Quincy, IL - Mar 19, 2009 - Broadcast Electronics is marking its 50th year in business. The company was founded on June 18, 1959, and introduced its first product: the first broadcast cart machine. In 1965 the company introduced the first multi-deck tape cartridge machine. Audio playback continued to be a part of BE's plan when it introduced the first microprocessor-based program control system in 1978. In 1989, this experience with automation BE introduced the first automation system based on the open PC platform: The Audio Vault.

RF has also been a part of the company's history. In 1979 when the company introduced the first single-tube high-powered FM transmitter, which featured a patented folded half-wave cavity that eliminates plate-blocking capacitors and sliding contacts. BE also developed a new exciter that year, which would later develop into the current FXI exciter line. The company has since been involved in solid-state designs and HD Radio applications.

To celebrate the milestone, Broadcast Electronics has created a contest to find the oldest operating Broadcast Electronics transmitter. The owner of this transmitter will qualify to win a BE STX LP 1kW transmitter. The transmitter can be used as a main or standby transmitter. Contest details and submission information is available online. Entries can be submitted through June 1, 2009.

On June 18, a panel of BE judges will mark the company's official anniversary date by selecting a winner based on transmitter age, site conditions, and application, among other qualifications.

Broadcast Electronics will mark the anniversary at its booth at the 2009 NAB Show, and also at an event to be held at the company's Quincy, IL, headquarters on June 18, 2009.