Ever wondered how Berliners receive their favorite radio and TV programs? The answer towers above us. It is the UKW- und Fernsehsendemast Scholzplatz.
This transmission tower is not just steel and wire. It has a unique history. The UKW- und Fernsehsendemast Scholzplatz was erected in 1963. It was meant as a temporary solution. The tower was supposed to bridge the gap. It should broadcast until a permanent West Berlin TV tower was built. But this TV tower never materialized. So, the UKW- und Fernsehsendemast Scholzplatz became a permanent fixture.
At 230 meters tall the UKW- und Fernsehsendemast Scholzplatz is Berlin’s second-highest structure since 2009. Only the Berliner Fernsehturm is taller. The UKW- und Fernsehsendemast Scholzplatz started broadcasting for Sender Freies Berlin. It replaced the Funkturm’s functions. Its height allowed programs to reach far into East Germany. This was impossible with the Funkturm’s antenna.
The UKW- und Fernsehsendemast Scholzplatz is operated by Rundfunk Berlin-Brandenburg. It is their only self-operated transmitter. It broadcasts FM radio using analogue technology. Digital radio DAB+ and digital television DVB-T2 HD are also transmitted.
Several radio stations broadcast from the Scholzplatz. These include RBB Berlin 88.8, RBB Kulturradio and RBB InfoRadio. WDR Funkhaus Europa and Radio Paradiso are also broadcast from here. Jazz Radio 106.8 completes the lineup. Digital television DVB-T2 HD is also broadcast from the Scholzplatz.
Interestingly, the frequencies broadcast are coordinated internationally. However, the actual power used was higher than agreed. Instead of 10 kW, 80 kW was used for some UKW frequencies. The antennas were placed higher too. This was likely done to reach further into East Germany.
The UKW- und Fernsehsendemast Scholzplatz stands as a testament to Berlin’s history. It shows the city’s division and its broadcasting prowess. So next time you tune into your favorite station, remember the UKW- und Fernsehsendemast Scholzplatz. It’s a symbol of Berlin’s broadcasting infrastructure. It is also a reminder of the city’s unique past.