This is a brief description of the hardware needed to run GRINS well. We also provide a list of other equipment you will need for broadcasting. Note that this list has been prepared chiefly for low-cost setup of community radio stations.
Machines
We recommend that you use a normal P4 or higher-end machine to run the GRINS for a single machine setup (refer here for different GRINS configurations). Use similar machine for user interface in a two machine setup. For the second machine in case of a two-machine setup, we recommend using machines with Intel Mini-ITX mainboards.
Sound cards
GRINS requires 3 audio inputs and 2 audio outputs. Most mainboards will have an onboard sound card with one input and one output. For additional soundcards as required by the configuration, you can use PCI or USB sound cards. We have test GRINS with Creative Sound Blaster USB Play USB soundcard and ESI Maya44 PCI soundcard, both of which are easily available in Indian markets.
Telephony Hardware
In order to handle telephony in GRINS, specialized telephony hardware is required. We have tested GRINS with the Linksys SPA 3102 Analog Telephony Adapter and Portech MV-370 GSM Gateway. We have found it to give excellent audio quality and performance with GRINS. However, with SPA 3102 we have had difficulty getting caller-id correctly compared to Portech GSM Gateway.
FM transmitters
A 50W transmitter will easily give you a range of 10-15km. The Nomad India Network manufactures indigenous FM transmitters that are being used at several community radio stations in India. PCI FM transmitters are also available from PCS Electronics. These will have to be supplemented with additional amplifiers.
Mixers
Behringer mixers are reasonably priced and of good quality. Many community radio stations in India also use Tapco, Yamaha, and Edirol mixers. All of the above mentioned mixers are available in India.