Thread: Extending range of radio coverage

For most of the area of Australia there is no alternative to AM/FM radio, simply because of the low population densities. It is unlikely that DAB+ will ever cover most of the country.

However, because the number of voters directly affected is quite small, do not count on the AM/FM not being discontinued, although even if the spectrum is wanted for other purposes, this demand is likely to be low over most of the country.

But don't count on this saving the services. Yesterday, the ABC switched off their shortwave services. The argument is that the programs are available on mobile phone or internet. But as most of us know, there are vast areas of Australia with no mobile phone coverage, and where this is the case there will be no mobile internet coverage - i.e., if you are in a vehicle of any kind, you have no access to the programs.

I can see similar arguments used in the future to justify shutting down particularly rural TV broadcasts - ignoring the fact that data restrictions on satellite internet services mean it is not feasible to watch televion over your satellite internet.

John

Have read of this report before you decide to change to DAB. 0.4% coverage at present says you won't get far out of town with it.

http://www.theaustralian.com.au/busi...7e77b6796226ed

Don.