Mississippi State University’s radio station, WMSV, is making a change to part of the station that has remained the same since WMSV launched in 1994.

The station is replacing its original transmitter with a version that has a more modern, solid-state technology.

WMSV general manager  Anthony Craven, said he is excited for the transition.

“The main objective is keeping up to date with the latest radio transmitter technology,” Craven said. “The tube technology used in our previous transmitter is being phased out with solid-state technology now being used in new transmitters.”

Craven said he views the station’s transition as similar to another recent transition.

“I liken it to radio’s version of when television phased out analog and everyone was forced to make the transition to digital,” Craven said.

Craven said the move toward this new technology became widespread a couple years back and most stations nationwide have either changed over or are in the process of doing so. 

The Federal Communications Commission is the agency in charge of regulating multiple forms of communication in the United States including radio and television. 

Although the FCC has not announced any forthcoming regulations related to the phasing out of tube technology in radio, FCC regulation forced all remaining television broadcasters who were broadcasting in analog to switch over to digital broadcasting in 2009. 

Craven, who sees similarities in the transitions, said he believes more FCC regulation may be forthcoming.

“Although the FCC has not announced any plans for regulations that would require any remaining radio stations to adopt the new technology, it is very possible that they might.” Craven said.

WMSV Public Affairs Assistant Tori Bonney said she believes the new transmitter will carry WMSV far into the future and will not require another purchase for some time.

The new transmitter will keep WMSV on the air during future repairs.

“If one component of a transmitter using solid-state technology goes out and needs to be repaired the transmitter can continue working while repairs are taking place.” Craven said.

The ability to stay on the air during repairs is not the only advantage to using a solid-state transmitter.

“Radio transmitters using solid-state technology are more reliable and far more energy efficient than radio transmitters using the older technology.” Craven said.

Because of WMSV’s online presence, many listeners were able to continue listening to the station while it was down early this week, with the repairs only affecting those listening through

its use of technology to reach its listeners wherever they are.

“Over the years, WMSV has been at the cutting edge when it comes to providing content online and the transition to solid-state technology brings us up to date in the world of over the air radio,” Craven said.

The station tried to ensure that all listeners were aware of the transition with Bonney writing a Public Service Announcement. 

It was announced once every hour on air reminding listeners they could listen online once the station went down for repairs.

Although those who listen to WMSV over the radio or on TuneIn were unable to hear the station in their preferred way for a short period early this week, the transition to solid-state technology should make off-air  periods far rarer in the future.