Apples and oranges - duplicating existing FM coverage with DAB.

Abstract

This article explores recent developments in the technical regulation and licensing of digital radio services.. It examines issues of coverage, focusing particularly on emergent low-power “small-scale” DAB services as currently being evaluated by Ofcom, the UK broadcast radio regulator. Beginning with an explanation of the technical differences between analogue FM compared to DAB and considering the implications of the differing frequencies used by the two standards, the article concentrates on recently developed approaches to the provision DAB transmission facilities suitable for use by small-scale broadcasters.