Clear-Com Connects With V-Series-to-Eclipse Ethernet Link

Clear-Com Communication Systems will demonstrate a direct link from its IP-Enabled V-Series panels to the Eclipse digital matrix intercom frames over an existing WAN or LAN Ethernet connection at the 2009 NAB Show.

Clear-Com V-Series panel

The new connectivity option, available for all new and existing V-Series panels, allows broadcasters to establish intercom communications in locations where direct cabling is lacking by using the existing local IT infrastructure.

The IP connection between the V-Series and Eclipse is made possible with Clear-Com’s new IVC-32 IP card, enabled by the I.V.Core technology. Each IVC-32 card supports up to 32 IP channels, with each matrix able to hold up to four cards—for a total of 128 possible V-Series IP panel connections directly to the frame.

Because IP connectivity is supplied by the user’s existing WAN or LAN network, all that is needed for connection on the Eclipse side is an Ethernet switch or router linked to the IT network.

“The IP-Enabled V-Series panels are part of Clear-Com’s strategy toward ubiquitous communication across the broadcast environment,” said Simon Browne, senior product manager at Clear-Com. “Thanks to the flexibility of the I.V.Core technology, V-Series panel users previously isolated from a facility’s matrix intercom can now tap into that system, benefiting from the inherent reliability and functionality of its Time-Division Multiplexing (TDM)-based architecture no matter where they are located.”

Also newly available as an internal option module for the V-Series panels is the V-Series T-Adaptor, which allows the panel to connect digitally back to the Eclipse over single shielded twisted-pair cable. This digital audio and data connection keeps the V-Series panel “intelligent,” retaining all its power with the single exception of binaural audio.

The new line of IP-Enabled V-Series panels offers the same forms, features and functions as non-IP panels. All 12- or 24-key, lever or button V-Series rackmount and desktop panels come with 8-shift pages, including one dedicated key for answer-reply, and with individual mix level control. All panels feature the “Listen Again” technology, which employs digital audio memory to allow the user to replay 30 seconds of received incoming calls, aiding communication in noisy and demanding environments.

Clear-Com, a brand of The Vitec Group, will be at booth C6521.