Digital radio gains EPG functionality

RadioScape's unique position as the only provider of end-to-end digital radio broadcast and receiver solutions has enabled it to demonstrate the world's first complete EPG solution for digital radio.

RadioScape's unique position as the only provider of end-to-end digital radio broadcast and receiver solutions has enabled it to demonstrate the world's first complete EPG solution for digital radio.

The EPG (electronic programming guide) is broadcast using the latest version (v5) of RadioScape's Professional Broadcast System that is being launched at IBC 2004.

This is received and displayed using RadioScape's recently launched RS300LT DAB module.

"RadioScape is the only company that can deliver complete DAB solutions", explained Nigel Oakley, VP Marketing at RadioScape.

"When we create innovative applications, such as EPG, to further differentiate and enhance the user experience, they are based on our digital radio technology that spans from broadcast to reception".

"Broadcasters and content providers are thus assured that these applications work perfectly every step of the way giving the highest possible standards for quality and reliability of service".

A key example of this is the concept of the personal audio recorder, which is now possible by using the information on forthcoming programmes displayed on the EPG screen to automatically schedule the recording facility of the RS300L to store programmes for later listening.

The RS300L uses commercially available MMC and SD removable memory cards giving potentially hours of recording time.

A USB connection is also available which enables audio to be transferred or streamed to a PC, as well as enabling the PC to control the receiver if required.

RadioScape pioneered the use of EPG in DAB receivers back in 2002 with the Psion Wavefinder, which used a PC to decode and display the programme information.

The 300L module now demonstrates how affordable, standalone receivers can now be developed and be brought to market based on this technology.

Unique Interactive will be showcasing its Digital Radio EPG Management System and its DLS scrolling text Manager ManDLS on the RadioScape IBC stand.

To demonstrate the flexibility of the two systems, the servers for the DLS and EPG services will be based in the UK and administered in Amsterdam.

The UK servers will send EPG and DLS data back to the RadioScape Data Server for broadcast back in Amsterdam.

The two systems will be used to illustrate a complete end-to-end system from user input to seeing the information received onto a stand-alone EPG-capable receiver.

As part of the demonstration of the EPG Management System, the Workbench software will be available to create programme information ready for broadcast.

Also ManDLS will be available to show how simple it is to setup up dynamic and interchangeable scrolling text services for digital radio.

Matthew Honey, Managing Director of Unique Interactive, comments about the relationship with RadioScape: "It's very important to Unique Interactive to work very closely with broadcast system manufacturers to ensure our DAB digital radio products are compatible and integrate fully with the transmission structure".

"A working and standardised EPG system for digital radio will revolutionise the way in which radio is listened to".

"The benefits for the listener, which include recording programmes, rewind radio, searching for favourite shows, will all change the way in which the listener will consume radio in the future".

"Providing an easy way for broadcasters to create EPG content and take advantage of this new technology is vital to us and the broadcasting industry".

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