Terrestrial coverage considerations for digital audio broadcasting systems

Terrestrial delivery of DAB (digital audio broadcasting) is receiving an increasing amount of attention at the FCC and international forums, with scenarios being considered ranging from a supplement to existing AM and FM broadcasts to complete replacement of the current services. Practical implementation of a terrestrial DAB service requires a system-wide examination of relevant technical factors including receiver technology, propagation characteristics, and reliability of service. Some of the considerations necessary for designing an allocation and allotment system are identified. Planning factors required for predicting coverage are examined. Example calculations of coverage under certain assumptions are presented and tradeoffs are identified. It is noted that further spectrum planning work is warranted