Rootio Radio Station
Grassroots Radio for Community Input and Output
Rootio is an open-source radio broadcasting solution that is a combination of off-the-shelf hardware, cloud software, and a smartphone app.
Rootio or Grassroots Radio for Community Input and Output is a prototype and open-source radio broadcasting solution that is a combination of off-the-shelf hardware, cloud software, and a smartphone app. Rootio can be heard through a traditional FM receiver. It is possible to participate in the radio through a simple phone call.
Uganda
Rootio is the main distributor and is supported by a peer network of radio station hosts. Rootio is located in Portugal.
The price of hardware for an established antenna and broadcasting station is $1,700 – $1,800 USD with plans to lower costs to near $800 – $900 USD. Interview with representative
The price of hardware for a bucket system and antenna is roughly $500 USD. FM Transmitter: $250 USD, Samsung smartphone: $75 USD, Connectors and computer fan: $10 USD, Antenna: $30 USD, Cable: $100-$150 USD. These prices vary slightly across regions.
For users without access to electricity, low capacity (15-30 W) power generation technology will also need to be purchased.
In certain cases, users interested in broadcasting will need to pay for an FM broadcasting license. Rootio has worked with Ugandan officials to eliminate that cost for their users.
Conventional radio broadcasting stations, Pocket FM, CGNet Swara.
Individuals who have the ability to operate the combined smartphone and FM transmitter.
