Harris Corp.’s Broadcast Communications Division (BCD) has formed an alliance with Sandusky Radio, owner of 10 stations in the Seattle and Phoenix area, to exclusively provide digital transmitters for its three Seattle FM stations. The transmitters are included in turnkey packages from Harris that also feature Intraplex STL HD Plus systems for studio-to-transmitter connectivity, antenna systems, transmission line and processing equipment. The turnkey design streamlines the process for Sandusky Radio Seattle by allowing Harris to procure, deliver and provide installation assistance as the station group develops its HD Radio plans.

Sandusky Radio Seattle, which owns three FM and two AM stations, plans to offer HD radio broadcasts on all three FM stations by early 2006, beginning with KRWM this fall. Sandusky Radio Seattle has purchased one Harris ZHD16S solid-state FM transmitter for KRWM, with plans to purchase two more, citing superior product features, operational efficiencies and an attractive price point as deciding factors, along with the turnkey package benefits. Each transmitter will be configured with an existing analog transmitter using Harris’ Split-Level combining method. This exclusive Harris innovation allows an FM radio station to reduce operational costs by up to 10% over the traditional method of high-level combining FM and HD radio transmitters using a 10-dB coupler. Sandusky Radio is also considering HD radio broadcasts for KIXI later in 2006, bringing enhanced audio quality to its AM music station.

Harris Intraplex STL HD Plus systems provide multiplexing functionality to transmitter facilities located at West Tiger Mountain and Cougar Mountain just outside of the city. A Harris TRuepoint digital microwave system will be installed to provide connectivity between the studio, located in downtown Seattle, and the transmitter facilities. TRuepoint will be the wireless transport medium used to relay information to the Intraplex STL HD Plus systems. It will also transport audio and Program Associated Data (PAD) services to the transmitter facilities.

“The Seattle market has been an early adopter of HD radio technology, and Sandusky Radio’s announcement sends a positive message that HD radio isn’t designed strictly for large station groups”, said Debra Huttenburg, vice president and general manager for Harris BCD’s Radio Broadcast Systems business unit. “Their decision to transition now is an important step toward helping the public recognize the many benefits that HD radio can and will deliver to listeners across the United States,” added Huttenburg.

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