NPR Program Support for Floating Breaks and Irregular Program Length Cue Tones

June, 1997, revised December 2, 2005

Return to EUonline public page | Return to EUonline Home | Automation Signalling: A Backgroung Primer

In response to NPR member station requests for expanded automation signaling support, several NPR programs now offer 25 Hertz "subaudible" signals for triggering local station automation. All NPR programs will soon feature cutaway opportunities that occur on-the-clock, as published in the timing and cues DACS messages sent to NPR member stations, or via the live 25 Hertz system.

For floating breaks and programs of irregular length, three tone signals are available. In the future, some programs may define what each tone is meant to signify for station purposes according to unique needs. Currently, each of the NPR programs listed follows the same format 25Hz protocol, and each regularly uses only one type of tone signal, as noted below.

The level of the 25Hz tone is -5dB below +4dBm. The NPR Program Operating Level ("Zero VU") is +4dBm.

The Equipment You Need:

The 25Hz tone decoder is available from the following vendor:
Zephyrus Electronics, Ltd.
171 S. 122 E. Avenue Tulsa, OK 74128
Robert Hale, Phone: 918-437-3333 Fax: 918-438-7322
http://www.big-z.com
Ask for the "NPR Version"

Additional Reading on EUonline (requires full access)

Automation Signalling: A Backgroung Primer
FINAL REPORT of the NPR Program Automation Advisory Committee

WHOM TO CONTACT:

Additions and corrections to this list, and any technical questions regarding 25Hz signalling, please contact Rich Rarey (rrarey@npr.org)

Questions about the Program Automation Advisory Committee (PAAC) should be directed to the committee's chair: Jim Paluzzi at KBSU-FM 208-385-3663.