Ofcom sets out possibilities for using DRM radio in the UK

UK Media regulator Ofcom has today published its Radio Review document, setting out conclusions on the future regulation of the UK commercial radio sector and seeking further views on its proposal to encourage the development of Digital Audio Broadcasting (DAB) radio at both a local and national level. The document also contains the regulator's thoughts on how DRM might be used alongside DAB in the UK.

Ofcom says that "DRM technology was developed primarily as a digital standard for the short-wave, long-wave and medium wave bands and does not currently offer sound quality comparable to DAB in those bands, due to bandwidth constraints although the technology is improving. However, it already offers a significant improvement in sound quality and signal robustness over analogue AM services.

One advantage that DRM has over DAB is that it does not operate using a multiplex system – each frequency only carries one service, and so it can be tailored more to the coverage requirements of individual broadcasters. DRM on Medium Wave, for example, could offer a solution for the BBC in providing its nations’ services to the more remote parts of Scotland and Wales, without the need for a DAB multiplex. Work is also currently underway to adapt DRM for use in VHF Band II, currently used for FM services. This would offer enhanced sound quality over DRM on medium wave and would have similar coverage characteristics to existing FM services."

Ofcom sees DRM as offering a low-cost alternative to DAB to smaller broadcasters: "While it is still in the early stages of development and widespread deployment is some years off, DRM on both medium wave and VHF Band II may offer a digital migration path to smaller and community stations. It may also offer a digital migration path for those areas where DAB local multiplexes are not commercially viable. We note that WorldDAB and the DRM forum are working together in relation to the technical, marketing and policy issues to ensure the arrival of joint DAB/DRM receivers."

Ofcom says it remains neutral on the question of which technology is preferable and will monitor the market for future developments. These questions should be addressed when digital radio is reviewed again in three years time, says Ofcom.

The full document is available in PDF format from the Ofcom website.

Radio - Preparing for the Future Phase 2: Implementing the Framework

Source: Media Network

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