WKPS-FM has been off the air since Monday because of technological and structural advances that the station is implementing.

The decision to make changes to the station was made by staff officers. Wiring and electronic components of the station are run down and badly sub-standard from overuse, said Chris Buchignani (senior-journalism), station vice president.

The alterations involve updating the equipment from a consumer level to a professional level.

WKPS-FM will be installing a computer automation system that will enable the station to broadcast 24-hours a day, even when there is no "live" person there to control it. This system will also make it easier for the disc jockeys to air commercials and sound effects.

Although the station will not commence full-operating status until further notice, it will be broadcasting on a limited basis. Shows that feature guests will be broadcast live, as well as the football game on Saturday.

The station's staff is taking the opportunity from this downtime to reexamine the infrastructure of the station. This time off-air has also given station manager, Mike Gogel (senior-telecommunications) and Buchignani more of an opportunity to listen to staff needs.

The radio station's staff, of more than 100 people, has been receptive to the situation. While staff members are disappointed about not being on the air, they realize the changes are for the good of the station.

"For years and years to come, this will make a dramatic improvement in our product," Buchignani said.

The new setup at the station will ensure there is a set system in place to accord to FCC regulations.

Once all of the technical advances have been made, the staff will focus on improving the promotional aspects of the station. Although some of the staff is concerned about losing listeners because of the downtime, Gogel believes the station's devoted fans will be upset at first but will return to a show that is even better.

"There is no reason that we shouldn't be up by (Thanksgiving) break," said Drew Hall (sophomore-information science and technology), director of operations at WKPS-FM.

Staff members at WKPS-FM hope the station will be done renovating soon because of the long hours they have been putting in to help the reconstruction. Gogel has slept in the building overnight to be able to do his part for the station.

"We will be living here until this all gets fixed up," he said.