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Broadcast Electronics, a member of the Elenos Group, has announced the introduction of MDCL+, a technology designed to reduce energy costs for AM broadcasters significantly. MDCL+ is compatible with both new and existing BE AM transmitters. BE will showcase it at the 2024 NAB Show in Las Vegas.
MDCL+ utilizes modulation-dependent carrier-level algorithms to analyze modulation characteristics and adjust transmitter power accordingly. This adjustment can reduce power consumption and cooling costs, potentially saving stations more than 50% on their electricity bills. For a 10kW AM station in the United States operating continuously at an average electricity rate of 20 cents per kilowatt-hour, annual savings could exceed $12,000. Stations in areas with higher electricity rates, such as Alaska and Hawaii, may see even greater savings.
The system operates by lowering power during louder audio segments and increasing it during quieter moments, ensuring any increase in received noise is masked by the program content. MDCL+ can be installed in under 30 minutes on most BE transmitters and slightly longer on other modern brands post-2000. It requires minimal adjustments to audio processing to maintain audio quality while maximizing power savings.
Rich Redmond, President and COO of Elenos Group, stated, “We understand all broadcasters are looking to make the most out of their investment in infrastructure and minimize operating costs without having to replace their transmitter to take advantage of new energy-saving technology.” He added, “MDCL+ was designed to allow AM broadcasters to cost-effectively and simply upgrade existing equipment without a major overhaul of their transmitter site. We understand that transmitters are major purchases with long operating lifecycles, and we are pleased to be able to help operators extend their investment and reduce costs simultaneously.”
Broadcast Electronics will be at the Elenos booth W3151 during the NAB Show.
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