For current and future broadcasting supply, the BLM initiates and conducts a broad range of measures and projects in the field of technical research and development. For the purpose of optimising terrestrial transmission networks including VHF radio and television transmission, the BLM carries out continual and systematic monitoring (measuring, analysis, assessment). In this way, reception of commercial broadcasts can be increased and improved.
The media information service "MEDIS" which was set up by the BLM serves as a support tool for technical planning; it assists in developing optimised supply structures. This innovative R & D tool works on the basis of state-of-the-art computer simulation, providing important data for frequency search as well as for supply analysis and forecasting.
By linking technical, demographic and economic data, MEDIS not lastly supports the development of new and future-oriented infrastructure concepts in Bavaria.
Technical research and development of the BLM currently centres on the digitisation of broadcast technologies. Initial research and pilot projects provide the data for the BLM to conduct further surveys and research projects on all three types of transmission (terrestrial, cable and satellite) together with competent partners. The surveys deal with both digital radio (digital audio broadcasting, digital radio mondiale) and with the digitisation of television transmission (digital video broadcasting: DMB, DTT, DVB-S, MHP).
With all of its research and development activities, the BLM aims at developing a technical infrastructure suited for the future which will ensure a secure and sustainable development for commercial broadcasting in the digitised world.