The ABC recommends the community obtains quotes from several suppliers for the proposed system. If the community is considering Self-help for other services as well as ABC, a separate transmitter is required for each service to be rebroadcast.
There are a number of points to consider when estimating the set-up costs of a Self-help facility:
When planning a Self-help system communities should also allow for on-going costs:
An annual fee is charged for the issue of a transmitter licence for a rebroadcasting facility (transmitter). The cost is in the order of $26 per year, per transmitter. ACMA can provide firm details once an application for a rebroadcasting service is received. When estimating set up and on going costs for the Self-help facility, communities should allow a reasonable contingency for many minor items that may not have been included in the original estimate.
The table below gives estimated set-up equipment costs (in $AUD), for mid range quality equipment. The prices are indicative and do not contain all the elements required. The ABC strongly recommends that a broadcasting consultant be employed and firm quotes received from several suppliers.
| Service | 10W (ACMA Category A) |
100W (ACMA Category B) |
1000W (ACMA Category B) |
|---|---|---|---|
| TV transmitter (incl. mast) | $15,000 | $31,000 | $65,000 |
| FM Radio transmitter (incl. mast) | $8,000 | $15,000 | $26,000 |
| Off Air Receiver | $1000-$5000 | $1000-$5000 | $1000-$5000 |
| Satellite Receiver* | $500-$15,000 | $500-$15,000 | $500-$15,000 |
| *Satellite dishes range in size from 1.5m to 3.7m. Larger dishes have greater immunity to rain fade. Domestic receivers would generally be at the lower end of the price range given above. | |||
It should be noted that costs can vary substantially between individual sites. The above estimates do not include provision for:
