LO2 P3 - Multiplatform Distribution Methods

 fm / am / dab

There are 3 different radio frequencies, FM, AM and DAB. AM or Amplitude Modulation is the oldest form of radio being invented in the 1870's, it is of lower quality than FM radio however is cheaper and can be transmitted over longer distances. It also has a lower bandwidth which means that it can have more radio stations available in any frequency ranges. FM or Frequency Modulation is the more commonly known and used radio, it is of higher quality than AM radio as it less prone to interference however is impacted by physical barriers. However, it also has a higher bandwidth than AM meaning the sound quality is much better. DAB stands for Digital Audio Broadcasting  is where instead of transmitting sound frequencies, it sends binary signals that can be translated into sound to be listened to. It is of a higher quality in comparison to FM radio. Mostly people access these types of radio from their cars while driving or some still use traditional radios.

You can also listen to the radio through your television, as most radio stations have their own dedicated channel however the radio stations usually have their channels dedicated to the higher numbered channels. this is probably the least used method of accessing radio as it isn't portable at all and isn't what people use their TV for.

You can also access radio stations via apps, a good example being Capital FM's app so you can listen on the go. This is a great way of listening to radio as it is portable and will provide a higher quality of sound due to most of it being transmitted as DAB. This is more in line with modern day technology and society as more people use their phones to access music whether it being through  a streaming service or radio application.

Some websites are dedicated to radio stations and allow people to connect to them, however like with TV radio channels, this method isn't really used too much as it isn't very portable. However, one use i have seen it good for is when it comes to radio stations based in different countries as most radios will not be able to pick up a signal from a distance that far and it would be expensive for people to buy and use equipment that is able to retrieve a signal from that distance. 

Finally people are able to access radio station through smart-home devices such as an Amazon Alexa or Google Hub device. These devices connect to the radio stations via the Internet which is similar to through applications on your phone, meaning it is high quality which provides a better experience for the listener, and it means you have access to a larger variety of stations.

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