MUMBAI: All India Radio (AIR) has placed a global tender notice for the procurement of several DRM digital transmitters.

It has invited bids for the supply of 34 new MW transmitters, for the upgrade of 36 MW transmitters and purchase of 5 SW transmitters and other associated equipment. The Research Department of AIR is also going ahead with the purchase of a 500 watt DRM shortwave transmitter for conducting trials on 26 MHz SW DRM transmissions for local coverage.

The procurement process is slated to be the start of AIR's digitalisation plan to ensure DRM digital radio coverage for the entire country, thereby providing better and more robust radio services to listeners.

Earlier this year, AIR had placed orders for the purchase of two 1000 KW DRM capable transmitters which are now being made ready for inspection and delivery. These MW transmitters can be operated in DRM mode, in analogue or in simulcast mode providing coverage to the large Indian subcontinent. The transmitters have been manufactured by the DRM member Thomson Broadcast & Multimedia, A.G.

Recently AIR also confirmed the purchase of six mobile DRM transmitters of 10 KW each which are AM/DRM ready. These containerized transmitters are meant to be used in disaster management as they can be easily transported to the affected areas by air/rail/road. A 60 meter MW mobile mast goes in another container. The mast can be easily erected together with the transmitter and start broadcasting as and when required. These transmitters are being supplied by M/S Riz, Croatia, a member of the DRM Consortium.

Click here for details of the tender advertisement on official AIR website