Belonging to the High Density range of digital audio processors, the Compact 256 is aimed at broadcast playout facilities with a large number of TV channels that require efficient and transparent loudness management for the maximum number of audio channels within the minimum amount of rack space.

For high volume loudness management of multiple TV channels where rack space is at a premium, the Compact range offers the most efficient ratio of DSP performance and throughput with the smallest footprint requirement. All current broadcast audio loudness standards are supported.

• Overview

The Compact 256 consists of a 3RU 19” frame pre-installed with a C8702 controller card. The optional C8492 processing cards provide a combination of SDI de-embedding/embedding, Level Magic loudness management with dynamics and true peak limiting. Up to 16 C8492’s can be added to process a maximum of 16x SDI streams and up to 256 audio channels.

• C8492 SDI/DSP board

At the heart of the Compact series is the C8492 card that consists of I/O functionality and a powerful DSP that can provide loudness processing on up to 16 channels of audio within the SDI stream. In its standard form, the card is configured for four channel operation (2x2.0) with licensing options to increase this to eight or sixteen channels for multiple stereo and/or surround audio configurations. In surround mode, Upmix and Downmix are included.

• Level Magic and Dynamic Range Control

Based on a unique multi-loop control principle, the Level Magic algorithm provides adaptive wideband loudness control with exceptionally high audio quality that is free of coloration, pumping, distortion or modulation effects. Level Magic combines three major gain changing elements:

• • Adaptive AGC
• • Transient Processor

• • Distortion-free true peak limiter

• The dynamics section comprises of an upward compressor and an expander/gate.

• Loudness Measurement and Logging

To check compliance with local regulations, loudness and true peak levels can be measured and transferred via Ethernet to the optional J*AM measurement and logging software. SNMP or GPI/O alarms can also be triggered if pre-set limits are exceeded. A real-time plot of input v/s output levels can be displayed and the results logged to a destination folder anywhere on the network. A log file analyzer can rebuild the original plot for easy readout of historical measurements.

• System Integration

All system parameters are remotely accessible allowing the unit to be integrated and remotely operated by broadcast control systems. An advanced built-in Event Management tool allows the remote loading of parameter presets either by 8 GPI/O’s on the C8817 or by network commands using the Ember+TM control protocol. This helps to apply individual processing to manage compliant and none compliant audio.

• Web Configuration

A web interface allows easy and intuitive setup and configuration from anywhere in your network.

• Interfaces and System Security

Audio input for each C8492 is 3G/HD/SD-SDI with 2x SDI processed outputs including video delay, and a separate pass through of the unprocessed signal. A fail over function means that should the primary embedded audio channels be lost, the card can automatically revert to alternative audio channels instead. Power fail bypass relays are fitted as standard and with dual redundant PSU’s and SNMP integration, the unit ensures maximum operational safety and peace of mind for today’s critical 24/7 TV playout facilities.