One can expect constant updates on traffic conditions, local weather or information about upcoming city events. There are talk shows featuring local celebrities and streaming music involving local bands. The radio jingles too are local in nature.

Each radio station is assigned a frequency on which it broadcasts its program. This frequency is assigned by Federal Communications Commission, popularly known as FCC. The Commission also assigns the call letters to each radio station. It is this call sign that gives a distinct identity to the radio station.

For instance, WLIT 93.9 is a radio station that operates out of Chicago. The moment a resident of Chicago hears the call sign WLIT he knows that it is a local radio station that transmits light rock. The digits 93.9 stand for the frequency that has been allotted to this radio station.

In other words, all broadcasts from this radio station are being made at a frequency of 93,900,000 cycles per second. Since this frequency falls in the FM band, you know that WLIT is an FM radio station. The music will therefore be of a high quality.

The range of a radio station depends upon the transmitter that is being used to transmit sound. Generally, local radio stations can be heard within a range of 30 to 40 km. The signal becomes too weak on the periphery, and fades away completely after some distance.

This is why big cities are serviced by several radio stations. The low power transmitters are cheaper and easier to set up. Also, it is possible for smaller radio stations to specialize. They need not compete with national radio networks but can focus on the needs of their listeners.

Most local radio stations have exciting radio jockeys who can breathe life into broadcasts. The stress is on interactivity, and on those programs that suit small audiences. These radio stations fill a great communication need.