Final report small scale dab OFCOM (UK)

Small scale DAB trials
Final report
Research
report
Publication date: 26 September 2016

Small scale DAB trials: final report
About this document
During 2015, Ofcom licensed and co-ordinated a trial of a new approach to DAB radio
broadcasting which we are calling small scale DAB. This document reports on the outcomes
of the trial so far, particularly in relation to its three primary objectives, and sets out Ofcom’s
conclusions. This document concludes Ofcom’s reporting to the Department of Culture,
Media and Sport, who initiated and made funding available for the project.
Our report concludes that the trials were generally highly successful and achieved their three
objectives. The trials showed that the small scale approach to DAB transmission is
technically sound, and they helped Ofcom, the triallists, and wider industry to understand the
practical requirements for successfully sustaining DAB radio transmissions using the small
scale approach.
In light of stakeholder and wider interest in the technical aspects of the trials, we are also
publishing several separate technical documents and studies as annexes alongside this
report. The technical documents contain more in-depth information on the technical
development and operational aspects of the small scale trials, as well as technical studies on
potential frequency availability for small scale DAB, a technical report on DAB receiver
performance that we commissioned during the project, and some summary results of a
survey of radio stations on small scale DAB that we carried out while preparing this report.
The technical documents are available on our website at
http://stakeholders.ofcom.org.uk/market-data-research/other/radio-research/ssdab-final-
report.

Contents
Section Page
1 Executive summary 1
2 Background to the trials 3
3 Implementing the trials 6
4 On-air technical experiences 13
5 Services, coordination and sustainability 18
6 Lessons for the wider market 22
7 Technical scope for wider roll-out 25
Annex Page
1 Predicted coverage maps for the small scale DAB trials 1

1
Section 1
1 Executive summary
1.1 To date, many smaller analogue radio stations (broadcasting on FM or AM
frequencies) have been unable to transmit digitally on the DAB (Digital Audio
Broadcasting) radio platform. This is usually due to the relatively high transmission
costs that smaller stations would have to incur for carriage on existing DAB services.
This, in turn, is often related to the fact that existing DAB services usually cover much
larger geographical areas than smaller stations wish to serve.
1.2 A new approach to DAB transmission, known as ‘small scale DAB’, can potentially
provide a more cost-effective way for these stations to broadcast on DAB. Small
scale DAB keeps costs low by making use of relatively inexpensive transmission
equipment and the freely available ‘open-source’ software maintained by Open
Digital Radio1
.
1.3 Small scale DAB can also achieve more ‘granular’ geographic coverage than existing
DAB services, potentially making it more suited to smaller radio stations’ needs.
1.4 To help test the practical viability of small scale DAB, the Department for Culture,
Media and Sport (DCMS) made funding available for real-world trials of the
technology.
1.5 Ofcom awarded trial licences for ten towns and cities across the UK during 2015.
Ofcom also provided assistance with technical development and support, and
supplied transmission equipment to the triallists. The trial services were initially
licensed for nine months.
1.6 The three main aims of the trial were:
• to test how well the small scale DAB technology worked;
• to test how well the technology lends itself to several parties coordinating their
services (this is because DAB broadcasting involves several radio stations being
transmitted as part of the same signal); and
• to give the market an opportunity to learn about small scale DAB and the
potential opportunities the technology affords.
1.7 We have concluded that the trials successfully achieved all three aims:
• The technology generally worked well and reliably, and technical problems
identified were resolved. We are continuing work to improve the technical stability
of some specific transmitter configurations.
• Coordination between service providers has generally been very effective. Across
the ten trial areas, nearly 70 unique radio stations are now being carried, the
majority of which are new to DAB.
1 www.opendigitalradio.org, a non-profit organisation whose activities include maintaining open-
source digital radio transmission software and tools.

2
• The ten trial operators have gained extensive practical experience of small scale
DAB, and have also shared their experiences and technical knowledge with each
other. Some operators have been directly involved in innovating further technical
enhancements to the small scale concept, and the trials have prompted wider
market interest.
1.8 As a result of the success of the trials, the current licences were extended for a
further two years. The ten existing trial locations will remain on-air until 2018.
1.9 As part of this project, we have also looked at the availability of frequencies for small
scale DAB. Our conclusion is that, when added to the spectrum available amongst
the UK’s existing licensed DAB multiplexes, there is sufficient spectrum to support at
least one small scale multiplex in most parts of the UK.
1.10 On the basis of the trials so far and the other conclusions of this report, we believe
that there is a significant level of demand from smaller radio stations for small scale
DAB, and that a wider roll-out of additional small scale services into more geographic
areas would be both technically possible and commercially sustainable.

3
Section 2
2 Background to the trials
Radio in the UK
2.1 The UK has a large, diverse, and vibrant broadcast radio sector, which includes both
the long-established FM and AM analogue radio platforms, as well as the newer
Digital Audio Broadcasting (or DAB) digital radio platform.
2.2 DAB radio services are broadcast as ‘multiplexes’. This means that sound signals
from a number of individual radio stations are combined together and transmitted as
digital data. A DAB multiplex can be broadcast from many transmitters, all using the
same transmission frequency, to cover a wide area. This is in contrast to analogue
radio, where stations are simply broadcast on individual frequencies, and
neighbouring transmitters cannot generally use the same frequencies as each other.
2.3 There are three ‘layers’ of commercial and independent radio in the UK: national
radio stations, local radio stations, and community radio stations. In addition, the
BBC provides its own national and local radio services.
2.4 On DAB, three national multiplexes (Digital One2
, Sound Digital3
, and the BBC’s
national DAB service4
) currently broadcast between 10 and 19 stations each. These
national services are available to up to 97% of the UK population in the case of the
most extensive network.
2.5 There are also 58 local commercial DAB multiplexes, covering approximately county-
sized areas. Each local multiplex broadcasts up to 14 commercial radio stations, as
well the relevant BBC local station for the area. Over 90% of UK households should
be able to receive a local DAB multiplex by the end of 2016.
2.6 However, there are up to 400 local commercial and community radio stations on
analogue radio which are not currently carried on DAB. This is partly because local
DAB multiplexes cover relatively large geographical areas, which can make the cost
of carriage uneconomic for stations which seek to serve smaller towns or
communities.
2.7 In addition, some local DAB multiplexes are already full of existing stations, meaning
that new stations can’t be added unless other services leave the multiplex or reduce
the space they occupy (e.g. by moving from stereo to mono transmission).
Trialling an alternative approach: ‘small scale’ DAB
2.8 In 2012 and 2013, Ofcom engineer Rashid Mustapha carried out an initial trial in
Brighton to test a new technical approach to DAB transmission. This trial took
advantage of inexpensive computers, open-source software released by the
Communications Research Centre in Canada, and a relatively novel ‘software
defined radio’ module, to replace many of the dedicated hardware components used
in traditional DAB transmission systems with lower cost alternatives. These initial
2 http://www.ukdigitalradio.com/
3 http://www.sounddigital.co.uk/
4 http://www.bbc.co.uk/reception/radio/digitalradio/

4
trials showed that the new approach had the potential to significantly reduce the
capital and operating costs of DAB broadcasting for smaller multiplexes.
2.9 The full report of this trial is available on the Ofcom website5
.
2.10 Following the success of the Brighton trial, the Department for Culture, Media & Sport
(DCMS) asked Ofcom to further develop the small scale concept, and to carry out a
series of ‘real world’ trials of the small scale DAB system. The DCMS also made
funding available to support the trials.
The role of stakeholders in the trials
2.11 A key element in delivering this project was for radio stakeholders to be deeply
engaged in trialling the small scale approach to DAB transmission. This was in order
to test the longer-term reliability, capabilities, and viability of the platform when
deployed in a real-world context by broadcasters.
2.12 The Brighton trial was very limited in its duration and focus, as it used only one
transmitter and carried no radio stations (due to restrictions which prevent purely
technical trials from carrying broadcast content). We felt that it was important to test
the approach more widely, from both a technical and an implementation perspective.
We also concluded that it was crucial to include as wide a range of stakeholders as
possible, and to include transmissions of ‘real’ radio stations, in order to further
develop and validate the small scale approach.
How we proposed to carry out the trials
2.13 In October 2014 Ofcom began a consultation on proposals for three trial small scale
DAB multiplexes, which would be run by radio sector stakeholders. We anticipated
awarding trial licences for one of each of the following trial scenarios:
• Trial Type 1: a single transmitter multiplex carrying multiple services;
• Trial Type 2: a Single Frequency Network (SFN) carrying multiple services from
two transmitter sites; and
• Trial Type 3: an SFN carrying multiple services based on two transmitter sites,
with one of them being an ‘on-channel repeater’6
.
2.14 Following this consultation, in February 2015 we published a statement confirming
the three primary objectives of the trials:
• to test the function, capability and stability of software-defined DAB multiplex
technology, particularly in SFN mode;
5 http://stakeholders.ofcom.org.uk/binaries/research/radio-research/Software-DAB-Research.pdf
6 A DAB on-channel repeater consists of a transmitter which picks up a signal directly from another
DAB transmitter, and then re-transmits it. This basic principle has been used for many decades by TV
and radio ‘relay’ transmitters (which transmit on a different frequency to the incoming signal).
However, because an on-channel repeater transmits on the same frequency as the incoming signal,
relatively complex electronic signal processing is required (and special attention must be paid to the
aerial systems) in order to make the system stable and to avoid causing interference.

5
• to test how well the available technology lends itself to several parties
coordinating their services into the multiplex (many small scale radio services do
not have experience of using multiplexing technology); and
• to give the market an opportunity to learn about the software-defined DAB
platform and the potential opportunities the technology affords, particularly for
those stakeholders who are not familiar with digital broadcasting.
2.15 Following high levels of demand from radio stations and other stakeholders to take
part, we also increased the number of trials available from three to ten. We stated
that we would seek to award one licence for trial type 3 (the on-channel repeater),
two for trial type 2 (the SFN), and the remaining seven for trial type 1 (the single
transmitter trials).
2.16 At the same time as this statement, we published an Invitation to Apply for trial
multiplex licences.
2.17 A full set of documents about the trial consultation process can be found on the
Ofcom website at http://stakeholders.ofcom.org.uk/consultations/small-scale-dab/.

6
Section 3
3 Implementing the trials
3.1 Although the trial multiplexes are operated independently by stakeholders, Ofcom
played an active role in their development, particularly in the early stages. This
section outlines Ofcom’s involvement in the trials in terms of licensing, construction
and supply of transmission equipment, compiling and configuring software modules,
and technical support.
Licensing
3.2 In response to our February 2015 Invitation to Apply for trial multiplex licences,
Ofcom received 51 applications for the ten available licences. The majority of these
were for the single transmitter trial type. We also received ten applications for the
SFN trial, and three for the on-channel repeater trial.
3.3 In June 2015 we announced the award of the ten licences. The table below shows
the successful trial licensees:
Trial type Licensee Location
Trial type 1
(single transmitter trial)
Angel Radio Portsmouth
BFBS Aldershot Woking7
Brighton & Hove Radio Brighton
Celador Radio Bristol
Future Digital Norfolk Norwich
Niocast Digital Manchester
Switch Radio Birmingham
Trial type 2
(SFN trial)
Scrimshaws Information Directories Glasgow
U.DAB London
Trial type 3
(on-channel repeater)
UKRD Cambridge
3.4 All ten successful trial licensees proposed to carry at least four radio stations,
including a mix of commercial and community stations, and had access to transmitter
sites that appeared to be suitable for serving the areas that they had proposed.
3.5 The full account of the award decisions, including a list of the stations that the
successful trial applicants proposed to carry, is available at
http://licensing.ofcom.org.uk/binaries/radio/digital/small-scale-trial-multiplex-
licensing/trial_awards_statement.pdf.
3.6 Following licence award, Ofcom worked to procure, supply and integrate certain
elements of the transmission chain which met each licensee’s specific requirements,
7 The Woking trial was originally intended to serve Aldershot. however due to transmitter site
acquisition issues, a site serving Woking was eventually used.

7
and we held training sessions to familiarise licensees with configuring and operating
their equipment.
3.7 The first trial multiplex came on-air during July 2015 in Brighton, with other services
coming on-air through the summer of 2015. The final service to launch was in
Glasgow, which went live in November 2015.
Equipment
3.8 Ofcom procured and provided each triallist with a largely standardised set of
transmission equipment, which comprised the following main components:
• Up to six audio source encoders (comprised of single board computers and low-
cost USB sound devices);
• A multiplexer (a small form factor desktop PC);
• A modulator (a ‘software defined radio’ peripheral);
• A linear VHF power amplifier;
• A 250 watt mask filter;
• A transmitting antenna and feeder cable;
• Other miscellaneous equipment including a network switch and an
uninterruptable power supply (suitable for supporting all the electronic equipment
apart from the power amplifier).
3.9 For trial type 2 (the SFNs), precision timing reference boards were added to the
software defined radio modules to allow synchronisation of the transmitters within the
SFN.
3.10 For trial type 3 (the on-channel repeater), a dedicated on-channel repeater unit
(integrated by the manufacturer within the same chassis as a VHF power amplifier)
was provided in place of one of the standard power amplifiers.
3.11 Although we sought to standardise the equipment provided to each triallist where
possible, we introduced variations in some specific equipment types in order to
reduce the risk of batch faults, and to provide a ‘mix’ of equipment for comparative
evaluation during the trial. For example, we sourced power amplifiers from two
separate manufacturers, and eventually deployed three models of single-board
computer for the audio encoders.
3.12 Different transmitting antennas were selected based on the proposed transmission
site and desired coverage. Omnidirectional antennas were used in most cases, while
directional antennas were used in a few cases.
3.13 For multiplexer and modulator components, it was important to for us to supply
standardised hardware and software platforms to enable on-going development and
optimisation of these components during the trial. Therefore, the equipment used for
these tasks – the software defined radio and desktop PC - were the same for all
trials.

8
3.14 The approximate average cost (including VAT) of the equipment provided by Ofcom
was:
• £9,000 for trial type 1 (single transmitter);
• £17,000 for trial type 2 (SFN), comprised of one set of transmitter equipment for
each of the two transmitter sites within each SFN; and
• £19,000 for the type 3 (on-channel repeater) trial. As with the type 2 trials, two
sets of transmitter equipment were required, of which one set included the
specialised on-channel repeater unit.
3.15 Ofcom also offered to meet the costs of the internet circuits required to provide links
between multiplexing sites and transmitters, and offered to provide limited support for
audio contribution links (e.g. between radio station studios and the multiplexing site).
Five triallists opted to use such circuits, with the remaining triallists either using
existing connectivity or procuring their own circuits.
3.16 There was a relatively wide variation in the costs of the internet circuits funded by
Ofcom. The circuits selected varied from standard business-grade ADSL broadband
and VDSL fibre broadband (supporting single transmitter trials), to Ethernet over
Fibre To The Cabinet (EoFTTC) circuits which were used in one of the SFN trials.
3.17 Licensees were responsible for meeting the cost of equipment installation, including
the installation of their transmitting antennas. Licensees were also responsible for
providing connectivity (usually fixed broadband circuits) where these were not funded
by Ofcom.
3.18 A more detailed technical description of the equipment used in the trials is provided
in Annex 28
, and the photographs below show the main transmitter system
components supplied by Ofcom.
8 Annex 2, http://stakeholders.ofcom.org.uk/market-data-research/other/radio-research/ssdab-final-
report

9
Figure 1: Trial transmitter equipment – main components
Technical support
3.19 The multiplexer and audio encoder systems provided to each triallist were developed,
configured, and tested by Ofcom and ran standard software. The multiplexers used
ODR-DabMux9
software running on the Debian GNU/Linux operating system, and
9 https://github.com/Opendigitalradio/ODR-DabMux
VHF power amplifier
(model 1)
Desktop computer (multiplexer)
Software defined radio
peripheral
Managed Ethernet switch
VHF power amplifier
(model 2)
Uninterruptible power supply
Single board
computer (audio
source encoder)
250 watt
mask filter

10
the source encoders used toolame-dab10
running on the Ubuntu GNU/Linux
operating system (tailored for the specific single board computer systems used).
3.20 Ofcom provided training to all triallists to help familiarise them with the operation of
the equipment. During the training we helped the triallists to carry out basic
configuration of their systems to suit their specific needs (e.g. configuring the
multiplexer to receive the desired audio services, and to set appropriate transmission
parameters).
3.21 Ofcom also provided technical support to the triallists throughout the duration of the
initial nine month trial. We have now scaled back our technical support role, partly
because the initial trial period has now elapsed, and partly because licensees are
now more familiar with the operational aspects of their equipment. However, we are
continuing to provide support on a ‘reasonable endeavours’ basis for urgent issues,
and are continuing our collaboration with the wider Open Digital Radio project to help
refine the performance of the software.
Commissioning, Adjacent Channel Interference and coverage
checks
3.22 All new radio transmitter sites go through a process of engineering checks known as
‘commissioning’. The main aims of this process are to ensure that the transmitted
signal does not exceed the maximum power level set out in the broadcaster’s
licence, and that limits to the level of signals generated outside of the frequency
‘block’ allocated to the DAB multiplex are being properly met. This is in order to
ensure that neighbouring frequency spectrum users do not suffer undue interference.
Ofcom carried out commissioning of all the small scale transmitter sites, and
provided support and advice on system optimisation during the commissioning
process where needed.
3.23 Another important part of the commissioning process was to ensure that the small
scale DAB transmitters were not causing ‘ACI’ (Adjacent Channel Interference)
issues. ACI is an effect that can sometimes be caused when a new DAB transmitter
comes into operation, and occurs when relatively high signal strengths in the
immediate vicinity of the new transmitter can effectively ‘block’ listeners’ reception of
weaker signals from more distant DAB transmitters. The modest power levels used
for the small scale DAB transmitters (along with careful selection of transmitting
aerials) helped to avoid these problems, and no significant ACI issues were
encountered during the trial.
3.24 Existing local and national multiplex operators are responsible for liaising with other
multiplex operators in the areas where new transmitters are proposed in order to
minimise possible ACI effects. Where required, this allows the parties involved to
negotiate directly as well as enabling Ofcom to arbitrate if necessary. In the case of
the small scale DAB trials, Ofcom carried out this liaison itself so that services could
come on-air quickly. For any small scale DAB enhancement transmitters, or in any
future permanent licensing regime, Ofcom would expect small scale multiplex
operators to seek such agreements themselves. More detailed information on the
commissioning and ACI aspects of the trials is available in Annex 211
10 https://github.com/Opendigitalradio/toolame-dab
report

11
3.25 Ofcom also carried out computer modelling to predict the coverage area that each
small scale transmitter was likely to achieve (see Annex 1). We validated these
predictions by carrying out vehicle-based measurements of the coverage that each
small scale transmitter actually achieved in practice. We found a close correlation in
most cases, and where there was a significant mis-match, this was found to be due
to issues with the transmitting antennas.
DAB receiver testing
3.26 Because many of the small scale trials used transmission frequencies which had not
previously been used for DAB services in the UK, staff from Ofcom’s spectrum
engineering team carried out some initial technical testing of a range of domestic and
in-car DAB receivers to ensure that the receivers would operate as expected on the
new frequencies. We also carried out basic sensitivity tests on receivers operating on
the new frequencies. No significant functional issues were found during this testing.
3.27 We also subsequently commissioned a more detailed study of receiver sensitivity
from DTG Testing Limited12
which is available as Annex 613
to this report. This found
that while all the receivers tested could tune to the new frequencies, the sensitivity of
individual models of DAB set varied considerably (on both the new frequencies and
on existing DAB frequencies). This finding was consistent with our previous in-house
basic sensitivity testing.
3.28 In general, receiver sensitivity has been improved considerably over time, and newer
sets tend to provide the most reliable reception experience. This highlights the
importance of the Digital Tick scheme14
. Manufacturers must prove that their
products meet (or exceed) a minimum performance specification before the Tick
mark can be displayed on packaging and marketing materials for the radio set.
Reporting
3.29 Alongside providing equipment, support and commissioning, Ofcom required triallists
to provide weekly reports on progress against their launch plans during the pre-
launch period. This proved helpful in understanding the issues triallists were facing
as they arose.
3.30 After launch, triallists had to report on a fortnightly basis, and keep a reporting log for
submission to Ofcom every month. This was to ensure that all relevant information
was being captured.
3.31 Triallists have now moved to reporting monthly, and will continue to do so until the
end of their trial licence, so that Ofcom can continue to gather information on the
long-term stability of the small scale approach, and on how the market is developing.
12 DTG Testing (www.dtgtesting.com) is a UKAS accredited test facility whose services include testing
DAB radios for compliance with the ‘digital tick’. DTG Testing also carries out performance and
functional testing of digital television equipment.
report
14 www.getdigitalradio.com/industry/what-is-the-tick-mark, a scheme which allows radio receivers
meeting specified minimum performance standards to display the ‘digital tick’ certification mark.

12
3.32 We also invited the trial multiplex operators and stations on small scale DAB to
complete internet surveys during August 2016. This was primarily in order to gain
further insights into their experiences of small scale DAB for this report
3.33 The reporting we have received, as well as the survey results, have contributed to
this report, which also draws on Ofcom’s own observations and analysis. We are
grateful for the useful information we have received from triallists over the course of
the trials.

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Section 4
4 On-air technical experiences
Background
4.1 The main technical objective of the trials was to test the function, capability and
stability of software defined DAB multiplex services, particularly in single frequency
network (SFN) mode.
4.2 The small scale DAB approach has never been trialled over an extended period in
the UK, nor in so many trial areas, and we wanted to test whether it could perform
reliably in a range of circumstances. At the start of the trial, it was also unknown
whether the small scale approach would operate reliably in SFN configuration.
4.3 In the ten trials, we planned at the outset to award licences for seven single
transmitter multiplexes, two two-site single frequency network multiplexes, and one
two-site multiplex using an on-channel repeater.
4.4 The on-channel repeater trial took place in Cambridge, while a two-site SFN trial took
place in London. As of August 2016, two trials are in the process of adding second
transmitters, effectively turning these multiplexes into SFNs. The Glasgow trial was
originally intended as a two-site SFN, but the operator experienced delays in bringing
the second site into operation, and the SFN did not become fully operational until
May 2016.
4.5 This section provides a high-level summary of the technical approach to the trials,
and the lessons we learnt. A more detailed account of the trials’ technical
architecture, performance, and issues encountered is available in Annex 215
.
Hardware
4.6 The trial transmission hardware generally worked well and proved extremely reliable.
The most significant issues encountered were related to hardware failures rather
than the small scale architecture itself.
Software
4.7 The multiplexing and audio encoding software proved highly reliable during the
course of the trials for most operators. Some single-transmitter trial operators
reported occasional instances where equipment needed to be restarted, but these
were generally restricted to early stages of the trial, and no definitive cause was
identified. In other trials, the software operated reliably throughout and required no
user intervention except to implement service reconfigurations (such as adding new
stations to the multiplex).
4.8 The most significant software issue was a problem related to the synchronisation of
the transmitters in the SFN trials. Transmitters in an SFN need to be precisely
synchronised together so as not to cause interference to each another, and to
provide the coverage enhancing effect which is one of the main advantages of DAB
report

14
operating in SFN mode. However, we found that the trial SFN transmitters would
periodically experience timing issues, and the modulators needed to be reset by
remote control to clear the problem. We carried out extensive technical investigations
to understand and rectify this issue.
4.9 We believe that the root cause of the problem has been identified, and as the timing
problem appears to have been resolved we will be issuing updated software to the
two SFN triallists during September 2016.
4.10 The main focus of our technical development work on the trials was to provide core
software and equipment functionality to enable the trials to go ahead. Therefore
‘ease of use’ issues were not a primary objective, and we did not provide graphical or
web interfaces for the multiplexing or encoding software. Configuring the equipment
therefore required relatively advanced IT skills. While the majority of the triallists’
organisations included suitably skilled engineers or technical staff (and Ofcom was
able to offer support in other cases), any wider roll-out of small scale DAB would
benefit from more user-friendly configuration, operational, and monitoring tools being
available. The software development community and market are now beginning to
deliver these.
Single transmitter trials – Technical experiences
4.11 The coverage of the single transmitter trials closely matched our predictions, though
we noted the following issues.
4.12 The coverage predicted and achieved by one of the single-transmitter trials was
relatively limited. This was due to the use of a less than ideal transmitter site, and
emphasises the need for good transmitter site selection.
4.13 During the course of the trial, one multiplex identified and moved to a better
transmitter site and used a different aerial configuration. This improved coverage of
their target area considerably.
4.14 One single transmitter trial initially had poorer coverage than expected towards the
edge of its coverage area. We found that this was due to a fault with the transmitting
antenna. The antenna was replaced, which significantly improved the coverage
achieved within the target area.
4.15 One other single transmitter triallist reported that the coverage they were achieving
fell short of their expectations, and received listener feedback to that effect. However,
the coverage achieved was consistent with our coverage predictions. Serving a
significantly wider area was not possible within the parameters of the single
transmitter trial type.
4.16 The single transmitter trials generally proved very reliable in service. Some triallists
initially experienced occasional reliability problems with the audio encoders, which
were restricted to a single type of encoder computer. These encoders were replaced
as required.
4.17 Licensees also generally found the equipment straightforward to use, but some
degree of command line computer experience was necessary. At least two licensees
developed their own web interfaces for controlling the multiplexer.
4.18 Some triallists indicated a wish to add an additional ‘enhancement’ transmitter site at
their own expense. The enhancement sites are intended to improve building

15
penetration and therefore to aid indoor reception, and in one case, to better serve the
primary target area (as the original site was located some distance away). We will
consider requests for additional transmitters on case-by-case basis, with a primary
consideration being that new transmitters should not materially expand the overall
coverage area of the multiplex.
4.19 The addition of enhancement transmitters involves updating software and the
provision of GPS timing references and aerials. A feed between the multiplexer and
the remote site is also needed, which can be a private data link or public internet
connection.
4.20 Reception of the single transmitter trial multiplexes has been mostly in-line with the
predicted coverage. Due to the temporary nature of the trials, operators tended to
select transmitter sites to which they were able to gain easy access at low cost,
rather than ones optimally placed to serve the target areas. Should small scale DAB
services roll-out more widely, we expect that operators would be able to select more
suitable sites.
4.21 The relatively low power levels used in the trials did also highlight that there is a large
variation in sensitivity between different models of receiver: some reports of poor
reception were from within areas which we had determined to be well-served through
data collected from the driven field strength measurement campaigns. This variation
in receiver sensitivity was also confirmed by the technical testing mentioned in
sections 3.26 to 3.28.
Single frequency network (SFN) trials - Technical experiences
4.22 The coverage of one of the two SFN trials was broadly as predicted by computer
modelling. However, the distance between the two trial transmitters was relatively
large, and reception around the mid-point between the transmitters was more
‘marginal’ than expected: this area happened to fall into a densely built-up city centre,
which is also likely to have contributed to the issue.
4.23 There was also evidence of reception blocking caused by other DAB transmitters,
and a particular business radio system with many mobile stations. A moderate
increase in transmitter power from 100W ERP to 200W ERP was implemented which
improved the situation subjectively, though we believe that a significant increase in
the reliability of reception is only likely to be achieved by adding a third transmitter
(which would add cost) to the SFN, or by bringing the two existing transmitters closer
together (which would have the side-effect of shrinking the overall coverage area).
The use of DAB+ may also help to increase the area in which reliable in-building
reception is possible due to its lower carrier-to-noise requirement, and because
DAB+ sets are generally of more recent design (and therefore often provide better
performance than older receivers).
4.24 The other SFN trial experienced several problems and protracted delays in
establishing and maintaining their service, and was operating with only a single
transmitter in non-SFN mode for several months. The transmitting antennas that
were initially installed were found to be defective and were replaced. Availability of
internet connectivity at one transmitter site was found to be of prohibitively high cost,
resulting in a need to change site. Ongoing reliability problems have been
experienced, which are likely to be due to poor internet connectivity. We do not
believe these experiences are indicative of wider flaws with the small scale concept,
but rather of issues specific to that trial multiplex.

16
4.25 As mentioned above, achieving fully reliable synchronisation between the SFN
transmitters has proved to be an ongoing issue, and has been a focal point of our
continuing technical work over the duration of the trial. In service and in lab testing,
the SFN transmitters would operate satisfactorily for some days or weeks, but would
eventually lose synchronisation. The time-dependent nature of the effect made
identifying the root cause particularly challenging, and various potential software and
hardware issues were explored. We now believe we have identified an underlying
software issue, and are in the process of issuing updated software builds to the two
SFN triallists.
4.26 Again, licensees generally found the SFN transmitter equipment straightforward to
use, but some degree of command line computer experience was necessary.
4.27 At the time of writing there is no working ‘Transmitter Identification Information’ (TII)
functionality in the software. TII enables the signals from individual transmitters in an
SFN to be monitored. Once TII has been implemented it will become much easier to
monitor the stability of SFN operation.
On-channel repeater trial - Technical experiences
4.28 The Cambridge on-channel repeater trial used a primary transmitter site which was
around 6km outside the city centre. The DAB signal from this site was picked up and
re-transmitted by an on-channel repeater (OCR) which was located on a church
within the city centre.
4.29 A process of iterative technical refinement and experimentation was required for the
on-channel repeater to achieve stable operation, while also transmitting at a high
enough power level to provide a useful enhancement to city-centre coverage. The
receive aerial system originally planned for the repeater site needed to be replaced
by a smaller type because of aesthetic concerns. The smaller aerial exhibited much
lower gain than the originally-specified aerial, and could therefore only provide a
proportionally lower level of signal to the on-channel repeater unit.
4.30 Achieving the required high level of radio frequency isolation between the transmit
and receive aerials at the OCR site proved to be difficult due to the constraints of the
building construction. The transmitting aerial was also found to have a defect which
further reduced isolation between the two aerials. These aerials were replaced but
the isolation achievable resulted in the repeater being operated at 50 watts ERP
instead of the originally-intended 100 watts ERP. It is reasonable to expect that this
restriction would be eased if aerials with characteristics closer to those originally
specified could be used.
4.31 Although the planning of an on-channel repeater can be more complex, and the
installation more demanding, than a standard transmitter, once installed they require
very little attention. Repeaters do not require GPS references or broadband circuits
associated with a conventional SFN. The higher unit cost of a repeater would also be
offset by the cost savings of not requiring a broadband circuit to feed it.
4.32 The predicted coverage of the repeater station indicated that it would enhance
reception in the north of the city. While a field strength survey indicated that the unit
does indeed enhance the field strength within the city without causing any reception
issues, the site operator does not believe the repeater provided any significant
extension to the overall multiplex coverage area.

17
4.33 On-channel repeaters are a cost-effective and attractive solution for enhancing or
extending coverage. However, as a function of their design, on-channel repeaters are
best suited to situations where a directional transmitting pattern is desirable. They
also require a good quality incoming signal from a favourable bearing, and can only
be used where the sufficient radio frequency isolation between the receive and
transmit aerial is achievable.
General technical experiences – DAB+
4.34 Reception reports and anecdotal evidence indicate that the use of DAB+, which was
adopted by some triallists, has helped in providing satisfactory reception in some
‘fringe’ coverage areas where conventional (MPEG-1 Layer 2) DAB services in the
same multiplex could not be decoded.

18
Section 5
5 Services, coordination and sustainability
Background
5.1 The second main objective for the trials was to test how well the small scale DAB
technology lends itself to several parties co-ordinating their services to form a
multiplex, particularly when many participants will not have had experience of being
carried on the DAB platform.
5.2 Unlike an analogue radio station, which is a single service carried on its own
transmitter and frequency, a DAB multiplex consists of a number of stations which all
share the same ‘pool’ of broadcasting capacity. They also share a common
transmission infrastructure. The multiplex operator is responsible for managing the
multiplex, including deciding which stations it should carry, and on what commercial
terms.
5.3 Because Ofcom was not part of the commercial negotiations between the trial
multiplex operators and radio stations, nor to any subsequent discussions between
them, we have only a limited pool of direct evidence about the effectiveness of
cooperation during the trial.
5.4 We have drawn on the regular multiplex operator reports that we received during the
trial, as well as an overview of the evolving composition and status of the small scale
DAB services.
5.5 We felt that it was important to gain some structured feedback directly from the radio
stations involved in the trials. We therefore invited all current and former stations on
small scale DAB multiplexes to complete an online survey which asked about their
experiences, and their views on the future prospects for small scale DAB. Of the 69
stations invited to complete the survey, 40 did so, a response rate of 58%.
5.6 We also carried out a similar survey of trial multiplex operators. Nine out of the ten
multiplex operators responded to the multiplex operator survey, a 90% response rate.
5.7 We are publishing a sub-set of the service providers’ survey responses as Annex 516
.
In order to preserve respondent confidentiality, we are not publishing survey
responses which could be personally identifiable, or which may be commercially
sensitive. Due to the small sample size and confidentiality issues, we are not
publishing separate response summaries for the multiplex operator survey.
Limits on the ability of the trial to predict future behaviour
5.8 When considering the operators’ and stations’ experiences of co-operation during the
small scale trial, we are mindful that the scale, nature, and duration of the trial means
that it is unlikely to fully reflect the financial, commercial, and behavioural aspects of
any future permanently-licensed services. There are several reasons for this.
5.9 Firstly, the bulk of the transmitter and ancillary equipment was provided to the
triallists, meaning that start-up capital costs for the multiplexes were lower than they
report

19
would have been in an operator-funded situation. Telecoms circuit costs were also
met by trial funding for some multiplexes.
5.10 The initial nine month trial licences were of a very short duration in comparison to
conventional broadcast services.
5.11 For a variety of reasons, several multiplexes charged no, or minimal, carriage fees to
the stations on their multiplexes. We also understand that most multiplexes did not
agree contractual terms, such as standards of service availability and reliability,
which normally form part of commercial radio carriage agreements.
5.12 For these reasons, some of the outcomes of the initial trial period must be viewed as
indicative.
5.13 However, the behaviours and commercial relationships of the trial participants may
well evolve over the remaining extended trial period to more closely match those that
might be experienced in possible future permanent deployments. As part of our
surveys, we therefore also asked multiplex operators and service providers about
any changes they intend to make during the extended trial licence period.
Demand for small scale DAB from a range of different stations
5.14 The trials suggest there is a significant level of demand from potential multiplex
operators and service providers for small-scale DAB.
5.15 We received 51 applications for ten trial multiplex licences. The trials indicated that
there is likely to be a mix of operating models for multiplexes. Multiplexes were
operated by existing commercial broadcasters, community radio services, and some
non-broadcasting (multiplex only) operators.
5.16 At launch, the 10 trial multiplexes contained 72 stations, including 9 stations which
were carried in more than one trial area.
5.17 The number of services rose over the course of the trial. By the end of the initial nine-
month trial, 92 services (audio components) were being carried, of which 18 were
services that were simulcast on more than one multiplex (and which were carried on
between two and four multiplexes each).
5.18 Over the course of the initial nine month trial, four multiplexes had sufficient demand
to adopt DAB+ for some services, and 27 DAB+ services are being carried (including
some simulcasts) at the time of writing.
5.19 Several multiplexes, most notably Manchester and Portsmouth, saw a notable
increase in the number of services carried during the trial, indicating a particularly
strong demand from stations for an opportunity to join the DAB platform in these
areas.
5.20 Of the 67 unique radio stations currently17
on small scale DAB, 12 are simulcasts of
existing licensed commercial radio stations (meaning they are carried on either
existing analogue or existing commercial DAB multiplexes), and 33 stations are new
to terrestrial broadcast radio in the UK. The remaining 22 services are simulcasts of
existing Ofcom-licensed analogue community radio services.
17 As of the end of August 2016

20
5.21 While there are fewer community radio simulcasts (22) than other services (45)
currently on small scale DAB, a number of the ‘non-community’ services do have
many of the characteristics of community radio, despite not holding an Ofcom
Community Radio licence. For example, the 45 services include web broadcasters
targeting specific communities, and ‘spin off’ or ‘time shift’ versions of existing
licensed community radio stations.
Coordination and carriage charges
5.22 Overall, the coordination aspects of the trials appear to have worked positively.
Multiplex operators and station operators generally worked efficiently together to
establish the necessary agreements and technical arrangements for carriage of their
services on the trial multiplexes. A majority of the service providers, 27 out of 37
respondents to our survey, claimed negotiating carriage on a multiplex was easy.
5.23 One objective factor which can help us to gauge the effectiveness of cooperation
between service providers and multiplex holders is the terms (such as carriage fees)
on which multiplexes carry services, and on service providers’ intentions for the
future.
5.24 The trial multiplexes sometimes offered free carriage to services, as the multiplex
was a relatively cheap means of additional distribution for their existing radio stations,
not a core revenue stream. In other cases, stations on the multiplexes provided ‘in
kind’ assistance (such as access to transmitter sites) to the multiplex operator in lieu
of carriage fees. In other cases, the multiplex operator absorbed the running costs of
the multiplex and did not charge carriage fees.
5.25 During the initial nine month trial, the nine multiplex operators who responded to our
survey indicated that their primary approach to charging stations for carriage on the
multiplex was either on a cost-recovery basis (five multiplexes) or that carriage fees
were not generally charged (four multiplexes).
5.26 Service providers told us that, where carriage fees were being charged, the most
common level of fees, for a third of the providers, during the initial trial period was
between £200 and £499 per month.
5.27 For the reasons outlined above, the multiplex operators’ approach to charging for
capacity during the initial trial period is unlikely to be extended to a wider or longer-
term roll-out of small scale DAB. In our survey, all nine operators who responded
have made, or plan to make, changes to the way they charge existing stations for
carriage on their multiplexes during the remaining extended trial licence period. Four
of the nine respondents have moved (or plan to move) to a more ‘commercial’ basis
for carriage charges, with the remainder moving to - or planning to adopt - cost-
recovery or other approaches.
5.28 Similarly, our survey of service providers indicated that while the majority (23 out of
27 respondents) expect carriage costs to remain the same or increase during the
extended trial period, most service providers (27 out of 37 respondents) intend to
remain on the small scale DAB platform. Where carriage fees are increasing, the
survey responses indicate that, for half of the respondents, the most common level of
increase in carriage fees per service is between £51 and £100 per month.

21
Views on the commercial sustainability of future small scale DAB
services
5.29 We asked the multiplex operators and service providers whether they felt that a wider
roll-out of small scale services would be financially sustainable.
5.30 The majority of multiplex operators (5 of the 8 respondents who answered this
question) said they felt that small scale DAB would be commercially sustainable for
new entrant multiplexes even where the multiplex operator was responsible for
covering all equipment costs as well as running costs. The remainder answered
“don’t know”.
5.31 21 respondents out of 37 service providers who answered a similar question felt that
a wider roll-out of small scale DAB would offer a commercially sustainable method of
distribution for their service, with 11 answering “don’t know”, and 5 answering “no”.
5.32 A relatively higher number of Community Radio service providers felt that small scale
DAB would provide a commercially sustainable distribution method for their service: 8
out of the 10 Community Radio services who answered this question did so
positively. Service providers noted that the relatively lower costs of carriage
compared to other DAB platforms was important to this.
5.33 From follow-up questions, we noted that the uncertainty of “don’t know” respondents
primarily stemmed from issues such as concerns around reported shortfalls in the
coverage and reception experienced compared to that predicted, to other issues
unrelated to the trial itself e.g. lack of audience impact (and corresponding difficulties
in measuring their DAB audiences), and the level of licence fees required for playing
recorded music.
5.34 Those service providers who felt that small scale DAB would not offer a viable
platform for them also cited concerns that the size of their coverage area was too
small, and of ‘patchy’ reception (on one of the single transmitter trials). Another
service provider cited poor reliability of the transmitter (on one of the SFN trials).
5.35 The survey results, along with our previous feedback from small scale DAB
providers, suggest there is also a high level of uncertainty about the carriage fees
that might be charged in any permanent multiplex deployment. Multiplex operators
have told us that it is very difficult to predict the level of fees as much will depend on
factors such as the business model of the multiplex operator, the technical
architecture of the service, and the location of the multiplex.
5.36 We expect that multiplex operators in any permanent deployment would be
innovative when designing their services – for example, ‘single ended’ transmission
systems (i.e. systems with little or no backup equipment in case of equipment failure)
may well be acceptable in some circumstances - and therefore the carriage costs
may vary between multiplexes.
5.37 While we note these uncertainties, we believe it is credible that carriage costs on
small scale DAB might be, at most, comparable to FM transmission costs for most
services. Furthermore, depending on the multiplex business model, and possible use
of transmission modes which demand less capacity (e.g. DAB+), it could be possible
for ‘real world’ costs to be significantly less than for FM.

22
Section 6
6 Lessons for the wider market
Background
6.1 Our third key objective for the trials was to give the market an opportunity to learn
about the software defined approach to DAB and its opportunities, particularly for
those stakeholders not familiar with DAB broadcasting.
6.2 The main Ofcom-licensed trials were operated by 10 different companies, ranging
from existing commercial and community radio broadcasters to ‘new entrant’
providers, giving groups from a wide range of backgrounds the opportunity to gain
valuable experience of operating a DAB multiplex.
6.3 The trials also provided an opportunity for over 70 community and commercial radio
stations to join one or more trial multiplexes: the majority of these services have
never been broadcast on DAB before.
Innovations during the trials
6.4 While Ofcom designed the trial transmitter systems to transmit standard DAB
services, we left the option open for triallists to adopt the newer DAB+ audio
encoding standard, subject to them obtaining suitable technology licensing rights.
Some triallists did subsequently adopt DAB+, which allowed additional services to be
carried on their multiplexes. Further information on the DAB+ services and their role
in the trials is available in Annex 218
.
6.5 Some trial operators supported each other on technical matters and common issues
by communicating through an online forum. They also set up a software repository to
share software developments specific to the UK trials. Others have also joined the
Google group ‘mmbtools’19
which is the official user forum operated by Open Digital
Radio.
6.6 Some triallists implemented DAB ‘Slideshow’ transmissions on their multiplexes. This
allows compatible receivers to display multimedia objects such as programme-
related graphics, weather forecasts, or track information.
6.7 One triallist implemented an Electronic Programme Guide (EPG). This allows
compatible receivers to display information about upcoming programmes on the
multiplex.
6.8 In addition to the main ten trial multiplexes, an independent multiplex began
operating while the trial was taking place, with interest having been stimulated by the
trials. This service used similar techniques and equipment to the main small scale
trials, and was self-funded by the operator. This multiplex was licensed under a non-
operational ‘test and development’ Wireless Telegraphy Act licence (as the original
2012/13 Brighton trial had been). This meant that it could only transmit test audio
report
19 https://groups.google.com/forum/#!forum/crc-mmbtools

23
rather than radio programming. Ofcom is also aware that several other users have
been testing self-built systems under suppressed radiation conditions.
6.9 Ofcom staff have followed these developments and we noted the enthusiasm and
resourcefulness of the operators in successfully applying small scale techniques
outside the main trial.
Equipment commercialisation and software enhancements
6.10 To date, small scale DAB transmission hardware has not been extensively
commercially integrated or marketed, but this is already under way as the open-
source nature of the software enables products to be rapidly developed to
complement the pre-existing software building blocks (providing that the code base is
used in accordance with the GNU General Public Licence). Those who are
experimenting with the technology have integrated their own systems from
commodity or general purpose equipment (as we have done in the UK). If a
permanent licensing framework were to be established in the UK and/or in other
countries, more equipment vendors may well begin to offer pre-built systems that are
easier to set-up and configure than the current tools.
6.11 As mentioned in section 4.10, it is possible for the core open-source software used in
small scale DAB to be supplemented by additional open-source ‘front end’
configuration tools and interfaces. This has already happened, albeit to a limited
extent, in the UK trials.
International market developments
6.12 Permanent radio services based on the software defined approach used in the UK’s
small scale trials are already on-air in Switzerland and France, with trials taking place
in a growing number of European countries. Other regulators in Europe have
approached Ofcom to express their interest in the small scale approach, and to find
out more about our trials.
6.13 This suggests there are potentially opportunities for small scale DAB to be deployed
in several more countries, which may for example stimulate integration and
commercialisation of software-defined DAB hardware.
Triallists
6.14 As mentioned earlier in this report, the triallists come from a wide range of
backgrounds. Several trial groups included experienced broadcast industry engineers
as part of their teams. Some groups were able to call on such expertise for some or
all of the tasks required when setting up and running their multiplexes. Others were
less well-resourced.
6.15 Groups with specialists on-hand required less technical support from Ofcom than
groups with less broadcast engineering experience or skills. We believe however that
all triallists gained valuable knowledge and experience of small scale systems.
Wider industry awareness
6.16 The small scale DAB trials have provoked a significant amount of interest in the
concept from both industry and the public.

24
6.17 The trials have been recognised by industry to be an incubator for both innovative
broadcast radio services and digital radio technology. The first regular service to use
DAB+ in the UK was by a small scale trial, and some trial multiplexes already carry
rich multimedia content including logos, slideshow and EPG which can be displayed
by some newer receivers such as car infotainment systems, and a growing number
of handheld and portable receivers.

25
Section 7
7 Technical scope for wider roll-out
Introduction
7.1 One of the key technical requirements for any future wider roll-out of small scale DAB
services is the availability of sufficient transmission frequencies to enable a range of
multiplexes to launch, and to enable the multiplexes to achieve desired levels of
coverage.
7.2 This section sets out the main conclusions of technical work and studies that Ofcom
has carried out which look at frequency availability for small scale DAB. We first
considered the frequencies needed to support the small scale trials themselves, and
then carried out a theoretical study looking at the potential availability of frequencies
for any future small scale DAB roll-out. A summary of these studies is available as
Annex 3 to this document, and the main technical study itself is available as Annex
420
. Please note that this work is purely indicative, and was solely intended to assist
with assessing the potential for wider deployment of small scale DAB. Further
technical planning work would be required in order to develop a detailed practical
frequency plan.
Frequencies used in the small scale trials
7.3 DAB transmitters in the UK currently use VHF (Band III) frequency ‘blocks’ which
range from approximately 211 MHz to 229 MHz (known as blocks 10 to 13). These
frequencies provide sufficient spectrum to support three national DAB multiplexes
and the current 58 local commercial DAB multiplexes.
7.4 However, when we initially looked at the prospects for the small scale DAB trials, it
was clear that additional spectrum would be required. Because DAB radio receivers
can also tune into lower frequencies than those currently used in the UK, we
examined the availability of frequencies below 211 MHz for use during the trials.
7.5 Much of this part of the VHF frequency band has until recently been used by private
business radio services in the UK. However, as part of international re-planning of
frequency use, business radio users on some of these lower frequencies have
generally migrated their services to other frequencies.
7.6 This provided an opportunity for additional spectrum to be used for the small scale
DAB trials in a part of the VHF band known as ‘sub-band II’ (blocks 7, 8 and 9).
Careful frequency planning was still required in order to avoid interference with the
remaining business radio users in the band, and some frequencies needed to be
avoided altogether.
7.7 Eight of the small scale trial multiplexes therefore shared two of the sub-band II
frequencies (on approximately 194 MHz and 203 MHz – or block 7D and block 9A).
The remaining two small scale DAB trials used existing DAB frequencies on an
‘interleaved’ basis where those frequencies were not used by other DAB multiplexes.
20 Annexes 3 & 4, http://stakeholders.ofcom.org.uk/market-data-research/other/radio-research/ssdab-
final-report

26
Future frequency availability
7.8 The remaining business radio users in sub-band II will be migrating to other
frequencies over the next few years. This will potentially make six sub-band II
frequencies available for DAB use across much of the UK in future. The frequencies
comprise blocks 7D, 8A, 8B, 9A, 9B and 9C.
7.9 While the migration of business radio will remove many of the current constraints on
the use of these frequencies for any future small scale DAB services, some
neighbouring countries also have established international rights to use these
frequencies. This may limit the extent to which the sub-band II frequencies could be
used in some areas of the UK.
7.10 However, initial indications are that the six sub-band II frequency ‘blocks’ would be
sufficient to enable the deployment of small scale DAB across much of the UK.
Where required and feasible, unused ‘gaps’ in the existing DAB frequency allocations
could also be used on an interleaved basis (as they were in the trial).
DAB frequencies that might accommodate existing analogue radio
services
7.11 We also carried out an initial study looking at whether it would be technically feasible
to develop a future frequency plan for small scale DAB that might provide an
opportunity for those small commercial and community stations currently transmitting
on analogue radio only to be carried on DAB.
7.12 We concluded that in most areas of the UK, it should be technically possible to
develop a frequency plan for small scale DAB which might accommodate those
stations. However much more detailed planning and optimisation work would be
required to develop a frequency plan which could be implemented in practice.
7.13 Because the UK’s neighbours have established rights to use the sub-band II
frequencies (and some are already doing so), we would also need to negotiate the
use of these frequencies for small scale DAB with neighbouring countries.
7.14 As mentioned above, another important (though temporary) technical constraint is
that in some areas of the UK business radio services are currently using part of the
VHF band identified for possible future use by small scale DAB. Our study indicates
that this is likely to cause a shortage of frequencies until the business radio services
migrate to other frequencies (which is due to happen by 2020). The areas most likely
to be affected by these interim restrictions are north Somerset & south east Wales,
the East Midlands, and areas to the south of Manchester.

1
Annex 1
1 Predicted coverage maps for the small scale DAB trials
A1.1 The maps below show coverage predictions for the small scale DAB trial multiplexes. The predictions were produced using the ATDI
ICS telecom radio propagation modelling tool, and were validated with drive measurements.
A1.2 The wanted DAB coverage predictions for individual transmitters were carried out using our standard Fresnel / Deygout propagation
model and Infoterra clutter model for 99% mobile locations and 80% indoor locations.
A1.3 Outdoor mobile coverage has been based on a minimum field strength of 54dBuV/m, and indoor portable coverage has been based
upon a minimum field strength of 63dBuV/m.
A1.4 For the SFN and on-channel repeater trials (London, Glasgow and Cambridge) any overlapping coverage is power summed, giving an
overall increase in field strength within the overlapping coverage area.
A1.5 Ofcom and the broadcasters normally carry out DAB coverage planning using the UK Planning Model (UKPM) prediction software.
Predicted coverage maps for the small scale DAB trials using UKPM are available on our website at
http://licensing.ofcom.org.uk/radio-broadcast-licensing/digital-radio/mux-licensing/small-scale-trial-multiplex-licensing/coverage/, and
these will be kept up-to-date with any future transmitter changes.
A1.6 Coverage maps produced in UKPM do differ from those produced in ICS telecom below. However, it is not possible to correlate UKPM
maps with drive measurement data, therefore ICS telecom maps are provided here for reference.

2
Figure A1: Birmingham

3
Figure A2: Brighton

4
Figure A3: Bristol

5
Figure A4: Cambridge

6
Figure A5: Glasgow

7
Figure A6: London

8
Figure A7: Manchester

9
Figure A8: Norwich

10
Figure A9: Portsmouth

11
Figure A10: Woking

Small scale DAB:
Frequency planning feasibility study
Technical study: August 2015
Published with minor editorial amendments as Annex 4 to the small scale DAB trials
final report: 26 September 2016

Small Scale DAB: Frequency planning feasibility study
Summary
Ofcom is publishing this study to accompany our final report to Government on the small
scale DAB trials. The technical work for this study was carried out during the second half of
2015, and the content of this document reflects the situation at that time.
Spectrum requirements for small scale DAB
To increase the opportunities for community radio and small scale analogue commercial
radio services to join the DAB digital radio platform, ‘small scale DAB’ multiplexes are being
considered.
UK DAB services are currently provided using spectrum within a part of VHF band III known
as ‘sub-band III’1
. An initial study, carried out for the Manchester area, concluded that further
spectrum beyond that available in sub-band III would be required to provide small scale
multiplexes in any future wider roll-out of small scale DAB.
What we did
This study considers the technical feasibility of such a wider roll-out from a frequency
availability and frequency planning perspective. The study contains details of a theoretical
small scale DAB network which has been developed solely to assist with producing this
feasibility study. These ‘notional’ networks are purely indicative, and more detailed frequency
planning, international engagement and internal UK coordination work would be required
before practical networks could be deployed.
We have identified six frequency blocks from another portion of VHF Band III, known as
‘sub-band II’2
that could potentially be used for small scale DAB. Sub-band II was previously
allocated to business radio (or Private Mobile Radio - PMR) services. PMR has largely
vacated this spectrum as a result of changes to international frequency plans following the
ITU Regional Radio Conference held in Geneva in 2006, but some PMR services may
remain in the sub-band until 2020.
Conclusions
Using this additional spectrum, we have developed a notional frequency plan for 192 small
scale DAB multiplexes. Notional multiplexes have been formed from a selection of the
transmitter sites that are currently used to provide existing community and small analogue
commercial radio services.
As small scale DAB services are expected to operate at relatively low power levels, it will be
necessary for their transmitter sites to be near to the target coverage area in order to provide
robust ‘indoor’ coverage to urban areas. Existing community and small scale sites were not
always found to be satisfactory.
1
210.8 MHz to 230 MHz (DAB blocks 10B to 12D)
2
193.2 MHz to 207.5 MHz (DAB blocks 7D to 9C)

The UK ‘mobile’ coverage achieved by the notional sub-band II plan developed in this study
is shown in figure 1.1
Figure 1.1 UK small scale DAB ‘mobile’ coverage, using six sub-band II blocks
7D
9B
8A
9A
8B
9C
Map Images © Copyright. All rights reserved
Ofcom Licence No 100018047 - 2015

We have found that in some areas, additional spectrum resource (beyond the six sub-band II
frequency blocks) is likely to be required in order to avoid undue interference between the
notional small scale DAB multiplexes. Therefore, we have also considered the use of sub-
band III blocks (where these are available) to supplement the six sub band II blocks in areas
of limited frequency availability.
We have concluded that small scale DAB multiplexes could be interleaved with local DAB
services, although only one or two interleaved blocks may be available in each region.
These blocks may assist where more than six blocks are needed, or where continental
interference is problematic. However sufficient sub-band III spectrum would not available for
mitigation against the interim PMR constraints (where these exist) in several areas.
Constraints
PMR services may continue to make use of sub-band II spectrum until 2020 in south
Yorkshire, the east midlands, and in Merseyside. This is likely to prevent the comprehensive
roll out of small scale DAB within the north of England, the English Midlands, the northern
Home Counties and the north west of England in the short term. Analysis of the co-existence
of PMR with the notional small scale DAB frequency plan developed during this study
indicates that 59 of the 192 Small Scale DAB multiplexes would not be able to launch until
PMR migrates from sub-band II.
In border or coastal regions, the plan has avoided frequency blocks planned to be used by
Ireland, France, Belgium and The Netherlands where possible. The notional UK small scale
DAB networks have been planned to operate at low powers, whilst the Irish and continental
networks allocated in the band are planned to operate at substantially higher powers. The
most dominant issues would be from incoming interference to the UK small scale DAB
networks, rather than outgoing interference to the Irish and continental networks.
During this study more detailed information was supplied regarding the proposed usage of
sub-band II by networks in France and Ireland. Analysis indicates that the majority of the
notional UK small scale DAB multiplexes would remain viable, though at a reduced level of
availability. There would be sufficient scope to adapt the plan where predicted interference is
judged to be unacceptable.
Further work
Before any practical frequency plans for further small scale DAB networks can be
developed, further information would be needed from the UK’s neighbours, and the UK
would need to seek international coordination for some transmitter proposals.
We also anticipate that we would engage with the business radio community to seek to
ensure that the technical requirements for protecting PMR services remain appropriate and
do not unduly constrain the roll-out of small scale DAB.

Contents
Section Page
1 Introduction 1
2 Methodology & Assumptions 3
3 Service Selection 6
4 The Planning 8
5 Sub-Band II PMR Services 14
6 International Considerations 19
7 Sub-Band III Channel Availability 27
8 Discussion & Conclusions 30
Annex Page
1 Indicative coverage maps 33
2 Site data for a notional small scale DAB network 41
3 PMR Protection Calculations 57

1
Section 1
1 Introduction
When Ofcom first considered the opportunities for implementing additional small DAB
multiplexes in the UK, we carried out an initial study looking at frequency availability in the
Manchester area. We concluded that it would be possible to make use of Band III, sub-band
III blocks 10B, 11B and 11C. We looked at ways that the frequencies proposed could be
used to allow those analogue radio services in the area which were not yet on DAB to be
accommodated. We found that to achieve this, two DAB frequency blocks would be required
over this relatively limited geographical area. If the plan were extended to serve other areas,
it was apparent that additional spectrum, beyond that available in sub-band III, would be
required.
This study considers the potential for additional spectrum to accommodate small scale DAB
services. We conclude that it should be feasible to use blocks 7D, 8A, 8B, 9A, 9B and 9C (all
in sub-band II), for small scale DAB services in certain areas of the UK. This spectrum was
previously allocated to PMR services, but as part of the Ge06 Plan, the majority of the PMR
services have migrated away from sub-band II. We expect some PMR usage to remain in
these blocks in South Yorkshire, the English East Midlands, Merseyside and Aberdeen,
perhaps until 2020. This will place a temporary limitation on the availability of the additional
spectrum, and therefore implies a later deployment of small scale DAB within the north of
England, the English Midlands, the northern Home Counties, and the north west of England.
This study finally considers the possible extension of small scale small scale DAB to the
whole of the UK. Our approach has been to group existing analogue Community radio and
small commercial radio services by area, with a view to examining the technical feasibility of
developing a frequency plan which would allow them to be carried on small scale DAB
multiplexes. Larger areas with many services (London, the English West Midlands,
Manchester and Glasgow) have been split into smaller areas with the aim of ensuring
sufficient capacity for current and future services. The plan has been developed around the
use of six blocks, primarily the six sub-band II blocks mentioned above, supplemented with
spectrum interleaved amongst the established DAB multiplexes where necessary.

2
A number of points have been identified in developing the notional six block plan. In
particular, we note the following issues that are highlighted in this report:
• The importance of careful choice of transmission site to achieve ‘useful indoor’
coverage within the target area;
• In some areas, more than six blocks are required to avoid undue inter-block
interference;
• Some areas under this notional plan would remain unserved;
• There would be temporary limitations on deployment of small scale services due to
the need to protect the remaining PMR services in sub-band II;
• Where data is available, we examine the likely interactions between the proposed
DAB networks and the continent and Ireland; and
• Challenges in finding interleaved spectrum in sub-band III to assist with the issues
above.
Because the remaining PMR services within sub-band II need to be protected until 2020, the
notional network developed in this study could not be fully implemented immediately.
Analysis indicates that, of the 192 areas studied, 59 within the north of England, the English
Midlands, the northern Home Counties and the north west of England would impact the
remaining PMR services.
Additionally, it is likely that co-block interference from the continent and Ireland will further
limit the coverage to adjacent areas in the south of England, East Anglia, and Northern
Ireland.
Interleaved blocks may be used from sub-band III where required, although there is very
limited capacity in many areas. There is a particular shortage of capacity in areas where it
could help to avoid the impact on remaining PMR services within sub-band II.

3
Section 2
2 Methodology & Assumptions
DAB coverage analysis has been performed using the ICS telecom predictive planning tool,
using a Fresnel/Deygout 94 method and 50m Infoterra Digital Terrain Model data, as used
by Ofcom broadcast radio planners.
Unwanted interference has been calculated for 1% time by assuming an earth radius of
28,550 km rather than 8,550 km, assumed for 50% time. The wanted field strength level has
also been calculated for 1% time availability. The wanted field strength for 1% availability
makes very little difference over short (wanted) distances, and allows common field strength
predictions to be used both for wanted and interference, simplifying the planning process
within ICS telecom.
Although signal levels are log-normally distributed according to location, for practicality when
using ICS telecom, a simple power sum has been assumed for both wanted and interfering
signals. This will result, if anything, in the practical network having slightly increased location
availability compared to that predicted.
A co-channel protection ratio of 25dB has been assumed. This is derived from a receiver
protection ratio of 10dB and a margin to protect to 99% location availability of 15dB.3
Field
trials have indicated that it may be appropriate to use a protection ratio of 15dB. This
reduction is largely attributed to a positive correlation between wanted and interfering field
strengths. This difference in protection ratio does not generally impact upon planning
decisions, but may result in practical coverage being slightly greater than predicted in
interference limited areas. At the planning stage, the 25dB protection ratio is useful in
understanding station interactions.
Coverage has been assessed to minimum field strengths of 54dBµV/m and 63dBµV/m, at
10m above ground level, corresponding to the accepted thresholds for ‘mobile’ and ‘useful
indoor’ reception.
Each transmitter site has been nominally planned to operate at 100W ERP. In most cases,
this nominal ERP is considered a good balance between the need to provide good coverage
whilst limiting outgoing interference, thereby allowing reuse of channel blocks to serve
adjacent areas. To improve coverage, in some cases, this ERP may be increased by 3dB or
even 6dB, but generally has been adjusted downwards to meet coverage requirements or to
limit outgoing interference.
3
The planning margin is derived theoretically as (4.0 x 2.33 x √2) = 13.2 dB, assuming both wanted and
unwanted signals are Gaussian distributed with standard deviations of 4.0 dB, and are uncorrelated.

4
Many antenna patterns are possible, but for the purposes of this study, a selection of
standard transmit antenna patterns has been used, as shown in figure 2.1.
Yagi
Figure 2.1 Standard Transmit Antennas, Horizontal Radiation Patterns
This study is primarily based around the use of six DAB channel blocks (7D, 8A, 8B, 9A, 9B
and 9C), with the aim of identifying any particular difficulties associated with frequency reuse
in a six block plan. It is recognised that some of these channel blocks cannot be utilised over
the whole UK at present, due to the continued operation of co-channel PMR services in
south Yorkshire, the English East Midlands, and Merseyside. Interleaved spectrum in sub-
band III (blocks 10B to 12D) could be used to overcome difficulties in areas otherwise limited
by UK or continental interference within the six block plan, or to allow additional small scale
DAB service areas to be added. In a limited number of areas, the use of sub-band III blocks
may allow implementation of small scale DAB where remaining PMR services require
protection.
Dipole on Mast
(10dB Front to Back ratio)
Dipole on Pole
(4dB Front to Back ratio)
Dipole on Pole
(6dB Front to Back ration)
Omnidirectional Panel Yagi

5
Adjacent channel interference (ACI) may create a ‘hole’ in coverage within a very short
range of a transmitter site when attempting to receive services from other transmitter sites.
Adjacent channel interference has not been specifically investigated when considering
interactions between the six sub-band II blocks. Mitigation is frequently possible by careful
selection of sites and antenna patterns, and this would need to be considered in the detailed
planning and implementation phase.

6
Section 3
3 Service Selection
The candidate services for small scale DAB were identified by running a query within the
Ofcom technical licensing database, to create list of all community radio and small scale
radio services not currently on DAB (as of Spring 2015). The candidate services were
mapped to allow service groups and areas (forming the notional small scale DAB
multiplexes) to be identified. The grouping is notional so as to inform this spectrum planning
study only and does not represent how multiplexes would be arranged in any formal
deployment of small scale DAB in the future.
By creating more groups in areas where there is a requirement for a larger number of
services, it is possible to limit the number of services per multiplex to fit within practical bit
rate limits.4
In these areas there is generally a large degree of coverage overlap.
Figure 3.1 gives an indication of the number of services per notional small scale DAB
multiplex considered in this study, based on the number of analogue-only stations in each
area.
4
For a mix of bit rates up 128kbits at UEP3, it would be possible to implement up to nine stereo services per
small scale DAB multiplex.

7
Figure 3.1: Number of services per notional multiplex

8
Section 4
4 The Planning
The UK was split into areas as the plan
developed. These areas were based on the
station grouping areas and regions that
could be planned independently. The region
boundaries were based upon maximum co-
block interference within an area rather than
any physical or political boundaries, hence
services in Wales were grouped with the
South West and North West areas.
The coverage of each transmitter site
currently used to provide a small
commercial or Community analogue radio
service within a group was assessed, and
the best combination of sites selected to
provide the composite DAB service.
From the list of standard antennas shown in
figure 2.1 the most appropriate transmit
antenna was selected to provide coverage
in the desired area whilst limiting out of area
interference. The ERP selected was
generally 100W, though this was adjusted in
some instances to limit out of area coverage
or outgoing interference.
Figure 4.1: The planning areas
As each group was planned, the coverage was compared with the published FM coverage
maps for the constituent stations. The coverage was assessed against the requirements for
both ‘mobile’ and ‘useful indoor’ reception (54dBµV/m and 63dBµV/m at 10m a.g.l.). This
equates to the protected 64dBµV/m published coverage threshold for FM community radio
services.
To ensure ‘useful indoor’ coverage whilst operating with a limited ERP, small scale DAB
transmitter sites generally need to be close to the area to be served. The sites used for small
scale DAB in this study were selected from those already used to provide small radio
services, some of which are not close to the target area. It may be possible to identify more
suitable sites in the detailed planning stage.
Locations where more suitable sites may need to be found (or added) in order to improve
coverage include Dorchester, Salisbury, Aylesbury, Colchester, Banbury, Ludlow and Wigan.

9
This is illustrated in figure 4.2. The site for the Banbury area is midway between Banbury
and Brackley. Although ‘mobile’ DAB coverage would be achieved over the whole area, two
sites could be placed individually to provide both Banbury and Brackley with ‘useful indoor’
coverage.
Figure 4.2: Banbury coverage (‘Useful Indoors’ and ‘Mobile’)
Community radio stations generally operate at
a maximum of 25W ERP, whilst the majority of
small FM radio services operate at 100W ERP
or less. Individually, each station has limited
coverage, but when combined together to
create a small scale DAB multiplex, a larger
aggregate area would be served. This is
illustrated, for the Teesside area, in figure 4.3.
In areas where more than one transmitter site
contributes to DAB coverage, there is the
additional benefit of a decrease in location
variability (i.e. less need to move the receiver
in order to achieve robust reception).
Figure 4.3: Combined sites - multiplex area
For the few small FM radio services that operate at ERPs greater than 100W, it may be
necessary to add additional sites so that coverage can be maintained, whilst limiting each
small scale DAB site to around 100W ERP. This is illustrated, for the King’s Lynn area, in
figure 4.4.
‘Useful Indoors’ ‘mobile’

10
Figure 4.4: Additional site - King’s
Lynn
The FM service for King’s Lynn operates at 2.1kW ERP. In the notional small scale DAB
plan, the existing site at Great Massingham operates at 100W ERP and a new site is added,
also operating at 100W ERP. Should it be desired to provide more ‘useful indoor’ coverage
to Swaffham and Fakenham, additional sites could be added.
Similarly, within this study, additional sites have been added to serve Stratford upon Avon
(FM service 1.5kW ERP, 14km to the south) and Lancaster/Morecambe (FM service 1.6kW
ERP, 30km across Morecambe Bay), as shown in figures 4.5 and 4.6.
Figures 4.5 and 4.6: Additional Sites – Stratford upon Avon and Lancaster &
Morecambe
In order to provide robust coverage within London, several additional sites have been added.
Figure 4.7 shows the existing and added sites, to provide ‘useful indoor’ coverage. Further
sites would need to be added to improve coverage within north-west London.
Added Site
Existing Site

11
Figure 4.7: London ‘Useful Indoor’ Coverage - Added and Existing Sites
The sub-band II block selected for each multiplex was based on a judgement of the likely
reuse distance, but taking advantage of the terrain to allow (where possible) blocks to be
reused over shorter distances. Efficient use of spectrum is demonstrated by adequate
coverage being achieved, whilst being slightly limited by co-block interference.
Most areas required two or three planning iterations, where block usage, ERP or transmit
antenna patterns were adjusted, in order to achieve the desired predicted coverage.
To understand coverage interactions, and to be consistent in approach, a co-channel
protection ratio of 25dB was assumed. Ofcom planning standards specify a protection ratio
of 25dB but relaxes this by 10dB due to the expected correlation between wanted and
unwanted signals. The ITU proposes a protection ratio of 15dB. Whilst such a relaxation to
15dB was considered when deciding whether some specific interactions could be tolerated,
in general, the use of 25dB has not impacted upon planning decisions. Figure 4.8 shows
predicted interference between multiplexes using block 9A, in the Midlands, considered with
protection ratios of 25dB and 15dB.
Added Site
Existing Site

12
Figure 4.8 Co-channel interference considered at 25dB and 15dB protection ratio
In developing a notional frequency plan the whole UK, using six frequency blocks (7D, 8A,
8B, 9A, 9B and 9C), it has been found that there are a few areas where additional spectrum
is required. Particularly ‘congested areas’ are found in the Bristol area, the region around
Manchester, Cheshire, Merseyside and the English East Midlands.
Interleaved blocks in sub-band III may be used to ease this congestion in the following
areas:
• It is assumed that block 11C is used to serve Weston-super-Mare. This is the block
previously used for the Cardiff & Newport local multiplex.
• In line with the findings of the initial Manchester study, blocks 11B and 11C would be
suitable to serve Warrington and Tameside following the planned frequency changes
for the Liverpool and Manchester multiplexes.
• Ideally, an additional block is required in the East Midlands, for Coalville. An initial
assessment indicates that block 10D may be suitable. This is the block used for the
Herts, Beds and Bucks local multiplex.
If small scale small scale DAB services are to be launched in the English midlands and the
north and north west of England whilst PMR usage continues within the same spectrum in
south Yorkshire, the English East Midlands and Merseyside, then additional usage of
available blocks within sub-band III may assist.
Coverage Loss
25dB PR 15dB PR

13
This Plan has been developed to address
the question of whether existing community
radio and small commercial services could
be technically accommodated on DAB.
However, no planning has been carried out
in areas where such analogue services do
not exist. Therefore the following areas are
amongst those unserved by this notional
sub-band II plan:
North Devon, Mid Wales, West Wales,
Maidstone, Sevenoaks, Tonbridge,
Tunbridge Wells, Rye, Dover, Chester,
Bishop's Stortford, Milton Keynes,
Thetford, Peterborough, Sleaford,
Skegness, Louth, York, Scarborough,
Bridlington, Whitby, Carlisle, West
Cumbria, Melrose/Hawick, Dumfries,
Northumberland & Inverness
These areas are shown in figure 4.9 as dots,
along with the ‘mobile’ coverage achieved
for the six block sub-band II plan. A future
plan might be needed to identify how / if
these areas might also be served by sub-
band II if there is evidence of demand from
potential services in these areas.
Figure 4.9 Areas unserved in the sub-band II plan
Locations unserved
in notional sub-band
II plan (‘mobile’
coverage)

14
Section 5
5 Sub-Band II PMR Services
Under the terms of their licences, PMR services may continue to use the sub-band II blocks
shown in table 5.1 until 2020.
Table 5.1: PMR SB II block usage until 2020
As part of this study, we assessed the likely restrictions to small scale DAB from the
continued use of sub-band II blocks for PMR. For the basis of this assessment, we used ITU
Rec R-1546 as the propagation model and assumed that the PMR base stations use
omnidirectional transmit and receive antennas. This approach, which is based on exclusion
distances, is recognised by the PMR community.
An alternative approach has been used in this study. This approach uses the same
prediction model for PMR services as is currently used to predict the DAB coverage. The
approach takes the likely base station transmit/receive antenna into account. This alternative
approach, if acceptable, may result is less onerous restrictions to small scale DAB roll out,
whilst providing the necessary protection to the remaining PMR services.
The assumed basis for the protection of PMR services is that the effective5
interfering DAB
field strength should not exceed 27dBµV/m, as seen by either the PMR base station or
mobile antenna. A derivation of this limit is provided in Annex 3.
To protect PMR mobile reception, a combined DAB field strength of more than 27dBµV/m
should not exist over the service area of the PMR service. Because several DAB signals
may combine at any given location, the level of any individual component signal should be
lower. Ideally, an appropriate statistical summation, taking into account location variability,
should be used for this assessment.
As the service area details for the PMR services were not available, the transmitted (base
station) service areas for the South Yorkshire/East Midlands and Merseyside networks have
been predicted, based on the licence parameters, highlighted in Annex 3. The service area
5
Taking the receiving antenna directivity into account.
Area Use DAB block
South Yorkshire & East
Midland
Base Station Receive 7D, 8A, 8D
Mobile Receive 9A, 9B
Merseyside
Base Station Receive 8B
Mobile Receive 9B, 9C
Aberdeen
Base Station Receive 8B
Mobile Receive 9B

15
would be within the region where the field strength delivered for 50% time, is predicted to be
19dBµV/m6
, at 1.5m above ground level.
Figure 5.1 shows the likely service areas for the South Yorkshire/East Midlands and
Merseyside networks. Based on the prediction, possible areas to be protected have been
identified, however further clarification should be sought from the PMR operators regarding
the service area and the site technical parameters.
Figure 5.1 Likely areas for PMR mobile protection from DAB (power summation
greater than 27dBµV/m)
To protect PMR base station reception, a combined effective DAB field strength (taking into
account receiving antenna directivity) of more than 27dBµV/m should not exist at any
receive site. Again, as several DAB signals may combine, the level of component signals
must be lower than this value where more than one co-channel DAB signal contributes to the
‘unwanted’ field.
This is a point-to-point limitation (i.e. DAB transmitter to PMR base station) based on the
DAB station parameters. Consequently, it is not possible to definitively calculate DAB
transmitter exclusion areas. As a guide, predictions have been performed in the reverse
direction to establish where 27dBµV/m is received, for 1% time, at a height of 60m a.g.l7
., for
100W ERP8
transmitted from each base station, using the base station antenna.
6
19dBµV/m, recognised service threshold by Ofcom.
7
90% of the antennas in the plan are at 60m or less.
8
100W being the maximum ERP used
9B & 9C
9A & 9B

16
Figure 5.2 shows the resulting possible exclusion areas to protect reception at base stations
within the South Yorkshire/East Midlands and Merseyside PMR networks.
Figure 5.2: Possible areas for PMR base station protection from DAB (power
summation greater than 27dBµV/m)
Comparing the predictions in figures 5.1 and 5.2, it is likely that the restrictions to protect
reception at the PMR base stations within blocks 7D, 8A and 8B (i.e. to the base station
receiver) will be most onerous, but will depend upon the actual small scale DAB site
parameters. The acceptability of the possible interference to the PMR service can only be
established at the detailed DAB site planning stage.
The same analysis could be applied to protecting the Aberdeen PMR services within blocks
8B and 9B; however it has been possible to avoid using these channels for small scale DAB
in the east of Scotland as other frequencies are available. The terrain in Scotland allows
these channels to be used by DAB to the west without interfering with PMR. Furthermore,
sub-band III spectrum is available in most of the area.
8B
7D, 8A & 8B

17
For each small scale small scale DAB service on blocks relevant to the PMR services, the
1% time field strength over the PMR service area, or received by the PMR base stations,
has been assessed against the likelihood of a combined 27dBµV/m being exceeded. As
several DAB signals may combine, the level of component signals should typically be lower
by up to 10dB.
Of the 192 notional small scale DAB networks planned as part of this study, it is estimated
that 59 might in principle impact upon the South Yorkshire/East Midlands or Merseyside
PMR networks. These numbers are summarised in Table 5.2.
PMR Network small scale DAB
Networks
Total Comment
South Yorkshire/East Midlands Mobiles 21 One small scale DAB Network
may impact both PMR Networks
South Yorkshire/East Midlands Base
Stations
28 49
Merseyside Mobiles 11
Merseyside Base Stations 0 11
Table 5.2 The number of small scale DAB Multiplexes Impacting PMR
The location of the notional small scale DAB networks that might have an impact on PMR
networks are shown in figure 5.3.

18
Figure 5.3 small scale DAB Multiplexes Notionally Impacting PMR
The notional small scale DAB areas that might have an impact on the remaining PMR
services are outlined in the site data, provided in Annex 2.

Final report small scale dab OFCOM (UK)

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