TDF has launched a two-year joint project called SmartCAST that aims to study and build a long-range broadcast system, with potential interactivity. Transmission of data, including audio, will be based on the Digital Radio Mondiale standard.
The project is focused on two specific markets, maritime navigation, which is designated NavCAST, and international broadcasting, known in the project as WideCAST.
TDF has already started part of its DRM transmission for NavCAST, which will be done on a daily basis until the end of July from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. CET at a frequency of 6175 kHz. The target area for these signals is the west coast/Atlantic ocean, but TDF thinks the signal could be strong enough to reach other parts of Western Europe.
SmartCAST is a project managed by TDF and supported by the Fonds Unique Interministériel, a program designed to aid new product and service development.