulu Perak-sedikit bahagian Pulau Pinang masih boleh menerimanya, walaupun liputan utamanya hanya Yala-Narathiwat-Pattani. Selain itu, cadangan penambahan pemancar di Bukit Palong tidak deperlukan, manakala pemancar ikim fm 102.7MHz Bukit Genting juga tidak diperlukan jika 89.0MHz meliputi Pulau Pinang dengan jelas. Di kawasan Taiping boleh menerima 102.7MHz (Gunung Kledang Ipoh) atau 89.0MHz dengan jelas jika kedua-dua pemancar boleh meliputinya. Kemungkinan pemancar GAP FILLER di Bukit Larut (105.7MHz) untuk Taiping diperlukan jika penerimaan 102.7 atau 89.0 tidak jelas. 

Friday 19 September 2014

Penerimaan IKIM.FM di Taiping dan Perak Utara (bahagian 2)

Kini IKIM.FM di Taiping bergantung kepada 102.7MHz dari Gunung Kledang, tetapi kurang jelas dan bertindih dengan pemancar IKIM.FM Bukit Genting 102.7MHz. Di sini, blog ini menjelaskan perbandingan tempat pemancar radio yang sesuai digunakan oleh IKIM.FM.

1. Bukit Larut (Taiping)
    Frekuensi kosong: 105.7MHz
    Kawasan liputan: Taiping, Parit Buntar, Gerik, Lenggong, Kamunting, Pengkalan Hulu, Selama, Batu Kurau, Bagan Serai, Nibong Tebal, Juru, Georgetown, Bukit Mertajam, Kulim, Bayan Lepas

2. Bukit Penara
    Frekuensi kosong: 102.9MHz
    Kawasan liputan: Seluruh negeri Pulau Pinang (termasuk Balik Pulau), Taiping, Kamunting, Parit Buntar, Selama, Sungai Petani

Di Taiping, hanya 92.4MHz, 93.2MHz dan 105.7MHz ialah frekuensi kosong, tetapi 92.4MHz dan 93.2MHz bertindih dengan stesen radio RTM dari Baling seperti Ai FM 92.5MHz dan Minnal FM 93.3MHz. Itu sebab saya mencadangkan frekuensi 105.7MHz. Selain itu, 105.7MHz ialah frekuensi kosong yang terakhir di Taiping jika 92.3MHz dan 93.1MHz digunakan oleh stesen radio di Bukit Penara dan Bukit Genting masing-masing.

Berdasarkan kepada tempat pemancar radio di atas, pada pandangan saya, pemancar Bukit Larut lebih sesuai digunakan oleh IKIM.FM kerana Bukit Larut boleh meliputi Perak Utara, Hulu Perak, Seberang Perai, sebahaian Pulau Pinang (Georgetwon dan Bayan Lepas), sebahagian Kedah Selatan. Kemungkinan Sungai Petani, Pengkalan Hulu, Gerik, Balik Pulau, Seberang Perai Utara (seperti Butterworth dan Kepala Batas) serta sedikit bahagian negeri Thailand (Betong) boleh menerima siaran IKIM.FM dari Bukit Larut jika kekuatan pemancarnya tinggi (seperti 5kW). Penerimaan IKIM.FM dari Bukit Larut mungkin kurang jelas di Gerik dan Pengkalan Hulu.

Mengenai pemancar Bukit Penara, ia boleh meliputi Batu Feringgi, Perak Utara seperti Taiping dan Parit Buntar, tetapi Bukit Penara tidak dapat meliputi daerah Hulu Perak seperti Lenggong, Gerik dan Pengkalan Hulu kerana kawasan tersebut ialah tempat gunung-ganang. Frekuensi Bukit Penara yang saya cadangkan, 102.9MHz, walaupun ia berkongsi frekuensi sama dengan Perlis FM 102.9MHz dari Padang Pauh, tetapi penerimaan masih jelas di kawasan Pulau Pinang. 102.9MHz hanya mula bercampur-baur dari kawasan Kedah seperti Alor Setar, dan Yan.

Pemancar IKIM.FM Gunung Jerai 89.0MHz perlu ditingkatkan untuk meliputi Batu Feringgi dan Seberang Perai Utara.

Berdasarkan kepada situasi terkini, jika IKIM.FM menggunakan 105.7MHz di Bukit Larut, tiada masalah penerimaan di sebahagian besar Perak Utara, tetapi penerimaannya akan bercampur-baur dengan Kedah FM 105.7MHz dari Gunung Raya, Langkawi di sesetengah kawasan Pulau Pinang seperti Georgetown, Batu Feringgi dan Tanjung Bungah. Kawasan Georgetown, Gelugor, dan Jelutong masih ok, tetapi signal Kedah FM 105.7MHz masih boleh dikesan. Oleh itu, pendengar IKIM.FM di Pulau Pinang perlu tala antenna radio ke arah selatan/tenggara (Bukit Larut), signal bercampur-baur Kedah FM 105.7MHz boleh dikurangkan serta dikosongkan jika antenna ditala ke arah tenggara.

102.9MHz (Bukit Penara) atau 105.7MHz (Bukit Larut)?

Padangan saya, saya mencadangkan 105.7MHz (Bukit Larut).

Sejak kebelakangan ini, saya diberitahui oleh pihak SKMM bahawa pemancaran Bukit Larut boleh menyebabkan gangguan liputan radio dari Lembah Klang dan Langkawi. Ketinggian Bukit Larut lebih tinggi daripada Gunung Kledang, Gunung Raya dan Gunung Jerai. Di samping itu, antara tempat pemancar radio di negeri Perak, Bukit Larut ialah sebuah bukit yang tertinggi di negeri Perak.

Di sini, saya membuat analisis spektrum radio di wilayah utara/tengah pada 105.7MHz.

105.7MHz- Kedah FM (Gunung Raya; Langkawi dan Kedah Utara sahaja; 1kW)
105.7MHz- Lite FM (Gunung Ulu Kali; Lembah Klang dan Perak Selatan sahaja; 2kW)
105.7MHz- <kosong> (Bukit Larut; Taiping dan Perak Utara sahaja; kuasa pemancar perlu rendah daripada Kedah FM dan Lite FM)

Berdasarkan pada analisis tersebut, 105.7MHz di Bukit Larut, kuasa pemancarnya perlu rendah daripada Lite FM dan Kedah FM bagi mengelakkan gangguan kepada penyiaran mereka. Justeru, jika kuasa pemancar IKIM.FM di Bukit Larut 105.7MHz ialah 2kW yang kita biasa tahu pada pemancar IKIM.FM lain, pemancarannya akan mengganggu siaran Kedah FM Langkawi 105.7MHz terutamanya. Perbezaan frekuensi 0 kHz, kadar nisbah perlindungan tinggi. Manakala, kadar nisbah perlindungan akan rendah atau dikurangkan jika perbezaan frekuensi akan bertambah (0.1 MHz dan atas). Walaubagaimanapun jika IKIM.FM bersiaran di Bukit Larut untuk Taiping dan Perak Utara pada 105.7MHz yang saya cadangkan, kuasa pemancarnya sebanyak 0.5kW sudah cukup untuk dipancarkan ke kawasan tersebut. 0.25kW masih diterima kerana kuasa pemancar Hot FM 90.5MHz ialah 0.25 kW (http://www.asiawaves.net/bms-fm-radio.htm) walaupun HOT FM berkongsi frekuensi 90.5MHz dengan Kedah FM dari Baling.

Sebenarnya pemancar IKIM.FM Bukit Larut patut dikhususkan untuk "GAP FILLER" dimana kuasa pemancarnya rendah seperti pemancar IKIM.FM Bukit Genting 102.7MHz kerana kawasan Taiping tidak dapat siaran IKIM.FM 89.0MHz dari Gunung Jerai. Di samping itu, 102.7MHz dari Gunung Kledang juga lemah di situ.

Justeru, IKIM.FM boleh membuat pemohonan "pemancaran percubaan" (TRIAL TRANSMISSION) di Bukit Larut pada 105.7MHz untuk memastikan tiada gangguan kepada pihak penyiaran lain. "Pemancaran percubaan" boleh melaraskan keperluan kuasa pemancar Bukit Larut untuk meliputi Perak Utara.

Kawasan liputan Bukit Larut: Taiping, Padang Rengas, Selama, Parit Buntar, Nibong Tebal, Bandar Baharu, Lenggong, Bagan Serai, Kamunting, Terong, Batu Kurau, Kuala Kurau, Sauk, Changkat Jering, Simpang, Kuala Sepetang.












Thursday 18 September 2014

THR Raaga Kuantan frequency review and comment

For this moment, THR Raaga does not have transmitter in Kuantan since THR Gegar was launched on 88.8MHz in Kuantan due to the demographics in Kuantan. Back to early 2000's, THR Raaga Kuantan frequency was on 88.8MHz, but fully replaced with THR Gegar. Before THR.FM joining Astro Radio (fka AMP Radio Networks), the THR.FM 88.8MHz was bilingual radio stations, after Chinese and English slots were withdrawn. Last year, Astro engineering department called me regarding the feedback of THR Raaga Kuantan frequency that I made on July 2013. He said that THR.fm is 1 station for whole Peninsular Malaysia, they divided THR.FM into two programmes, mainly Gegar (Malay) and Raaga (Tamil) since 2004. In addition, he mentioned that Malays are more than Indians in Kuantan and East Coast. Therefore, this is the reason why Astro Radio launched THR Gegar in Kuantan, instead of Raaga. About the listnership, with THR Gegar, the radio ratings of THR.FM can gain 3.5 millions. If Astro does not launch THR Gegar in East Coast, the radio ratings of THR.FM would not get as high as today ratings.

Currently Thr Raaga and Gegar broadcast in West Coast and East Coast respectively. If The Raaga and Gegar expand broadcast in East Coast and West Coast respectively, I believe that the radio ratings of THR.FM will break 4 millions since high number of listeners of THR Gegar in West Coast. To me, it is not possible to do that so because THR.FM is only 1 station, but divided.

Although THR Raaga does not have Kuantan frequency at current moment, THR Raaga still can be heard in Pahang state on 99.3MHz, 101.5MHz, 99.7MHz and 97.9MHz, depends on the area located.

In my opinion, since there is many Indians in East Pahang (Kuantan), Astro can launch another frequency in Bukit Pelindung for THR Raaga in order to compete with Minnal FM in East Coast. In Kuantan, there is much of empty frequencies there, such as: 88.3MHz, 102.2MHz, 101.6MHz, 98.5MHz and etc.

Currently THR Raaga FM frequencies in West Coast are airing THR Gegar from 2 am till 6 am daily. If THR Raaga launched its FM frequency in Kuantan, the THR Gegar Malay slots (2 am to 6 am daily) on THR Raaga frequencies should be phased out to prevent programme interference. THR Gegar slots on Raaga frequencies were minimized to 4 hours currently.

Alternatively, the THR Raaga listeners in East Coast can listen through online, Astro DVR, and mobile apps.

In my opinion, THR Raaga will be better with Kuantan frequency.

==My suggestion regarding THR Raaga Kuantan==
Frequency: 102.2MHz
Transmitter location: Bukit Pelindung, Kuantan
Power: 10kW (for Pahang and Terengganu) or 5kW or 2kW
Area coverages: Kuantan, Gambang, Maran, Pekan, Bandar Muadzam Shah, Kuala Rompin, Pekan, Kemaman, Chukai, Cerul, Kijal, Kemasik, Kerteh, Paka, Dungun, Cherating, Tioman Island

Results: THR FM will have two different programmes in Kuantan, mainly 88.8MHz Gegar and 102.2MHz Raaga (suggestion).

Tuesday 29 July 2014

FLY FM Kedah, Perlis, Penang and North Perak

In north region of Malaysia, FLY FM has two frequencies, mainly 89.9MHz from Bukit Penara and 99.1MHz from Alor Setar.

89.9MHz covers Penang, South Kedah and North Perak, meanwhile 99.1MHz covers Alor Setar and certain areas only.

A new Penang radio station, Pi Mai FM was launched in Bukit Penara on 90.2MHz since 2012, this cause the FM frequencies in north region more jammed.

These two frequencies are not suitable to be set up in Gunung Jerai because this can cause interference with radio stations from Satun, Thailand and local radio stations. Here is the frequencies list in Kedah:

89.3MHz- Lite FM (Bukit Larut; Taiping)
89.5MHz- <empty>
89.7MHz- Nasional FM (Bukit Palong; Baling)
89.9MHz- FLY FM (Bukit Penara; Penang)
90.0MHz- Easy FM (Satun, Thailand)
90.2MHz- Pi Mai FM (Bukit Penara; Penang)
90.5MHz- Hot FM (Bukit Larut; Taiping) & Kedah FM (Bukit Palong; Baling)

99.0MHz- Idea Radio (Satun, Thailand)
99.1MHz- FLY FM (Menara Alor Setar)
99.25MHz- Love Radio (Satun, Thailand)

FLY FM launched frequencies in Alor Setar on 99.1MHz since 2007, but Perlis and Langkawi totally cannot receive FLY FM.

Actually FLY FM can combine their two frequencies into single, but this involves Nasional FM Bukit Palong frequency to be changed where established since 1995. Nasional FM Bukit Palong frequency must be changed to 89.5MHz once if FLY FM use Gunung Jerai transmitter on 89.8MHz.

If FLY FM changed its Penang frequencies and transmitter site to 89.8MHz and Gunung Jerai, it can cover whole Kedah, Perlis, Penang and North Perak, even Langkawi is able to receive FLY FM from Gunung Jerai. In addition, the radio frequencies band in north region will be less jammed. Therefore, FLY FM may not need Taiping frequency, even North Perak can receive FLY FM 89.8MHz clearly from Gunung Jerai like Red FM 98.1MHz. Meanwhile, FLY FM Alor Setar frequency 99.1MHz is not needed anymore if FLY FM use Gunung Jerai transmitter on 89.8MHz.








Monday 21 July 2014

"FM 88.7MHz" in Perak

The "FM 88.7 MHz" in Perak is Radio Klasik (Klasik Nasional), but it covers only Tapah and can be heard in some areas like Bidor, Langkap and Temoh. Radio Klasik 88.7MHz is transmitted from Changkat Rembian and its output power is only 0.1kW (100 kW, only can cover up to about 25-30 km), only can be heard clearly in Tapah, meanwhile Bidor, and Sungkai are not clear.

Alternatively, Radio Klasik still can be received on 98.3MHz from Gunung Ulu Kali (for Selangor and Kuala Lumpur) or 88.3MHz from Gunung Kledang (for Ipoh and Central Perak) in Tapah (depends on area). The Gunung Ulu Kali transmitter signal in Tapah is clearer than Gunung Kledang.

Current radio stations which have Changkat Rembian, Tapah transmitter:
1. ERA FM (102.0MHz; previously carried by THR Raaga before 2009)
2. Perak FM (97.3MHz; covers South Perak areas up to Terolak with 0.5kW output power)
3. Radio Klasik (88.7MHz; Tapah only with 0.1kW low output power)

Former radio stations with Changkat Rembian transmitter:
1. 988/Redi FM 98.8 (94.1MHz; ended service since June 2000)*
2. Red 104.9/Red FM/RFM (101.2MHz; ended service since July 2000)*

*References: www.asiawaves.net

Basically, setting up a radio frequency in Tapah is not needed if the radio station has Gunung Ulu Kali and Gunung Kledang transmitter unless it is regional radio station like Perak FM because Tapah still can receive radio signal from Gunung Ulu Kali.



In my opinion, RTM should replace its "Radio Klasik 88.7MHz" with Asyik FM because Asyik FM has no Perak frequency (mainly Ipoh) yet. At the same time, RTM should place "88.7MHz" transmitter site in Gunung Kledang, instead of Changkat Rembian to cover Perak areas. Consequently, listeners in Tapah still can tune to Radio Klasik on 88.3MHz or 98.3MHz.

Currently listeners in Perak receive Asyik FM on 105.1MHz from Cameron Highlands (mainly Central Perak) and 102.5MHz from Gunung Ulu Kali (mainly in South Perak), two transmitter are quite weak in Perak areas because both of them are "adjacent channel interference" with other radio station like IKIM.FM 102.7MHz and Red FM 104.9MHz. If RTM fully replaces "88.7MHz" with Asyik FM and transmits from Gunung Kledang, the listeners can receive Asyik FM on 88.7MHz in many areas of Perak (Ipoh, Kampar, Sungai Siput, Gopeng, Batu Gajah, Tronoh, Tapah, Bidor, Teluk Intan, Sitiawan, Kuala Kangsar, Taiping, Sauk, Padang Rengas, Seri Iskandar, Lumut, Bota, Pulau Pangkor, Ayer Tawar, Sungkai, Langkap, Kampung Gajah and some areas of Parit Buntar/Bagan Serai/Kamunting/Selama/Batu Kurau).



To cover many areas in Perak, the transmitter power of "88.7MHz" from Gunung Kledang should be full power (5kW or 10kW). May be Lenggong can receive 88.7MHz, but not confirm there can receive or not.

As I mentioned before, the 4 empty frequencies in Taiping (88.8MHz, 92.4MHz, 93.2MHz, and 105.7MHz). Once if SKMM want to keep 88.7MHz and 93.3MHz for radio stations in Ipoh, the empty frequencies in Taiping only remain two (92.4MHz and 105.7MHz).




Thursday 17 July 2014

Taiping empty FM frequency "97.3MHz" (low power transmitter broadcast)

As I mentioned before, there has some empty frequencies in Taiping, mainly 88.8MHz, 92.4MHz, 93.2MHz, and 105.7MHz, even the narrow 97.3MHz.

In my opinion, 88.8MHz, 92.4MHz, 93.2MHz are suitable for the radio stations which cover Northwest Perak although sharing frequency with RTM radio stations from Baling, meanwhile 105.7MHz is suitable for the radio station such as IKIM.FM which cover North Perak (Taiping, Gerik, Lenggong, Parit Buntar), South Kedah and Penang.

"97.3MHz" is only suitable for radio station like one FM which only cover certain areas such as Taiping, Changkat Jering, Kamunting, Padang Rengas and Batu Kurau.

Currently one FM in Taiping should be tuned to 87.8MHz to listen, but not all Taiping areas can receive 87.8MHz clearly.

Normally the transmitter power for radio stations in Taiping are from 0.25kW to 2kW. Previously RTM Bukit Larut transmitter power was only 0.1kW, reception was just normal, but RTM Bukit Larut transmitter power is increased to 0.5kW now. The private commercial stations use 2kW power.

"97.3MHz" is quite suitable for one FM to set in Bukit Larut, Taiping, but its transmitter power must be low (minimum- 0.1kW, maximum- 0.5kW) to prevent interference with two radio stations which are beside to “97.3MHz”, one FM can set up Bukit Larut frequency for Taiping and some areas in North Perak only like Seremban frequency, 88.3MHz, which also only covers Seremban and certain areas of Negeri Sembilan.

97.3MHz is a narrow FM frequency in Taiping because there has two stations from Gunung Jerai, mainly Sinar FM and Kedah FM are using 97.1MHz and 97.5MHz respectively for Kedah, Penang and Perlis. The frequency difference between 97.3MHz and 97.1/97.5 MHz are only 200 kHz.

97.1MHz- SINAR FM (Gunung Jerai; 2kW)
97.3MHz- <empty>
97.5MHz- Kedah FM (Gunung Jerai; 5kW)

The "97.3MHz" low power transmitter for Bukit Larut cannot be received in Central-South Perak clearly. Ipoh will not receive any signal of "97.3MHz". If one FM use "low power" Bukit Larut frequency, 97.3MHz cannot be received in Penang, Selama, South Kedah, Kuala Kangsar, Lenggong, and Parit Buntar clearly, 87.8MHz or 87.6MHz can be tuned as alternative frequency.



太平空缺電台頻道"97.3MHz" (低火廣播)

目前太平的空缺電台頻道只剩下88.8MHz, 92.4MHz, 93.2MHz, 105.7MHz,和最密的97.3MHz。

105.7MHz只是適合一些電台是要覆蓋大部分的霹靂北部地區,但是對我而言這個頻道適合ikim.fm。

另外的頻道88.8MHz, 92.4MHz, 和93.2MHz是跟RTM華玲電台共用,差距只有0.1MHz,適合一些覆蓋霹靂西北部的電臺。

注:RTM的華玲電台頻道是在於1995年設有,覆蓋地區只有吉打東南部的華玲,霹靂北端的彭加蘭烏魯和仁丹。

到現在one FM還沒有在太平設有頻道,在太平收聽one FM是需要通過發射站較遠的87.8MHz (檳城,吉打頻道;發射地點:吉打日萊峰 Gunung Jerai)。

跟巴裏文打,Bukit Merah和巴東色海,87.8MHz在太平和Changkat Jering的收綫情況較爲勉強,太平過後的地區(北上)就ok。

老實說,北馬的電台頻道差不多滿了。

在我的看法,最壞打算可說是one FM使用97.3MHz來作爲太平頻道。其實one FM在太平設有頻道可以跟芙蓉頻道88.3MHz和新山頻道105.3MHz,只是覆蓋一些地方。one FM芙蓉和新山頻道使用低火發射器(大約0.25kW),發射地點跟一般的電台不一樣,所以只是可以在芙蓉,新山和附近地區收到而已。談到“97.3MHz”,這個頻道的確在霹靂北部地區是很密的頻道因爲隔壁有兩家電台使用了97.1MHz和97.5MHz。“97.3MHz”適合只是覆蓋一些地區的電台,例如:one FM。

97.1MHz- Sinar FM (Gunung Jerai; 2kW)
97.3MHz- (空缺)
97.5MHz- Kedah FM (Gunung Jerai; 5kW)

“97.3MHz”與97.1和97.5的頻率差距只有200kHz,但是坐落在97.1和97.5的中間,猶如one FM芙蓉頻道88.3MHz,坐落在雪隆區的88.1MHz和吉隆坡的88.5MHz。

基本上97.1MHz和97.5MHz的電台的覆蓋範圍是吉打州,檳城,玻璃市和霹靂一些地區(彭嘉蘭烏魯,仁丹和宜力)。表面上是說“檳城/吉打頻道”,但是基本上Kedah FM 97.5MHz是覆蓋吉打州而已因爲這家電台是給吉打而已,檳城和霹靂北部是“第二覆蓋地區”(secondary coverage),猶如彭亨電台Pahang FM給彭亨而已;馬六甲電台Melaka FM只是給馬六甲而已。

談到發射地點,太平山離市區只有8公里。一般上的太平電台的發射站是坐落在太平山(馬來語:Bukit Larut;英文:Maxwell Hill),發射器的火量是最低0.25kW到最高2kW,可以發射到檳城和吉打南部,霹靂中南部,甚至霹靂東北部的玲瓏,和宜力。Hot FM 90.5MHz的發射器火量目前是最小是0.25kW因爲它的90.5MHz跟吉打Kedah FM華玲頻道90.5共用。

比例子,以前RTM電臺的太平頻道是用低火發射器,0.1kW,收綫一般,在霹靂南部是完全沒有訊號,現在則升為0.5kW,所以霹靂南部地區如安順,美羅,宋溪還可以聽到,但是RDS信息比較難出現。hitz.fm 93.6MHz和Mix FM 91.3MHz還更加厲害,霹靂南部地區收到很清楚,RDS訊息都出現。

技術上,如果one FM在太平山發射站使用97.3MHz,發射器必須是低火/低功率(最低為0.1kW,最高為0.5kW),但是只是在霹靂太平,Changkat Jering和附近地區如硝山, 江沙, Semanggol才可以收到清晰的one FM,沿海地區就會比較差因爲發射器的功率低,吉打電台97.1MHz和97.5MHz在太平會收不清。

如果one FM的發射器是高功率,隔壁的電台會在檳城一些地區因爲電台頻率的空間而受到干擾。其實one FM在太平和Changkat Jering以外的地區收87.8MHz較爲清楚。發射地點依然希望照舊,在太平山發射。

"太平山的97.3MHz"應該不會在安順收到(除非使用較高的天綫,但是97.3MHz會在安順一些地方收到的是來自霹靂南部打巴Changkat Rembian的電台),只收一點而已。霹靂中部地區如:怡保,邦咯島,實兆遠的收綫會勉強。如果one FM“低功率”太平山頻道97.3MHz在太平以外地區如江沙,巴裏文打收不清,還可以調去87.8或87.6收聽。

低功率的97.3MHz在檳城會是雜音,甚至收不到,霹靂東北部也是依然收不到。

雖然如果one FM在太平Bukit Larut用的97.3MHz和來自打巴Changkat Rembian的Perak FM一樣頻率, 但是應該沒有問題. 因為97.3MHz Bukit Larut 0.1kW不會到霹靂南部的美羅, 打巴, 宋溪, Terolak和仕林河, 就算Bukit Larut的高度非常高..

可是97.3MHz兩個之間會在一些地區產生干擾, 地區有: 安順, Kampung Gajah, 波打, 巴力, Seri Iskandar和金寶.. 其實兩台在當地地區可以調去來自Gunung Kledang的95.6和87.6...







Saturday 17 May 2014

[Automotive topic]: Nissan Sylphy B17 launched in Malaysia, the Nissan Sentra nameplate retired from Malaysia markets.

The all new Nissan Sylphy B17 was launched in Malaysia last months, the long running Nissan Sentra Sport N16 was finally disappeared from Nissan Malaysia website, meanwhile its predecessor (G11) is still appeared on Nissan Malaysia official webiste.



This means that Nissan Sylphy B17 is our Nissan Sentra N16 replacement, especially the 1.8 litre range.

When the Nissan B17 launched in Malaysia, the B17 is not called as Nissan Sentra, instead Sylphy due to the price. Nissan Sentra nameplate was disappeared in Philippines too.

In mid 2000's, Nissan Sylphy G11 and Latio Sedan were the Nissan Sentra N16 actual replacement. Our Nissan Malaysia distributor Edaran Tan Chong did not intend to replace Nissan Sentra N16 with any model, but sold it as budget model like Singapore, where Nissan Sylphy slotted above than Sentra.

Regarding to the price of Nissan Latio sedan C11, its price is closed to Nissan Sentra N16 1.6 litre range, but the price of Nissan Sylphy B17 is closed to Nissan Sentra N16 1.8 XGL.

Nissan Sentra nameplate was used in Malaysia for 28 years, since 1986 until 2014. In the 1980's, Nissan Sunny B11 130Y was sold well in South East Asia countries like Thailand and Malaysia. Edaran Tan Chong Motor did not intend to replace Nissan Sunny 130Y B11 with B12 model, so ETCM used Sentra nameplate for B12 model and slotted it above Nissan Sunny 130Y, but lower than Nissan Bluebird and Langley. The B12 was fully imported model, meanwhile N13, B13, B14 and N16 was locally assembled model. Nissan Sunny 130Y was discontinued in Malaysia since 1996.

The first generation of Nissan Sentra (B12; 1986-1987):

Here's the first generation of Nissan Sentra in Malaysia in boxy design, launched here around year 1986. This was considered rare model, body looked like Nissan Bluebird U11 and Stanza T12. This B12 had been used as taxis in Malaysia before (but retired since early 2000's). In 1990's, we could see not only the new B13 Genting Taxi, but we also could see this B12 as taxi in Genting. Only 1 spec offered in Malaysia, there was 1500 cc engine (E15S; same engine with Nissan Langley N12 Sedan) with manual transmission gearbox. It was replaced by N13 since 1987.

The second generation of Nissan Sentra (N13; 1987-1991):
 

Nissan Sentra N13 was launched in Malaysia in 1987 as the short life B12 replacement. In addition, this N13 was also Nissan Langley (N12) replacement. N13 had two variants for Malaysia markets, there were 4-door sedan and 5-door hatchback. Powered by 1500 (GA15S) and 1600 cc (GA16S)engine with auto or manual transmission.

The third generation of Nissan Sentra (B13; 1991-1995):
The Nissan Sentra returned to B-series in 1991 after its predecessor, B12 was discontinued in 1987 here. This car was very popular in Malaysia during early 1990's. In 1991, the B13 front grille was Sunny logo (JDM logo) which same with B12, but replaced with Nissan logo in 1993. It was also used as taxis in Genting, even we still can see this car on the road until today. The B13 Genting Taxi still use today due to good fuel efficiency and powerful. It was powered by 1600 cc GA16DE engine with auto or manual transmission optional. Its siblings were Nissan AD Resort Y10, Nissan 100NX Coupe and Nissan Pulsar N14 which its platform was same with B13.

The fourth generation of Nissan Sentra (B14; 1995-2001):

Come to mid 1990's, the B14 launched in Malaysia in late 1995. Europe, New Zealand and Australian markets did not received this model due to there already offered Nissan Pulsar/Almera N15. No hatchback variant (N15) offered in Malaysia. Actually Tan Chong should offer two variants, there were sedan (B14) and hatchback (N15). In 1998, the facelift of B14 was launched, the grille looked like Nissan Bluebird U14 and Cefiro A32. Only 1600 cc engine spec offered. In US and Japan, the B14 had coupe version.

The fifth generation of Nissan Sentra (N16: 2000-2013):
The Nissan Sentra N16 was launched in Malaysia in late 2000, this car was the successor to Nissan Pulsar N15 and Nissan Presea R11 in Japan. In Europe and Australia, this car had hatchback version (3/5 door), but the grille looks like Primera P12 (V-curve design). In Malaysia, the N16 Sentra offered 1500 cc (1.5 SE; auto or manual), 1600 cc (1.6 XE; auto) and 1800 cc (1.8 GXE; auto) specs. N16 was shared platform with Nissan Sunny B15, Wingroad Y11, Tino V10 and Primera P12. In 2004/05, there had two facelift of this N16. The facelift of Nissan Sentra N16 looked like Teana J31 and Latio Sedan C11 in terms of rear ends. The 1500 cc range was dropped after the facelift of Sentra launched in 2005, meanwhile 1800 cc spec was dropped since 2010. Actually this Nissan Sentra was ended production in 2012/13, but Nissan Malaysia Website was still presented this model before the B17 Sylphy launched.

Tuesday 13 May 2014

Empty FM frequencies in Ipoh, Taiping and North Perak

Since Johor Bahru FM frequencies is officially full there because there has many radio stations there, including Singapore and Batam, Indonesia. The empty frequency 89.3MHz is belonged to Singapore after its Mobile TV was closed down since 2010, meanwhile 107.9MHz is belonged to Batam Indonesia. 105.3MHz was the last frequency that used by one FM, but transmitter site in Taman Sentosa, Johor Bahru, instead of Gunung Pulai to avoid from Johor FM Gunung Ledang.

MCMC said that Taiping frequencies will be full, but there has only 3 empty frequencies in Taiping, there are 88.8MHz, 92.4MHz, 93.2MHz, 97.3MHz and 105.7MHz.

88.2MHz- Hot FM (Gunung Jerai)
88.5MHz- Kedah FM (Bukit Sungai Kechil Hilir; Bandar Baharu only) & Traxx FM (Bukit Genting; Balik Pulau only)
88.7MHz- Radio Klasik (Bukit Palong; Baling, Klian Intan & Pengkalan Hulu only)
88.7MHz- (empty in Ipoh; transmitter is suitable to be set up in Gunung Kledang once Radio Klasik Changkat Rembian, Tapah transmitter is no longer operated)
88.8MHz- (empty; suitable for half power transmission in Bukit Larut)
89.0MHz- IKIM.FM (Gunung Jerai)

92.1MHz- Ai FM (Gunung Kledang; Ipoh and Central Perak)
92.4MHz- (empty; suitable for half power transmission in Bukit Larut)
92.4MHz- hitz.fm (Gunung Raya; for Langkawi and Perlis only)
92.5MHz- Ai FM (Bukit Palong; for Baling, Klian Intan and Pengkalan Hulu)
92.7MHz- hitz fm (Gunung Kledang; Ipoh and Central Perak)
92.8MHz- hitz fm (Gunung Jerai)
93.0MHz- Radio Thailand Betong (Betong, Baling, Gerik and Pengkalan Hulu only)
93.1MHz- Nasional FM (Gunung Brinchang; Cameron Highlands only)
93.1MHz- (empty, but only suitable for Bukit Genting transmitter)
93.2MHz- (empty in Taiping; suitable for half power transmission in Bukit Larut)
93.3MHz- (empty in Ipoh; transmitter is suitable to be set up in Gunung Kledang)
93.3MHz- Minnal FM (Bukit Palong; for Baling, Klian Intan and Pengkalan Hulu)
93.6MHz- hitz.fm (Bukit Larut)

97.1MHz- SINAR FM (Gunung Jerai Penang, Kedah and Perlis)
97.3MHz- (empty; but only suitable for low transmission in Bukit Larut only; min: 0.1kW max: 0.25kW)
97.5MHz- Kedah FM (Gunung Jerai; Penang and Kedah only)

102.7MHz- IKIM.FM (Gunung Kledang; Ipoh)
102.7MHz- IKIM.FM (Bukit Genting; Balik Pulau)
102.9MHz- Perlis FM (Padang Pauh; Perlis)
103.0MHz- <empty; transmitter is suitable to be set up in Bukit Larut unless Radio Klasik Bukit Larut transmitter frequency changed to 103.4MHz>
103.3MHz- Radio Klasik (Bukit Larut)
103.5MHz- Ai FM (Gunung Brinchang; Cameron Highlands)
103.6MHz- ERA FM (Gunung Jerai)

105.3MHz- Traxx FM (Bukit Larut)
105.7MHz- (EMPTY; suitable for full power transmission in Bukit Larut)
105.7MHz- Kedah FM (Gunung Raya; for Langkawi and North Kedah only)
106.1MHz- AI fm (Bukit Larut)

Somehow the frequencies 88.8MHz, 92.4MHz and 93.2MHz may be closed 0.1MHz frequencies band distance with radio station from Baling, Kedah 88.7MHz, 92.5MHz and 93.3MHz, which can cause interference in Penang, South Kedah, Pengkalan Hulu and Klian Intan, but these affected areas has alternative frequency from Gunung Jerai.

The FM frequencies, 88.7MHz and 93.3MHz are empty in Ipoh, but these frequencies' transmitter are suitable to be set up in Gunung Kledang if RTM Radio Klasik Changkat Rembian transmitter 88.7MHz is no longer service and suggested to be replaced with Asyik FM in Ipoh. Therefore, the empty FM frequencies in Taiping remain two only, there are 92.4MHz and 105.7MHz. If one FM and IKIM.FM use 92.4MHz and 105.7MHz in Bukit Larut, Taiping respectively, there has no empty frequencies in Taiping anymore because it is almost full.

Empty FM frequencies in Ipoh: 93.3MHz, 93.9MHz, and 107.3MHz.

97.3MHz is the narrowest frequency in Taiping, but it is only suitable for the low power transmission broadcast, although transmitter site can be placed in Bukit Larut, but only cover certain areas of Northwest Perak such as Taiping, Changkat Jering, Kuala Kurau, Kamunting, Semanggol..

105.7MHz is empty frequency in Taiping, but shared with Kedah FM Langkawi frequency and Lite FM Selangor 105.7MHz. This may not be a big interference since Kedah FM Langkawi 105.7MHz only covers Langkawi and North Kedah, meanwhile Lite FM only covers South Perak, Klang Valley and West Pahang. If any radio stations set up transmitter in Bukit Larut and the frequency is on 105.7MHz, the coverage of Lite FM 105.7MHz from Gunung Ulu Kali in most of Perak areas will be minimized until South Perak, but listeners still can tune to clearer 101.5MHz from Ipoh (Gunung Kledang). Meanwhile the coverage of Kedah FM 105.7MHz from Langkawi which still can be received in South Kedah and parts of Penang will be minimized until North Kedah and Alor Setar only. Just like Langkawi FM 104.8MHz, it can cover up to South Kedah and North Penang before Astro Xfresh (now Melody FM) having 104.9MHz in Bukit Larut.

Currently the reception of IKIM.FM in North Perak and Penang are very weak on 102.7MHz, meanwhile there has no signal on 89.0MHz from Gunung Jerai which can cover these areas. If they set up Bukit Larut transmitter on 105.7MHz, the coverage can cover North Perak, and most of Penang areas rather than 92.4MHz and 93.2MHz. One FM currently doesn't set up frequency in Taiping, perhaps the reception there on 87.8MHz is considered ok than 87.6MHz from Ipoh. They can use either 92.4MHz or 93.2MHz for Taiping and North Perak areas because they have 87.8MHz to cover many areas.

92.4MHz and 93.2MHz from Bukit Larut can cover up to Central Perak, South Penang and Lenggong only, meanwhile 105.7MHz from Bukit Larut can cover up to Penang, South Kedah and North East Perak, even parts of Yala province like Betong, Thailand. The coverage of 105.7MHz from Bukit Larut is wider than 92.4MHz and 93.2MHz.

Another empty frequency, 103.0MHz may be suitable to be set up transmitter in Bukit Larut, but RTM Radio Klasik use 103.3MHz in Bukit Larut. The frequency distance between 103.0MHz and 103.3MHz is 0.3MHz. If 103.0MHz Bukit Larut use 2 kW power, this can cause interference to RTM Radio Klasik because RTM Radio Klasik 103.3MHz use only 0.5 kW power, unless RTM Radio Klasik Bukit Larut frequency is changed to 103.4MHz.

Anyway, the frequency usage is decided by MCMC (Malaysia Communication Multimedia Commission; Malaysia broadcast regulator).






Sunday 11 May 2014

Melody FM為北馬聽衆創設的福建/閩南語節目〈歡喜福氣啦!〉

馬來西亞中文電台Melody FM自從今年2014年1月6日為北馬聽衆創設了閩南語節目,稱爲“歡喜福氣啦!”,目標鎖定為北馬地區(檳城,吉打和玻璃市)的福建聽衆群,年齡為35-49嵗。另外的“菲賣品”就從原本的1700-2000時變去1600-2000時;“紋風探路”就變去1300-1600時。

“歡喜福氣啦!”是有洪绣晴(1600-1800時)和Season 徐世顺(1800-2000時)主持,每逢星期一至五,1600-2000時播出。

“歡喜福氣啦!”只是可以在檳城,吉打和玻璃市通過106.5FM收聼得到,其實霹靂北部也還可以收聽這個節目。想要在北馬聼“菲賣品”的聽衆還可以通過太平頻道104.9收聽,但是104.9只限在檳城和吉打南部如雙溪大年,和居林可以收到,在華玲,Gurun和錫會比較弱。反而104.9在其他地區如亞羅士打,玻璃市,日得拉是收不到的。

因爲“歡喜福氣啦!”的誕生,Melody FM的下班時段分成兩個節目,北馬是“歡喜福氣啦!”,其他地區則是“菲賣品”。



但是在霹靂北部(太平,宜力,司南馬,巴裏文打等等),檳城和吉打南部的聽衆就有兩种選擇。在霹靂太平和霹靂北部地區的聽衆也可以調去106.5MHz來收聽福建節目“歡喜福氣啦!”,反而在檳城和吉打南部還可以調去太平頻道104.9MHz收聽菲比主持的“菲賣品”收聽,但是天綫需要做出一些調整因爲太平頻道在這些地區是比較弱的。幸虧Melody FM還有太平頻道104.9,所以檳城和吉打南部聽衆還可以聽到“菲賣品”。在吉打中北部和玻璃市的聽衆需要上網或下載應用程序來收聽“菲賣品”。

其實我是客家人, 也不是很明白和說福建話. 對我而言, 如果在檳城和吉打南部收聽, 我還可以通過太平頻道104.9MHz收聽<菲賣品>.

其實MELODY FM必須提升太平頻道104.9MHz的收綫素質,所以檳城和吉打南部可以聽到更加清楚。

“歡喜福氣啦!”可算是馬來西亞繼續one FM福建版〈快樂點〉之後有福建節目的中文電台。

“歡喜福氣啦!”還沒誕生前,之前one FM曾經有一個短命福建版的“快樂點”,是由苗苗林靜苗主持的,以前福建版“快樂點”是在周日1600-1800時播出,但是在2012年5月初因爲一些事情而被夭折。

Melody FM下班時段的不同節目讓我想起了MY FM, hitz.fm, ERA FM和THR FM。

MY FM, hitz.fm 和ERA FM在東馬節目(沙巴,砂拉越)是與馬來西亞半島的節目是完全不同的(除了早晨節目之外),反而THR.FM在西海岸與東海岸的節目甚至語言是完全不同。不同地方的是THR.FM在西海岸是以淡米爾語廣播(稱爲THR Raaga),另外THR.FM 在東海岸是以馬來語廣播(THR Gegar)。

Saturday 19 April 2014

Radio stations in Mersing and East Johore, Malaysia

87.6MHz- FLY FM (MONO) 
88.3MHz- Minnal FM (STEREO) 
88.8MHz- THR Gegar (MONO) 
89.1MHz- 爱FM (STEREO) 
89.6MHz- Ikim.fm(MONO) 
90.1MHz- Klasik Nasional (STEREO) 
90.4MHz- 988(MONO) 
90.9MHz- Muzik FM/Nasional FM (STEREO) 
91.6MHz- Red FM (MONO) 
91.9MHz- Pahang FM (MONO) 
92.1MHz- Johor FM (STEREO) 
92.4MHz- HOT FM (MONO) 
92.9MHz- TRAXX FM (STEREO) 
93.2MHz- hitz.fm (MONO) 
94.1MHz- MIX FM (MONO) 
95.1MHz- MANIS FM (MONO) 
96.1MHz- SURIA FM (MONO) 
97.2MHz- SINAR FM (MONO) 
98.0MHz- ERA (MONO) 
100.0MHz- X FM(MONO) 
100.4MHz- ONE FM (MONO) 
101.1MHz- MY FM (MONO) 
102.5MHz- BEST 104 (STEREO) 
103.3MHz- Minnal FM (MONO) 
103.7MHz- THR RAAGA (MONO) 
104.1MHz- Pahang FM (MONO) 
104.7MHz- LITE FM (MONO) 
105.3MHz- TRAXX FM (MONO) 
106.1MHz- 爱FM (MONO) 
107.1MHz- Muzik FM/ Nasional FM (MONO) 
107.9MHz- Klasik Nasional (MONO) 

Try it

Friday 11 April 2014

im4u FM 107.9 MHz transmitter site

Malaysia's first youth radio station, im4u FM had been launched on 3rd March 2013 on 107.9 MHz, transmitted from Bukit Sungai Besi as trial transmission for few months. im4u FM 107.9 broadcasts in Malay language majority.

I knew this radio station since 4th March 2013 when the frequency 107.9MHz that I used for my mp3 modulator (changed to 106.0MHz, finally on 106.1MHz since May 2013) clash with im4u FM 107.9 while I was driving from IUKL to my home. Before im4u FM launched, this frequency is empty and had been used for my mp3 modulator before. 107.9 MHz was formerly used by Negeri FM (then used by Klasik Nasional since 2007) Seremban frequency which transmitter site was in RTM Seremban, then later Gunung Telapa Burok when Klasik Nasional took over the 107.9MHz. Klasik Nasional 107.9MHz was closed transmission since December 2009 while its original Negeri Sembilan frequency 87.9MHz was upgraded its transmission power.

Unfortunately IM4U FM 107.9 is transmitted from Bukit Sungai Besi, only can covers Kuala Lumpur area, some Selangor area (except northern parts) and parts of Negeri Sembilan.

List of Selangor areas can receive im4u FM 107.9:
- Kajang, Klang, Shah Alam, Petaling Jaya, Sepang, Seri Kembangan, Bangi, Ampang, Sungai Buloh, Subang Jaya, Cheras, Kelana Jaya, Puchong and parts of Rawang/Kuala Selangor.

Among all TV and radio stations in Klang Valley, majority they are transmitted from Gunung Ulu Kali, instead of Kuala Lumpur Tower and Bukit Sungai Besi. RTM launched another frequencies in early 1990's for their radio stations to cover Kuala Lumpur city clearly, along with Gunung Ulu Kali frequencies.

If im4u FM locates its transmitter site in Gunung Ulu Kali or Bukit Cincin on 107.9 MHz, the Klang Valley area, even South Perak, Negeri Sembilan, West Pahang and parts of Malacca can receive im4u FM loudly and clearly on 107.9MHz. Gunung Ulu Kali transmitter can transmit up to Tapah, Rembau, Malacca (Masjid Tanah), Maran, Bahau, Johol, Temerloh, Seri Iskandar and Manjung. At the same time, the northern parts of Selangor (Rawang to Hulu Selangor and Sabak Bernam) can receive this radio station.

Before im4u FM launched, the 107.9 MHz was Minnal FM from Bukit Larut, Taiping, can be received in South Perak (not so clear). If im4u FM transmitted from Bukit Cincin on 107.9MHz, the coverage of Minnal FM Bukit Larut 107.9MHz will be minimized, somehow Teluk Intan, Kg. Gajah, Bidor, Sungkai, Sitiawan, Manjung, and Seri Iskandar may not receive Minnal FM 107.9MHz from Bukit Larut anymore, instead receive im4u FM from Bukit Cincin, but Minnal FM listeners still can tune to 98.9MHz from Ipoh (Gunung Kledang), 96.3MHz from Ulu Kali or weaker 104.3MHz from Cameron Highlands (Gunung Brinchang).

Saturday 15 March 2014

FLY FM Kedah frequency reception (Langkawi, and Northern Kedah)

Fly FM frequencies in Alor Setar is on 99.1MHz, currently its transmitter site is located at Alor Setar Tower (in Malay known as "Menara Alor Setar"). Previously Fly FM 99.1MHz was transmitted from Gunung Jerai initially (in 2007-09), then moved to limited transmitting coverage Wisma PKNK (in 2009-12) due to interference with radio station from Thailand (Satun) and Penang, but finally at limited coverage Alor Setar tower (since 2012).

Before Fly FM 99.1MHz launched in Kedah, its former frequency was 87.7MHz (now 87.8MHz is one FM) in Gunung Jerai.

This can cause many Kedah areas cannot receive FLY FM on 99.1MHz, but southern parts of Kedah like Baling, Sungai Petani, Kulim still can receive FLY FM on 89.9MHz from Bukit Penara, Penang, meanwhile northern parts of Kedah, Langkawi and Perlis totally cannot receive FLY FM on 99.1MHz. Alor Setar Tower transmitter is limited due to the height of the tower.

If North Kedah and Perlis cannot receive FLY FM, Fly FM can launch a transmitter in Gunung Raya (Pulau Langkawi) to cover Perlis, Langkawi and Northern parts of Kedah, even some of Central-Southern parts of Kedah still can receive FLY FM from Langkawi with weaker signal, the examples of the empty frequencies in Gunung Raya: 94.2MHz. Most of radio frequencies in northern region seems full, due to used by many radio stations from Kedah, Perlis, Penang and Thailand: Satun. So, 94.2MHz is the empty frequencies.



I suggested 94.1MHz to Fly FM before, but I found that 94.1MHz will clash with PFM 94.0MHz from Satun, Thailand. Therefore, 94.2MHz can avoid clashing.

FLY FM can solve the Kedah and Perlis coverage problem with launching Langkawi frequency.

If FLY FM create a new frequency in Pulau Langkawi on 94.2MHz, it may not a problem because there may not have any interference with any radio stations.

So, FLY FM may not have problem to launch Gunung Raya transmitter if it is on 94.2MHz, but the frequency usage is decided by MCMC (Malaysia Broadcast Regulator Department).


Empty FM empty frequencies in Pulau Langkawi and Perlis which are suitable to be set up in Gunung Raya: 88.5MHz, 90.3MHz, 94.2MHz, 94.3MHz, and 106.1MHz.

Thursday 13 March 2014

20 years anniversary of THR.FM established in Malaysia

This year (2014) will be 20 years anniversary of THR.FM established in Malaysia.

THR.FM (Time Highway Radio) was established in 31 August 1994 on 99.3MHz from Gunung Ulu Kali, after the second private radio station in Malaysia after Best 104 launched.

THR.FM broadcasts in English (80%) and Malay (20%) in 1994.

Its slogan was "More Than Just Great Music" in the 1990's.

The Malay programme was known as "THR Gegar".

In mid-1990's, THR.FM expanded its broadcast coverage in Negeri Sembilan, Melaka, Johor, Perak, Kedah, Penang and Perlis, meanwhile East Pahang, Terengganu and Kelantan transmitter were launched in early 2000's.
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In early 2000's, THR.FM launched Chinese and Tamil programmes, known as "Mat Tou Tak" (乜都得,anything can) and "Thr Raaga" respectively, meanwhile the English programme was known as "THR Xtreme". THR.FM broadcasted in four languages in early 2000's, mainly Malay (Gegar), English (Xtreme), Chinese Mandarin/Cantonese (Mat Tou Tak) and Tamil (Raaga)

Since THR.FM had stiff competition with other English radio stations in early 2000's, the THR.FM English programme was dropped. The short-life Chinese programme of THR.FM was also dropped at the same time. Therefore, THR.FM remained two languages programmes.

In 2005, THR.FM joined Astro Radio (formerly known as AMP Radio Networks), THR.FM in West Coast of Peninsular Malaysia became THR Raaga, meanwhile THR.FM in East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia became full fledged Malay radio station, known as THR Gegar.

THR Raaga was the first Tamil private radio station in Malaysia, ended monopoly of RTM Minnal FM (formerly known as Radio 6) in Malaysia.

Initially, THR Raaga only broadcast in West Coast of Peninsular Malaysia from 0600 hours till 1900 hours, meanwhile 1900 hours till 0600 hours programme slots were THR Gegar from East Coast.

Since early 2010's, THR Raaga expanded its broadcast hours until 0200 hours, THR Raaga broadcasts from 0600 hours till 0200 hours on FM frequencies, meanwhile 0200 hours till 0600 hours programme slots were THR Gegar.

THR Gegar programme on THR Raaga FM frequencies was decreased to 4 hours.

THR Raaga still broadcasts its Tamil programme online and Astro at 0200 hours till 0600 hours.

Although THR Raaga and THR Gegar did not broadcast in East Coast and West Coast respectively, but listeners still can listen via online, mobile apps and Astro decoder. In addition, THR Raaga listeners still can receive THR Raaga on "99.3FM" (Central and West), "101.5FM" (Bera), "97.9FM" (Cameron Highlands) and "99.7FM" (South West) in Pahang, depends on the areas.

The slogan of THR Raaga is "Aaha! Sirantha Isai.", meanwhile the slogan of THR Gegar is "Permata Pantai Timur".

THR Gegar was established many years ago, compared to Raaga.

Wednesday 12 March 2014

Capital FM 88.9 expands its broadcast coverage in Penang (107.6FM)

The Malaysia's first English language women radio station, Capital FM 88.9, which owned by Star Radio Group since December 2011 will expand its broadcast coverage in Penang, starts from 17 March 2014, on 107.6MHz, transmitted from Bukit Penara.

The "107.6MHz" formerly was Red FM (formerly known as Red 104.9). Red FM established 107.6MHz in Penang because its Kedah frequency 98.1MHz was clashed with its Taiping frequency 98.2MHz, caused 98.1MHz and 98.2MHz cannot be heard in Penang. Since May 2009, Red FM had closed transmission of Taiping frequency 98.2MHz and Negeri Sembilan frequency 106.0MHz. The Red FM Taiping frequency 98.2MHz was closed down because to avoid interference from Red FM Kedah frequency 98.1MHz, meanwhile its Negeri Sembilan frequency 106.0MHz was closed down because of the transmitter tower in Gunung Telapa Burok cannot support more transmitters anymore due to its capacity. Since June 2009, Red FM in Taiping is 98.1MHz, where transmitted from Gunung Jerai, Kedah with 10kW power, meanwhile Red FM in Negeri Sembilan is 104.9MHz (from Gunung Ulu Kali, with 10kW power; for Northern-Central parts of Negeri Sembilan with weaker signal) or 98.9MHz (from Gunung Ledang; for Southern parts of Negeri Sembilan).

Red FM Penang frequency "107.6MHz" will be ended transmission soon, then taken over by Capital FM. So Red FM frequency in Penang will become 98.1MHz, where transmitted from Gunung Jerai, starts from 17/03/2014.

At the same time, some rumors said that Capital FM will transmit at Komtar, Penang on 107.6MHz. Based on logic, no any TV/radio stations in Penang transmitter site are at Komtar. TM did not build transmitter there too. If Penang TV/radio stations transmitter site are at Komtar, not all Penang state will receive TV/radio signal clearly from Komtar, such as Batu Feringgi, Balik Pulau, and Bayan Lepas. One FM Johor Bahru frequency 105.3MHz was an example, which transmitter site located in Taman Sentosa, only covered certain area of Johor Bahru partially.

Therfore, Penang, South Kedah (Sungai Petani, Baling, Kulim) and North Perak listeners can receive Capital FM on 107.6MHz soon.

Before Capital FM launches in Penang soon, Capital FM already covered Klang Valley, West Pahang, South Perak and North Negeri Sembilan on 88.9MHz. Capital FM already cover 55% of Perak area, mainly Hilir Perak (Teluk Intan, Langkap), Perak Tengah (Seri Iskandar), Manjung (such as Lumut, Sitiawan, Ayer Tawar, Pangkor, Pantai Remis), Batang Padang (such as Tapah, Bidor, Tanjung Malim) and parts of Kinta district (such as Batu Gajah, Tronoh, Tanjung Tualang). Meanwhile Taiping and North Perak area had to use special techniques to receive Capital FM on 88.9MHz from Gunung Ulu Kali.

After Capital FM launches in Penang, Capital FM Perak area coverage will be increased to 70%, the new Perak areas are Larut (Kamunting, Semanggol), Selama, Changkat Jering, Taiping, Kerian (Parit Buntar) and parts of Kuala Kangsar area (Padang Rengas). The rest 30% of Perak areas are Hulu Perak, Kuala Kangsar, Ipoh, Sg. Siput, and Kampar, unless they launch transmitters in Gunung Kledang, Ipoh and Bukit Larut, Taiping.

Stay tuned!

Capital FM frequencies

- 88.9MHz in Klang Valley, Central-South Perak, West Pahang, and North Negeri Sembilan (Transmitter Site: Gunung Ulu Kali).
- 107.6MHz in Pulau Pinang, North Perak and South Kedah (Transmitter site: Bukit Penara)