<x-rich>Hi all,

Its been great to see so much activity on Xchange after 56hrs at OpenX. It seems apparent that the event was a great inspiration and intersection point for discussion and exploration.

Thought we should just drop everyone a line to continue the dialogue begun at OpenX, and to expand some the ideas which emerged from the Closed X discussions.

It has been interesting to read some of the comments on Xchange referencing the Frequency Clock project and the feasibility of a 'global mini FM network'. Robert Adrian's remarks referencing the necessity to foster associations with existing (AM/FM/SW) radio stations, regarding the rebroadcast of net.radio material, were particularly insightful and cogent reminders of the complexity of this issue. We have given this much thought, but are still enticed by the idea of exploring the implementation of an independent network.We think this is important because the establishment of autonomy in this manner severs a philosophical reliance on the kind of centralised institutions that are predominantly associated with FM radio. Commonly, these organisations are centralised because their administration (in whatever form) is physically centralised, or focused upon a small group of individuals.

A geographically dispersed independent network of net.radio stations, broadcasting on autonomously owned FM transmitters, could strengthen challenges to these kind of organisations, encouraging a rethinking of existing broadcast paradigms, and the incorporation of more open systems for determining content. In such models there is space to develop radically open-ended systems of content management, allowing for abatement of centralised program administration. New types of program management can then be evolved, putting the capacity to collaboratively develop content in the hands of diverse array of geographically and structurally distinct groups or individuals. This model would, of course, necessitate the formulation of a programming system able to be manipulated by all contributors. In collaboration with other Xchange participants, we are presently working on an online system to achieve this.

The establishment of a new network does not not preclude, or replace, collusion with existing radio entities. In fact the ideas explored within a mini FM network would expand the scope for experimentation across different forms of radio, opening up dialogue between net and FM radio. In this way, collaborations with existing FM radio entities, and the development of a new mini FM network are two parts of the same idea.

The above model is not without its flaws. It is understood that there are interesting existing examples of open-access radio. However, by establishing a network autonomous from existent radio models, we are drawing distinctions between old paradigms, and highlighting the ever evolving challenges presented by net.radio. It is sometimes the strength of a project, that it is flawed by such ideals.

r a d i o q u a l i a have just finished writing a funding application for this the second part of the Frequency Clock project. This stage will hopefully see the establishment of a network of low-powered FM transmitters in as many geographically dispersed cities / communities as possible. When the technical research phase of project is complete, each transmitter will be able to be operated through the web via an automated browser interface. The web interface can be utilised for scheduling programme material from net.radio stations and other audio sources. r a d i o q u a l i a have constructed a prototype of the web interface, and are awaiting the delivery of the first transmitter. We hope to have a branch of the mini FM network operational in Adelaide very soon, with further annexes being established elsewhere in the coming months.

r a d i o q u a l i a are seeking the input of others in the development of the Frequency Clock ideas. We are very interested in engaging with related experimental network concepts, such as the ideas explored in more politically focused projects such as PACT System's Insular Technologies project, and the ongoing research of the Xchange group.

We welcome feedback on these ideas from everyone on Xchange.

rq hq





r a d i o q u a l i a


((o))

f r e q u e n c y s h i f t i n g p a r a d i g m s
i n s t r e a m i n g a u d i o


radioqualia@xxxxxxxxx
http://www.radioqualia.va.com.au


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