The cloud-based solution offers one-push button activation for global announcements, intercoms and emergency paging on broadcast, military and emergency response networks.
IP audio and control provider Barix has introduced the cloud-based RackBox IP paging and intercom station for broadcast and emergency response networks.
Initially custom-developed for a US TV broadcaster, Barix is now offering RackBox to serve a broader set of paging and intercom needs inside and outside the broadcast industry.
In addition to TV and radio networks, RackBox claims to be useful for professional alarm and notification applications over military, emergency response and business networks that serve many locations.
RackBox’s single-button user interface promises to enable immediate delivery of important messages to all stations over local and wide-area networks.
RackBox systems are scalable, with each device programmable as a transmitter, receiver, or both. Using Barix AudioSpread devices, the system replicates the live stream globally to receivers anywhere without depending on multicast or complicated configurations. An optional management portal supports real-time monitoring and central configuration.
The solution allows broadcasters to quickly communicate critical information, breaking news, and operational info across its complete network of stations, using available, low-cost IP networks.
The 19-inch 1U RackBox integrates Barix’s IPAM400 IP Audio module at its core, with support for multiple audio formats, interfaces, and IP-based streaming and control. The Linux-based programmable module adapts the latest standards, allowing users to comfortably operate RackBox on standard IP networks as well as the public internet.
RackBox’s hardware looks to ensure constant availability, assisted by redundant power connections, and the system layout can be set up using dual-network paths while seamlessly integrating with an organization’s central IT infrastructure. Its limited bandwidth requirements, low latency, and standards compliance make the RackBox system ideal for use on existing IT infrastructure.
“RackBox represents our latest advances in cloud-based replication and remote monitoring technology to serve a broad variety of universal communication requirements,” said Johannes Rietschel, CTO and Founder, Barix. “As one of the first vendors to innovate paging and intercom solutions for use on IP networks nearly 20 years ago, Barix brings reliable emergency communications over the network to a global scale with RackBox, along with the cost-savings that come from transitioning to IP from satellite for widespread communications.”
