APT SynchroStream

APT SynchroStream

Overview

APT’s SynchroStream technology is the industry’s premier dynamic STL latency control solution for FM Single Frequency Networks (SFNs) with overlapping transmitter contours.

Despite the rise of digital media, FM radio remains the most widely consumed medium today. It offers local programming, is free, and provides mobile reception—all critical attributes for listeners. However, poor reception can significantly affect listener retention. Modern synchronized transmitter arrangements, optimized with visualization software and measurement equipment, offer excellent RF contour predictions in various terrains.

Effective use of boosters and translators is crucial for increasing coverage, improving reception performance, enhancing ratings, and opening new revenue opportunities. Modern FM transmitters and directional antenna arrays minimize interference-induced fading effects, but the key to successful enhancements lies in the perfect synchronization of program feeds and precise control of modulation timing. SynchroStream sets new standards in precise and location-stable RF transition zone placement.

SynchroStream Benefits

• Content Time-Synchronization: APT’s SynchroStream is essential for locking content to time over IP transmissions. It benefits broadcasting networks and surround sound transmissions by ensuring high precision. Users define the transmission latency once, and SynchroStream consistently presents distributed content simultaneously.
• SynchroStream and Analog SFN: SynchroStream significantly reduces the uncertainties associated with analog single frequency networks. It achieves optimal synchronization of modulated FM carriers with a granularity of 125 nanoseconds, allowing modulation shifts by distances as small as 50 meters, thereby minimizing disturbed interference zones.
• Ease of Use: SynchroStream is optimized in two steps. First, users define the desired target latency at the studio’s content encoder, dynamically eliminating all IP network deviations. Next, high-precision fine-tuning at the transmitter optimizes interference zones. External GPS clocking locks all carriers and modulation feeds, ensuring a stable and homogeneous RF field.
• Single Frequency Network in Perfection: WorldCast Systems offers all the components for the most optimized analog SFN, including SynchroStream, digital or analog composite/MPX transmissions, APT SureStream, and Ecreso’s energy-efficient FM transmitters.

What Our Expert Says

Hartmut Foerster, APT Product Manager: “APT SynchroStream, combined with digital or analog composite/MPX transmissions, APT SureStream, and Ecreso’s FM transmitters, provides the building blocks for the most optimized analog SFN. With APTmpX and SureStream, you save on costly dedicated networks, expand your footprint with SynchroStream, and benefit from the most energy-efficient products on the market with Ecreso’s FM transmitters.”

APT SynchroStream is designed to deliver high-performance broadcasting with precise synchronization and optimal coverage, ensuring broadcasters can maintain high-quality service while adapting to evolving technological landscapes.