Problems with DAB+ reception?
DAB+ gives you digital radio with a wide choice of stations, clear playback and useful station information. The reception works differently than with FM. Does the sound drop out or does your radio find few stations? With the steps below you can quickly solve the most common causes.
Quickly improve your DAB+ reception
- Fully extend the antennaand point it straight vertically upwards.
- Perform a full channel scan, especially when the radio is used at another location.
- Move the radio one to several meters.Preferably place it higher, closer to a window or outside a metal structure.
- Increase the distance to sources of interferencesuch as LED lamps, battery chargers, computers, inverters, rotating machines and large metal surfaces.
- Turn off the radio completelyIf possible, briefly disconnect the power supply and then try again.
Important:perform the scan where you actually want to use the radio. A scan at a location with a weak signal may result in an incomplete channel list.
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Poor reception does not mean that the radio is defective
DAB+ actually works just like WiFi. A router broadcasts a WiFi signal and your phone or laptop receives this signal. Is the WiFi not working well in a certain place? Then that does not automatically mean that your phone is broken. The signal there may simply be too weak or be hindered by walls, distance or other obstacles.
Exactly the same applies to a DAB+ radio. The radio receives the signal broadcast by a transmission tower. The quality of reception depends on the location, the distance to the transmission tower and the environment. Thick concrete walls, metal structures, basements and well-insulated buildings can weaken the signal.
Poor or missing reception therefore does not necessarily mean that the radio is defective. Always check the radio in another place first, preferably outside or close to a window. Does the radio receive well there? Then the device is working properly and the problem is caused by the signal coverage at the original location.
What is DAB+?
DAB+ stands forDigital Audio Broadcasting Plus. It is digital radio over the air. So you don’t need an internet connection, app, account or mobile data usage: a DAB+ radio and sufficient local signal are enough. After a channel scan, the radio usually shows the available stations by name. Stations can also send information, such as program name, artist, title or news items; what you see depends on the transmitter and the radio’s display.
DAB+ and FM: what’s the difference?
FM is broadcast on a separate frequency for each transmitter and usually becomes increasingly noisy with a weaker signal. DAB+ bundles multiple channels into one digital broadcast package, also called an ensemble or multiplex. As long as the digital signal is strong enough, the sound remains clear. If the signal falls below the reception limit, the sound may stutter or disappear completely. That is why a small move of the radio can make a big difference with DAB+.
- More channel choice:In addition to national stations, there are regional, local and thematic channels.
- No FM noise:with sufficient signal, reception sounds clear and stable.
- Simple operation:you choose a channel by name instead of manually searching for a frequency.
- Additional information:Depending on the radio and station, program, artist and title information appear on the display.
Why is DAB+ reception better in one place than in another?
The reception level is affected by distance from the transmitter, terrain, buildings, steel structures and electrical equipment. The signal can be dampened or reflected, especially in basements, concrete buildings, metal halls, containers and workshops with many machines. As a result, two places that are only a few meters apart can still give a clearly different result.
On the construction site, LED lighting, chargers, power supplies, solar panel installations, inverters and machines are possible sources of interference. Therefore, test the radio briefly with some devices switched off. If reception improves, increase the distance between the radio and the source of interference.
No DAB+ channels after a scan?
First check that the radio is actually in DAB+ mode and not in FM or Bluetooth mode. Extend the antenna completely, place the radio in a higher and clearer location and start a full scan. Are you using the radio for the first time or have you driven to another region? Then a new scan is always recommended. If problems persist, also check whether other DAB+ radios have reception in the same location.
DAB and DAB+: are they the same?
No. DAB+ is the more modern and efficient successor to DAB. An older radio that only supports DAB cannot automatically receive all DAB+ broadcasts. All current PerfectPro radios that support digital radio are suitable for DAB+.
How much does listening to DAB+ cost?
To receive free-to-air DAB+ radio in the Netherlands, you do not pay a subscription and you do not use mobile data. You only need a suitable DAB+ radio. Channel availability varies by country and region.
DAB+ coverage in the Netherlands and Belgium
National DAB+ networks have a wide range, but indoor reception may differ locally. In addition, regional and local channels have their own catchment area. For current information, seeDutch DAB+ information, itofficial channel overview of the RDIorDigital Radio België.
More than 20 years of experience with radio in the workplace
PerfectPro has been developing radios for professional use for more than 20 years. Our DAB+ radios are designed for construction sites, workshops and other demanding environments, where reception, durability, ease of use and powerful sound make a difference every working day.
Which DAB+ construction radio suits your work?
A good DAB+ construction radio should not only receive stations, but also fit in with the working environment. Pay attention to:
- Size and mobility:compact for service, assembly and smaller spaces; larger for permanent workstations.
- Audio output:choose extra power for workshops, sheds and outdoor areas.
- Protection:a higher IP rating helps against dust, dirt and rain.
- Power source:mains power, built-in battery or an 18V battery platform.
- Additional features:Bluetooth, AUX, USB charging, power bank or True Wireless Stereo.
DAB+ for every workplace
Compact and easy to carry:view all portable DAB+ radios.
Powerful sound and 18V battery freedom:discover theROCKTAGON 18VandROCKHART 18V.
Advice or listen first:find a PerfectPro dealer near you.
Frequently asked questions about DAB+
Why does DAB+ sometimes drop out completely while FM is still static?
DAB+ has a digital reception limit. Above that limit the sound remains clear; below that limit it can falter or stop. With a weaker signal, FM usually gradually deteriorates and becomes noisy.
Do I need to rescan if I move the radio?
If there is a delivery within the building, this is not necessary at all. There is a different region of ontbreekt and a zender, before which a complete scan can be carried out.
Does DAB+ work on the wifi of internet?
Yes. DAB+ is broadcast via cell towers and does not use WiFi, mobile data or internet subscription.
Can a battery charger disrupt reception?
That’s possible. Some chargers, LED lamps, power supplies and machines cause electromagnetic interference. Move the radio further away and test whether reception improves when the device is temporarily switched off.
Can I use my old DAB radio for DAB+?
Only when the device explicitly supports DAB+. A radio that only supports the older DAB format is not automatically suitable for DAB+.
Which antenna position works best?
For portable and construction radios, a fully extended antenna that is straight vertically usually works best. Place the radio as freely and high as possible.
