WorldDAB, the group that advocates for DAB digital radio, has announced product certification for its new emergency alerting platform on DAB+.
U.K.-based DTG Testing was selected as the global partner for testing and certification of the group’s Automatic Safety Alerts. Development and initial testing of the alert system was the result of collaboration between WorldDAB and the Digitalradio Deutschland Association.
[Related: “DAB+ Radio and Public Safety”]
Certification is verified on a DAB+ capable receiver through placement of an ASA logo, which means it complies with all minimum requirements according to the European Telecommunications Standards Institute. Technical standards were published by ETSI in September.
WorldDAB said the first consumer radio receivers that incorporate ASA will be made available to consumers later this year.
Different from other emergency alerting
The group believes ASA will “future proof” the DAB+ platform. It said there are three characteristics that distinguish ASA from other emergency warning systems:
- Geofencing: Only receivers in specified areas receive notification.
- Alerts between DAB+ stations: Receivers can analyze references to warning announcements on other radio stations, which increases the reach of warnings.
- Wake-Up Function: Receivers can be woken up by DAB+, such as alarm clock radios.
ASA alerts also can be manually suppressed by a listener once they have been heard. DAB+ broadcasters also have the option of broadcasting an updated warning message.
Bernie O’Neill, WorldDAB’s project manager, described ASA alerts as “hack-resistant technology” that will help broadcasters and regulators position radio as an asset during emergencies.
Once the certification process has been completed, WorldDAB offers a free logo and style guide to product manufacturers.
