Audio is at the heart of every DAB+ service, but Programme Associated Data (PAD) adds valuable information and content. Dynamic Labels display what is currently on air, Dynamic Label Plus (DL Plus) provides structured metadata, and Slideshow delivers visual content to compatible receivers.
To make this content easier to manage, 2wcom has extended the REST API functionality of its DAB+ Audio Encoder, enabling automated updates of Dynamic Labels and Slideshow content directly from external systems.
Connecting Metadata Systems to the DAB+ Encoder
In broadcast environments, metadata often originates from different systems. Playout systems provide information about the current song, automation systems track the programme on air, and Visual Radio applications supply additional text and images.
Previously, Dynamic Labels and Slideshow content could be provided to the 2wcom DAB+ Audio Encoder through local files or the web interface.
With the extended REST API functionality, external applications can now supply this content directly to the encoder. This allows metadata to be updated automatically as part of existing broadcast workflows, without requiring manual intervention.
Systems such as AIM RAPID can be connected directly to deliver changing content to the encoder.
The functionality is available for the 2wcom DAB+ Audio Encoder on IP-4c, IP-8e and MoIN.
Extended Support for Dynamic Label Plus
In addition to the REST API integration, support for Dynamic Label Plus (DL Plus) has been extended.
While Dynamic Labels transmit text information, DL Plus identifies individual elements within that text. For example, artist and song title can be identified separately instead of being transmitted as a single text string.
This structured metadata can also include programme details, news, events and traffic information, allowing compatible receivers and applications to process and display metadata more effectively.
Automated Slideshow Content
The extended REST API also enables Slideshow images to be supplied directly by external applications.
This allows broadcasters to integrate programme artwork, presenter images and other visual content into automated workflows. Metadata and Visual Radio systems can deliver updated images to the DAB+ encoder as programme content changes, reducing the need for separate manual processes.
Simplifying Broadcast Workflows
By connecting metadata sources directly to the DAB+ Audio Encoder, broadcasters can reduce manual handling and avoid duplicate workflows.
Dynamic Labels, DL Plus and Slideshow become easier to integrate into existing automation environments, ensuring that text and visual content can follow the programme efficiently.
With REST API integration, broadcast devices become part of connected software workflows rather than operating as isolated systems.