July 9, 2007
Clear Channel Sends Traffic Data over HD Radio
Clear Channel's Total Traffic Network is using HD Radio to transmit traffic data in 48 of the largest U.S. metropolitan area: The problem is that no receiver can currently pick it up. This is noted left-handedly in the first sentence of the press release: "Clear Channel is working with a variety of receiver manufacturers to make the specially-equipped receivers available by the end of this year." Still, it's just another data path for the broadcasting chain's traffic arm, which already transmits data to a variety of radios and GPS-based navigation systems. It's clear that Clear Channel wanted the data live to make it easier to test--but it's rare you issue a press release about that!
January 10, 2007
Traffic Reports over HD Radio
Navteq demonstrated traffic reporting over HD Radio: The company already delivers traffic information for major metropolitan areas nationwide via satellite radio, cellular, and even the limited capabilities of analog radio (using RDS, a very short-text descriptive service).
June 6, 2006
Traffic Data over HD Broadcasts
Clear Channel will distribute traffic information to HD Radio receivers: The radio giant's head of distribution development said that they would launch this service into 48 markets, a close overlap to their current, much slower system. Initially, 100 stations will broadcast traffic data over HD Radio signals, although this will spread to all Clear Channel stations. An HD Radio traffic module will be necessary to receive the data and integrate it into navigation systems.
The exec expects this service to be built into cars by companies that offer navigation systems to automakers. This will allow automakers to add new information remotely, such as new stores that have opened since the GPS system was primed at the factory. An alternate system called RDS runs about 1/20th the speed of HD Radio, but is better designed for handhelds and after-market products due to price and power use.