How Emergency Broadcast Systems Stay Online When Everything Else Fails
Since 1963, many Americans grew up with a television or radio broadcast being interrupted every week by the Emergency Broadcast System (EBS) or the Emergency Alert System (EAS). The same could be said for Canadians who have had their Alert Ready system since 2015, as well as Japan who, in 2007, introduced J-Alert.
All of these systems are designed to keep people informed during a crisis, from natural disasters to possible attacks on their countries, and to deliver updates and life-saving information when everything else fails. EBA/EAS systems have to remain on the air where other traditional communication networks fail, whether due to power outages or infrastructure damage.
Key Technologies That Keep Emergency Broadcast Systems Running
Redundancy and Backup Systems
Power Redundancy
Every EBS/EAS system should be set up with a power redundancy system which provides backup power sources like generators, uninterruptible power supplies, and battery backups. These systems can be introduced directly into systems to support the equipment if a storm or other disaster compromises the electrical grid.
Network Redundancy
On top of power redundancy, emergency systems must also be equipped with network redundancy equipment. Through diverse setups, like fiber optics cables, satellite links, emergency broadcasts can still reach the public if one network fails. Satellite backup can be particularly helpful as they can transmit signals where other equipment may struggle after a wildfire or hurricane.
Geographically Distributed Systems (GDS)
These systems help maintain continuity during large-scale events. If one area’s infrastructure is compromised, backup systems located in different regions can help make sure there is no signal point of failure to keep broadcasts online.
Infrastructure
Dedicated Communication Infrastructure
EBS/EAS rely on a dedicated infrastructure, including base stations and antennas, that needs to be designed to withstand extreme weather conditions.
Physical Security
Physical security is a key factor in maintaining emergency broadcast infrastructure. All equipment for these systems must be safeguarded against physical damage, from vandalism to high winds, before, during, and after a disaster. These systems should also be install in reinforced structures or remote, yet accessible, locations to avoid interference.
Radio Frequency (RF) Systems
Role of RF Components
RF transmission technologies, such as bi-directional amplifier (BDAs) and tower top amplifier (TTAs), help emergency signals broadcast over vast areas. These technologies help support signal strength and integrity, especially when power sources or other communication channels fail.
Failover Mechanisms
A failover mechanism is a system design where a standby or redundant component automatically takes over when the primary system or component fails or is shut down for servicing. This keeps broadcasts online. For example, if local radio towers are knocked out during a natural disaster, the system can automatically reroute the broadcast to satellite links, keeping EBS/EAS online in affected areas.
Backup data transmission systems also help support the reliability of EBA/EAS networks. They rely on redundant transmitters and receivers that can take over in the event of a malfunction. Failover systems can take over multiple forms of communications, radio, television, mobile networks, and help deliver emergency messages even if one of those channels fail.
Testing and Maintenance of Emergency Broadcast Systems
A system is only as good as its equipment and EBS/EAS systems are no different. Even a top of the line system can fail when it is needed the most without maintenance. Regular drills and simulations mimic real emergency situations, helping assess the readiness of the systems, determine what needs to be fixed or retuned, and identify any potential weaknesses. Software and firmware need to be updated, and IoT sensors can contribute to a predictive maintenance plan to keep the system online.
EBS/EAS systems must comply with regulations set by organizations like FEMA and the FCC which include inspecting systems regularly and updating components as needed.
Challenges and Future Considerations
Despite existing for decades, EBS/EAS systems face challenges as technology continues to advance. Cybersecurity risks has emerged as a genuine threat as many communication networks are more interconnected than they have ever been. Cyberattacks can disrupt multiple networks and compromise messages sent to civilians regarding public safety so these networks have to be protected with cyber defense strategies. Additionally, climate change and extreme weather events are more common than ever in our history and the likelihood of infrastructure damage is on the rise. Disasters such as floods and wildfires can and do destroy communications networks and EBS/EAS systems but be prepared to function in these high-stress situations.
5G technology plays a significant role in telecommunications, and EBS/EAS systems can benefit from faster and more reliable networks to ensure messages and warnings are transmitted more quickly and accurately. This is especially true in countries like Japan where J–Alert sends messages to every phone in a certain area in the event of an earthquake or missile warning, these 5G networks deliver to any phone and television regardless of provider. Broadcasters in Japan, like the NHK, can also turn on radios and televisions by using ISDB-T with 1seg (the terrestrial broadcasting standard in Japan) technology to deliver alerts to affected areas.
TX RX Systems Help Maintain Emergency Broadcast Systems in Crisis
In the event of a crisis, EBS/EAS systems are needed to help save lives and protect communities. These systems have to be well-designed and well-maintained in the event they are needed with redundant power supplies and backup capabilities. With the investment in advanced technologies, companies can be sure that they will be online to deliver information to the public when other networks have gone down.
TX RX is an industry leader in these technologies and will help keep you online when it matters most. Our field services can help you perform maintenance and regular testing, keeping up to date and in compliance with the FCC and FEMA.
If you’re interested in updating your EBS/EAS systems today, contact TX RX to talk to one of our engineers. Even if you’re just looking at adding new equipment or you’re starting from scratch TX RX is here to help keep your system online and ready!