Radio_Hong_Kong_1962-1963 — Page 8

factors in purchasing a radio set. The small transistor receiver available for medium wave, or medium wave and FM reception now outstrips all other types in popularity.

6. Frequency Modulation transmissions were introduced by Radio Hong Kong for both the English and the Chinese Services in 1960, supple- menting the medium wave transmissions and providing a clearer signal more free from interference. They have also been of assistance to listeners in some of the more difficult reception areas of the territory; the topographical features of Hong Kong, with sharp rising hills and the many tall office and apartment buildings, make reception critical in some places. During the year a special pamphlet, in both English and Chinese, was made available without charge to the public; this contained advice and diagrams on how F.M. reception might be improved. Free advice is also available from Radio Hong Kong's engineers and those of the Post Office.

7. In addition to local coverage Radio Hong Kong also broadcasts a short-wave service of special interest to the fishing fleets. This service, which carries the same Chinese programmes as the medium and F.M. services, is heard on 3,940 Kc/s in the 80 metre band and enables fisher- men, often far out to sea, to be forewarned of impending danger from typhoons and to make for safer waters.

8. In September 1962 Hong Kong was struck by typhoon Wanda, one of the worst typhoons in recorded history. Gusts of up to 145 knots were recorded at the Royal Observatory. Although the Colony was heavily lashed by wind and rain there was comparatively little loss of life. One of the main reasons for this was undoubtedly the local storm warnings which were broadcast at 15 minute intervals through- out the night and day. These enabled listeners to keep track of the typhoon's position and to be warned in advance of the changing wind positions. Radio Hong Kong had, at that time, just introduced a new system whereby Chinese weather reports are read directly from a special booth at the Royal Observatory. By this means the broad- casting organizations of the Colony are now able to carry Chinese announcements almost simultaneously with the English ones, which are distributed by teleprinter. The previous delay caused by passing on translations has been drastically cut.

9. Recent years have seen mounting interest in educational broad- casting and television. Radio Hong Kong has been devoting increasing effort to the planning and production of educational programmes, and

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