FM Restricted Service License
Surge have been operating one month FM RSLs (or Restricted Service Licenses) since 2001 in conjunction with Southampton University Students' Union. This unique partnership allows us to reach a much wider audience with crystal clear quality, whilst providing coverage of Union events such as the annual elections.
Q & A
Why can't SURGE broadcast on FM all year round?
Unfortunately the costs of year round FM broadcasting are a long way out of our reach at the moment, apart from this, there are only limited number of licenses available because of bandwidth.
When can I hear SURGE on FM?
Last year, our broadcast was from the middle of February to the middle of March, to coincide with various Students' Union events, such as their elections. Next year the broadcast will likely be around the same time. Keep checking the website and look out for posters nearer the time.
What is SURGE's FM frequency?
Normally we broadcast on 87.7 FM which is generally reserved for local RSLs although this could potentially change. We always advertise the full details around the University, on our website and in the Wessex Scene nearer the time.
Do you run any special events for the FM period?
Of course! The RSL enables SURGE to reach more listeners than usual and we take full advantage of this by inviting local companies to support some of our shows. This means we have competitions every day, often with prizes from local companies. We've also had other schemes such as the SURGE credit card which won you prizes for carrying it around campus, and this year the BIG giveaway during which we gave away a bus for a night! . We also host comprehensive live elections results coverage, with our news and technical team providing a live broadcast from the union as we receive results from the counting room.
Is there life after FM?
There is indeed. SURGE not only broadcasts 24 hours a day, 7 days a week on 1287 AM, but also around the world via our web streams. This means you can even listen to it when you go home for the holidays!