5 December 2022 – 100 years of BBC Technology and Innovation by David Palmer, G7URP

Communications Manager | December 1, 2022

Introduction

The year 2022 marks the centenary of the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) and whilst it is well known for its programme making and public service broadcasting, the BBC has also been responsible for introducing a wide range of technological innovations such as CEEFAX, RDS and VERA, Britain’s first videotape recorder.

David’s presentation

On this Tonight @ 8 webinar David Palmer, G7URP takes a look at some of these pioneering creations, many of which still form the backbone of modern broadcasting.

About David

After an inquisitive childhood taking apart toys to find out how they worked, David left school to take an apprenticeship with Pye in Cambridge.

He started a small electronics business from his bedsit, eventually designing and manufacturing LogIT datalogging and sensor products for science education, as well as in later years diversifying to Train-Tech model railway electronics.

As a young businessman David was often interviewed on radio and TV which gave a taste of broadcasting.

This eventually led to him producing and presenting his own programmes such as Tech Talk and The Techno Show, which was runner up to BBC’s Horizon in the UK Technology and Press Awards.

Whilst the broadcasting sideline was left behind when he moved back to Norfolk in the late 90s, David rediscovered his love for it during the pandemic, working with his wife Tammy, M0TC to produce a weekly show for Norfolk Amateur Radio Club.

This led to working with the RSGB to host several online video activities such as Tonight @ 8 and the RSGB Convention.

Watch live

Tonight @ 8 webinars are livestreamed for free on our YouTube channel and special BATC channel, allowing you to watch the presentations and ask questions online.