Do I relay Required Weekly Test that is received from monitor sources?
NO… received RWT’s are a “closed circuit” test between state relay networks and stations. The RWT should never be relayed on your station. Set the RWT filter in your Endec to “log only”.
Is there an audio message sent as part of Required Weekly Test?
FCC rules only require the header (FIPS codes) and EOM to be transmitted during a RWT. Stations, however, may include pre and/or post announcements identifying the test.
Do the State Relay Networks relay weather alerts?
NO…the two State Relay Networks (APT & GSSnet) do not relay weather alerts originated by the National Weather Service. Therefore, all broadcast stations should have their own weather receiver installed and connected to a monitor input on their EAS Endec.
What are the two required monitor sources for Alabama?
All broadcast stations should monitor the following sources…
1. Nearest Alabama Public Television (APT) transmitter
Stations may use a digital converter or digital television set to receive the audio from APT.
2. Global Security Systems Satellite (GSSnet)
Station should review the list of GSSnet affiliates and choose the one that has the best signal in your area. A complete list of all APT and GSSnet affiliates is available at www.sbe118.org. Click on the EAS tab.
What if I cannot receive one of the required monitor sources?
If technical issues prevent a station from receiving one of the required monitor sources they should contact the State EAS committee for an alternate monitoring assignment. A letter will be sent to you to include with your state EAS plan.
What should I do if an RWT is not received from a monitor source?
If your weekly log review reveals that your station did not receive the RWT or RMT from one of your monitor sources, it should be reported to the station’s technical department. They should first check equipment (receivers and EAS endec) to make sure it is working properly. If all your equipment is operating properly, then send an email indicating the week and monitor source to the state EAS committee.
When should a station send a Required Weekly Test (RWT)?
All Broadcast stations and cable operators must transmit a Required Weekly test (RWT) once each week on different days and at different times of the day. NO WEEKLY TEST IS NECESSARY during the week that a monthly test is conducted or when there is an EAS activation for a State or Local emergency.
When are Required Monthly Tests (RMT) transmitted?
The Required Monthly Test (RMT) will be transmitted by both State Relay Networks once each month following this schedule:
* In odd numbered months, monthly tests will be conducted between 8:30 a.m. and local sunset.
* In even numbered months, monthly tests will be conducted between local sunset and 8:30 a.m.
If there are weather concerns in the state, the RMT may be rescheduled. A schedule with date/times is posted at www.sbe118.org. Click on the EAS tab.
What incoming filters should stations have set up in Endec?
The FCC requires the following filters to be programmed in your Endec.
- EAN/EAT (National Level Alerts) All units come with this filter programmed and should not be removed or changed.
- RMT (Required Monthly Test) This should be programmed to relay within a 60 minute window.
- RWT (Required Weekly Test) This should be programmed to “log only”.
The State EAS plans require the following additional filters to be in your Endec.
- CAE (Child Abduction Emergency) This filter is for Alabama Department of Public Safety to send alerts concerning a child abduction.
- CEM (Civil Emergency Message) This filter is for state emergencies issued by the Governor or other State officials.
Each station may program filters for weather related alerts. The type of alerts and the counties to be included are left to the discretion of station management. At the very least the State EAS committee recommends the following:
SVR (Severe Thunderstorm Warning)
TOR (Tornado Warning)
HUW (Hurricane Warning)
FFW (Flash Flood Warning)
How do I contact the State EAS committee?
To contact the State EAS committee with any questions or recommendations contact Larry Wilkins at 334-303-2525 or lwilkins@al-ba.com. You may also contact the Alabama Broadcasters Association in Birmingham at 205-982-5001 or Sharon Tinsley at stinsley@al-ba.com.
