Telenor and BBC World Service enter agreement for digital broadcasting
From Norkring's transmitting station at Kvitsøy, signals will be broadcast to Central Europe. This new agreement with the BBC is an important step in the digitalisation of short wave, which actually has the capacity to achieve global reach. The agreement involves broadcast of the radio channel BBC World Service "English for Europe" for an initial period of 18 months. The BBC is also using UK-based transmitters owned and operated by VT Communications (VTC) to provide a multi-frequency network aimed at Benelux and neighbouring countries.
"For us this as an exciting partnership with one of the world's leading broadcasters. The BBC is a driving force within DRM, and contributes to set the standard for the future role of short wave," said sales and marketing director at Norkring, Per Maltun.
The first major test will be the launch of receivers for DRM at the world's largest exhibition for consumer electronics, the IFA in Berlin 2-7 September 2005.
About DRM
DRM is short for Digital Radio Mondiale, a new digital radio standard specifically designed for use in short wave, medium wave and long wave bands. A worldwide consortium, consisting of all the leading broadcasters from all five continents, is responsible for the development of the DRM standard, which is now being implemented across the globe. Norkring has actively participated in the groups working with technical development and commercialisation as well as DRM test programmes. DRM will secure high-quality sound and reception, in addition to distribution of text, data and images.
About Norkring
Norkring is Norway's largest distributor of broadcast programmes. The company owns and operates most large transmitter stations for terrestrial broadcasting in Norway. Norkring has a nationwide infrastructure that consists of 6,500 transmitting units, installed at 47 main stations and 2,700 smaller stations. Norkring is wholly owned by Telenor, and is part of the Business Segment Telenor Broadcast.