BROADCAST TRANSLATOR Meaning and
Definition
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A broadcast translator, also referred to as a translator station or a relay station, is a device used in the field of telecommunications to rebroadcast or relay the signals of an existing radio or television station. It is primarily employed to extend the coverage area of the original station, improve signal quality in difficult-to-reach regions, or address interference issues.
The process involves receiving the original broadcast signal at the translator's location, where it is then amplified, converted, and retransmitted on a different frequency. The relay station usually operates at a lower power level than the primary station, utilizing a fixed antenna or a network of antennas strategically positioned to ensure precise coverage.
Broadcast translators play a crucial role in providing wider access to radio and television services, especially in geographically challenging areas such as mountainous regions or remote locations. They bridge the gap between the main station and listeners or viewers who may experience signal degradation due to distance or obstacles.
For example, in analog broadcasting, a translator can convert the main station's signal from a high-frequency VHF or UHF band to a lower FM band, allowing the signal to penetrate through hilly terrain more effectively. In digital broadcasting, translators are used to convert the signal from one digital broadcast standard to another, enabling compatibility with various receiving devices.
Overall, broadcast translators facilitate the distribution of broadcast content to a broader audience, enhancing the reach and accessibility of radio and television services in diverse environments.
Etymology of BROADCAST TRANSLATOR
The word "broadcast translator" is a combination of two words: "broadcast" and "translator".
1. "Broadcast" is derived from the verb "to cast" which means to throw or send out. It originated in the 1760s and was initially used in reference to the throwing or scattering of seeds. It gradually developed to encompass the transmission or dissemination of information or signals through various media. The prefix "broad-" suggests that the transmission reaches a wide or broad audience.
2. "Translator" refers to a person or device that converts written or spoken text from one language to another. It is derived from Latin roots: "trans" meaning "across" or "beyond" and "latus" meaning "carried" or "worn".
