A higher-powered version of the DAB+ broadcast platform is set for a trial in Ireland this spring.
FáilteDAB is the name being given to the test that will begin broadcasting in April to eastern portions of Ireland, according to the platform’s website. It will operate under a one-year ComReg DAB+ trial license.
The test aims “to provide Irish radio operators and listeners an experience of DAB+ not previously experienced in Ireland,” according to the website. FáilteDAB said it welcomes all Irish Coimisiún na Meán licensed radio operators to participate in the test.
Dublin-based Foothold Communications is the operator of FáilteDAB. The company said it has worked with GatesAir and Panenda to supply technology for the network. FáilteDAB uses a SFN and MFN blended network design.
[Related: “DAB+ Gains Foothold in French Caribbean”]
The trial will be broadcast from six sites, focusing on the Leinster region, which includes the city of Dublin. FáilteDAB said the test could be extended to other parts of Ireland within the period. The six transmitting sites operate with power ranging from 500 watts to 20 kW.
The Irish Sun reported that Wireless Ireland broadcast stations will be those heard initially in the trial.
FáilteDAB said all vehicles sold in Ireland since 2021 come equipped with DAB+.
While the DAB standard has been widely adopted in countries such as the United Kingdom, Norway and Sweden, it has struggled with traction in Ireland. In 2021, national public broadcaster RTÉ switched off its DAB transmissions. It cited a JNLR report that found of the population in Ireland who access radio via digital means, “the smallest number in this cohort opt for DAB.”
Radio World welcomes letters to the editor on this or any story. Email [email protected].
