Radio Catskill Request for Proposal

Radio Catskill (WJFF) Equipment Upgrade and Infrastructure Substitution

I. Introduction

Radio Catskill (WJFF) is seeking proposals from qualified vendors to provide equipment, installation, and integration services for a system-wide upgrade of its studio-to-transmitter links, disaster recovery studio connectivity, program distribution, and RF transmission infrastructure. This project aims to enhance signal reliability, redundancy, and operational flexibility across all facilities.

II. Background

Radio Catskill (WJFF) currently utilizes aging Comrex-based audio codecs for both the main studio-to-transmitter link (STL) in Liberty, NY, and the disaster recovery (DR) studio link located in Honesdale, PA. The DR studio is not currently capable of transmitting directly to the transmitter site; all content must first route through the main studio. This configuration presents a critical single point of failure.

Additionally, the existing RF transmission line and components at the transmitter site are undersized and vulnerable to failure under severe weather conditions. The system lacks automated or remotely controlled routing capabilities at the transmission point, limiting operational responsiveness during emergencies.

III. Objectives

The goals of this project are to:

Replace outdated studio-transmitter and studio-studio codec systems.

Enable triple-redundant connectivity between studios and transmitter sites.

Introduce an intelligent routing system for program source management at the transmitter.

Upgrade the RF transmission line to improve signal integrity and weather resilience.

IV. Scope of Work

1. Audio Codec System Replacement

Remove and replace existing Comrex STL and studio link systems.

Install new audio-over-IP codecs capable of dual/multi-channel operation.

Ensure compatibility with redundant transport methods (e.g., microwave, public ISP, private fiber).

Provide configuration for direct DR studio-to-transmitter routing.

2. Redundant Connectivity

Establish up to three redundant communication paths between:

Main Studio and Transmitter

DR Studio and Transmitter

Main Studio and DR Studio

Redundant paths may include:

Direct microwave links

Commercial broadband (e.g., Spectrum ISP)

Fiber circuits relayed over an 11GHz microwave system

3. Transmission Router Installation

Provide and install a transmission router at the transmitter site capable of:

Automatic failover based on audio loss detection

Manual source switching via local, remote PC, or mobile interface

Routing from multiple audio sources (Main Studio, DR Studio, satellite, remote feeds)

4. RF Transmission Line Upgrade

Replace undersized transmission line components at the tower site.

Install properly rated rigid coaxial line for current and future transmitter loads.

Improve reliability and resilience against environmental conditions (snow, ice, etc.).

Integrate switching capability for selection between existing and future transmitters.

Deliverables

Equipment procurement and installation

Full system configuration and testing

Documentation (system schematics, IP addressing, control interfaces)

Staff training for operation and remote access

Warranty and technical support terms

Proposal Requirements

Interested vendors must submit:

Company profile and relevant experience

Project team qualifications

Proposed equipment specifications

Detailed scope of work and project timeline

Cost estimate with itemized breakdown

References from similar broadcast infrastructure projects

VII. Evaluation Criteria

Proposals will be evaluated based on:

Technical approach and system capabilities

Vendor experience and qualifications

Cost-effectiveness

Timeline and project management plan

Quality of references

VIII. Submission Details

Deadline for Submission: May 17, 2025

Submit Proposals To: mimi@wjffradio.org

Questions/Clarifications: mimi@wjffradio.org