Frontier Smart Technologies becomes first technology provider to pass new Digital Radio Tick Mark testing programme

21 September 2020: Frontier Smart Technologies, a subsidiary of Science Group plc, has become the first company to pass Digital Radio UK’s recently upgraded technology provider testing programme overseen by DTG Testing (part of the Digital TV Group) for the Digital Radio Tick Mark Scheme. 

The Digital Radio Tick Mark indicates to consumers that devices are tested and approved to meet the UK Government agreed specification for digital radios and are able to receive FM, DAB and DAB+ stations and is supported by the majority of digital radio manufacturers and retailers as well as the leading technology providers

The scheme was first introduced in 2014 – with technology providers self-certifying that their technology met the Digital Radio Tick Mark standards. The new, updated testing regime requires that DAB+ receiver core technology be certified by an independent third-party testing house, using a single set of independently created test files – and bringing a new level of robustness to the Tick Mark approval process.

The new testing programme was launched in July 2020 with third-party testing lab DTG Testing appointed to handle all aspects of the programme, from the purchase of ETI files and booking technology testing to issuing the license and artwork once the technology has been approved.

Market-leading DAB+ solution provider, Frontier Smart Technologies, has become the first company to pass the updated tests with its Siena DAB+ module, which powers over 3.5 million radios in the market, demonstrating the high quality of the Frontier solution. This means that brands that use Siena to build their digital radios remain assured that their products will be ready to pass the end product Digital Tick Mark certification.

Ford Ennals, CEO Digital Radio UK, said: “Our congratulations to Frontier on being the first DAB/DAB+ core technology provider to have their technology tested and approved to use the Digital Tick Mark under DTG’s new rigorous testing programme. The new Digital Tick technology testing regime is good news for digital radio manufacturers and listeners who can select their technology and radios with confidence when they see the Digital Tick Mark.”

Bob Heads, Managing Director at Frontier Smart Technologies, said: “Frontier is delighted to be the first vendor to pass the new core technology Digital Tick Mark tests. This is testament to our leadership in quality and compliance to the DAB specification. We look forward to manufacturers and consumers benefiting from the updated test spec.”

Alex Buchan, Head of Wireless Technologies, DTG, said: “Congratulations to Frontier Smart Technologies on their Tick Mark award. We’re very happy at DTG Testing to have been part of the process to help achieve this. Our collaboration with DRUK now offers a streamlined process for manufacturers to obtain the Digital Tick Mark while reinforcing the recognition of quality it represents. This ensures the Digital Tick remains a valuable scheme providing listeners an informed choice when buying a digital radio.”

DTG Testing have licensed and made Fraunhofer DAB ETI files available for brands and manufacturers that are developing radios. These are a complete set of files with an accompanying test procedure that enables DAB radios to be tested against ETSI TS 103 461, which are the requirements necessary to obtain the Digital Radio Tick Mark.

More information can be found here: https://www.dtgtesting.com/services/buy-dab-eti-files/

About Digital Radio UK

Digital Radio UK works with Government, broadcasters, manufacturers, retailers, and a wide range of stakeholders to grow digital listening across all platforms, and to help secure UK radio’s digital future. Digital Radio UK’s Board comprises representatives from the BBC, Arqiva, Global, Bauer Media, Radiocentre and techUK.

About DTG Testing (part of the Digital Television Group)

DTG Testing is a not-for-profit and vital test laboratory resource for the TV and radio industries. Based in London, it is the only test lab in Europe to be ISO/IEC 17025:2017 accredited by UKAS to carry out testing against the DAB Tick Mark requirements and has been carrying out DAB Tick Mark testing since the scheme’s launch in 2014. DTG Testing also provides expert input on international standards development and provides Notified Body and test services for a range of technologies including broadcast FM and AM radio, digital terrestrial television and satellite.

About Frontier Smart Technologies

Frontier Smart Technologies is a pioneer in technologies for digital audio and the market leader in DAB/DAB+ radios and SmartRadio solutions. Powering over 50 million devices worldwide, Frontier provides a range of radio chips and modules, from turnkey entry-level solutions to sophisticated, highly configurable options, to leading consumer electronics brands. With its R&D centre in Cambridge (UK) and manufacturing and sales offices in Shenzhen (China) and Hong Kong, Frontier supports clients and consumers across Europe and Asia. Frontier is a Science Group (AIM:SAG) company.

For further information

James Taylor

Senior Product Manager

Frontier Smart Technologies

07824 550745
[email protected]