What is DAB?
DAB (Digital Audio Broadcasting) is the most fundamental advance in radio technology since the introduction of FM stereo radio. The main advantage of a digital signal is its ability to “multiplex” ie carry several simultaneous communications on the same signal. So where a traditional “FM” signal can carry just one station, a similar digital signal could carry ten.
It is this ability to carry more radio services and more choice that is the predominant driving force behind the success of digital radio.
Commercial digital receivers on the market are a joy to use. Gone are the days of remembering frequencies or fiddling with presets because when you turn on your radio it presents you with a list of stations you can hear.
Digital can also transmit a data stream with text, mp3 files or even pictures to your radio so while you listen to your favourite station, the broadcaster could be streaming the latest news/sports headlines or information about the song playing to your radios display. The latest receivers allow you to pause or even rewind live radio similar to Sky+.
On the signal side, gone are the days of fuzzy noise or dodgy reception because you either get a station or you don’t. In addition one frequency can cover the whole country so you don’t have to re-tune your radio as you drive from Skibbereen to Skerries.
Currently DAB is on trial in Dublin, the North-East and Cork. Digital Radio Ltd broadcasts two new DAB exclusive radio stations, All 80s and Mocha R’n'B.
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