Cart Machine
A Cart Machine (short for Cartridge Machine) is a piece of broadcast equipment that was widely used in radio stations from the 1960s through the 1990s. Think of it as the predecessor to today's digital audio players. It played special tape cartridges (like bigger versions of cassette tapes) that contained commercials, jingles, or song intros. While mostly replaced by digital systems today, understanding Cart Machine experience on a resume shows long-term broadcast experience and familiarity with both traditional and modern radio operations.
Examples in Resumes
Operated Cart Machine and digital audio systems during live broadcasts
Managed transition from Cart Machine to digital audio playback systems
Trained junior staff on both Cart Machine and Cartridge Machine operations
Typical job title: "Radio Broadcast Operators"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Radio Broadcast Operators
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you manage a station's transition from Cart Machine to digital systems?
Expected Answer: Looking for answers that show experience in planning technology transitions, training staff, maintaining backup systems, and ensuring smooth broadcast operations during the change.
Q: What backup systems would you implement for audio playback in a radio station?
Expected Answer: Should discuss multiple layers of backup including both traditional and digital solutions, emergency procedures, and how to prevent dead air.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What are the advantages and disadvantages of Cart Machines compared to digital systems?
Expected Answer: Should be able to compare reliability, ease of use, maintenance requirements, and explain why understanding both old and new technology matters in broadcasting.
Q: How do you troubleshoot common broadcast audio equipment issues?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of both traditional and modern broadcast equipment troubleshooting, including basic maintenance and quick problem-solving skills.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is a Cart Machine and why was it important in radio broadcasting?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain the basic concept of Cart Machines as automated audio playback devices and their historical importance in radio operations.
Q: How do you ensure smooth transitions between different audio sources in a broadcast?
Expected Answer: Should understand basic concepts of audio mixing, timing, and the importance of preventing dead air in broadcasts.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic audio equipment operation
- Understanding of broadcast timing
- Basic mixing board operation
- Digital audio system basics
Mid (2-5 years)
- Advanced audio equipment troubleshooting
- Multiple audio source management
- Broadcasting automation systems
- Equipment maintenance procedures
Senior (5+ years)
- Broadcast technology transition management
- Staff training and supervision
- Complex audio system design
- Emergency broadcast procedures
Red Flags to Watch For
- No understanding of basic broadcast timing
- Lack of experience with both traditional and digital audio systems
- Poor knowledge of FCC regulations
- No experience with live broadcast operations
