Why do Radio Station's Call Letters Start with 'W'?

Question

Are there exceptions to this rule?
Will it ever change?

Answer 1

Back in the 30's call signs were standardized. The US got W east of the Mississippi river, and K west of it-though some stations given call signs before that are exceptions.

Canada got C and N, Mexico has X.

Answer 2

Radio stations start with K west of the Mississippi river and with a W east of it. Exception is KDKA Pittsburg. No, it will not change. BUT there may gradually be an elimination of call letters after another hundred years on the internet.

Answer 3

The original series of call letter designations for radio (and later tv) were for stations East of the Mississippi to start with a W and then stations West of the Mississippi to start with a K.



There are some geographic exceptions, but this is the general rule.

Answer 4

there are 2 different sides w can be on like wls in Chicago and wmt in cedar rapids Iowa