These new deployments often call for impressive lifting equipment, such as heli-lifts and cranes. They testify to the know-how and technical mastery of TDF's structural experts and the commitment of its operational teams.
TDF's technical experts are also closely involved in the rollouts. They have developed a new type of mixed antenna that combines FM and DAB+ technologies on the same equipment. A second antenna of this technology is deployed in Castres (see photo).
Start-up of new multiplexes and coverage extensions
A new multiplex has been commissioned in Fréjus (Multiplex Fréjus local). The thirteen radios are broadcast from TDF's St Raphaël - Pic de l'Ours site to an area of over 200,000 inhabitants in Fréjus, Saint-Raphaël and along the coast.
In addition, TDF is starting up new transmitters to extend existing coverage:
- around Bordeaux (extended multiplex), with three new TDF broadcasting points at Arcachon-Camicas (33), Marmande-Guérin (47) and Lignan de Bazas (33), and the extension of the broadcasting area of the Bordeaux-Bouliac site. Two other sites will be commissioned during the summer.
- around Toulouse (extended multiplex), with three new TDF distribution points in Albi (81), Auch (32) and Castres-Saïx Navès (81)
- around Avignon (local multiplex), with a new TDF distribution point at Vénéjan (30)
This summer, TDF teams are also starting the third phase of deployment of the two national DAB+ multiplexes, aimed at covering main roads and neighboring towns. New transmitters for the M1 multiplex are being commissioned at the beginning of July at TDF sites in Cast (29), Arcachon-Camicas (33), Saint-Paul-lès-Dax (40), and Haguenau-Carrière (67), and at four other sites for coverage of the A31 freeway.
Deployment of phase 3 will continue this summer until 2026.
TDF, committed to DAB+ technology
Today, around 65% of the French population can receive DAB+ radio at home. Many roads are also covered for mobile reception.
As the benchmark technical operator for terrestrial TV and radio broadcasting, TDF has been committed to the development of DAB+ for many years.
DAB+ (Digital Audio Broadcasting) is a digital terrestrial broadcasting system for radio, similar to DTT for television. Whether at home or in the car, users equipped with a DAB+ radio can listen to the radio, in digital quality and without subscription.
This technology enables radio stations not only to offer listeners high quality sound, but also to transmit additional information and visuals in addition to the audio stream.
Innovation: a 2-in-1 broadcast antenna combining FM and DAB+.
In order to combine DAB+ and FM broadcasting technologies, TDF's experts at Metz (57) and Liffré (35) have developed and patented a mixed antenna system (also known as "dual-band") that integrates DAB+ and FM broadcasting dipoles.
This mixed antenna allows FM and DAB+ broadcasting to coexist at the top of towers, optimizing coverage. Following a first successful pilot installation on the TDF transmitter at Laval-Changé (53), a second antenna went into service at Castres-Saïx Navès (81) in July.
FM and DAB+ broadcasting complement each other, enriching the French radio landscape. Hertzian broadcasting is also an asset for radio stations, which remain sovereign of their offer and guarantors of the quality of the radio service they offer their listeners.
Pascale Varnière, Director of TDF's Audiovisual BU, comments: "I'm delighted that DAB+ radio coverage has been extended to many regions of France. TDF has a strong local presence, and operational teams that have been mobilized for over fifty years. When it comes to DAB+, TDF is committed to supporting its customers, the program publishers, to best meet their digital coverage needs. To do this, we draw on our expertise and innovative strength in radio broadcasting to provide a comprehensive offering."