Remote Control (DSM-057-15) (rus)¶
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Remote Control Module provides functionality of remote control system which is an interface between the software modules of DIGISPOT II and external physical devices (mixing consoles, players etc.). This module is providing control and status information exchange (bidirectional) between external devices and software modules. This helps to support the following tasks:
- Signaling (e.g., switching indication during broadcasting of regional block),
- Starting of external playback device (e.g., playing of regional block)
- Change profile/preset on mixing console in the case of changing to a special airing mode
- Dimming of the frame program and opening CUE bus on the studio monitors during start of preview by operator
- Start news cast recording on a logger and many others.
Remote control can be understood as the control of certain software modules (functions) of the radio broadcast system from external hardware devices – consoles, key panels e.g.
There is a set of commands provided by remote control devices that can be interpreted by all virtual players and schedule modules (Fader start, Fader stop, PFL start, PFL stop). Some specific commands can be interpreted by certain players only. There is also a standard set of general commands that can be interpreted by the base platform of applications.
Commands are delivered to the computer with the help of the GPI (General Purpose Interface). Software modules that can interpret remote control commands may be configured for specific actions assigned to certain commands. Several remote control devices can be used simultaneously in one system. The general block diagram of a remote control interface is presented below.
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In order to provide remote control for a certain function, you have to connect the hardware remote control device, install drivers (if this is necessary), choose the configuration file describing the method of device initialization and data protocol (if needed) and assign GPI commands to system functions.
At present, we are using LPT, COM and USB interfaces to provide communication between the computer and the remote control device. LPT devices require a special driver that provides the generation of a remote command out of the contact closures on the LPT connector. COM port devices do not require a special driver, but each device needs a configuration file (cdu-file) describing the method of initialization of the device and data protocol. This file will be used by DIGISPOT®II applications. USB devices require a driver converting the external signal to a remote command and a cdu-file describing communication with the USB device.
All remote control devices can be classified as: ON-AIR consoles: each channel provides Fader-start/stop and PFL start/stop signals. They are usually connected to an LPT port. If the number of channels is more as can be covered by the limitation given by the LPT port, we use special hardware-extension modules that are connected to USB or COM ports.
