NAB FASTROAD has announced the release of a report on a new AM radio data service concept, with the potential to provide AM broadcasters the ability to transmit low-rate data similar to what FM broadcasters can provide using the Radio Data System (RDS) subcarrier. This work was undertaken by iBiquity Digital Corporation, developers of the HD Radio IBOC system used by U.S. broadcasters to transition to digital radio, and was co-funded by iBiquity and NAB FASTROAD.

Called the AM Digital Data Service (ADDS), this new technology supports delivery of low data-rate text for analog AM radio stations, which currently have no method for transmitting data such as song title and artist. This technology could be easily integrated into future radio receivers.

One of the benefits of this service is that it would offer AM broadcasters a simpler and less-expensive way to provide a limited digital service compared to a full AM IBOC installation which at present is the only option.

The full text of the ADDS report and information on the NAB FASTROAD technology advocacy program are available at www.NABFASTROAD.org.