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BCE is the technical provider of RTL-Group for DRM Radio transmissions. In march 2003 started the first DRM Test-transmission. The first official DRM transmission began in july 2003. It was RTL (Die besten Oldies aller Zeiten) broadcasted on shortwave. RTL France and Radio Luxembourg were then also brought on Air. BCE actually transmits two RTL-Group programs on shortwave and one on midwave. RTL-Group with its technical provider BCE is the first commercial Broadcasters applying for the digital Standard called DRM.

DRM availability at BCE – Existing infrastructure
>> 2 DRM SW transmitters available (not redundant) for 24h/365d operations
- expected operational lifetime: at least 5 years, horizon 2010
- SW transmitters & antenna infrastructure in good “health”
- most of critical spares available, final tubes can be rebuilt (ECONCO)
- staff for maintenance and expertise available
- site and cost-sharing of JunglinsterLW backup site
- authorization process achieved with ministries
>> 1 DRM MW transmitter available in Marnachend of 2004
- covers about 10 million people in day-time in NRW and Rhineland-Palatinate and East Belgium
- modern & proven solid state design from TELEFUNKEN
- MW together with SW will be the first hybrid DRM approach for German national market

DRM availability at BCE – Engineering and development
>> highly motivated staff and field experience available (SW, MW, LW)
>> BCE strongly committed for DRM synergy works and group development
>> For further expanding DRM engineering and coordination activities, more dedicated staff will be needed (1 engineer, 2 technicians)
     - spectrum broker
     - coordination of eventual 3rdparty broadcasters
     - planning, engineering, installation of new sites
     - pecifications for DRM radio sets
     - testing of “RTL Group” radio sets