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Split Level HD FM Combining

Split-Level Combining

Harris’ exclusive Split Level™ FM Combining system (patents applied for) offers broadcasters an attractive option for generating HD Radio™. S/L combining (sometimes also called mid level combining) can save broadcasters money in several ways.

Features

  • Guaranteed reuse of existing analog transmitter
  • Reduced power consumption
  • Reduced analog transmitter power output in most cases
  • Uses smaller reject load than 10 dB insertion combining (often eliminates the need for costlier outdoor loads)
  • Produces less heat in the reject load by eliminating analog FM losses (less heat radiated in air conditioned spaces)
  • Can reduce size requirement of HD transmitter
  • Can eliminate need to combine 2 HD transmitters for higher power operation
  • Can work with any brand of analog transmitter (no transmitter mod required)

Product Details

In standard high level combining, the analog transmitter must be “turned up” about 10% to maintain analog power in the system. If a station is operating close to or at the upper limits of the analog transmitter already, then it must be replaced for HD when using standard high level combining. With S/L combining, the transmitter will actually have its power reduced, adding tube life as well.

All phasing is handled in the Harris FlexStar HDX™ exciter, and to the naked eye, there is no difference between a high level or S/L combining system. However, based upon transmitter power requirements, a different combining ratio is selected for best efficiency. The Harris on-line Split Level Calculator may be used to determine the operational parameters of the system along with power savings, reject load dissipation, etc.

Split Level Combining is a registered trademark of Harris Corp. HD Radio is a registered trademark of iBiquity Digital Corp.

Sales Contacts
  • North America +1 800 231 9673
  • Caribbean and Latin America +1 786 437 1960
  • Europe and Africa +44 118 964 8200
  • Middle East and South Asia  +971 4 433 8250
  • Asia, Pacific Rim +852 2776 0628