Community radio groups can now create predicted FM and DAB coverage maps using a free browser based tool from Maxxwave.
CoverageMapper has been launched as groups prepare expressions of interest for Ofcom’s new round of FM community radio licences. Applications must identify a proposed transmitter location and include a map of the intended service area by 26 October.
The tool can also be used by organisations considering extensions to small scale DAB multiplexes.
Users select a transmitter location on a map before entering the proposed antenna height and transmission power. Coverage predictions are usually produced within a minute and can be downloaded, with no software installation required.
The maps take account of terrain, buildings and woodland, using the same planning approach used by Ofcom. Saved sites can be plotted again using different antenna heights and power levels, allowing applicants to compare possible locations before making a commitment.
Samuel Hunt, Director at Maxxwave, said: “We built this to plan our own small-scale DAB multiplexes. Plenty of community stations are making the same decisions with no engineering budget, so we have made it free.”
Samuel added that CoverageMapper cannot determine whether a frequency is available, but can help users identify which proposed site offers the stronger option.
The free version supports one transmitter site and powers of up to 500 W. Maxxwave’s full system also provides single frequency network planning, timing and interference analysis.
The company plans to assess feedback before considering the release of its advanced tools and additional prediction models.
More information is available on the website.
