What is KNHC and what is its primary distinction in the radio industry?

KNHC, broadcasting on 89.5 FM in Seattle, Washington, is a Class C1 high school radio station. It holds the distinction of being the world's oldest dance music station that is still in operation.

Describe the music format offered by KNHC.

KNHC, branded as C89.5, features a hybrid music format that includes current electronic dance music (EDM), remixes of Rhythmic Top 40 hits, and new dance songs that have the potential to become future hits, all presented with a Top 40 radio direction.

How does KNHC contribute to music industry charts?

KNHC is one of six radio stations monitored by Nielsen Broadcast Data Systems for inclusion in Billboard magazine's weekly Dance/Mix Show Airplay chart, indicating its influence in tracking dance music trends.

What does the "C" in the station's branding, C89.5, signify?

The "C" in C89.5 stands for "Communications," reflecting the station's role in broadcasting and its educational mission.

In what broadcast technology does KNHC operate?

KNHC broadcasts using the HD Radio format, which allows for digital transmission and potentially multiple subchannels.

Who is the owner of KNHC, and how is it operated?

KNHC is owned by Seattle Public Schools. It is operated by professional staff who provide training to students from Nathan Hale High School, guiding them through various aspects of radio production and broadcasting.

How is KNHC funded, and what challenges has it faced in securing funding?

Since 2002, Seattle Public Schools has largely excluded funding for KNHC from its annual budget, covering only a portion of salaries for two staff members. The station relies on fundraising efforts, including bi-annual pledge drives and corporate underwriting, to cover its remaining operational costs, as it cannot air traditional commercials.

When did KNHC become eligible for a Community Service Grant, and from whom?

In 2015, KNHC became qualified to receive a Community Service Grant from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, providing an additional source of support.

Describe the geographical reach of KNHC's broadcast signal.

KNHC's signal has a wide over-the-air coverage area, extending from north of Seattle down to roughly halfway into Tacoma, across the Puget Sound, as far east as Snoqualmie Pass, and as far north as Victoria, British Columbia.

Approximately how many listeners does C89.5 attract weekly?

C89.5 attracts a significant audience, with as many as 200,000 broadcast listeners tuning in each week.

What online content does KNHC offer to its listeners?

KNHC provides multiple live audio streams through its website, including 32 kbit/s and 128 kbit/s MP3 streams, as well as an Ogg stream, making its programming accessible globally via the internet.

What notable upgrades were made to the KNHC website in March 2018?

In March 2018, KNHC unveiled a major redesign of its website, which included the implementation of a real-time playlist and a searchable database of the music played on the station.

When did KNHC first begin broadcasting, and on what medium?

KNHC first went on the air in December 1969 as a very low power AM station, operating with 100 milliwatts on 1210 kHz.

When did KNHC transition to FM broadcasting, and what was its initial FM setup?

KNHC received its FM construction permit in September 1970 and began broadcasting on FM in January 1971. Initially, it broadcast with 10 watts and covered an area of about a 5-mile circle in the northern part of Seattle.

How did KNHC's power and broadcast capabilities evolve in the early 1970s?

The station increased its power to 320 watts in September 1972, and three months later, it began broadcasting in stereo. A further power increase in November 1974 raised its effective radiated power (ERP) to 1,500 watts, with a directional pattern.

What significant development occurred in December 1977 related to KNHC's operations and educational outreach?

In December 1977, a grant from the HEW/NTIA enabled the creation of a sister studio for KNHC at Cleveland High School on Beacon Hill. Concurrently, Nathan Hale High School launched its Mass Communications magnet school program, which included radio, television, journalism, photography, and graphic arts.

What is the origin of the KNHC call sign, reflecting the 1977 developments?

The call sign KNHC was derived from the initials of the institutions involved: 'K' for U.S. broadcast stations west of the Mississippi, 'NH' for Nathan Hale High School, and 'C' for Cleveland High School, acknowledging the collaborative studio setup.

What was KNHC's music format in the early 1980s, and how did it change?

Entering the 1980s, KNHC played light rock and pop music, supplemented by specialty shows. In October 1981, after increasing its power to 3 kW non-directionally, the station overhauled its format in 1982 to R&B and urban music, which led to an increase in listenership.

When did the branding "C89" first appear, and what technological advancements were made in the mid-1980s?

The "C89" branding was introduced in 1983. In 1984, a satellite dish was installed to receive programming from the Sheridan Broadcasting Networks, and in 1987, a microwave studio-transmitter link and a new antenna were put into use.

What legal challenge did KNHC face in the 1980s regarding its broadcast frequency?

In December 1983, the Jack Straw Memorial Foundation and its station, KRAB, filed an application to share time with KNHC. This filing was seen by Seattle Public Schools as an attempt to take over KNHC's broadcast band.

How was the legal dispute between KNHC and the Jack Straw Memorial Foundation resolved?

The legal challenge was resolved in favor of Nathan Hale High School, with courts ruling against the Jack Straw Memorial Foundation's attempt to share time on KNHC's frequency. Ultimately, the foundation established its own station, KSER, in Everett.

What significant power increase and facility upgrades occurred for KNHC in the late 1980s and early 1990s?

In 1988, KNHC filed to increase its power to 30 kW, which was implemented in 1991. The early 1990s also saw a magnet grant that bolstered the mass communications program and a renovation of the radio facility, adding a second production studio, engineering room, and offices.

How did KNHC embrace digital technology and online presence in the late 1990s?

KNHC began transitioning to a digital workflow in 1995, completing the process by 2000 with the adoption of MiniDisc-based equipment. In 1997, the station also started streaming its content over the Internet.

What was the impact of moving KNHC's transmitter to Cougar Mountain in 2002?

After receiving FCC approval, KNHC moved its transmitter to Cougar Mountain in 2002. Although the effective radiated power decreased, the move significantly improved the station's coverage area, particularly to the north of Seattle.

What national recognition did KNHC receive in 2003?

In 2003, The Village Voice recognized KNHC's achievements by naming it the best high school radio station in its "Best of New York" list.

When did KNHC become a monitored reporter for Billboard magazine, and for which chart?

In 2004, KNHC became the first non-commercial station in the U.S. to be a monitored reporter, joining the Billboard Magazine Dance Radio Airplay panel.

What technical advancements did KNHC implement in 2008?

In 2008, KNHC installed a new transmitter on Cougar Mountain and began broadcasting in HD Radio, enhancing its technical capabilities.

Describe the facility upgrades KNHC underwent in November 2009.

In November 2009, KNHC moved into brand-new digital studios and classrooms located at Nathan Hale High School, modernizing its operational environment.

What does the KNHC logo used from 2001 to 2018 represent?

The source material includes an image of the KNHC logo that was utilized by the station from 2001 to 2018.

What do the images of KNHC's On-Air Studio A depict?

The provided images show KNHC's On-Air Studio A in two different states: one depicts the studio before its rebuild in 2009, and the other shows it after the renovation was completed.

What is the broadcast area KNHC serves?

KNHC serves the Seattle, Washington, and surrounding area with its broadcast signal.

What is the specific FM frequency on which KNHC broadcasts?

KNHC broadcasts on the frequency of 89.5 MHz.

What is the class designation for KNHC?

KNHC is classified as a Class C1 radio station.

What is the meaning of the call sign KNHC, as it relates to its origins?

The call sign KNHC is understood to represent 'K' for broadcast stations west of the Mississippi River, 'NH' for Nathan Hale High School, and 'C' for Cleveland High School, reflecting its historical operational structure.

What is the effective radiated power (ERP) of KNHC?

KNHC has an effective radiated power of 8,500 watts.

What is the Height Above Average Terrain (HAAT) for KNHC's transmitter?

The Height Above Average Terrain (HAAT) for KNHC's transmitter is 372 meters, which is equivalent to 1,220 feet and 6 inches.

Where are the transmitter coordinates for KNHC located?

The transmitter coordinates for KNHC are 47°32′35″N 122°06′25″W.

What are the subchannels offered by KNHC in HD Radio format?

KNHC offers two HD Radio subchannels: HD2, which features New Wave music under the branding "C89.5 Save The Wave," and HD3, which broadcasts Downtempo music as "Café Chill."

What was KNHC's former frequency before moving to FM?

KNHC previously broadcast on 1210 kHz from 1969 to 1971 before transitioning to its FM frequency.

What is the purpose of the "Public file" and "LMS" links associated with KNHC?

The "Public file" link provides access to information about KNHC maintained by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), while the "LMS" link refers to the Licensing and Management System, also managed by the FCC, for station technical data.

How can listeners access KNHC's broadcast online?

Listeners can access KNHC's broadcast online through its website, which offers a "Listen Live" option and provides a 128 kbit/s MP3 stream.

What is the official website address for KNHC?

The official website for KNHC is c895.org.

What type of programming is featured on KNHC's HD2 subchannel?

KNHC's HD2 subchannel features New Wave music and is branded as "C89.5 Save The Wave."

What type of programming is featured on KNHC's HD3 subchannel?

KNHC's HD3 subchannel broadcasts Downtempo music under the branding "Café Chill."

What was the initial purpose of the Jack Straw Memorial Foundation's application to share time with KNHC?

The Jack Straw Memorial Foundation's application aimed to broadcast on KNHC's reserved frequency band (88-92 MHz) due to the foundation's own financial difficulties, seeking to establish a noncommercial station.

What is the significance of KNHC's status as a high school radio station?

KNHC's status as a high school radio station means it serves as an educational platform, providing hands-on training and experience in broadcasting and electronic media for students at Nathan Hale High School.

What is the meaning of the "C89.5" branding in relation to the station's format?

The "C89.5" branding signifies the station's frequency and its core identity as a communications hub for dance music, encompassing current hits, remixes, and emerging tracks.

What was the initial broadcast medium and frequency for KNHC when it first went on the air?

When KNHC first began broadcasting in December 1969, it was a very low power AM station operating on 1210 kHz with 100 milliwatts.

What was the initial power and coverage area of KNHC when it began FM broadcasting in January 1971?

Upon commencing FM broadcasts in January 1971, KNHC operated with 10 watts and covered an area of about a 5-mile circle in the northern part of Seattle.

When did KNHC begin broadcasting in stereo?

KNHC began broadcasting in stereo three months after increasing its power to 320 watts in September 1972, which would be around December 1972.

Knhc Wiki: Seattle's Sonic Pulse: KNHC

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

When you are ready...
🎮 Play the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge Game🎮

Understanding KNHC

The Sound of Seattle

KNHC, broadcasting at 89.5 FM in Seattle, Washington, holds the distinction of being the world's oldest continuously operating dance music radio station. As a Class C1 high school radio station, it serves as a unique educational platform while delivering a vibrant sound to the Pacific Northwest.

C89.5 Format & Reach

Branded as C89.5, the station specializes in a dynamic blend of current electronic dance music (EDM), rhythmic Top 40 remixes, and emerging dance tracks. Its programming direction aligns with Top 40 radio, making it a key player monitored by Nielsen BDS for inclusion in Billboard's Dance/Mix Show Airplay chart. Its signal provides excellent coverage across the Seattle metropolitan area.

Ownership and Student Operation

Owned by Seattle Public Schools, KNHC is operated by professional staff who mentor students from Nathan Hale High School. This collaborative model allows students to gain hands-on experience in production, programming, music selection, copywriting, and on-air hosting, providing invaluable real-world training.

A Journey Through Time

Genesis: From AM to FM (1969-1970s)

KNHC began its broadcast journey in December 1969 as a low-power AM station on 1210 kHz. The transition to FM was swift, with the station receiving its permit in September 1970 and commencing FM broadcasts in January 1971. Initially broadcasting from Wedgwood Elementary School with 10 watts, its signal coverage expanded significantly with power increases and the introduction of stereo broadcasts in the mid-1970s.

Evolution and Expansion (1980s-1990s)

The 1980s saw KNHC establish a sister studio at Cleveland High School and launch its Mass Communications magnet program. The station's format evolved, shifting to R&B and urban music, and adopting the "C89" branding. Technological advancements, including satellite reception and microwave studio-transmitter links, were integrated. The 1990s marked a move towards a digital workflow and the commencement of internet streaming, alongside an articulation agreement with Boise State University.

Legal Defense: KNHC successfully defended its broadcast license against a challenge from the Jack Straw Memorial Foundation in the late 1980s, a significant victory for the school's program.
Power Increase: In 1991, KNHC utilized a power increase to 30 kW, significantly enhancing its broadcast reach.
Facility Upgrades: The radio facility underwent renovations, adding a second production studio, engineering room, and offices.
Digital Transition: The station completed its conversion to a digital workflow by 2000, embracing technologies like MiniDisc.

Modern Era & Digital Integration (2000s-Present)

The 2000s brought further technological advancements and recognition. KNHC moved its transmitter to Cougar Mountain, vastly improving its signal coverage, particularly to the north of Seattle. This era also saw national accolades, including being named best high school radio station by The Village Voice and becoming the first non-commercial station in the U.S. to join the Billboard Magazine Dance Radio Airplay panel. The station embraced HD Radio broadcasting and moved into new digital studios and classrooms at Nathan Hale High School in 2009.

Behind the Broadcast

Student Training & Professional Guidance

KNHC operates as a vital educational tool for Seattle Public Schools. Professional staff provide essential supervision and training to students from Nathan Hale High School, covering all facets of radio broadcasting. This includes programming, music curation, production techniques, scriptwriting, and on-air presentation, fostering a dynamic learning environment.

Funding and Sustainability

As a non-commercial educational station, KNHC relies on a diverse funding model. While Seattle Public Schools contribute to staff salaries, the station's operational budget is largely sustained through community support. This includes bi-annual pledge drives and corporate underwriting, supplemented by grants from organizations like the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, ensuring its continued operation and educational mission.

Coverage & Connectivity

Extensive Over-the-Air Reach

Broadcasting from a transmitter site on Cougar Mountain, KNHC boasts an impressive over-the-air coverage area for a high school station. Its signal extends from north of Seattle down to Tacoma, across the Puget Sound, and as far east as Snoqualmie Pass and north to Victoria, British Columbia. This wide reach connects with an estimated 200,000 listeners weekly.

Digital Streams and Online Presence

Complementing its broadcast signal, KNHC offers multiple live internet streams, including 32 kbit/s and 128 kbit/s MP3 streams, alongside an Ogg stream, making its dance music accessible globally. The station's website, redesigned in March 2018, features a real-time playlist and a searchable music database, enhancing listener engagement and transparency.

Technical Specifications

Station Identity

Call Sign: KNHC
Branding: C89.5
Frequency: 89.5 MHz
Format: Dance Hits, EDM, Rhythmic Top 40 Remixes
Owner: Seattle Public Schools
First Air Date: December 1969 (AM), January 1971 (FM)
Call Sign Meaning: Nathan Hale Communications
Licensing Authority: Federal Communications Commission (FCC)
Facility ID: 59526
Class: C1

Transmission Details

Broadcast Area: Seattle, Washington and surrounding region
HD Radio: Yes
Effective Radiated Power (ERP): 8,500 watts
Height Above Average Terrain (HAAT): 372 meters (1,220 ft 6 in)
Transmitter Coordinates: 47°32′35″N 122°06′25″W

Teacher's Corner

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

Edit and Print Materials from this study in the wiki2web studio

Click here to open the "Knhc" Wiki2Web Studio curriculum kit

Use the free Wiki2web Studio to generate printable flashcards, worksheets, exams, and export your materials as a web page or an interactive game.

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Learn about knhc while playing the wiki2web Clarity Challenge game.

Unlock the mystery image and prove your knowledge by earning trophies. This simple game is addictively fun and is a great way to learn!

Play now

Explore More Topics

Discover other topics to study!

lawrencium

swiss family robinson 1960 film

gross domestic product

tandem verlag

References

Radio-Locator Predicted Coverage Area

A full list of references for this article are available at the KNHC Wikipedia page

Feedback & Support

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer

Important Notice

This page has been generated by an AI and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is derived from publicly available data and aims to provide a comprehensive overview of KNHC. It is not affiliated with or endorsed by KNHC, Seattle Public Schools, or Nathan Hale High School.

This is not official station content. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for direct consultation with the station or its official representatives. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy based on the provided source, the AI cannot guarantee the completeness or absolute up-to-dateness of the information.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

Seattle's Sonic Pulse: KNHC

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Understanding KNHC 📻

🎶 The Sound of Seattle

🎧 C89.5 Format & Reach

🏫 Ownership and Student Operation

A Journey Through Time ⏳

🚀 Genesis: From AM to FM (1969-1970s)

🎶 Evolution and Expansion (1980s-1990s)

🌐 Modern Era & Digital Integration (2000s-Present)

Behind the Broadcast ⚙️

🧑‍🏫 Student Training & Professional Guidance

💰 Funding and Sustainability

Coverage & Connectivity 📡

🗺️ Extensive Over-the-Air Reach

💻 Digital Streams and Online Presence

Technical Specifications 🎛️

📊 Station Identity

🗼 Transmission Details

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

True or False? 🤔

❓ Test Your Knowledge! ❓

Gamer's Corner 🎮

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Explore More Topics

📜 Discover other topics to study!

References

📜 References

Feedback & Support 👍

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Understanding KNHC

The Sound of Seattle

C89.5 Format & Reach

Ownership and Student Operation

A Journey Through Time

Genesis: From AM to FM (1969-1970s)

Evolution and Expansion (1980s-1990s)

Modern Era & Digital Integration (2000s-Present)

Behind the Broadcast

Student Training & Professional Guidance

Funding and Sustainability

Coverage & Connectivity

Extensive Over-the-Air Reach

Digital Streams and Online Presence

Technical Specifications

Station Identity

Transmission Details

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice