Zephyr iPort PLUS Multi-Codec Gateway



Overview

Zephyr iPort PLUS is a networked multi-codec gateway that enables transport of multiple channels of stereo audio across any QoS-enabled IP network, including T1 and T3 connections and private WANs with MPLS – perfect for large-scale distribution of audio to single or multiple locations. Zephyr iPort PLUS is the workhorse of codecs, configurable as eight stereo bi-directional MPEG codecs, or for decode of up to 16 MPEG-encoded stereo streams. Adding aptX® or using Linear PCM coding can enable up to 16 bidirectional or unidirectional codecs. Zephyr iPort PLUS connects to Axia® IP-Audio networks using a single CAT-6 cable for all I/O. Don’t have a Livewire network yet? Pair Zephyr iPort PLUS with Axia xNode audio interfaces for use as a standalone multiple-stream codec. Coding algorithms include AAC, AAC-LD, HE-AAC (plus v2), MP2, MP3, linear, and optional aptX® Enhanced*. Bit rates range from 24 to 320 kbps for MPEG codecs, plus standard fixed rates for aptX and linear to over 2 Mbps. In addition, iPort offers dual, parallel-path end-to-end streaming for ultra- reliability and redundancy. For network operators, a unique Content Delay feature allows independent local storage and scheduled delayed playout of any or all coded audio channels for up to six hours.

Features

Distributes multiple channels of coded audio between broadcast facilities over QoS-enabled IP links.
Configurable as a CODEC with 8 bi-directional MPEG-coded channels, each with GPIO and PAD — or, as a 16-channel stereo encoder (by adding aptX and/or Linear PCM-coded channels) or 16-channel stereo decoder.
PCM Stereo coded channels are available for use simultaneously alongside MPEG coded channels, (dependent upon available bandwidth).
Can also deliver streaming audio channels for Internet transmission via SHOUTcast, Steamcast or compatible stream replication server.
Wide choice of genuine Fraunhofer codecs, including Standard AAC, high-efficiency AAC-HE (aacPlus), AAC-HEv2, low-delay AAC-LD, and MP3, with a choice of bit rates from 24 kbps to 320 kbps, definable per stream.
Optional aptX® Enhanced audio coding may be ordered at time of purchase or added later, as desired.
When used as part of a Livewire network, allows audio from remote facilities to be used as if they were local sources, with associated logic and control.
Eight 5-input Virtual Mixer (VMIX) channels each allow combining and mixing of up to 5 networked Livewire audio streams on a single channel.
Eight Virtual Mode (VMODE) channels allow audio to be split into left/right channels, summed L+R, and more, prior to encoding and transmission.
Content Delay option enables delayed playout of any or all selected receive audio channels, along with time-synchronized ancillary data, for up to six hours. Each playback delay time is independently configurable on a per-channel basis, making Zephyr iPort PLUS ideal for network operators, program distribution networks, or delayed playout of received audio at network-affiliated stations.
Remote control/configuration via any computer with a standard Web browser.
Separate LAN and WAN ports help ensure network security.
Fanless, convection-cooled DSP-powered platform with dual-redundant, auto-switching power supplies for maximum uptime. Power supply modules are field-replaceable in minutes.