Wireless broadcasting and rediffusion systems for colonial territories

Abstract

This paper, although based primarily on the development of the broadcasting system now installed in the Colony of Trinidad, B.W.I., describes a combination of services which could equally well be provided in any other area in the British Commonwealth. A similar system has, in fact, already been partly installed in Jamaica and plans are now complete for the commencement of operations in British Guiana. The system here described consists of:? (a) A medium-wave broadcasting service for primary cover-age of areas of densest population, (b) A short-wave broadcasting service for island-wide cover-age of those areas not reached by the medium-wave transmissions, (c) A dual-programme Rediffusion service installed in city and urban areas, (d) An experimental single-programme Rediffusion service installed in two rural villages, and (e) Experimental community receivers installed in small villages. Each of these services is briefly described in this paper, together with reasons for their use. Problems which arose during planning and installation are discussed, together with the methods employed to overcome them. Reference is made to studio construction as well as equipment used in the control of programmes originated in the studios, particular attention being paid to economy both in construction and operation. The use of V.H.F. links for programme input purposes to the Rediffusion systems is described in detail, as this application of V.H.F. communication to a broadcasting service is believed to be the first of its kind ever used in a British Colony. Means of reception of the B.B.C. and U.S.A. Overseas Broadcasting Services are also discussed in detail, as certain programmes in these services play a major part in the life of the Colony, and consequently have to be relayed, regularly to the listeners. It is essential, therefore, to maintain good reception with as little interference and fading as possible. It may not always be possible to provide a combination of Rediffusion and wireless services, but any one or more parts of the scheme could easily be adapted to the economical and physical features of the areas it is proposed to develop. Since the last world war, several Rediffusion services have been installed in the Far East and in the near future developments will take place in other parts of the world, thus bringing education and entertainment to many peoples.