DAB networks

DAB/DAB+ networks can be rolled out in different forms, depending on a number of requirements such as the size of the coverage area and broadcaster demand.

Small-scale DAB

Small-scale DAB is an innovative technology that provides a low-cost route to digital broadcasting for local commercial, community and specialist radio stations.

With open source software, it is possible to simplify the transmission infrastructure by using a single transmission site with all the encoding/multiplexing/modulation happening on a PC and using internet streams as the audio source.

Almost all small scale DAB transmissions operate using open source software maintained by opendigitalradio.org.

Here's a dual perspective from community broadcaster Ash Elford and network operator David Duffy on how small-scale DAB is helping community and local broadcasters in the UK reach their audience.

Regional DAB+ network

Australia first launched DAB+ in 2009 by starting with the five main metro cities - Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth.

Here, Les Sabel tells us how Australia is expanding that coverage to the wider regional population. He outlines the approach taken, planning principals and how discussion and cooperation across stakeholders has resulted in a positive outcome.

National DAB+

National DAB+ networks are being rolled out across the European continent.

In Germany, DAB+ now reaches 83.8 million people - 98% of the population. Network operator Media Broadcast sold their FM infrastructure in 2018 to focus on digital growth.

Here, Verena Schmitz outlines how they went about planning and building out Germany’s two national multiplexes.