Last Test of the Season

While we are very close to the B21 broadcast season, we have one more DRM test to try this season. We want to verify that we can broadcast dual language services with our automated playout system. (Years ago, we proved that we could broadcast dual language services with a more manual approach.)

On 30 October, the English block to China at 1100-1130UTC will be replaced with Mandarin and Cantonese. The English part of our Japanese broadcast at 1200-1230UTC will be replaced with Japanese and Korean. This test will be only for one day. All audio will be computer-generated, so it may sound slightly unnatural.

Running dual languages requires KTWR to use MSC=64QAM instead of our normal 16QAM. This will require a better SNR to decode than what is currently required. Current solar conditions appear to be good for this test.

Please let us know how reception goes for you.

73

Update on New India DRM Block

 Hi again,

We are very encouraged by the responses to the first broadcast of the newly expanded non-English block for India on DRM. We hope that adding the new language groups in our DRM experiment will be a blessing to those who have been largely left out until now.

There are no major changes expected for this 0957-1026UTC block going into the B21 season, except for the frequency. The B21 frequency will be 13800kHz. This takes effect 31 October. If the sunspot numbers continue to outperform Cycle 25 predictions, we may need to change back to 19 meters at some time early next year. We also wanted to let you know that it has been determined that fifth Sunday blocks will be all in Tamil. 

Have a great time DXing.