How to Create a Student Radio Station Using Shoutcast

College radio stations went out of vogue when newer technologies became more exciting to students. Now, the Internet offers a way for students to get back into the radio station scene. Shoutcast, an Internet radio option available through Nullsoft, makes it easy and inexpensive for students to start a radio station.

Instructions

1. Create a budget. Shoutcast itself is free, which makes it appealing to students. The primary costs are for a computer to act as a server, CDs, microphones and any staff costs for disc jockeys. Many schools cover these costs through student activities or student government, but you'll need an itemized budget to offer.

2. Set up the server. Shoutcast requires downloading software and configuring a server to work with this software. Nullsoft, also the proprietors of the Winamp Mp3 player, provides manuals with step-by-step instructions on getting the server set up.

3. Survey the students on campus. Have an informal survey to determine what type of programming students would want in a station.

4. Recruit students. Find students to work as DJs, commentators and soundboard help.

5. Launch the radio station. Students, and anyone else, will be able to access the radio station through the Shoutcast interface. It will be free and easy for them. Your job will be to get people to the streaming audio and to make sure you keep up the quality of the broadcasts.

Tips & Warnings

• You can cut back on the staff costs by trying to use all students who will work for free. Allowing students to host half-hour or hour-long shows is a great way to harness their propensity for volunteering.

• Seek out students from all majors and areas of the college. A good computer science major, for example, is a great addition to the student radio team.