Below we have compiled a list of frequently asked questions and requested information. Should you not find the information you are looking for please contact us using the form provided.
What does a multiplex operator do?
I want to be a service provider. How do I apply?
From time to time, UTV has opportunities for service providers on its multiplexes. If you are interested in providing a service on a multiplex, please complete and return the UTV Service Provider Questionnaire which is available in the Opportunities section of the website.
What is a DSPS Licence?
Please bear in mind that although the obtaining of this licence is a condition of a successful application, this licence alone does not in any way guarantee that capacity will be available in your chosen area, or that your application will be successful.
Why are some stations at different bitrates to others?
Unless available space is a factor, services can decide for themselves how much capacity they wish to purchase (i.e. how big they wish their room to be using the tenant/landlord analogy above).
Stereo services can operate at 112 kbits, 128 kbits (the standard), 160 kbits and 192 kbits. Stereo services can also operate at 96kbps if using half-rate sampled audio.
Mono services can operate at 96 kbits, 80 kbits and 64 kbits. Speech only services may also operate at 48 kbits if using half-rate sampled audio.
How much does it cost to buy capacity?
This depends on the multiplex area and its coverage. Capacity is sold off a ratecard with a standard fee for a 128 kbit stereo service. The fee is then adjusted according to the actual capacity required by the radio station, and hours broadcast.
See Opportunities for further information.
Are there any other charges?
There may be some additional installation costs which some service provider may incur. Any such costs would be agreed with the service provider prior to any costs being committed.
In addition, if a service provider wishes to amend their contract (such as a change to the studio location, changes to DLS etc), an administration fee may be charged.
What do we get for the money?
If more than one person bids for capacity on a multiplex, what process determines the decision?
In general, when considering applications, we look to enhance the choice of available stations in any area, from organisations with realistic and sound business cases.
If I am unhappy with your decision what can I do?
If you are still unhappy you are within your rights to ask Ofcom to review.
When will there be availability on XYZ multiplex?
Please let us know if you are interested in any particular area and consider completing an application so that we have your details on file.
How long does it take to get on air?
It depends on many factors. From notifying an applicant that they have been successful to signing a contract can take days, weeks or even months, usually due to applicants wishing to take advice on the contract or finalise their funding.
From signing a contract to being on-air can take around three months.
How long will our contract with you last?
Contracts normally last the duration (or remaining duration) of the multiplex licence term, which at the longest is for twelve years, under the current Ofcom licensing regime.
Why isnt Radio XYZ available on this multiplex?
Can I receive your multiplex, my postcode is ... ?
There is an excellent postcode checker at www.getdigitalradio.com.
This website also contains useful information about DAB for consumers.
When are you adding transmitters in these areas?
In UTV-Bauer and UTV Switchdigital’s licence applications the transmitter networks that were planned to operate at launch were set out, and in some instances other transmitters were noted for possible future addition.
Transmission plans do change - we may have not been able to launch originally planned transmitters due to planning issues or other obstacles, and this can affect future plans. What ever happens, though, we are always in contact with Ofcom and have to gain their agreement before making any changes.
I can get some national radio stations on my DAB radio, but only a limited number of local and regional services. Why?
DAB Digital Radio stations are grouped together by location and then broadcast. These groupings are usually either local, regional or national.
The BBC’s national stations, like Radio 1 and Radio 2, are broadcast on the BBC’s national multiplex, whilst national commercial stations, like talkSPORT and Planet Rock, are broadcast on a national commercial multiplex operated by Digital One.
Whilst most people in the UK can hear these national services, the number of local and regional services you can hear depends on where you live. For example, if you live in Swansea, as well as the national services, you will be able to hear regional stations (like Real Radio) broadcast by MXR’s Severn Estuary multiplex, as well as local stations (like The Wave) broadcast by our UTV-Bauer multiplex.
You can find out what stations you should be able to hear by visiting www.getdigitalradio.com and entering your postcode.
