Radio FM is transmitted in the Very High Frequency (VHF, 30 MHz to 300 MHz) radio spectrum. VHF radio waves act more like light, traveling in straight lines; hence the reception range is generally limited to about . During unusual upper atmospheric conditions, FM signals are occasionally reflected back towards the Earth by the ionosphere, resulting in long distance FM reception. FM receivers are subject to the capture effect, which causes the radio to only receive the strongest signal when multiple signals appear on the same frequency. FM receivers are relatively immune to lightning and spark interference. High power is useful
Waves Radio annual Scottish Week celebrations. Following the success of the initial broadcasts the station returned every summer, with the introduction of additional broadcasts made over the Christmas periods in 1994 and 1995. The station ceased broadcasting in July 1996 and was unable to transmit over the festive period due to the announcement of the full-time licence. After gaining a full-time licence, Waves Radio launched on 6 December 1997, from its current studios at Blackhouse Circle. Glenn Moir is the stations news editor, responsible for producing the daily local news bulletins. These are broadcast at 8.30am, 12.30pm and 5.30pm Monday - Friday.