DRM for Alaska on SW?
David Eduardo wrote:
From Radio World:
Proposed Alaska test of Digital Radio Mondiale on three shortwave
frequencies inFCC application from Digital Aurora Radio Technologies for
experimental authorization. The DoD-funded test would use Continental
transmitters designed for an Over-the-Horizon radar transmitting system and
a digital signal generator operating from the Delta Junction area.
“Compared to an ordinary analog shortwave signal, the DRM signal can
operate with the same coverage reliably … in a 10 kHz channel using a
transmitter power level approximately one-fifth of that needed for the
analog signal,” states Digital Aurora in the application, which remains
pending at the commission.
The company hopes to determine the “impact of high-latitude
ionospheric propagation in the shortwave bands on digital audio modulation
using the DRM system,” as well as determine what transmission power levels
will produce a reliable signal that can be received on DRM radios. Digital
Aurora also hopes to determine an antenna specification to deliver a signal
statewide.
Judging from the application, the two-year test proposal appears
notable because it would be the first time DRM has been tested in the U.S.
at such high latitudes, and because the company is proposing to broadcast
using digital shortwave technology to an entire state.
Digital Aurora believes it can contain most of the signal within
Alaska with little spillover into Canada. To avoid causing interference it
plans to stay at least two adjacent channels away from any channels used by
international broadcasters into western Canada.
More QRM.
|