It may seem like a recent occurrence, but the conversion of analog signals into a digital format has been ongoing for decades, essentially since the 1950s when the first computer emerged. An exciting aspect of the transformation happening today is the digital audio broadcasting (DAB) technology takeover from traditional radio broadcasting.
From a European team’s simple dream in the form of the EUREKA Project that pursued digital transmission of radio signals, a globally noticeable market is now intact. Radio lovers in Spain and elsewhere can relish a listening experience defined by the highest sound quality and devoid of interference. But how does DAB radio work? We look into the basics of this exciting radio technology in this post.
How Does DAB Radio Work?
DAB radio technology relies on digital signals to transmit audio content, contrary to the conventional radio technology that delivers audio signals via electromagnetic waves. It allows the transmission of text and pictures alongside the usual radio programs.
The principle behind this transmission technique is simple: The signal is recorded, compressed, and then put in a multiplex for broadcasting. A digital audio codec compresses the audio content for transmission across a specific frequency range (multiplex). The frequency range for DAB radio can accommodate more radio channels as compared to the conventional option. The DAB radio technology also gets rid of interference from other stations.
A digital tuner is part of the setup, and its role is to help choose the preferred multiplex and demodulate the signal. From the tuner, the signal undergoes a decoding and decompression process to achieve the highest audio quality. Some of the details that the user can see on the receiver display are the radio station name and program information.
DAB Radio vs. Traditional Alternatives
The working principles of FM and AM radio differ from how DAB radio works, particularly concerning broadcasting and reception technologies. While DAB radio broadcasts audio signals in data form, AM and FM transmit audio signals through variation of frequency and amplitude.
People who have listened to DAB radio have reiterated the high digital sound quality. The sound is not only consistent but also clearer. The secret to this quality is the ability of the broadcaster to transmit substantial information as compared to traditional radio. But this is not the only outstanding feature of this revolutionary radio technology.
The ease of tuning DAB radio is also revolutionary. Users are notably astounded by the ability to find the stations by name. Searching and selecting preferred radio stations has never been easier and more enjoyable.
DAB Radio in Spain and the Region
Spain began broadcasting DAB (Digital Audio Broadcasting) radio technology in 1998, cementing the country as a pioneer of the technology in the region. Some 13 years later, there were at least 23 transmitters via three national multiplexes and 52% coverage across the population.
The Council of Ministers would later approve the Digitization Plan for Terrestrial Broadcasting in 2011, bringing drastic changes to the DAB radio progress in the country. One of the recommendations was to reduce DAB coverage from 52% to 20% to enable migration to DAB+.
The deployment of DAB+ radio in the country has now been revived, with Ibertel listing several provinces for coverage. These include Cordova, Saragossa, Seville, and Albacete. Regionally, most of the European neighbors are ahead in the implementation process. For instance, the Netherlands and Germany have had well-developed networks for over a decade.
Do You Need DAB Radio?
If you are still using conventional FM and AM radio, there are several reasons why you may wish to switch to DAB radio. Of course, the improved sound quality is on top of the list. The interference-free characteristic means that the audio quality is unmatched. Don’t forget that DAB radio is also suitable for mobile listeners, so you can consider it for your car too.
Like most people, you are probably looking for a broader choice of radio stations. Theoretically speaking, one transmission tower can support more than 50 digital radio stations. However, one area usually only has about 30 digital radio stations. Still, that’s much more than you can get from FM or AM radio.
With the exceptional reception of DAB radio, you no longer have restrictions as to where or how to place the radio antennae. This is especially applicable if you are in a built-up location. Even if there were to be any interference on the DAB radio, then that’s a rare occurrence. In any case, there are numerous online resources to guide you around that issue.
When you consider the extra features that can accompany audio service, the allure of DAB radio is even stronger. Guesswork about what’s on the dial is no longer necessary because stations provide extra information, for instance, the name of the song.
Are There Any Challenges with DAB Radio?
For broadcasters considering going the DAB radio way, cost is often the biggest concern. Apart from arranging with multiplex owners, one needs to get specific licenses from the authorities to operate. The entire process can be too expensive since it can demand tens of thousands of Euros in initial setup and annual costs.
From the listeners’ perspective, there have been complaints about the signal reception being intermittent, particularly in rural areas. If you are listening to the radio and the reception happens to be poor, the stutter can be more unbearable than the fuzziness that comes from FM radio.
So, are you ready to switch over to DAB Radio?
If you are interested in DAB radio, the first step to take is to check the availability of the service in your area. The Spanish Radio and Television Corporation (RTVE) website has information you may need in this regard. Armed with a DAB radio (available in electronic shops), you can now scan the stations and start to enjoy the service.
Of course, the enjoyment of this service isn't complete without a proper DAB signal measurement. The broadcaster has regulatory obligations to meet. They also need to consider the costs they are incurring in availing the DAB signal. While the coverage must be adequate and reliable, the network must also be cost-efficient.
Only the best signal measurement equipment can give accurate and reliable results that cater for these considerations. One of the standout DAB signal measurement equipment in the market is the RCS DAB solution from Gsertel, which provides cost-effective and concrete signal analysis. Related to this product is Televes’ DAB/DAB+ option MOSAIQ6 meter, which is equally effective in signal quality measurement.
For more about how does DAB radio work, including how to measure and analyze the signal broadcasted, please contact us.
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