Equipment Consulting, Electrical

When Broadcast Systems Fail: Case Studies and Solutions for Telecommunications Claims

11 October 2024

Broadcast TV, AM and FM radio, cellular networks, and emergency services radio communication systems have been a part of our landscape for decades, their evolution a testament to our technological progress. Yet, this progress has not rendered them impervious to malfunctions and failures. With telecommunications equipment insurance claims come challenges ranging from lightning damage to power surges and equipment failures.

Understanding Broadcast Systems: History, Setup, and Spectrum Positioning

Understanding the history and technological evolution of systems, such as TV and radio, is vital when troubleshooting potential problems. For example, the experimental beginnings or “birth” of TV in the 1920s have evolved through significant technological developments that gave rise to color broadcasting, cable, and high definition. AM and FM radio also had their unique developmental timelines and technological progressions. Knowledge of these timelines helps pinpoint potential issues/solutions.

A standard installation for AM, FM, and TV broadcast encompasses elements like an equipment shack, a tower equipped with lighting, de-icing equipment, guiding wires, antennas, utilities, and often a backup generator. In contrast, the setup for two-way radios and cellular networks can be considerably more intricate, requiring a network of interconnected installations.

A key understanding of the electromagnetic spectrum, governed by the Federal Communications Commission, is also essential. The broadcast and transmission systems in this discussion occupy a minor segment of this spectrum. Identifying where these systems are positioned on the spectrum enables better troubleshooting and understanding of potential interference or issues.

Understanding System Challenges and Key Players in Issue Resolution

Despite implementing advanced technologies and optimal setups, these systems can still be prone to issues and failures. Weather or environmental factors, such as lightning strikes, power disruptions, heat, dust, humidity, wind, hail, ice, or tornadoes, can all cause network disruptions.  Aging components, lack of maintenance, overheated equipment, moisture, and rodent damage also pose potential issues.

In the event of an issue or failure, it is crucial to identify the parties involved. Property owners, tower and equipment room owners, utility providers, tenants and operators, regulators, and inspection and maintenance crews all need to have a clear understanding of the roles and responsibilities of each party.

Broadcast Case Studies: Damage, Causes, and Solutions

Case Study: Misdiagnosed Lightning Damage Reveals Maintenance Neglect in FM Radio Transmission Line

This case involved an examination of a lightning damage claim. The claimant (a broadcaster) reported an elevated Voltage Standing Wave Ratio (VSWR), suggesting probable lightning damage to their transmission line or antenna. The investigation revealed that the damage originated not from lightning, but from arcing due to poorly maintained sections of the line. The conclusion was that subpar maintenance over time had resulted in the degradation of the transmission line and an overall reduction in the range of the FM radio broadcast. After replacing the transmission line, the system resumed normal operations.

Case Study: Weather-Dependent Broadcast Range Resolved by Antenna Retuning

This case required an assessment of a complaint regarding limited broadcast range. The claimant noted that their broadcast quality and range were weather-dependent. The investigation discovered that the antenna had been detuned after removing protective radomes. The issue was resolved by electronically retuning the antenna and restoring the broadcaster's range and market.

Case Study: Power Surge Blackout and Restoration of Broadcast Services

This case pertained to a total blackout on a broadcast installation. The claimant indicated their transmitter was off-air for approximately three days due to an electrical power surge. The investigation found that previously damaged power protection equipment failed to shield the transmitter from subsequent power surges. A custom repair contractor expediently fixed the damaged components, and the station was back on the air within nine days.

Case Study: Tornado Damage and Water Protection in Broadcast Equipment

This case involved an evaluation of a claim after a tornado. The claimant stated that all site equipment was damaged and they had concerns about potential water damage to the electronics. The investigation determined that most of the equipment was hermetically sealed, thus safeguarding it from water damage. The suggested solution was to send the undamaged equipment back to the manufacturer for decommissioning.

Mastering Broadcast Systems for Effective Failure Investigation and Claim Management

To conclude, grasping the complexities of broadcast and transmission systems is necessary to investigate a broadcast transmission installation failure successfully. A comprehensive understanding of the technology, potential pitfalls, and the stakeholders allows for efficient troubleshooting and problem resolution, ensuring these vital communication systems operate seamlessly. Managing insurance claims related to telecommunications equipment requires an in-depth knowledge of the equipment and potential damage causes. Each claim also poses distinctive challenges, and the optimal solution often demands a detailed investigation and a sharp understanding of the equipment and the claim's contextual circumstances.

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About The Author
Keith Nygaard
Keith Nygaard
Principal Consultant
Mechanical

Principal Consultant With over 20 years’ experience, Mr. Keith Nygaard provides consultation to the insurance and legal communities in matters of multiple types of losses in multiple industries involving design, manufacturing and project management and over 12 years in the insurance industry. At Envista, Keith provides electrical, mechanical and forensic engineering evaluation along with origin and cause investigations for equipment and machinery failures and fire investigations in the USA, Canada and Asia. Additionally, he is highly knowledgeable in contamination losses and restoration processes relating to high tech equipment. Some of his projects have involved manufacturing plants, hospitals, universities, power plants, city and government facilities and construction sites. 

Mark Ewing
Mark Ewing
Vice President, Major Loss

An electrical engineer with over 30 years of experience investigating electrical incidents and equipment failures, determining origin and cause, scope of damage, and valuation of equipment. He has extensive experience performing large scale electronic restoration and emergency response in high technology catastrophe losses across the marine, medical and manufacturing/industrial industries.

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