This system, named RDS Conductor, is designed to streamline the process of integrating multi-vendor devices and sharing resources across different studios using Media over IP (MoIP) systems. The RDS Conductor integrates FOR-A’s SOM-200RDS software with the SOM-20RDS Plus API to support NMOS-compliant devices, allowing for seamless resource sharing.

Simplifying MoIP Systems Expansion

Traditionally, expanding MoIP systems to include new setups required hardware compatibility or significant modifications to existing broadcast controllers and RDS configurations. However, FOR-A’s new hierarchical RDS (Hi-RDS) environment eliminates these challenges. This setup allows the primary RDS to manage NMOS-compliant device resources efficiently, facilitating the addition of systems without needing significant changes to the existing infrastructure.

Operational Efficiency and Resource Management

The RDS Conductor system ensures that all device resources are centrally registered within the FOR-A SOM-200RDS. The SOM-20RDS Plus then allocates these resources as needed, maintaining the usability of the local RDS from existing MoIP systems without necessitating alterations. This method enables incremental system expansion, reducing costs and complexity associated with traditional setups.

Demonstration and Industry Collaboration

FOR-A confirmed the effectiveness of its RDS Conductor through comprehensive testing with various vendors’ RDS and broadcast controllers. The technology was showcased at Inter BEE 2023, Japan’s largest broadcast exhibition, and will be featured at the 2024 NAB Show using the Lawo HOME IP management platform and the Riedel Communications NMOS Explorer.

Benefits of Hi-RDS Technology

The introduction of Hi-RDS technology by FOR-A enhances the flexibility and scalability of MoIP systems. It simplifies the integration of new systems and resources, enabling broadcasters to expand and adapt their infrastructure as needed without significant downtime or expense. The technology facilitates a user-friendly environment for resource sharing, promoting efficient use of budget and resources across broadcast networks.

News source: https://www.for-a.com/news_events/news_releases_240403.html