World Broadcasting Unions Digital Radio User Manual - page 32

DIGITAL RADIO GUIDE

TERRESTRIAL TRANSMISSION SYSTEMS - DAB

32

(1)

In-Home Receivers 

With launch prices high in 1999 and very little broadcast content available, take-up

was predictably slow, and product was initially stocked only by a handful of

specialist retailers. Today, a wide range of manufacturers have joined the market,

and costs have fallen significantly. New players have joined the DAB Digital Radio

family with many different models, including both mains and battery powered

portable units.

(2)

In-Car Receivers 

DAB Digital Radio was originally designed for mobile reception and so forms a

natural alliance with the in-car radio market. Manufacturers have been quick to

realise the potential of DAB Digital Radio on the move and no less than eight

companies are currently making a range of products to suit all tastes and pockets.

Most manufacturers have established a low to mid-range price point for the in-car

digital radio package and some manufacturers are offering line-fit options. For the

audio enthusiast there are more expensive products on offer.

In 2005, most car manufacturers started offering DAB as upgrade option (General

Motors, Ford, Volvo, Audi, Volkswagen, Jaguar, Land Rover, Mitsubishi, Renault

and DaimlerChrysler).  Vauxhall and General Motors offer DAB as standard on UK 

models, with plans to rollout in Europe. In 2006/07, many manufacturers are

planning standard fit of DAB on various models. 

(3)

Handheld Receivers 

DAB technology and advances in silicon technology have led to the development of 

DAB handheld and pocket radios. Manufacturers have moved quickly to produce

handheld products for the DAB market and the majority of them have established a 

low to mid-range price point.

(4)

PC Receivers 

Alongside in-home, in-car and handheld equipment, DAB Digital Radio can also be 

enjoyed at home and at work using a personal computer. Several devices were on 

the market up until 2004, allowing the consumer to tune into DAB stations via either 

a desktop unit or a laptop, but without the need for an Internet connection.  DMB

enabled laptops and USB devices are also being developed enabling the possibility 

of DAB PCs.