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Technology Centre

engcenter In 1975, we began setting up offices, a machine shop, and an assembly area in Elkhart, Indiana, USA to build a 500kW transmitter. In 1987, the Technology Centre (Formerly known as the Elkart Engineering Centre) was officially established. Although shortwave radio was the only concern at the time, it has now expanded to include research, development, training, and technical support for FM transmitters, radio automation systems, satellite distribution and antennas. The Technology Centre exists to develop Christian radio ministries around the world, as part of the 'World by Radio' commitment - an association of international Christian broadcasting organisations committed to seeing that every person on earth has the opportunity to turn on a radio and hear the gospel of Jesus Christ in a language they can understand.

There are five key areas of ministry that the Technology Centre is involved in: Consultation, Research & Design, Fabrication/Assembly, Installation, and Training. Through these areas, the following technologies and services are provided to partners to meet ministry needs around the world:

Consultation

The Technology Centre seeks to provide each ministry partner with as much information as possible to make the most effective decisions with good stewardship. Consultation and guidance provided by our staff includes tools such as propagation studies, locating and purchasing replacement parts, as well as specification sheets and documentation, and have proven useful in planning and prayer. Should a radio station experience technical problems, experienced staff are able to provide technical support via phone, fax, or e-mail, and (should the situation warrant) even in person to resolve the problem(s) and enable the radio station to get back on the air as soon as possible.

Research & Design

The number of years of technical experience at the Technology Centre combined comes to over 600, spread over about 30 geographical fields. Staff specialising in mechanical, electrical, and radio frequency technology allow the Centre to serve the needs of ministry partners around the world, providing timely solutions and troubleshooting to areas of ministry, and keeping the gospel on the air.

Fabrication/Assembly

A well-equipped machine shop with mills, lathes, and other specialised tooling is put to good use by staff experienced in fabrication requirements and processes. For needs outside of the Technology Centre, the proximity of local companies offering industrial services & manufacturing help match needs with a finished tool. Custom made and assembled parts are thoroughly tested on-site, ensuring their accuracy, durability, and reliability in their field(s) of service.

Installation

A number of Technology Centre staff are able to travel, often at short notice, to provide expertise for studio, transmitter, and antenna installations, enabling a radio station to be on the air. The Technology Centre has also worked alongside organisations such as Towers for Jesus which has extensive experience in erecting towers for gospel broadcasting. Examples of countries with on-site installations include: Burkina Faso, American Samoa, Papua New Guinea, Democratic Republic of Congo, Swaziland, Australia, and Guam.

Training

The Technology Centre can provide hands-on technical training to partner ministry personnel in any of its fields of expertise. Some of these areas offered are FM transmitter operation & maintenance, antenna installation & operation, as well as Radio Automation setup & usage. The addition of an on-site recording studio to the Centre is anticipated, with the goal of extending current training with studio operation and programme production.

 
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