Sage Alerting Systems Shows EAS Software in New York
The demonstration at NAB Show New York features emergency alert software integrated directly into an Orban processor.
Updated on Oct. 16, 2026 in Current Conditions
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Sage Alerting Systems is demonstrating its next-generation Emergency Alert System (EAS) software running on an Orban Optimod 5950 HD audio processor. This marks the first full demonstration of capabilities requested in a recent National Association of Broadcasters petition to the FCC.
Why it matters
Broadcasters could significantly reduce their equipment and cabling requirements by running EAS software as an add-in rather than using dedicated hardware. The setup showcases a move toward more streamlined, software-hosted emergency alert implementations.
The integration features the Orban Optimod 5950 HD processor, which now supports IPAWS CAP reception and RWT generation as a software add-in. The live demonstration is taking place at booth 439 during the NAB Show New York.
The players
Sage Alerting Systems
This company develops technology for emergency alerting and communication infrastructure.
Orban Labs
This manufacturer specializes in audio processing hardware for the radio and television broadcasting industries.
National Association of Broadcasters
This trade association represents the interests of free, over-the-air radio and television broadcasters in the United States.
The details
The collaborative effort between Sage Alerting Systems, Orban Labs, and DNAV allows emergency alerting functionality to operate directly on existing audio processing hardware. Orban Labs intends to offer these software-hosted solutions to broadcasters if federal regulators officially authorize the change.
Timeline
The National Association of Broadcasters filed its petition to the FCC in 2025.
The NAB Show New York takes place in October 2026.
Seasonal Patterns
This demonstration serves as a technical proof-of-concept for the proposal to update current FCC Emergency Alert System regulatory standards. It signals a potential transition in industry hardware requirements that follows the policy shift requested by the National Association of Broadcasters.
Broadcasters attending the event can visit booth 439 to see how the integrated software reduces hardware overhead at their facilities. The practical application of this technology remains contingent on future FCC approval of software-hosted EAS practices.
The takeaway
This technology highlights a trend toward consolidating station infrastructure through software-defined systems. If approved, broadcasters should monitor for updates to hardware procurement standards to potentially lower operational costs.
Further reading
For more information on industry updates in the region, visit the New York City Current Conditions section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Radio World.
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Should radio stations move emergency alert systems from dedicated hardware to software-based processors?
