What is BS IEC 62106‑2 about?
Radio Data System (RDS) is a communications protocol standard for embedding small amounts of digital information in conventional FM radio broadcasts. RDS standardizes several types of information transmitted, including time, station identification and program information. 
BS IEC 62106‑2 is the second part of the multi-series on RDS. BS IEC 62106‑2 defines the coding and definitions of RDS features.
Who is BS IEC 62106‑2 for?
BS IEC 62106‑2 on the coding and definitions of RDS features is useful for:
- Radio broadcasters
- Radio manufactures
- Radio stations
Why should you use BS IEC 62106‑2?
Over the decades, listener expectations have grown faster than technology. The visual aspect is also an important component of the user experience. With these changed dynamics, FM radio with RDS (an analogue-digital hybrid system), is still a valid data transmission technology and only the applications need adaptation.
BS IEC 62106‑2 provides Other Networks information consisting of a collection of optional RDS features relating to other programme services, cross-referenced using their PI codes. Features that may be transmitted using EON for other programme services are AF, PS, PTY, TA, TP and Linkage.
What’s changed since the last update?
BS IEC 62106‑2:2021 supersedes IEC 62106‑2:2018, which is withdrawn. BS IEC 62106‑2:2021 includes some technical changes with respect to IEC 62106‑2:2018. These include:
- Subclause 4.2.4 has been added
- Tables 1 and 13 have been modified
- The new function RDS2 file transfer has been added and it is detailed in Annex C; this uses a CRC-16, which is specified in Annex D
