[SatNews] This new technology verifies that HD Radio Technology is compatible with the Integrated Public Alert and Warning System (IPAWS)-Open and other emergency notification systems, including ALERT FM and over AM transmissions.

Global Security Systems, LLC (GSS), Sage Alerting Systems, Inc., and iBiquity Digital Corporation have announced that HD Radio enabled broadcasting is now capable of Common Alert Protocol (CAP) — Emergency Alert System (EAS) audio and text messages. A live demonstration of the text delivery was also performed. This potentially lifesaving information is available over HD Radio broadcasts because of the use of the Sage Digital ENDEC, which is the same technology used to send EAS messages over FM radio. CAP-EAS messages are received on the ENDEC via GSSNet, a satellite data delivery system, or the Internet. The messages are then processed, converted, and pushed out over HD Radio Broadcast systems, where they are heard on enabled HD Radio receivers.



On April 6, 2011, WTGE-FM (100.7), a Guaranty Broadcasting station in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, became the first HD FM radio station in the country to broadcast satellite delivered CAP-EAS messages over HD radio. Test CAP EAS messages with text were sent across an HD Radio broadcast channel successfully. Arthur "Bo" Hoover, veteran broadcast engineer and Technical Service Group president facilitated the installation along with Sage and GSS at WTGE-FM. "Having been at ground zero during Hurricanes Katrina and Gustav, we recognize broadcasting as the only reliable and viable communications medium for emergency communications to the general public." With the inclusion of HD Radio Technology, GSS, Sage, and iBiquity together offer the most comprehensive broadcast- based IPAWS alert and warning system today. EAS messages are now capable of being broadcast audibly through Analog FM and with audio and text over HD Radio via the Sage ENDEC; as well as textually through ALERT FM's use of the Radio Broadcast Data System (RBDS).