The Jünger COMPACT range is ideal for broadcasters who need to apply simultaneous loudness management across multiple SDI streams – either in stereo, 5.1 or both. It will be of particular interest to those involved in satellite up/down linking and transmission chain supervision.
The COMPACT systems are based around Jünger’s C8491 SDI/DSP module. Each module can de-embed up to 16 channels of audio from the 3G/HD/SD SDI input, and process them as required before re-embedding them in the video bitstream, which is then available at two parallel outputs. The input is provided with a loopthrough output for connection to further equipment, and one of the outputs is relay-coupled to the input for fail-safe operation. The card is compliant with all current SDI formats, including SMPTE 424/425M, 292M and 259M. The modules have a base capability of processing four audio channels: upgrading to eight or sixteen channels is achieved via a software licence, so may be done at any time.
Audio processing includes Jünger’s Level Magic II™, which addresses the common problem of significant – and often disturbing – changes of loudness occurring when switching between programme sources, particularly during unattended operation. The algorithm ensures that program levels remain within predetermined tolerances without any colouration, pumping, breathing, distortion or modulation artefacts, no matter what the programme source is. Level Magic II™ is compliant with all current broadcast audio loudness recommendations including ITU-BS.1770, ATSC A/85 (2011/2013), ARIB TR-B32 Free TV OP-59, Portaria 354 and EBU R128. The J*AM LoudnessLogger™ monitor/analyser can be added if a record needs to be maintained of broadcast loudness levels.
Other audio processing functions are dynamics control (compressor and expander/gate) and True Peak Limiting.
Along with the 8- or 16-channel upgrades, software licence purchase can also enable surround processing capability, if needed. The 8-channel version can support four stereo programmes, or one 5.1 plus one stereo; the 16-channel version can support eight stereo, or two 5.1 plus two stereo programmes. Upmixing from stereo to 5.1 is also provided with the surround functionality.
The COMPACT 64 is a 1U rack which can hold up to four C8491 modules, giving a maximum processing capability of 64 channels, while the COMPACT 256 holds up to sixteen modules for up to 256 processing channels. Both racks include a network controller card, a GPIO interface module and dual redundant power supplies with independent AC inlets.
The racks have no local controls and are intended for 24/7 unattended operation in a facility’s Equipment Room. Full unit configuration and control is available through a comprehensive set of web pages (to which access may be restricted with passwords). Network control using Ember+ is also implemented, allowing the unit to be controlled or scheduled by VSM or similar facility-wide systems. The 8-way GPIO port allows the unit to be interfaced to almost any other control equipment for basic signalisation and commands.
