Digital radio how does it work

DAB radio, though, works in a very different way. The digital transmission is made up of a string of ones and zeroes. Since there are no frequency bands to stick to, that same signal can be sent out multiple times. This means that your radio has more chances to pick up the signal- making DAB radio far more reliable than its FM counterpart.

More than that, though, the way DAB signals are sent brings some extra benefits, too. For one thing, the wider band means that stations can send out additional information along with the song. DAB signals are also better able to work around obstacles between your radio and the transmitter, like large buildings, and they carry their own protection against transmission errors. Perhaps the biggest advantage of DAB radio is the sheer amount of choice it gives listeners.

Tweaking the tuner and remembering frequency numbers is a thing of the past with DAB radio. Flipping through stations is as easy as changing the channel on your TV. How handy is that! Many DAB radios include additional features that will give you even more use out of them. For instance, some come with Bluetooth connectivity , so you can take control of the music.

Others can hook up to your WiFi, to give you access to over 30, internet radio stations. Plus, you can also tune in to all your favourite podcasts, too. With so much to choose from, you'll never find yourself stuck for something to listen to! In , digital radio listenership pulled ahead of FM and AM for the first time. It seems certain that at some point in the near future, FM will be ditched entirely.

Instead, get on board with the digital revolution today! Digital technology involves processing numbers electronically. It generates, stores and processes data in two states; positive, represented by the number 1, and negative, represented by the number 0. Once the audio is digitised, it can reach the listeners primarily through two means — by direct transmission using DAB Digital Audio Broadcasting technology or through the Internet.

Here we are discussing DAB. You may have a DAB-only radio if you bought a digital radio during the trial period, brought a digital radio in from overseas or you're driving a fancy European car, such as the Ford Focus RS , which is fitted with a head unit that includes DAB digital radio amongst its features.

It's more efficient than the old standard that uses MP2 and means a higher quality signal is possible than before. It sits on your windscreen, much like a portable GPS, and works with your current car stereo either via the auxiliary jack or a built-in FM transmitter.

At the time of writing, the only mainstream model to feature digital radio is the new Toyota Camry , albeit only in the top-of-the-range Atara SL variant. Be respectful, keep it civil and stay on topic. We delete comments that violate our policy , which we encourage you to read. Discussion threads can be closed at any time at our discretion. Randolph Ramsay. What is it? Is it better than AM and FM radio? Credit: Pure What else can digital radio do?

Do I need a new radio to listen to digital? Elsewhere in the world, countries like Norway have already replaced FM radio entirely. How does DAB radio work? This makes it easier to pick up and keep the frequency. What is the advantage of DAB radio? So, what are the benefits of DAB radio, and are there any downsides?

Some of the benefits of DAB radio include: More stations: DAB digital radio gives you a lot more choice when it comes to finding music and talk shows in your home and car. You can even listen to some of the most popular stations in the UK which happen to be digital only. Automatic tuning: Finding the perfect position on your radio dial for a station can be a nightmare.

With DAB digital radio, you can tune into channels automatically. Extra features: Most of the top DAB radio options on the market today come with a bunch of bonus features, like Wi-Fi for online streaming. Some of the downsides of DAB radio include: Interference: If you do end up with interference on your radio, you might end up with a horrible gurgling noise, or you might be unable to listen to your radio at all. Battery life: Because DAB radios have extra features, they often rely on additional power.

If this is the case in your location, you may need to stick to FM and AM radio for a little longer. Alternatively, you might try using a DAB radio aerial. How much should you spend on a DAB radio? See also. Do radio apps use data?