New Zealand
FM HD Radio broadcasting went on the air for trial in the Skytower Auckland under a special demonstration license from the Radio Spectrum Management division of the New Zealand Ministry of Economic Development. Performance measurements taken have been exceptional and all persons involved are very pleased with the performance of HD Radio technology. Further tests involving all major broadcasters are planned to begin early 2007.The initial testing took place on 106.1 MHz from the Skytower. Conventional analog and digital signals are transmitted on the same frequency without affecting existing listenership.
“What makes HD Radio technology worthwhile in the States is what makes it worthwhile here? The most powerful benefit is being able to transition to a digital format without abandoning analog listeners,” said Geoff Durrant of Cobalt Technologies (consulting company based in Auckland). The analog and digital signals were transmitted by a Broadcast Electronics FXi 60 digital FM exciter operating at 37 watts analog and 0.37 watts digital. Informal signal strength tests of the broadcast indicated the 0.37 watt digital signal has a reach of more than 60 percent of the metro Auckland population.
In December 2006, the Radio Broadcasters Association (RBA) announced they intend to carry out a comprehensive trial of HD Radio technology on 106.2 MHz at the Sky Tower in Auckland. The trial is expected to begin in March 2007 and operate for 12 months. The aim of the trial is to assess the coverage potential of the HD Radio system and recommend to the NZ government the suitability of the technology for adoption in the country. iBiquity and many manufacturers have committed support for this trial.
