All broadcast bands including shortwave
 Automatic computer-controlled recording and logging
 Fully integrated and compact solution
 Software-Defined Radio architecture
 Independent monitoring of up to eight channels
 Compression and storage of demodulated signals
 Automated scheduling of monitoring tasks
 Network attachable for storage of received signals
 Optional remote control via LAN/WAN
 Ruggedized enclosure for mobile operations

The task of multichannel radio frequency surveillance and monitoring would typically involve a number of separate radio receivers, audio recorders and other discrete components interconnected into bulky and expensive systems.

The WiNRADiO MS-8118/BRL Broadcast Recording and Logging System provides an elegant, fully integrated solution, specifically designed for computer-controlled automatic monitoring of AM and FM broadcast radio bands and shortwave. The system is designed to simultaneously monitor radio frequencies on multiple channels, record digitized signals to the hard disk for later retrieval, and perform automatic decisions based on the received signals.

This system is based on a 19” rackmounted industrial computer. The front panel features a high-contrast wide-angle display. There is provision for connection of an external keyboard and mouse. The system is capable of simultaneous independent monitoring of up to eight channels in the range from 9 kHz to 180 MHz.

The built-in hard disk allows a typical storage of several months of continuous recording, and the re-writable DVD drive makes archiving of recordings easy. The unit is capable of unattended operation and, when used with the Client/Server Option, it can be operated remotely and the received audio streamed in real time to the controlling computer. The recorded audio can also be remotely searched and streamed to the operator.

Receivers

Well proven WiNRADiO card-based receivers are at the heart of the WiNRADiO MS-8118/BRL system. Each card contains a high-performance software-defined receiver with built-in DSP and connections for antenna and audio. The receivers are designed to operate in the harsh electromagnetic environment existing inside a computer-based system, and are ideally suited for simultaneous multichannel operation.

Given their software-defined architecture, the receivers offer unparalleled flexibility, excellent dynamic range and high sensitivity. Many useful features complement the receivers, making them capable of filling not only the role of a monitoring receiver but also that of a measuring receiver, such as the calibrated S-meter showing the received signal levels in dBm, µV or S-units, down to the -140 dBm noise floor, several spectrum analyzers, and many other features.

User interface

The MS-8118/BRL software makes it possible for the user to control each individual receiver separately and observe its operational status, as well as set the system parameters for multichannel monitoring and surveillance operations.

The receiver control software contains numerous advanced features, many tuning and scanning options, and virtually unlimited channel memories. The software interface uses the familiar Windows point-and-click environment, reducing the amount of training required for end-users.

Automated Operation

The MS-8118BRL system can be programmed for fully automated operation. Automated recording tasks can be initiated by time and calendar based schedules as well as signal level transitions. The system's response can be selected from a range of pre-defined options such as alerting the operator, start or stop recording, change receiver settings and many others.

Memory Scanning and Recording

Fast scanning of preset memory channels is another feature provided by the unique user interface of the MS-8108/BRL system. This allows the busy network/broadcast engineers to rapidly tune between channels under their control. Checking program content on competitive channels is as easy as clicking a preset button.

Recording may be performed either using the standard Windows WAV format, or with a special enhanced format which contains time and date stamping, frequency, signal strength and other information. This format is ideal for further processing using the optional transcription and audio processing software (WAARP).

An optional Antenna Distribution Unit contains a preamplifier with extremely high linearity, splitting antenna input signals into multiple output signals with no loss.

The Client/Server Option makes it possible to operate the MS-8118/BRL system remotely. The controlling "clients" can be any multimedia capable PCs connected to the Internet or LAN. This option is ideal for broadcasters wishing to independently check program content and quality of signals in remote locations. Recordings can be made to the remote server's hard disk, making it possible for a client to retrieve the stored audio files over the network.

WAARP is a powerful transcription and audio analysis optional software package, designed for processing enhanced time-stamped recordings acquired by the MS-8118/BRL system. The software makes it possible to analyze and annotate recordings, replay them at varying speeds (without pitch change), as well as convert between audio recording formats.

The MS-8118/BRL Broadcast Recording and Logging System is shipped in a specially designed ruggedized 19" rack-mounted chassis with built-in shock absorbers, to ensure safe shipping. The unit can then be either removed from the enclosure, or operated from inside it. This is particularly useful for mobile operation.

For stationary applications, various rack-mount options are available, ranging from single-unit arrangements, to large-scale installations (pictured on the right). For these, WiNRADiO provides complete turn-key solutions including antennas and antenna distribution units.