Digital Audio Broadcasting

Digital Audio Broadcasting (DAB) is a way of sending radio using digital signals instead of analogue signals. It is used in many countries, including the United Kingdom and parts of Europe.

 How it works 
DAB sends radio stations in a digital form. This means that more stations can be put on one radio frequency, using a system called a multiplex. Digital signals can also give clearer sound and extra information, such as the name of the song or programme.

 DAB+ 
A newer version called DAB+ is used in many places. DAB+ uses better technology, so the sound can be clearer and more stations can be broadcast. Some older radios can receive DAB but not DAB+.

 In the United Kingdom 
The UK uses both DAB and DAB+. Radio stations are put together on local, regional and national multiplexes. People can listen using DAB radios at home, at work, or in cars. Some stations are now digital-only and do not broadcast on FM or AM.

 Advantages 
 More radio stations  
 No background hiss  
 Extra information can be shown on the radio screen  
 Easier tuning (stations appear by name)

 Disadvantages 
 Signals can cut out if the reception is weak  
 Some older radios cannot receive DAB+  
 Sound quality depends on how much space a station is given on the multiplex

 Related pages 
 Radio
 Frequency modulation
 Amplitude modulation

Category:Radio technology  
Category:Broadcasting