Revitalize AM

WDCD towers looking back toward the transmitter building
WDCD towers looking back toward the transmitter building

This is a series of blog posts on the all digital HD radio tests performed by iBiquity.  It is also a good study on how to revitalize the AM broadcast band with technical suggestions and programming ideas.

Part I: Discusses the all digital HD radio test on WBCN.  One test on a favorable subject does not success make

Part II: Discusses the history of AM broadcasting, regulations and technical developments/setbacks

Part III: Discusses some solutions to the above problems and notes that good programming and hard work is also necessary for success.

Part IV: An example of a successful, stand alone AM station in the Northeast.

All digital AM IBOC is more trouble that it is worth, it excludes small operators that cannot afford the upgrades or licensing, it creates interference and degrades audio quality.

There are better ideas including improved receiver technology, carrier frequency synchronization, wider daytime audio bandwidth and cutting away some dead wood.  Other AM improvement posts:

The AM receiver problem

Digital Radio Mondiale, an alternative to HD Radio?

AM Stereo Renaissance?

 

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One thought on “Revitalize AM”

  1. Good morning

    I’m an amateur radio operator with a strong interest in broadcast radio particularly in medium wave and shortwave bands

    I graduated with a degree in engineering but I don’t have a lot of practical experience

    I would be interested to know if you know of any shortwave or medium wave stations that need technical volunteers

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