Harris To Deliver High–Power AM Systems To Radio Ethiopia

25 August 2006

Harris has announced a turnkey radio transmission sale to Radio Ethiopia, a segment of the Ethiopian Radio and Television Agency (ERTA).

Harris will deliver high-power AM transmitters to stations in Harar (3DX-D100, 100 kW) and Mekele (DX-D200, 200 kW) this fall through Technology Systems and Solutions, a Harris dealer representative based in Ethiopia.

The transmitters, which are ready for DRM and HD Radio conversion, will deliver a higher quality signal to a large part of the country — highly important for a population that relies on radio for news and information in addition to entertainment. The new transmission system will dramatically improve the quality of AM radio transmissions throughout the country by the end of 2006.

According to Alemayehu Atomsa, general manager of ERTA, Harris was selected for its ability to offer turnkey systems and services, technical superiority and the company's ongoing presence in Ethiopian radio facilities. "By upgrading our high-power AM transmission infrastructure we will have the ability to deliver radio broadcasts to a much larger population," he said. "Harris transmitters are well-regarded in Ethiopia, and the company was able to best meet our technical needs while fully complying with the international tender process."

The transmitters to be delivered under this contract have a proven record of reliability and high efficiency with installations around the world. This operational efficiency ultimately reduces costs for the broadcaster. Further promoting cost-efficiency, Harris will deliver the transmitters as the central piece of a turnkey package featuring antennas/towers, transmission line and additional RF equipment. Harris will also provide civil work and integration services leading up to installation.

"Harris is pleased to announce the sale of high-power AM transmission systems to Radio Ethiopia as it prepares to take a major step toward improving national communications," said Debra Huttenburg, vice president and general manager of Harris Broadcast Communications Division's Radio Broadcast Systems business unit. "Harris has long been active in Ethiopia, with more than 40 transmitters currently installed in radio facilities around the country. Many broadcasters across Africa have recently upgraded their facilities. Radio is the best means of communication for many African countries, and therefore it is crucial to maintain a healthy transmission infrastructure. Our 3DX and DX high-power AM transmitters are among the most reliable on the market and will offer a robust AM signal to the Ethiopian population for years to come."

Source: broadcastbuyer.tv