As the plans of the Greek government for digital radio are still unclear, some first thoughts concerning digital radio broadcasting in Greece have already been heard within ERT. According to a report in the Radio-Link magazine, after a brief discussion of the author with executives of ERT in late December, they said they consider the use of the DRM+ standard for digital broadcasting in mediumwave and shortwave. As they said, improving the signal of international Greek radio broadcasts would mean "substantial offer to the country and multiple benefits for ERT".
However, the economic crisis seems to be a problem, as ERT is currently receiving enormous pressure to save money, which may hamper any investment in technical equipment required. The lack of DRM receivers in the market is also a negative factor, as mentioned in the article.
The editor of Radio-Link Magazine adds "when asked about a possible timetable, some avoided to answer, while some others told us that within 2-3 years ERT could broadcast DRM+. Concerning the DAB+ platform, things seem to be rather slow, since it is considered in a five-year period. The opinions mentioned above are part of the personal thoughts of some executives of ERT S.A. and the Greek Public Radio, but in no case should they represent the views of their Administration, or their Engineering Departments."
We should explain that digital radio DRM + is an innovative technology that utilizes existing shortwave and mediumwave frequencies, while offering quality comparable to that of the FM. Meanwhile, it supports complementary text, news and electronic program guide (EPG). Big radio operators abroad, such BBC and Deutsche Welle, already offer pilot broadcasts using the new technology. The standard DAB +, is a model that aims to replace the existing analog FM, but has been criticized because of technical limitations, the closed patent and the high cost for both radio stations and listeners.
Source: radio-link.gr
