Radio Automation Innovator Dane Roach Dies

Services are planned for Saturday June 26 for Dane Roach, who died of a brain tumor Sunday in Emmetsburg, Iowa. He was 44.
Smarts Broadcast Systems, Roach’s employer, announced his death. John Schad, president and CEO of the company, described Roach as a pioneer in digital automation for radio.
“Dane Roach began his career in radio in New Mexico before joining The Management to help develop the Digital DJ System,” the company stated. “Roach later joined the staff of Smarts Broadcast Systems as chief technician on the Smartcaster System, a post he held until his death.”
Schad told RW Online, “Dane was involved in very early digital automation systems both with us and with Pete Charlton of The Electric Works, and was installing systems before most broadcasters even knew of its existence. … He did pioneering work in such areas as multi-tasking (e.g., recording while playing back), detecting relay closures from satellite networks, and designing computer-controlled switchers.
“In more recent years, he has done considerable work on developments such as Linux-based systems; socket-based communications, allowing complex unit-to-unit communications over an Ethernet, LAN cable or the Internet; and many more deeply technical features that allow for faster and more reliable equipment.”
Roach also worked at stations in Texas and Michigan and briefly for TM Century in Dallas.
Roach had a malignant brain tumor, Schad said. He leaves his wife, Koni Roach; last Monday would have been their 13th anniversary.
Donations to the American Cancer Society are requested in lieu of flowers.
The company has more biographical information about Roach at www.smartsbroadcast.com.