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Old September 4th 10, 10:18 PM posted to rec.radio.shortwave
Commander Col. Klink Commander Col. Klink is offline
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First recorded activity by RadioBanter: Jan 2009
Posts: 36
Default Keefe Bartels investigation into HD Radio

From the website http://www.keefebartels.com, law firm Keefe Bartels
have started an investigation into claims and complaints regarding HD
radio. Of concern is are consumers being forced to purchase technology
that doesn't work as claimed. And a case is being made that that
carmakers knew the technology came with problems. They've referenced "
2007, BMW released a Service Information Bulletin describing the
problems associated with HD Radio, but noted that there was no
retrofit kit or procedure available."

Consumer complaints come from factory installed HD radio receivers,
but the law firm is also looking closely at iBiquity, they said
according to iBiquity, the “HD” does not stand for anything. Instead,
iBiquity likely uses the “HD” as a "marketing device based upon
consumers’ understanding and ever increasing desire for HD
television." A marketing slip of the tong!

Their site also says complaints have come from the industry and
consumers
and includes the following:

Radio receiver bumping station from HD to analog mode;
Echo sound heard when the radio switches between HD and analog modes;
Crackling or static sound when HD mode is inactive;
Insufficient numbers of HD Radio stations;
Loss of signal while driving in valleys or between high buildings;
Signal disruption for environmental conditions; and
Adjacent channel interference.

The net result of this could be:

iBiquity will end up paying and paying their law firms.
HD manufactures will pay and pay their law firms
Carmakers will pay and pay their law firms
Consumers may get a new radio installed free
HD radio will be branded as bad technology that nobody will touch for
fear of being sued.
Before purchasing an HD product, consumers will sign and read an
understanding and
accept all risks from operating the technology.
iBquity will have to change their marketing to say, may hear an
improved sound quality.
Broadcasters may also be at risk of paying and paying their lawyers
too.

Looks like The Emperor Wears No Clothes