Articles and whitepapers

Product Article: The Pakedge RS8-K24C Audio/Video Bridging System (3/3/2011)

By Victor Pak, Pakedge Device and Software

Audio/video systems are increasingly being integrated into computer networks in custom installation systems and smart home networks, and sharing the same physical wiring. However, unlike computer data, which can tolerate a certain level of unpredictable latency, audio and video and control signals, such as those used in touchscreen system controllers, cannot.

These types of data require stable transmission so that the audio and video streams arrive in time, and that IP-based controls don't lose critical command packets. Hence the development of Audio/Video Bridging (AVB), an emerging standard for ensuring the proper transmission of audio, video and control signals over networks.

Network-based audio and video streams must arrive in time.

The Pakedge RSB-K24C Pre-Configured Audio/Video Bridging System is a versatile router/gateway security system that is designed to meet the specific needs of networked custom-installation home entertainment and multiroom A/V systems.

Making AVB easier and cost-effective

Clearly, there is going to be more and more of a need for products that meet the data transmission requirements of AVB. In fact, AVB is creating the need for an entirely new class of connectivity products. Our RSB-K24C was created to meet this need with a system that is pre-configured for easy installation - at a fraction of the cost of other products.

Nobody wants their movie to be interrupted, and customers rightfully expect their newly-installed whole-house A/V system to work perfectly! That's why we designed the RSB-K24C to provide enterprise-class reliability.

The RSB-K24C system includes the RT-50V Audio/Video Bridging Router, SW24-GBVC Audio/Video Bridging Switch with 24 VLAN ports, and the RMB-FG Router Rack Mount Bracket. The RT-50V and SW24-GBVC managed gigabit switch are preconfigured "Out of the box," to divide a network into four separate VLANs or subnets in order to most effectively manage traffic, broadcast, and the priority of all connected devices.

Front side of RSB-K24C showing the router and preconfigured gigabit managed switch and streamlined front face with cables that exit the back.

An installer can segment a wireless network for different devices - for example, video servers, A/V system touchpanels, computers and gaming systems - to provide the most efficient operation for all network-connected devices.

For ease of installation, all the ports are colour-coded and labelled for A/V components, computer devices and control hardware.

Rear view of RSB-K24C.

The preconfigured VLAN ports are designated by colour code.

Ease of installation and security of operation

The simplicity of the RSB-K24C and the fact that the VLANs and other parameters such as QoS (Quality of Service) are pre-programmed enable the installer to complete an installation quickly and without difficult programming. In addition, a fully separate guest network can be created, so that guest users will not have access to any other part of the network except for the guest VLAN and the Internet. In addition, the RSB-24C offers extensive security features including annual anti-virus, anti-spam and Intrusion Prevention Service (IPS) subscriptions.

Flexibility

The RSB-K24C offers extensive connectivity and configuration options to accommodate larger, more complex networks, custom installations and smart home systems. Up to 22 ports are available that can be used on any VLAN, and two fibre-optic ports are provided to accommodate longer fibre-optic cable runs. Setup is made simple via the RSB-K24C's built-in graphical user interface (GUI) that enables easy port assignment and other options.

Each device on the network can be prioritised, which is of particular importance to AVB installations. Audio/video components such as video servers that require 100 percent smooth communication, as well as other devices such as VoIP phones, can be assigned the highest priorities.

For larger installations, the RSB-K24C can be combined with additional Pakedge switches. Also, although it is pre-configured, the RSB-K24C can be highly customised to meet the specialised requirements of a particular installation.

Summary

The RSB-K24C Pre-Configured Audio/Video Bridging System makes it easier and cost-effective for dealers to install AVB-capable systems for their residential and commercial customers. It offers extensive connectivity and configuration options including 24 Ethernet ports and two SFP fibre-optic ports, a built-in graphical user interface, the ability to create multiple VLANs and assign data priority to connected devices and many additional capabilities. The RSB-K24C supports the latest security standards and provides extensive built-in security features.

Pakedge has distributors in Europe as well as in the US and worldwide, and we are expanding our dealer base to meet the growing global demand for AVB custom-installation A/V systems and smart home networks.

Victor Pak is the CEO of Pakedge Device and Software, Inc. Pakedge Device and Software offers innovative networking products that offer the highest levels of performance, features and reliability.

www.pakedge.com

Pakedge products are distributed in Europe and the UK by VIVATEQ/COMM-TEC and Invision UK respectively.

www.vivateq.de
www.invisionuk.com