ZEPHYR iPort (Product Preview)MPEG over IP Gateway |
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The Zephyr iPort MPEG Gateway is a completely new kind of codec, enabling broadcasters to transport multiple channels of stereo audio across any network with guaranteed QoS, such as T1 and T3 connections, MPLS networks, et cetera. Zephyr iPort contains eight stereo MPEG-AAC codecs in one box, converting linear PCM IP-Audio into compressed IP-Audio, and back again. With a Zephyr iPort at each end of a T1 connection, stations can share audio between cities as easily as if both stations were in the same building. Imagine: eight stereo channels of CD-quality audio on a single connection! |
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Zephyr iPort uses the Livewire standard for professional networked audio over Ethernet, so you can connect it directly to your Axia IP-Audio Network - a single CAT-6 cable is all that's needed for 8 channels of stereo I/O, plus remote control. If you don't yet have an Axia network, that's no problem; just pair Zephyr iPort with an Axia AES/EBU or Analog Audio Node for use as a standalone, high-density audio codec. The iPort connects eight channels of stereo audio between two Livewire-equipped sites over an IP link. It does so simply and transparently to users. Audio channel source advertising from each site appears at the other. Upon selection of any connected Livewire device, audio automatically flows both ways. The iPort can also be used for any application where MPEG encoding and/or decoding are needed for transmission over IP channels. Applications include studio-to-transmitter links, satellite uplinks, Internet streaming, broadcasting to mobile phones, and audio distribution systems. Because multiple codecs are packaged in a single 2U device, the cost per channel is low compared to single-channel codecs. And since the audio for all eight feeds is connected via one RJ-45 jack, there is no need for expensive converters, interfaces, and connectors on the iPort, or on the studio equipment that it's attached to.
The iPort is intended for IP links that have Quality-of-Service guarantees for bandwidth, packet loss, and jitter. These include dedicated IP over T1/E1 links, Telco-provided MPLS services, Virtual Private Networks, and Ethernet radio links. Nevertheless, the AAC family codecs include special error resilience protection that works to conceal the occasional random packet loss that can occur in routed IP networks. While the iPort is perfect for facilities that are Livewire-enabled, using it with a directly connected Axia Analog or AES Node offers a low-cost solution for any multi-channel MPEG over IP application. Zephyr iPort features two Ethernet ports: one to connect to the Livewire network, and another for connection to the WAN, maintaining full isolation between the two networks for security purposes. Configuration is via web page, and like all products that work with Axia networks, full remote control and monitoring are provided. |
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