Technology

Technology Centre

HCJB Global Voice began shortwave broadcasts in 1931 using a 200-watt transmitter. The Technology Centre was set up in an effort to design and build specialised, cost-effective shortwave transmitters and has grown to serve Christian radio ministries around the world

Our highly qualified missionary engineers design, build and install the innovative broadcasting equipment best suited to each locale. HCJB Global is a world leader in using technology for ministry. As new media develop in the twenty-first century, we will continue to seek out new and innovative ways to reach our ever-changing world for Christ.

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 to 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.