
The Eiðar Longwave Transmitter is a significant broadcasting site in Iceland. It's located on the Eiðar farm in the eastern part of the country.
The transmitter's primary function is to broadcast longwave radio signals to the surrounding areas. This is achieved through a large antenna system that transmits signals at a frequency of 153 kHz.
One of the most notable features of the Eiðar Longwave Transmitter is its high power output, which is capable of reaching a distance of up to 1,000 kilometers. This makes it an important tool for broadcasting news, music, and other programming to a wide audience.
1991 Collapse
In 1991, a major collapse occurred at the Eiðar longwave transmitter.
One of the original transmission masts fell during a winter storm on 3 February 1991, due to its poor state of repair.
The remaining tower was felled for safety reasons on 3 March 1991.
Temporary longwave transmissions began again in November 1991 using two 70-metre-tall spare masts obtained from Iceland Telecom.
These temporary masts were much smaller and had reduced power, resulting in less coverage.
They were eventually demolished in 2021.
Operations and Reintroduction
RÚV revamped its longwave service in the 1990s and took the decision to reintroduce it.
The Hellissandur longwave transmitter began broadcasting at 300 kW at 189 kHz on 9 September 1997.
The reconstructed Eiðar mast was activated at a height of 220 m and its power increased to 100 kW, at 207 kHz, in 1999.
Broadcasts over the new longwave system were split between Rás 1 content and Rás 2 content by schedule since 1999.
The Eiðar longwave transmitter was demolished in 2023, ceasing 207 kHz transmissions.
The Hellissandur longwave radio mast went off the air on 5 September 2024, ending 189 kHz transmissions.
General Information
The Eiðar longwave transmitter is a facility used by RÚV for longwave radio broadcasting on 207 kHz with a power of 100 kW.
It's located near Egilsstaðir, and its antenna is a 221-metre-high steel lattice mast radiator.
The transmitter uses an omnidirectional aerial, which means it broadcasts signals in all directions.
Originally, a taller mast was planned, but it was scrapped due to concerns about aircraft flight safety.
The Eiðar longwave transmitter is a significant facility, and it's great to learn about its specifics.
Consider reading: Naval Radio Transmitter Facility Niscemi
Featured Images: pexels.com

