The saying “the proof of the pudding is in the eating” proved to be true during the practical DRM workshop held in Centurion outside Pretoria, South Africa, in October. Key stakeholders and media in Southern Africa received hands-on demonstrations of the potential of the DRM digital radio standard at the workshop, hosted by the DRM Southern African Platform in co-operation with key Consortium representatives. This “show-and-tell” event allowed them not only to listen to a crystal-clear test DRM transmission by Radio Pulpit, but also provided opportunities to see the receivers close up and test their capabilities.
Dr Roelf Petersen of the Pulpit Media, Chair of the Southern African Platform, Group said: “It was clear that DRM transmissions are not only possible, but DRM has also the ability to provide Southern Africa with extended broadcast coverage and substantial energy savings. With South Africa having the potential to most likely produce receivers locally Southern Africa is moving closer to a strategy and structure for digital audio transmissions. With high-quality sound combined with a wealth of enhanced features e.g. surround sound, Journaline text information, slideshow capabilities, EPG, and data services, DRM can become a truly African standard, opening up new possibilities for listeners and opportunities for local industries.” The workshop was a great success.
