RadioScape has released a digital radio module that supports the Digital Radio Mondiale (DRM) standard for digitised AM bands (SW/MW/LW).

The RS500 card, which is size and pin compatible with the RS300 module released last year, also supports DAB, FM with RDS, LW, MW and SW. Like the RS300, the RS500 offers pause, rewind, and record-to-memory card features.

“What we believe we’re seeing is a move to when you buy a digital radio it will be multi-standard,” said Andrew Maloney, marketing manager for receivers at RadioScape. “It will support DRM and well as DAB, as well as the analogue bands. And all of that will be done in software defined radio.”

More than 20 traditional broadcasters are already also transmitting using DRM, which offers improved range and ‘near FM’ quality.

The dominant form factor for digital sets is the kitchen radio, but Maloney said CD ‘boom boxes’, micro hi-fis, and clock radios are the growth areas. A DAB set can now be had for £39, and continued integration – for example incorporating the CD transport control in the DRM stack – will help to erode prices further.

www.radioscape.com