News

NEW OPTOCORE SYSTEM FOR DÜSSELDORF SCHAUSPIELHAUS

Munich, June, 14th, 2013

Custom firmware allows connection to fire alarm system

With more than 100 years of tradition behind it, the Düsseldorf Schauspielhaus is among the largest and most important theatres operating in the German speaking countries. Since 1970 it has been located in the Bernhard Peacock building at Gustaf-Gründgens space where it was spectacularly designed by architect Bernhard Pfau. The sculptural structure boasts curvaceous lines, is staggered in height, is divided into a large house (with 760 seats) and a small house with up to 200 seats.

It also contains the ‘Young Schauspielhaus Dusseldorf-Rath’, with separate 300 and 100 seat theatre spaces. Designed “to respond to the challenges of a globalized world” at the same time it hosts local artists and institutions as well as other art forms including dance, experimental music and the visual arts.

To keep up to date with modern technical requirements the theatre recently upgraded its network distribution by installing an Optocore fibre digital backbone. In order to meet safety requirements and conform to legislation, the house system is now interfaced to the fire alarm/voice evacuation system via one of the modified Optocore X6R-FX units. Optocore dealer, Synthax, provided a number of modules to installation contractor, Salzbrenner Stagetec Media Group enabling them to provide a fully redundant distribution system from stage to FOH.

Auditorium, Duesseldorf Theatre, Germany

Salzbrenner’s rack design revolved around two central Optocore DD32R-FX AES-EBU hubs from which the network is constructed, and includes a number of Optocore/SANE converters connected to the Yamaha mixing platforms. These include X6R-FX providing 16LI (Line In) channels and V3R-TP-8LI. In addition six X6R-FX are equipped with 8MI (Mic In)/8LO (Line Out) boards, with four V3R-TP-8LO, X6R-FX-16MI, X6R-TP-8MI/8LO and X6R-TP-16LO.

The new technology has provided more flexible routing options for sound engineer, Hans-Jürgen Becker and the Schauspielhaus technical team. Said Synthax Optocore product specialist, Kai Reiter, who supported the installation, “Optocore are well known for their flexibility and customised solutions. This time, in addition to the state-of-the-art high channel count platform, they delivered the unique fire alarm firmware, which allows the fire alarm to trigger the Optocore system mute. Thanks to this feature the Playhouse passed all the rigorous safety tests and conforms to fire regulations.”

OPTOCORE'S NEW INTERCOM INTERFACES MAKE U.S. DEBUT AT INFOCOMM 2013

Munich, June, 13th, 2013

Used with IC44 Boards, Generic X6R-FX and V3R-FX Enable Reduced Channel Needs

Optocore, the leading provider of scalable, high-bandwidth, low-latency fiber-optic networks for the transmission of audio, video and data in a variety of markets, including pro AV, live and fixed installations and broadcast, is demoing its new generic X6R-FX-INTERCOM-IC44 and V3R-FX-INTERCOM-IC444 interfaces at the Clear-Com booth (921) during InfoComm 2013. The new interfaces are the latest in Optocore’s portfolio of intercom solutions designed specifically for Clear-Com, RTS and AES3-based intercoms.

The X6R-FX-INTERCOM-IC444 has eight line inputs, eight line outputs, eight GPI and eight GPO with relay and auxiliary power outputs for external circuits. The V3R-FX-INTERCOMIC444 features four line inputs, four line outputs, four GPI and four GPO with relay and auxiliary power outputs for external circuits. The line’s name derives from the IC444 board, which is equipped with two 37-pole connectors, one male, the other female, and provides four line inputs, four line outputs and four GPIO. The X6R-FX can be equipped with two IC444 boards, and the V3R-FX with a single IC444 board.

X6R-FX-INTERCOM-IC444

V3R-FX-INTERCOMIC444

Optocore developed the audio-based intercom interfaces after fulfilling a custom order for the Norwegian state broadcaster, NRK, with similar systems. For that order, Optocore worked with sister company BroaMan to populate the 4LI/4LO board with four GPIOs to enable bidirectional communication, while incorporating 3G/HD/SD-SDI connectivity in order to allow camera signals to be routed via a single fiber connection to an OB van. This signal can then be uplinked back to the broadcast center, with the monitor picture transmitted to the speaker in the opposite direction.

“These new intercom solutions provide users with a highly cost-effective option for permanent installation and live broadcast applications,” said Tine Helmle, director, Optocore. “The addition of the GPI/GPO connections adds even more value to the product, enabling the user to achieve a higher level of communication.”

OPTOCORE APPOINTS OLTBERT ITS EXCLUSIVE DISTRIBUTOR IN RUSSIA

Munich, May 16th, 2013

Optocore, a leading choice for powering professional audio, video and data transmission networks in a variety of markets, including broadcast, post production and AV, is proud to announce that it has named Oltbert, Ltd. its exclusive distributor in Russia. The two companies have been working together since 2012. Moving forward, Oltbert will oversee all sales, service and support of Optocore’s technology in Russia, further strengthening Optocore’s worldwide reputation.

“Optocore’s audio transport systems are smart, cost-effective solutions offering a very good extension of intercom systems, one of our main focuses,” says Alexander Trukhanov, Head of the Broadcast Department, Oltbert. “We came to know the team at Optocore through its relationship with Clear-Com, a major U.S.-based intercom manufacturer that we also represent here in Russia.”

Optocore MADI-8-port-DPC

Optocore MADI-16-port-DPC

Oltbert will stock all Optocore system components, including BroaMan’s full range of network solutions. Oltbert has been representing Clear-Com in Russia since 2003 and has a long history of developing the business of foreign companies for the Russian market. Some of Oltbert’s highprofile customers include TTC Ostankino, The Bolshoy Theatre, Channel 1 and NTV, all based in Moscow, as well as the Mariinskiy Theatre in Saint-Petersburg, among others.

"We are very excited to be working with Oltbert and are looking forward to a successful and prosperous relationship,” says Tine Helmle, director, Optocore. “The Russian market has always been a high priority for Optocore and Broaman, as we already have quite a few applications in Russian theaters and stadiums to date. Having such a well-known and reliable partner such as Oltbert will certainly help us to further increase the awareness of both brands in Russia."

SOUND.COM and Optocore mastermind opening of IPL

Munich, May 6th, 2013

Since 2010, SOUND.COM has been at the forefront of some of the biggest sporting and entertainment events in India.

Therefore, when the company embarked, at the beginning of the new financial year with the Opening Ceremonies for Indian Premier League, the world-leading Twenty20 cricket championship, they were confident they could put on an audio spectacle to match similar ceremonies, starting with the Commonwealth Games 2010, The National Games in Ranchi and the Oman Tattoo in Muscat.

Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata, India, before Opening

The multi-purpose Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata was chosen to host the opening ceremony of the cricketing franchise this year with the inauguration promising to be one of the most spectacular events ever witnessed. Built in 1984, the stadium is the largest in India and the second largest in the world with a capacity of 120,000. With its astroturf surface the facility primarily caters to football matches and has also hosted athletic events in the past.

But according to SOUND.COM MD, Warren Dsouza, it isn’t an easy venue in which to design and deploy an audio system. “It takes a lot of experience, and one has to work through a lot of infrastructure related obstacles in order to put a system together.”

With bases in Mumbai and Delhi, SOUND.COM sent a proposal to main contractors, Dutch based Poly Worldwide Entertainment setting out their credentials. “The belief that they had chosen the right audio company in India was established as soon as we opened our flight cases,” he said. “We had had everyone inspecting and admiring our Optocore digital transport system and our self-styled OptoRacks,” he said. The latter combined a large number of Optocore devices with Dolby Lake processing, and the Optocore network was wired in a redundant ring for fibre failure back-up. Additionally there was an analogue back-up to each amplifier position.

“This technology has allowed SOUND.COM to scale to any level of audio production, no matter how big the stage is. But nothing takes away from the human element — and the ability to integrate all this is the ultimate key to a successful show,” said D’Souza.

The successful cooperation between SOUND.COM sound engineer Sunil Karanjikar and co engineer, Poly Worldwide’s Fred den Dulk, with their respective teams, had been the underlying reason for a successful show, he said. A large JBL VerTec PA system was rigged, driven by Crown ITech-HD 12000 and LabGruppen PLM10000Q amplifiers, with every loudspeaker element networked and controlled using the Lake controller and Harman’s Performance Manager.

Sound.Com deployed four OptoRacks, each consisting of 1 x DD32R-FX and 1 X6R- FX (16 Mic In) units. One each was positioned at the console, stage left, stage right and at a central delay position for the delay arc. Also available were Optocore DD32R-FX, DD4MR-FX, DD2FR-FX MADI interfaces, although on this occasion the event was not multitracked.

Sound.com & Optocore devices in harmony

Finally, the racks also housed a network switch that ran via a spare fibre link in the cabling, to help provide network control over the Dolby Lake devices. Stated Sunii Karanjikar, “Optical isolation allowed us to run the various positions on different gen- sets without having to worry about power induced issues.”However, the stadium would get extremely hot and humid — as high as 38°C — and so all devices had to be continually monitored for overheating.

And here Optocore came to the rescue, as Sunil Karanjikar explained. “Though the network switches developed a communication error because of the heat, the Optocore devices performed flawlessly and we were able to use the System Ethernet option on the Optocores to regain control of the Lake devices which we had lost.” For headline act Pitbull, the touring engineers had specified Avid consoles and SOUND.COM supplied the entire kit and backline gear for the act as well.

The consoles were patched into the PA and monitors using Dolby Lake devices and the input matrix feature on the devices helped to match multiple consoles. Summing up, Warren Dsouza said, “The main challenges were really logistics — weather, rigging, getting the gear into the stadium with West Bengal waybill bureaucracy. Actually the business of putting the kit together and executing the show was a breeze.”

And Sunil Karanjikar added, “As for the Optocore, the visiting engineer specifically commented as to how the network seemed a lot faster using this system than on a dedicated IT network switch.”

OPTOCORE SUCCEED AT PROLIGHT+SOUND 2013

Munich, April 22nd, 2013

The Optocore team celebrated the 20th anniversary of its groundbreaking technology at this year’s Frankfurt Prolight+Sound (and ten years since the founding of the company in Munich).

A large contingency from the international trade media joined in the celebrations on the opening day, enjoying traditional Bavarian apfelkuchen and champagne, while in an address, founder Marc Brunke presented some of the company highlights over the years.

The following day Optocore entertained around 40 of their key customers, OEM partners and resellers at a special business lunch where the main item on the menu was Bavarian weisswurst (white sausage).

Said Tine Helmle, “We couldn't have asked for a more appropriate location to celebrate this milestone. Many thanks to all the trade press and customers who helped make the occasion so memorable.”

OPTOCORE LAUNCH GENERIC INTERCOM INTERFACES
AT FRANKFURT

Munich, April 19th, 2013

Optocore, a world leader in fibre optic network solutions, has expanded its series of intercom interfaces — following the development of proprietary intercom systems for various OEM partners.

The new generic X6R-FX-INTERCOM-IC444 and V3R-FX-INTERCOM-IC444 interfaces will make their world debut at this month’s Prolight+Sound Show in Frankfurt (April 10-13).

The nomenclature is derived from the IC444 board, which is equipped with two 37-pole connectors — one male, the other female — and provides 4 Line Inputs, 4 Line Outputs and 4 GPIO. The X6R-FX can be equipped with two IC444 boards while the V3R-FX can be equipped with a single IC444 board.

X6R-FX-INTERCOM-IC444
V3R-FX-INTERCOM-IC444

These latest solutions are the result of fulfilling a custom request from Norwegian state broadcaster, NRK. On that occasion Optocore’s sister company, BroaMan, populated the 4LI/4LO board with four GPIO’s to enable bidirectional communication — but provided SDI enhancement, to allow camera signals to be routed via a single fibre connection to an OB vehicle and be uplinked to the broadcast centre (with monitor picture transmitted to the speaker in the opposite direction).

“This version of the Intercom device with the reduced channel count (4/4) is a highly cost effective option for permanent installation and broadcast applications. Additionally it offers the GPI/ GPO connections, which adds further value to the new product,” says Tine Helmle, Director of Sales and Marketing.

Due to the success of this, Optocore have now produced the two audio-based intercom equivalents.

The main features of the X6R-FX-INTERCOM-IC444 are: 8 Line Inputs; 8 Line Outputs; 8 GPI; 8 GPO with relay; auxiliary power outputs for external circuits The main features of the V3R-FX-INTERCOM-IC444.are: 4 Line Inputs; 4 Line Outputs; 4 GPI; 4 GPO with relay; auxiliary power outputs for external circuits. Both products are now shipping, and are available ex-stock.

OPTOCORE: 20 YEARS OF PIONEERING HISTORY

Munich, April 15th, 2013

April 2013, Munich, Germany … Optocore GmbH was founded in 2003 to manufacture and distribute the Optocore fibre optic digital network system created, trademarked and patented in the early ‘90s, and supply a range of devices to accompany it.

But the Optocore story really begins more than a decade before that. In 1991, Optocore founder Marc Brunke was a teenager playing saxophone in a band. “We were onstage somewhere, and the sound system had a very bad snake, with noise, hum, and all sorts of problems,” Brunke recalls. “I thought that professionals would be using fibre optics for their snakes and did some research to find one. But I discovered that, in fact, no one at all was making them — so I started to build one.”

Marc Brunke, President & Founder of Optocore GmbH

Still at school, the following year he entered the design he had created into the Bundesjugend Forscht, a German science competition for students. Receiving more than 10,000 entries a year in seven subject areas, it is the largest competition of its type in Europe.

Brunke won, which garnered him meetings with then Chancellor Helmut Kohl and other government dignitaries. As a result, in 1993 Brunke began to develop his optical network system in earnest. This marked the birth of the Optocore system — celebrating its 20th birthday this year — as it became the world’s first fibre optic network system designed explicitly for transmitting real-time digital media.

Optocore achieves lift-off
By 1996, Brunke was ready to unleash his vision on the world, and the first Optocore modules were shown at the Frankfurt Musik Messe/Prolight+Sound expo. A digital fibre optic network system was radical way back then, and this was the first year any network designed for digital audio had been shown. While the Optocore system was more powerful and technologically advanced than the Ethernet-based systems that were appearing at the same time, there is often resistance to change, and fibre optics was a less familiar technology to the audio community. And so educating the market became one of Brunke’s top priorities.

By the time three years had elapsed, the market was steadily responding to Marc Brunke’s innovations and demand for Optocore products was increasing. The dotcom wave was peaking at that time, and developers were in high demand. Brunke Electronic, as the company was still known, was growing.

The first optocore devices in 1996

Around the same time, Marc Brunke met Rüdiger Bormann, who would become Optocore’s head of analogue R&D. Bormann was then working for loudspeaker manufacturer Opal Audio Vertrieb GmbH, and saw potential for synergy between the two companies. Brunke agreed and the two companies combined forces. The first fruit of the collaboration came quickly, with the launch of the first LX4 devices (stage and FOH ADA boxes for live sound) in 2000. The outcome was the reliable, fibre optic snake that Marc Brunke had first set out to build seven years earlier.

Permanent installations
Permanent installation like stadiums, theatres, opera houses and congress centres are the key markets for Optocore. Increasingly, theatres and opera venues around the world began turning to Optocore networks to meet their needs, sensing that the Optocore system not only satisfied their current requirements, but provided a growth path to the future. The Parma Theatre in Italy, the Cirque Royal / Koninklijk Circus in Brussels (Belgium), the Mozarteum in Salzburg (Austria), the Bastille Opera in Paris (France) and the America Gardens Theatre at Epcot in Orlando (USA) were just some of the permanent installations that took place during the early part of the millennium.

Sports stadiums nowadays double as event locations and sophisticated sound and network systems are expected for spectacular shows. Two of the most outstanding stadiums featuring Optocore networks are the Olympic Stadium in Berlin, which has been relying on Optocore since 2004, and the GM Place in Vancouver, which started working with a complex Optocore network in 2008.

In the five years since, major Optocore solutions have been provided in large scale venues throughout the world. Some of these include Opera Bastille and Opera de Lille (France); Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi and Royal Opera House Muscat, Oman (Middle East); Swedish Theatre, Helsinki, Stockholm Concert House and Aarhus Theater, (Scandinavia); Metrapark Arena, Montana, Banff Centre, Canada, Luxor Hotel, Las Vegas and Fantasyland Theater, Los Angles (North America); Cheong Sim World Peace Center, Seoul, and Tokyu Theatre Orb, Japan (Far East) and High School for Musik Karlsruhe and Düsseldorfer Schauspielerhaus (Germany).

Broadcast applications
Besides the permanent installation market, broadcast was always one of the key markets for Optocore devices. One of the first radio stations equipped with Optocore was Polskie Radio, Warsaw in 1996. With the ability to transport numerous audio channels, video and data safely over extremely long distances, with redundancy (and virtually no latency) Optocore started to find a home in OB vans all over the world — for instance the NBC in New York (Saturday night show), BBC TV and Radio OB trucks in the UK, the CBC Radio OB van in Canada and more recently Mediaset, Italy.

Products: Olympic rings meet Optocore rings
The dawning of the new millennium found the digital revolution finally taking hold in audio production outside of the recording studio and permanent installations, bringing with it the need to move multiple channels of digital audio into and out of Optocore networks. The first response to this requirement came with the release of the DD32 in 2002, which allowed 32 AES/EBU streams to be interfaced with the Optocore system. With the ability to move many channels between the Optocore system and either the analogue domain or the predominant digital audio format, the system quickly came into its own and the world started to take notice … so much notice, in fact, that Optocore GmbH was finally founded in 2003.

The new company lost no time in its development programme, adding interfaces for getting signals in and out of the Optocore network, and releasing the X6-series 16 channel analogue-AES/EBU converter units. These can be fully integrated into the Optocore network by the DD32E and serve as converter units in stand-alone applications.

The incorporation of Optocore happened not a moment too soon, as 2004 proved to be a big year for the firm. While business generally boomed, the clear highlight was the use of the Optocore system to carry the audio for the opening and closing ceremonies of the 2004 Summer Olympic Games in Athens. For the Olympic Stadium, packed with 72,000 spectators, more than 40 Optocore devices, connected by more than four kilometres of fibre, in two separate redundant rings, carried the audio for the spectacular opening pageant, as well as for the parade of dignitaries and host of Greek musicians that graced the Closing Ceremony.

Scaling Olympic heights
The successful use of Optocore technology for the Athens Olympics brought an unprecedented amount of attention to the system, and made 2005 the year in which it became the ‘must have’ technology for massive events, including New Years Eve in Times Square, the U.S. Presidential Inauguration ceremony, New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival and the Pope’s World Youth Day in Cologne. Many events made use of the new DD32E, which, for the first time, added the ability to synchronise an OPTOCORE network to an external word clock. Over the next two years, Optocore maintained its brisk pace, releasing five new products and supporting an increasing number of prestigious events and installations worldwide.

New Year’s Eve 2008 heralded a banner year for Optocore, with the foundation of the audio system used in the renowned Times Square celebration. As the year progressed, Optocore continued to supply signature events, while cementing its role as an open network platform (with transport of open standards such as AES/EBU, MADI, DMX or MIDI in full size), establishing technical partnerships with industryleading digital console manufacturers such as Studer, Soundcraft, Neumann and Digidesign to augment its existing relationships with Yamaha and DiGiCo. The 2008 release of the DD2FE Optical MADI interface added seamless interfacing with Studer and Soundcraft consoles.

In August, Optocore was once again called on to serve as the backbone for the audio system at the Opening and Closing Ceremonies of the Beijing Summer Olympics at the Bird’s Nest Stadium. And barely a month later, Optocore North America, Inc. was set up in Toronto, Canada. It seemed that the company would find it difficult to top such a year — yet it managed to do so in the first month of 2009, when the Optocore system was selected for use during the historic inauguration of U.S. President, Barack Obama. In fact the company has kept up these traditions, supplying huge fibre infrastructures for the Opening and Closing Ceremonies at the London Olympics last year and two major networks for President Barack Obama’s second presidential inauguration on January 21, 2013.

Other recent developments for Optocore have been setting up of several successful OEM partnerships. First they enabled Clear-Com, the global giant in voice communications systems, to offer digital fibre and SANE CAT5 networks for real-time data, network, word clock and audio signal distribution. Then they produced similar versions of their V3R-INTERCOM-FX and X6R-INTERCOM-FX devices for RTSTelex before partnering with Duran Audio to produce a digital audio interface for the Dutch company’s Intellivox range of AXYS® products. It took the world 15 years to catch up with Marc Brunke’s vision of a reliable, highquality, versatile, cost-effective network for audio, video, and data. But the Optocore system, having been proven time and again to be all of those things, is now the professional’s choice for critical applications.

In the past few years, Optocore has continued to go from strength to strength, pursuing a path of extending partnerships with other manufacturers, developing a much greater eco-policy with the development of the more efficient ‘R’ series and taken a much more dynamic approach to providing MADI interfaces. It has also played a major role at the London Olympics Opening and Closing ceremonies … while still finding time to set up a dedicated sister company, BroaMan, whose products are aimed primarily at broadcasters and any applications requiring customised SD/HD/3G video transport or routing solutions.

CLEAR-COM, OPTOCORE AND BROAMAN HOST JOINT DEMONSTRATIONS OF REAL WORLD SIGNAL DISTRIBUTION AT PROLIGHT + SOUND 2013

Companies Showcase Digital Distribution of Audio, HD Video, Data and Intercom over Fiber

Munich, April 12th, 2013

Clear-Com® (Hall 8, Stand L51), a global leader in critical voice communication systems is highlighting its expanded partnership with fiber network specialists, Optocore and BroaMan at Prolight + Sound 2013 (Hall 8, Stand G41). The companies are utilizing Optocore technology for integrated real-time transport, routing, conversion and management of professional video, audio and data. Together, Clear-Com, Optocore and BroaMan provide turnkey integrated real-time solutions for stage, outdoor productions and industrials.

X6R-FX-Intercom-ClearCom

“At this year’s Prolight + Sound, we’re looking to illustrate how easy it is for professional live event production companies handling a large remote event to set up a video, audio, communications and data backbone quickly and efficiently utilizing Clear-Com, and BroaMan and Optocore solutions,” says Bob Boster, President of Clear-Com. “We are happy to partner with Optocore and BroaMan once again to bring further connectivity options to our users.”

V3R-FX-Intercom-ClearCom

To demonstrate the partnership, Clear-Com and Optocore have connected their stands via fiber-optic cable. Both stands are linked with the Optocore and BroaMan real-time fiber solutions for audio, HD video, intercom and data. To create a live production, two strands of fiber will connect the Clear-Com stand to the Optocore stand (Hall 8.0, Stand G41). Optocore and BroaMan products will be transporting HD video, audio-playback and talkback to one of the kiosks within the Clear-Com stand.

“We have developed the BroaMan video products to help support the transport of video signals along with audio, data and intercom via our Optocore network,” says Tine Hemle Managing Director, BroaMan. “We are glad to be working with Clear-Com to demonstrate the possibilities of our solutions.”

About Clear-Com ®
Clear-Com, an HME company, is a global provider in professional voice communications systems since 1968. We develop and market proven intercom technologies such as Analog & Digital Partyline, Digital Matrix, Wireless and Intercom-over-IP systems for critical communication applications in broadcast, performance venues, military, government and enterprise markets. Recognized for our legacy of intercom innovations, production teams around the world have come to depend on Clear-Com for clear, reliable and scalable communications solutions. For more information, please visit www.clearcom.com.

About Optocore
Based in Munich, Germany, Optocore is the world market leading provider of scalable, high- bandwidth, low–latency fiber-optic networks for the transmission of audio, video and data. For 19 years, Optocore has been continuously innovating and setting new standards with regards to digital network technology. Optocore builds and develops synchronous optical fiber and CAT5 based network solutions for broadcast professionals, fixed installations and live event applications. Utilizing leading-edge technology and high-quality components Optocore guarantees durability and therefore long-term market and customer satisfaction. Due to the open system architecture, Optocore’s platform offers other manufacturers the option to transfer conventional standard audio, video and data formats used in the pro audio industry, via a fiber and CAT5 network. Technical expertise, QoS and an extensive support structure are guaranteed to all customers, together with the highest level of quality controls. For more information, visit www.optocore.com.

About BroaMan
BroaMan, (Broadcast Manufactur GmbH) based in München-Gräfelfing, Germany, manufactures infrastructure solutions for broadcast applications such as studios, OB vans or sporting events. The turnkey solutions convert, transport and route all types of commonly used broadcast signals, including digital and analog video, audio, intercom, and control data, over a high-bandwidth fiber infrastructure. If required, this includes format conversions, e.g. from copper to fiber or from analog to digital, as well as routing of signals based on automatic or manual rules, up/down scalers, frame synchronizers, and many more features. The company offers customized solutions for every application that requires 3G/HD/SD-SDI video transport or routing—whether a big and complex system for broadcast studio or OB Van, or a simple point to point for a small church or conference hall. For more information visit: www.broaman.com.

OPTOCORE TAKES X GAMES TO THE EXTREME

GB4D simplifies the network distribution high in the French Alps

Munich, April 9th, 2013

X Games, the annual event, controlled and arranged by the U.S. sports broadcaster ESPN, focuses on action sports.

Inaugurated in 1995 as two seasonal events, for the fourth year the Winter X Games moved outside the US to the skiing and snowboarding haven of Tignes in the French Alps recently, where more than 125 athletes from all over the globe competed. In addition to X Games Tignes, 2013 is also the first year that the event has gone truly global, with other events taking place in Aspen (USA), Foz De Iguaçu (Brazil), Barcelona (Spain), Munich (Germany) and Los Angeles (USA).

Superpipe, X Games, Tignes, France

Brought in to assist with the sophisticated audio signal distribution was experienced rental company, Gilles Bouvard Events and Entertainment (GB4D) — who are specialists at big event productions of this nature (working in extreme conditions). Bouvard has long been an advocate of Optocore’s optical fibre network solutions, and once again a large deployment of the German company’s interfaces ensured successful signal flow within a redundant system.

Bouvard confirmed, “The audio vendor for the X Games was my former associate, Julien Terrier with his new company A+ Events. I suggested to him that Optocore be used to provide all the fibre network signal distribution.” The event in France was co-produced by Canal+ Events on behalf of ESPN, and GB4D provided virtually all the audio equipment for the competition zones, to assist A+ Events. This included the control tower audio boards and FOH equipment, the fibre network, the PA, cabling and some of the freelance technicians. They also provided the event video distribution.

Superpipe, X Games, Tignes, France

The audio transmission was based around two Optocore loops — one ring for the Super Pipe competition area, with five X6R-FX network converters for the main PA and one for the VIP area, and a second for the Slope Style competition area, with two X6R-FX interfaces. The master control room was equipped with two DD2FR-FX (offering MADI ports), two DD32R-FX (AES-EBU) and an X6R-FX — and the entire Optocore system was controlled from a single desktop PC.

For signal transport, since the distances between nodes were long, GB4D used mainly 300m Neutrik XTREME fibres for all links. The primary ring measured a distance of 2.1km and the secondary 600m (constructed around 12 nodes, plus spares). L’Acoustics LA8 and Lab Gruppen PLM10000Q amplifiers fed the main PA hangs and the Super Pipe’s deck fills were remote controlled via Optocore’s LAN.

Inputs included background music, live DJ, wireless announcer microphones, various media and advertisement sources and TV truck feeds. “For the announcers, the wireless links were greatly simplified thanks to the Optocore network, and the ease of feeding signals into the system from various nodes,” confirmed Gilles. “As for the outputs, the Optocore fibre network allowed a simple routing of the various signals feeding the amplifiers all around the site, and the possibilities offered by macros allowed a simplified routing and ease of modification for all the various live and recording feeds.” GB4D designed a redundant FOH position, deploying two Midas digital desks, fully backed-up.

Well experienced sound engineer, Piotr Skotnicki, controlroom

Gilles Bouvard compared the challenge of working high in the Alps, with the opposite climatic extreme — since GB4D recently deployed a vast Optocore and BroaMan network over a huge distance for Kuwait’s 50th Constitution Day celebration. “In fact there is little difference,” he said. “On the one hand we have the high temperatures and sand storms, on the other the very low temperatures and snow. We find ourselves in two similar extreme situations and we have to find reliable solutions. “I think that working in those difficult environments helps us develop a real technical expertise. We have learned to adapt technically to those constraints, for example with the PA and cabling, but more essentially for the monitoring of the systems, which is crucial in this type of event and in these conditions. The use of an Optocore network simplifies this enormously.”

With X Games in particular, as the event develops globally, so the technical challenges increase exponentially, as the time frames reduce. “Reliability is fundamental,” continues Bouvard. “All the vendors present here are snow and mountain specialists, so we are ready for the challenges of these technical constraints.” Summarising the project he had nothing but praise for the role played by Optocore. “The ease of the Optocore implementation was a major step forward for this project. The most notable aspects were the simplification of the routing system and increased reliability of the wiring on site, the total redundancy and a real-time monitoring of all system components.”

He added that technicians, François Lund, Patrice Giono and Piotr Skotnicki had worked at X Games Tignes since its first appearance there in 2010; all three are certified Optocore technicians, and were again responsible for realising the design, implementation and operation of this year’s event.

OPTOCORE CERTIFICATION TRAINING 2013

Munich, March 15th, 2013

Due to the constantly increasing global demand for the fiber optic OPTOCORE network, OPTOCORE has successfully offered Optocore Certification Training (OCT) seminars in several countries around the world. The growing demand for OCT seminars reaffirms the success of the company’s strategy to better understand the needs of the customers by offering continuous seminars.

" Optocore Certification Training (OCT) is approved as a renewal unit provider for InfoComm’s CTS certifications. After June 1st 2012 each attendee who completes the training and test will receive three InfoComm CTS Renewal Units toward their CTS, CTS-I, CTS-D re- certification."

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If you would like to schedule an OCT seminar at your location please send an email to l.barry@optocore.com, this option is open to all Optocore customers and can be arranged at your convenience.

OPTOCORE APPOINTS SOUND NETWORK AS UK DISTRIBUTOR

Munich, Feb 27th, 2013

German-based optical fibre network specialist, Optocore GmbH, has appointed Sound Network as its new distributor in the UK.

Based in Central London, and perfectly placed to serve the broadcast, theatre, install and touring segments of the market, Sound Network see the move as a logical fit. “The Optocore product line dovetails perfectly with our existing product mix and we look forward to introducing customers to the benefits of this impressive solution,” stated director Ralph Dunlop.

Optocore Sales & Marketing Director, Tine Helmle, agreed. “With our growing penetration of both large scale events and the permanent installation market we are delighted to be partnering with such an experienced and well qualified company.”

from the left: Maciek Janiszewski-Optocore, Pete Wandless & Peter Holmes-Sound Network, Tine Helmle-Optocore

Dunlop added that his company had held an interest in the Optocore product line for several years. “In 2012 we felt we had the necessary resources in place to support a complex system of this type,” he stated. “Serious discussion on developing a distribution partnership kicked off at IBC Amsterdam in August, and we are delighted to have now finalised this agreement.”

Optocore will make its debut under the new arrangement on the Sound Network booth (B55) at the BVE Show at London Excel on February 26. “BVE is the obvious forum to announce our new relationship, and we will be giving all relevant professional users the opportunity to discuss the Optocore products and their requirements for the future.”

At the same time, with Peter Holmes as product manager, Sound Network will be working closely with customers and dealers to support existing Optocore deployments, plus developing expanded relationships with system consultants and integrators.

Summing up, Ralph Dunlop said, “Sound Network is very excited about the new association with Optocore. With our additional expansion into the area of digital broadcasting, we are very aware of the importance of reliable, elegant, efficient and versatile data transfer in the modern audio world.

“We see Optocore as the most pioneering and enthusiastic providers of such products, together with obvious benefits over and above the competition. Consequently, we will not only be able to bring Optocore into existing marketing channels, as we will be addressing many of the same potential end-users, but embark on strategic communication towards other vertical market segments.”

OPTOCORE TECHNOLOGY SUPPORTS AUDIO FOR THE 2013 U.S. PRESIDENTIAL INAUGURATION

Munich, Feb 20th, 2013

Maryland Sound International Utilizes Optocore Network Rings for Signal Distribution and Monitoring

When audio integrator Maryland Sound International (MSI) was once again tasked with supplying the main audio system for President Barack Obama’s second presidential inauguration on January 21, 2013, the company employed two Optocore Networks. MSI, a longtime user of Optocore technology, a leading choice for powering professional audio, video and data transmission networks in a variety of markets, including broadcast, post production and AV, chose the networks for their multiple levels of redundancy and reputation of superior reliability. This marks the third presidential inauguration in a row for which MSI has chosen Optocore equipment for the critical audio distribution.

With the ceremony taking place on the grounds of the Capitol in Washington, D.C. in January, MSI was faced with unpredictable winter conditions as well as a long transmission path back to MSI’s Front-of-House position, nearly 2,000 feet from the last speaker tower. MSI and audio designer Patrick Baltzell needed a way to distribute audio signals with as few conversions as possible in order to ensure the approximately 1,000,000 attendees of the ceremony heard every word.

MSI chose Optocore Network technology in order to drive the signal chain directly from the Yamaha PM5D FOH mixing console using Optocore YG2 Yamaha cards that were connected with redundant fiber cabling to the locations of the loudspeaker processors and amplifiers. This provided MSI with lossless digital transmission, which is critical in order to properly transport the audio with crisp sound and clarity over such a long distance transmission path without any glitches.

“The Optocore Networks we put in place for this year’s ceremony certainly made access to all of the amplifiers, signal processors and overall signal distribution far easier and more reliable than in the past,” says Brian Bednar, system technician, MSI. “This time around, everything was more streamlined and faster to set up and tear down at the end of the event.”

The main Optocore Network consisted of one YG2 card in the Yamaha PM5D FOH mixing console connected to an Optocore DD32 networked AES/EBU device on stage right and another DD32 on stage left. Each DD32 was connected to an Optocore X6P-8/8 analog converter and a Dolby DLP loudspeaker processor via AES. The X6P converters gave MSI the ability to feed all the devices that were not AES and/or not driven through the Dolby processor units.

The second Optocore Network consisted of one YG2 card in the PM5D connected to an Optocore DD32R-FX networked AES/EBU device at delay zone 1 (700 feet away) and another DD32R-FX at delay zone 2 (1500 feet away). Each DD32R-FX was connected to an Optocore X6P-16IN analog converter and a Dolby processor via AES. Both networks featured redundant fiber connections.

The DD32R-FX proved to be a helpful add-on for this year’s sound system, with its built-in network-wide Ethernet switch. The Optocore Network allowed MSI easy access to the Dolby DLP loudspeaker processors and amplifiers located off the main site. With a broad part of the sound system offsite, it was then easier to maintain control and monitoring of all the devices on the network to see if they were functioning to MSI’s specifications.

“It is my role to help the FOH engineer tune the system, so having access to all parts of the system at all times in order to make changes without my needing to leave the FOH position is invaluable,” says Art Isaacs, project manager, MSI. “The X6P-16IN converters gave us the functionality to run measurement microphones from multiple city blocks away back to the FOH position. Using the Optocore system proved itself to us in many ways. The sound system was extremely quiet due to the all-AES based drive system. Ethernet access to all of the online devices proved extremely helpful and provided great flexibility. I can only hope that in 2017, we can continue to work with Optocore systems to further enhance the sound system.”

The relationship between Optocore and MSI goes back for almost a decade. “Optocore has been part of MSI’s rental inventory since 2004,” says Tine Helmle, director, Optocore. “We are proud to provide MSI with the solutions it needed to ensure the audio was heard loud and clear during such an important and historic U.S. event as the presidential inauguration. We look forward to working with them well into the future.”

OPTOCORE APPOINTS PRASE TO BOOST ITALIAN INSTALL

Munich, Feb 5th, 2013

Fibre network giant, Optocore GmbH, has made a significant change to its distribution arrangements in Italy, appointing Prase Engineering S.p.A to handle the installation/contractor sector.

Following the direct contact between the two companies at Prolight+Sound in Frankfurt last year the agreement was confirmed by Optocore marketing director Tine Helme and Ennio Prase, founder of the Venice-based company.

“This opens up an important new channel in Italy for us,” stated Helmle. “Ennio and his company fit perfectly with Optocore — they are strong in permanent install and the AV market, and with our new MADI switches we can hit both these markets.”

She added that the catalyst for the appointment had been Duran Audio, which Prase distributes, and with whom Optocore has a partnership arrangement.

Optocore Marketing Director Tine Helme & Ennio Prase, Founder of Prase Engineering S.p.A

Ennio Prase also welcomed the move. “It’s great that a major player is recognising the opportunities that exist here in large-scale contracting,” he stated. “We had known Optocore more for live sound applications in the past but we invest heavily in pro audio, and we needed a low-latency signal transport system to boost our infrastructure.”

With a workforce of 30 based in Venice Prase Engineering celebrates its 20th anniversary this year. Five of the company’s experienced engineers have already undergone full OCT (Optocore Certification Training) with support engineer Maciek Janiszewski and the company will now be introducing the various network solutions via carefully assembled demo racks and a series of open days.

Ennio Prase believes there are huge opportunities for Optocore in Italy — principally due to the fact that it’s an open platform. ”We are quoting on a series of huge projects including massive multi purpose halls where low latency will be a key factor. We are already working with transportation hubs (railway stations) and stadiums. Multi-purpose venues are becoming more and more popular — with the ability to host a variety of functions under one roof — and an Optocore network will help increase that versatility.”

Prase says he now plans to increase market penetration by opening a second office in Milan this spring.

Optocore to showcase new range of MADI switches at ISE

Munich, Jan 29th, 2013

German company cites many advantages of MADI over Ethernet

Optocore GmbH will be using ISE 2013 (RAI, Amsterdam) as a platform to launch the first of a revolutionary new range of dedicated MADI switches from its booth (3-A120).

Announcing the series, Optocore director, Tine Helmle, said, “We believe this to be the best solution for the professional AV market, largely because it is now a common standard — with MADI ports frequently used by manufacturers to offer clients a future-proofed, open platform, with price advantages.

On top of that, says Helme, this solution has many advantages over Ethernet. MADI switches are extremely price efficient, with low latency, low power consumption and fast set-up time — since they have been developed specifically for professional audio and video. These attributes are represented in Optocore’s new range.

The new devices will eventually develop into a complete MADI series of 16-port and 8-port switches, offering 16 x RJ45 MADI ports and 8 x RJ45 MADI ports. The MADI switches are equipped with two redundant high-speed 2Gbit fibre uplinks, which can carry all 16 MADI streams.

The switches will function in MADI over the Cat5 standard. This will be an addition to MADI over fibre and MADI over BNC, while the RJ45 used in the new products introduces a greater flexibility and simplifies the connection.

Each MADI port enables 64 in / 64 out point-to-point connection, as well as 100Mbit Ethernet — and on the same single Cat5 cable there are 128 audio channels and 100Mbit Ethernet.

At the same time the MADI switch enables routing of each individual channel, providing a 640 x 640 matrix for the 8-port switch and 1152 x 1152 for the 16-port. It can also matrix through the uplinks with a number of additional switches, providing not only audio switching and routing, but also functioning as an Ethernet switch.

All new MADI switches are fully compatible with Optocore and SANE — and offer data connectivity to the same level as Optocore FX devices.

Summarises Tine Helmle, “As an open platform, by introducing the MADI switches, Optocore is offering the customer a greater number of options with the best technical features, at the same time providing the lowest cost of ownership.”

OPTOCORE'S UNIQUE MIC SOLUTION GIVES TEATR ROZRYWKI INDEPENDENT GAIN CONTROL

Munich, Jan 18th, 2013

Optocore has played a vital role in the audio upgrade of Teatr Rozrywki, in the Silesian city of Chorzów.

Specialising mainly in staging popular musical productions, last year it undertook a full theatre renovation, and at the end of 2012 completed the modernisation of its audio infrastructure. Commencing with the small 100-capacity auditorium it then extended the refurbishment to the main 577-seat space.

The main challenge facing one of Poland’s leading design consultants, Piotr Kozłowski, and Wojciech Grządziel from integrators, Pracownia Akustyczna, was to provide independent gain control from the FOH and monitor positions. Pracownia Akustyczna (www.akustyczna.pl) has been responsible for all acoustical and electro-acoustical modernisation undertaken at the venue in the last few years. Piotr Kozłowski said, “We have been using digital audio networks in our designs for almost ten years. Many systems today use much more digital kit than analogue, so it is natural to want to use some kind of digital cable to glue all this signal jungle together.”

The obvious solution was for an Optocore X6R-DualMic topology — and thus the consultants based their system design on three X6R-FX-DualMic and nine X6R-TP-DualMic, creating 96 mic connections with independent gain control for every single channel. In addition, two X6R-TP-16LO interfaces were deployed as returns devices from the consoles — with all X6R units located in the stage rack.

For the FOH position the theatre commissioned two Yamaha M7CL-48 desks and these are equipped with Optocore YG2 and YS2 I/O cards that allow direct connection of Yamaha consoles to the Optocore network (the same card combination is used with the M7CL-48 down at the stage end).

As a result, all three Yamaha consoles are able to control the Optocore preamps via the German manufacturer’s unique Yamaha Emulation Mode. The two FOH consoles control the primary channels 1-96, while the monitor console operates selected secondary channels 1-48 or 49-96 — giving the respective sound engineers the unique ability to control the gain independently.

The third section of the system is installed in the amp room, where two Yamaha DME64N processors, fitted with YG2 cards, provide feeds to the L'Acoustics amplifiers, with a further Optocore DD2FR-FX MADI interface enabling the MADI connections.

Lukasz Tobola, technical director of Polish distributor, M.Ostrowski Sp.j., who supplied all the Optocore equipment, is more than satisfied with the solution (as is the theatre). “Optocore is one of our leading brands and well known in Poland,” he said, at the same time confirming that this is the biggest Optocore system installed in the country to date.

“It is a perfect solution for any system — whether large or small — as this flexible, scalable and elegant solution fits almost any application. The core requirement here was to switch to the digital domain, offering the same or better functionality than a traditional analogue theatre system, with a mic splitter.

“Optocore was the only solution that offered independent gain control of the real analogue preamps, without any digital tricks. The DualMic device is simply brilliant and will certainly become our best-seller in the Polish market."

SOUND.COM REVOLUTIONISES INDIA WORSHIP WITH OPTOCORE

Munich, Dec 18th, 2012

A massive spiritual convention, in which 350,0000 worshippers descended on the Indian city of Jalandhar, in the state of Punjab, over three days, saw the audio relayed over the vast site using an Optocore network, designed and supplied by the production company SOUND.COM.

Using Optocore’s 2.14 protocol in a ring topology, and a unique combination of single- and multi-mode fibre they were able to deliver the signal digitally over the large coverage area.

Warren Dsouza’s Mumbai-based live event production company has long been an advanced exponent of Optocore technology, exploiting large systems for events including the 2010 Commonwealth Games in Delhi and The Oman Tattoo in Muscat. For this mega peace rally, called the Divya Jyoti Jagriti Sansthan (DSM 2012), SOUND.COM was selected based on its excellent reputation.

Unique Spiritual Convention, Divya Jyoti Jagriti Sansthan 2012 , Jalandhar, India

“The organisers first needed the reassurance that we could deliver, and after we had walked the field 2,000 feet from the main stage to see how far and wide we needed to cover the audio, we realised that with Optocore control and digital transport there would be no problem. With solid networking, extensive audio processing and superlative measurement this was just another day in the office,” said Dsouza.

Fielding a top tier crew, SOUND.COM designed the system on an entire digital audio transport network utilising proven and reliable Optocore devices. “This provided the solid foundation and backbone of this project’s success, assisted by Dolby Lake processors that handled our delay and EQ over the large distances,” reports SOUND.COM’s MD. A redundant analogue back-up was provided as a precaution.

Sound.Com & Optocore "in action", Divya Jyoti Jagriti Sansthan , Jalandhar

The PA system, consisting primarily of JBL VerTec, comprised a total of ten sound towers all at an equal height of 48ft evenly distributed over a distance of 2000ft, with an array length of 12 boxes each. Warren Dsouza and SOUND.COM chief engineer, Sunil Karanjikar painstakingly measured each stack to ensure accurate delay measurements over the huge distances.

Each loudspeaker tower was assigned to an OptoRack, which distributed the signal and enabled local control. The immediate OptoRacks were linked to each other by Tactical Multi-Mode fibre cables and the redundant loop was closed by a 1.2 Km Single-Mode fibre cable — from the last delay stack back to FOH. “This is an outstanding feature of Optocore to be able to use a combination of Single- and Multi- Mode devices on the same unit, providing immense flexibility on projects like this,” notes Dsouza.

Optocore devices used in the installation included DD4MR-FX, DD2FR-FX, DD32R-FX, X6R-FX (16MI), X6R-TP (16 MI) and X6R-TP (16LO) interfaces.

“Optocore has given us an extremely robust and secure way of transporting broadcast quality audio on all our projects and the proficiency with which it does this really makes the task easy. I am really looking forward to the future and many more projects with Optocore,” says Sunil Karanjikar.

350.000 people listened, Divya Jyoti Jagriti Sansthan 2012, Jalandhar, India

The event itself was composed of prayers, discourses and devotional music with the highlight being the rich baritone voice belonging to His Holiness Shri Ashutosh Maharaj ji. “The moment everyone was waiting for was to hear his speech over the PA system,” reports Warren Dsouza. “At that point we knew it was it was ‘mission accomplished’.”

OPTOCORE PROVIDES LARGE SITE COVERAGE FOR KUWAIT 50th CONSTITUTION DAY

Munich, Nov 28th, 2012

Optocore network units played a key role in Kuwait’s 50th Constitution Day celebration which took place recently along nearly 5km of beach in the heart of Kuwait City. The final act of the show lasted almost an hour, with a total of 77,282 fireworks, which broke the Guinness World Record for the largest fireworks display ever.

World Record for largest firework, Kuwait

French-based rental company, Gilles Bouvard Events and Entertainment (GB4D) was contracted by the Kuwaiti government to deliver the audio and lighting system as well as video transport for one of the largest shows ever staged in the Middle East. The biggest challenge facing GB4D was the coverage distance along the beach and the associated problems posed by a sand and water environment.

Since production had stipulated that sound and light needed to be delivered to any point along the beach, the obvious solution was to use an Optocore redundant fibre based ring topology — a solution which Gilles Bouvard has been adopting successfully for the past two years. This provided not only sound to each of 52 Line Array towers along the 5km stretch, but also control of amplifiers and DMX lighting commands.

GB4D Team onsite, final check, Kuwait

The Optocore system was also in use out at sea. Here GB4D designed a second ring system to provide audio and Ethernet transport to the five cube-shape platforms (24m x 24m x 24m) which were each equipped with lights to create a great visual effect. And the only way to reach these cubes with control signals was by using Optocore fibre. In addition there were seven pontoons spaced 250m from each other — all set at a distance of 400m from shore to sea.

A further challenge for GB4D was to provide video transport to the multiple screens – with two independent SDI channels transported along the beach. With 30 years’ experience in the sound and lighting business, Gilles Bouvard found that Optocore’s sister company, BroaMan, offered a perfect solution for his project — with a ring topology that would distribute two channels to all remote locations.

The cube-shape platforms at daylight, Kuwait

As a result Bouvard needed only a 4-core fibre between each location, which saved not only the cost of classic copper cabling, but also assuring the best quality of sound, control and video.

The two Optocore rings ran on different protocols. The first, small ring was based on the 2.14 protocol, since GB4D used older equipment, DD6NEs and a YG2 card. This was used to provide LAN connections to all five platforms on the sea as well as audio signals to the Yamaha 01V96 console which was placed on the fifth platform. One DD32R-FX was installed in the FOH position and provided a connection to the second, larger ring. Elsewhere, DD2FR-FX and DD4MR-FX provided spare fibre MADI and BNC MADI links to the cubes.

DD32R-FX "in action", Kuwait

The larger Optocore system was installed on the beach. The main requirement for Optocore was to distribute audio signals to the L-Acoustics loudspeakers from FOH as well as DMX for the lighting and Ethernet to control L- Acoustics amplifiers. Loudspeakers were installed in the delay towers 100m apart to cover the whole area with sound, while Optocore X6R-FX-8MI/8LO units were installed in every third tower — 20 in total — covering the whole distance.

The FOH engineer had complete control over the Optocore patching and every input from the console could be sent to any loudspeaker. Multiple signals were provided from two FOH consoles — the main mix from a Midas Pro6 and additional multiple aux outputs from a Soundcraft Vi6 (one aux per each delay group). Each console was integrated into the Optocore network with a DD2FR-FX. The ring was also equipped with an DD32R-FX unit, which provided AES connection to the smaller Optocore ring.

The master control installation at the beach, Kuwait

GB4D took full advantage of the Optocore 2.21 protocol. The big ring provided not only around 500 audio inputs, but doubled as a transport platform for all control protocols – DMX and Ethernet-based loudspeaker management system. Each tower was equipped with steerable lighting, controlled from a FOH light console (with Optocore providing DMX transport through RS485/422 ports on each unit). To monitor and control powered loudspeakers, GB4D used the Ethernet switch which is built into the Optocore platform, thereby reducing the cable count to a minimum with just one fibre between each location.

A BroaMan video and data distribution system was also adopted and GB4D purchased 4-core fibre cables for the show, which allowed the BroaMan and Optocore rings to share the same cable infrastructure. Although the two systems worked independently, the cabling cost was highly reduced.

Speaking of his network design, Bouvard said, “I like technological challenges and could see the BroaMan and Optocore combination as a real solution for network management of audio, data for light, video and remote control of amplifiers. We were price efficient cable-wise, packing the whole system in just four fibre strands between locations.

This had been the biggest project ever undertaken by GB4D. Having the new Optocore 2.21 protocol, with 768 audio tracks on a 2 Gb backbone, he said, could easily allow reconfiguration to accommodate any changes. “This was highly significant when managing a 5km site.”

Summing up, he said, “With no network there is no show. You can deploy all the speakers or projectors in the world, but without control and signal, nothing happens. With Optocore / BroaMan I knew in advance what result I would get. The result was stunning and everyone deserves congratulations — particularly Maciek (Janiszewski, Optocore support engineer). It was great to know that when a light designer pressed a button nearly 5km away the projector would turn on without latency.

“In fact the client representing the government of Kuwait and Minister of Communication congratulated us at the end for the quality of the show.”

SIS LIVE IMPLEMENTS FIRST OPTOCORE® 2 GBIT BROADCAST NETWORK AT MEDIACITYUK

Munich, Nov 13th, 2012

And BroaMan Repeat48 converters boost 24-way fibre video distribution

SIS LIVE, Europe's largest outside broadcaster and uplink provider, has installed a large Optocore fibre ring on a 2 Gbit network, and BroaMan Repeat48 SDI-to fibre converter at the new MediaCityUK in Salford. This major broadcast project was successfully conducted by the SIS LIVE projects and integration division, under Dave Gill.

SIS LIVE at MediaCityUK, master control room

SIS has now fully occupied three floors of the Blue Tower within the MediaCityUK complex. The 8th and 9th floors now house new broadcast facilities including a master control room, production galleries, studios, voice-over booths, edit suites and data control centres.

Optocore’s contract required the infrastructural design and installation of seven presentation galleries, two small TV studios, two edit suites, seven VO booths, new central MCR/CAR, new satellite dish farm, IT CAR and new Text Room data centre.

Clouse up, Optocore DD4MR, TV Studio, SIS Live at MediaCityUK

SIS LIVE also installed an IT infrastructure and house monitoring system on the 10th floor Seeking to implement a fully redundant network, SIS LIVE broadcast designer Alan Laird believed that an Optocore audio network would offer the best solution given the lengthy cable runs involved; the fact that his OB colleagues had successfully run an Optocore system at the 2010 Commonwealth Games in Delhi, underpinned his decision to back this platform.

Once the hardware decisions had been made Alan Laird set out to create a vision routing architecture based on embedded audio distribution, constructed around two 576 x 1152 routers.

The main router is a hybrid design, which generates the MADI audio sources for the Calrec and Yamaha sound desks, while a similar sized monitoring router is used as a back up.

TV Studio, SIS Live at MediaCityUK

“I engineered the back-up system so that should the main router need to be taken down for maintenance or any other reason the Optocore system would take over,” he explained. “I also wanted a network that could be used for ad hoc work — so that any microphone or audio sources could be picked up from anywhere within the production facility over the Optocore network.”

The Optocore configuration was co-designed by Laird and Chris Payne, in cooperation with Optocore support engineer Maciek Janiszewski.

Says Janiszewski, “After spending two years designing and specifying this system with SIS LIVE, we are extremely excited to have delivered a solution based on the brand new 2 Gbit protocol.”

The initial plan had been to use Optocore’s YG2 cards to allow direct connection of the new Yamaha LS9 consoles and DME64 and DME24 mix processors to Optocore’s optical digital network — but the high channel count presented a challenge. As a result the older interfaces made way for Optocore’s new energy efficient and more powerful RSeries devices while the YG2 and YS2’s were replaced with 20 of the new Y3R-TP cards, connected to various FX devices. All Optocore equipment was supplied by Tyrell.

The new Optocore architecure is based around 12 Optocore IDs and uses 648 inputs, realised from 19 Optocore units. The first phase includes five DD4MR-FX MADI converters and eight X6R-FX, a DD32R-FX main interface and 14 x Y3R-TP. In the second phase SIS LIVE will purchase the remaining five DD4MR-FX units and six more Y3R-TP’s once the other galleries are built. The Y3R-TP cards are fed from the SANE port on the X6R-FX or DD4MR-FX converters.

SIS LIVE also specified Optocore’s BroaMan video broadcast routing solutions, having been introduced to Optocore’s sister company and become aware of the custom solution provided for SVT in Stockholm.

Faced with a reduced timescale to install the galleries (picture on the left) on an HD / 3G backbone and concerned about cable lengths, SIS LIVE were impressed that the company’s fibre solutions had extended to video, and noted the smooth operation and cost efficiency. As a result 22 Repeat48 units, which convert up to 24 SDI or MADI coaxial signals to optical fibre within a 1U device (equipped with dual redundant power supplies), were commissioned — working within a Miranda vision distribution environment. The multiple 24-way fibres have been installed to each production room with a Repeat48 at each end, and Ethernet multicore cable and PSN 25 for the GPI’s.

This topology has more than satisfied the distribution requirements of an installation that will be maintained by SIS LIVE’s broadcast engineers.

“We are delighted that the SIS system is the first broadcast installation that takes full advantage of the 2 Gbit protocol,” summarises Maciek Janiszewski. “The nice aspect about it is that it is not only the invisible core that seamlessly runs all audio through the facility, but SIS also uses all software advantages with the matrix and remote control of our interfaces.”

The overall project director was Jason Barker while Jenkins Design and ISG were commissioned to complete the building works with Fairbrother installing the electrical and air conditioning systems. Gary Plowman, Senior Associate, Marquis Consulting LLP, acted as consultant on the electrical and air conditioning system.

OPTOCORE SETS UP IBC NETWORK

Munich, Oct 18th, 2012

Optocore partnered with its new sister broadcast company, BroaMan to present a real tour de force at this year’s IBC Show (held at the Amsterdam RAI).

According to the company’s Application Engineer, Kári Eythorsson (picture on the left) customers returned to the booth three or four times to discuss what Optocore/BroaMan tools could do for their applications, assisted by pens and sketchpads.

A key feature was that, as at previous shows, Optocore/BroaMan set up an active bi-directional audio, video and intercom link between their stand (in Hall 8) and Clear-Com (in Hall 10), using the Optocore X6R and V3R-FX-INTERCOM for Clear-Com.

As for Broaman, the main product focus at the show was the new addition to the BroaMan DiViNe (Digital Video Network) portfolio. This was the V3R-FXINTERCOM-SDI, which conveniently packs up to six 3G/HD/SD-SDI I/O’s and CWDM multiplexer, four ClearCom (or RTS) intercom ports, four Ethernet ports and four serial ports into a 1U device — neatly combining DiViNe, Optocore and SANE.

Booth, Optocore/BroaMan at IBC 2012

Many partners brought clients who immediately invested in both the Optocore and BroaMan concepts. Summarised managing director, Tine Helmle, “The feedback was overwhelming and quality of clients extremely high. The show was 100% successful, and we now have a number of new projects to follow up directly related to the show.”

OPTO-SCORE!

German fibre company in youth football sponsorship

Munich, Oct 15th, 2012

German fibre network specialists Optocore GmbH, have provided shirt sponsorship for a local Munich youth team.

The new kit will be worn by SV Waldeck’s Under 13’s, coached by Bernd Hochrein. The team, who play in Division 3 of the local youth league, have made a sensational start to the season, and presently sit in top position.

By way of thanks, club executive Herbert Bueser, presented Tine Helmle, with a jersey in the same new design — but with the addition of No.9 (the traditional striker’s number) and her name on the back.

^ Coach Bernd Hochrein & football team with new shirts

OPTOCORE ADDS MORE RINGS TO THE LONDON OLYMPICS

Norwest/Delta Sound set up large stadium PA/broadcast fibre transmission for Opening/Closing Ceremonies

Munich, Sept 10th, 2012

The awe-inspiring — and completely distinctive — Opening and Closing Ceremonies, which spectacularly book-ended the London 2012 Olympics, was a triumph for the respective artistic directors, Danny Boyle and Kim Gavin.

Breathtaking fireworks over Olympic Stadium, London 2012

Described as the most creative yet, to ensure the realisation of these ambitious concepts, the sound and lighting designers were also faced with enormous technical challenges. Specialising in this scale of event production for more than a decade, Australian company Norwest Productions again teamed up with their UK partners Delta Sound to provide the necessary Optocore fibre signal transport, custom RF solutions and LAN networking. This sophisticated connectivity realised the sound design conceived by fellow Australian Scott Willsallen (of Auditoria) — another with a string of Games Opening/Closing events on his CV — in conjunction with theatre sound designer, Bobby Aitken.

Norwest’s project manager, Andy Marsh, knew that the network system required for a new 80,000-capacity Olympic Stadium would present challenges. “We needed to overcome difficult cable runs,” he said. “The cable installation took us in excess of three weeks and was more akin to installing cable permanently into a venue. On top of this, the inclusion of many fully live musical acts — adding further size and complexity to the Optocore and backup systems — placed a considerable load on all the experienced audio engineers involved.” Optocore has long been at the heart of Norwest’s main digital systems — and more than 50 devices were deployed in an inventory shared with Delta Sound.

"Sound control", Olympics, London 2012 (click onto picture to enlarge)

Since the specification had called for all Optocore ‘R’ series devices, Norwest purchased a number of these new energy-efficient converters to accommodate the design’s high channel and node count. They added quantities of DD4MR-FX, DD32R-FX, X6R-FX-8AE/8MI, X6R-TP- 8AE/8MI, X6P-16IN devices to their inventory — these offer increased features and efficiency, reduced carbon footprint, power consumption (of 40%) and cost. Delta Sound also purchased a quantity of DD4MR-FX,DD2FR-FX, and X6R-FX devices for the event.

“Optocore is unique in its ability to matrix a high channel count over large distances, plus providing the redundancy of a ring network,” states Marsh. “Most significantly, it is extraordinarily robust and reliable, which is essential to a show that is playing to 80,000 people live in the arena and four billion watching on TV.” The integration necessary to meet Auditoria’s detailed and dual-redundant design involved deploying multiple Optocore fibre networks, with full analogue back-up, principally for the main PA and Broadcast systems.

The main 24-node ring collected and distributed all inputs and outputs on a 2Gbit network to a myriad of broadcast and PA locations, and Optocore also delivered both PA and monitor feeds, plus timecode and programme. In total there were 696 I/O channel feeds within the Optocore topography.

Opening Ceremony,"green rural life", Olympics, London 2012

This was one of the first uses of the German company’s new 2.21 protocol, which enabled 2Gbit bandwidth operation — and was crucial to meet the main requirement of a high channel count. Another unique feature of the set-up was that Norwest were using all 24 ID’s — taking advantage of the maximum capacity of the fibre ring. They also used a quantity of Optocore’s TP devices, which provided a Cat5 extension of the ring.

With multi-mode distances of up to 350m between nodes, and single-mode distances running anything up to 1000m between nodes, the scale of the complete fibre network was in excess of 5km (with Dolby Lake processors providing the main system switchover between networks). The broadcast ring, meanwhile, tied the main system to the Delta Media truck for all necessary I/O. Delta Media delivered downstream mixes of playback, live and atmos mics to both CTV and OBS for their broadcast of the ceremony.

In the transmission path, all signals were converted to digital on entering the Optocore environment, while the back-up system ran analogue from the DiGiCo console SD rack outputs. The feeds were delivered via AES to a massive FOH PA comprising entirely L-Acoustics components, with 220 VDosc, 100 Kudo, 55 Arcs, 88 SB28 subs and some 12XT fills — all driven from LA8 amplifiers.

In summary, Andrew Marsh can reflect on a highly successful implementation in which Norwest confronted numerous challenges along the way — including the siting of some of the equipment. But then again these were unique shows.

Opening Ceremony,"Industrial Revolution", Olympics, London 2012

The Opening Ceremony was described as “madcap, surreal and moving” — evolving historically from green rural life via the belching chimney stacks of the Industrial Revolution to the internet age. The second was billed as ‘A Symphony Of British Music’ and tipped as 'the best after-show party that's ever been’, featuring 4,000 artistes, with cameos by The Spice Girls (performing on top of black London taxis, travelling around the athletics track) and Monty Python’s Eric Idle providing some of the more memorable moments.

Marsh credits his own crew, and in particular Justin Arthur (Optocore & Patch Engineer), as well as the Delta Sound crew, led by overall project manager Steve Lutley, plus Senior Systems Engineer from Autograph, Rob Tory.

“We all worked seamlessly together to make this a huge success, and the relationship between us could not have been better.”

OPTOCORE'S ADVANCED FIBRE NETWORK FOR NEW TOKYU THEATRE ORB

13th floor auditorium at Tokyo's Hikarie Tower is highest stage in Japan

Munich, August 1st, 2012

Optocore’s advanced fibre network for new Tokyu Theatre Orb 13th floor auditorium at Tokyo’s Hikarie Tower is highest stage in Japan A brand new purpose-built musical theatre has opened in Japan — situated between the 11th and 16th floors of the new 1.27 billion dollar 34-storey Shibuya Hikarie glass tower in Tokyo.

Connected to the Shibuya Station, Tokyu Theatre Orb’s first production was of West Side Story, with signal distribution via an Optocore fibre backbone provided by the German company’s Japanese representatives, Acoustic Technical Laboratory Inc (ATL).

This ambitious project was floated by owners, the Tokyu Corporation back in 2008, and ATL became involved after Yamaha Sound Systems Inc (Yamaha SS), the biggest sound system construction company for theatres and auditoria in Japan, had specified an Optocore solution in their proposal.
                                                                          Tokyo Hikarie Tower, Japan

According to Tetsushi Hirai of Yamaha SS, the client had specifically requested the optical fibre backbone in view of the long distance transmission of dialogue and music between the 1972-seat auditorium, stage and mixing control room as well as the data transmission between floors — including the Hikarie Hall A & B on the 9th floor.

Yamaha SS constructed the digital architecture around nine Optocore DD32R-FX primary interfaces, connected to nine X6R-TP-16LO and nine X6R-TP-16MI converters — initially linked via AES D-Sub 25, although this will transfer in due course to Optocore’s SANE (Synchronous Audio Network plus Ethernet) protocol. The Optocore system derives its clock signal from a Rosendahl Nanoclocks master clock generator.

Outputting to a Meyer Sound M’elodie line array system (with 600-HP subs), the Optocore system can be divided into three smaller systems: the first is mounted in device racks in the control room; the second is mounted in a rack on the stage; and the third is mounted in a mobile rack that can be freely moved within the hall, allowing it to be connected to various optical connector panels, while the hall itself contains a network of optical fibres that are patched for use over the 256- channel matrix.

The signal I/O for the control room and the stage systems are connected to an XLR patch panel, and connections are made depending on the requirements of the event being staged. Within the control room, some of the signals are generally patched to a Yamaha PM5D or DM2000 console via AES, while the mobile rack is used in combination with the DD32R-FX and the converter unit, wherever it is needed.

While Shibuya is the heart of Tokyo’s busy shopping district, Hikarie itself is seen as a new cultural hub. The word itself means ‘Towards the light’ — and the light in this instance shines from Tokyu Theatre Orb’s highest stage in Japan … located on the 13th floor of Hikarie.

         Optocore device racks, control
            room, Tokyu Theatre Orb>

Yasuhito Terada, a technical director at Tokyu Theatre Orb, confirms that in addition to the permanently installed system, they are also looking to set up a temporary independent system that can be used either for stage I/O, or to connect between FOH and the stage monitors.

Meanwhile, the Optocore digital signal flow will continue to provide the new theatre with an elegant and flexible solution.

OPTOCORE APPOINTS AVSC IN THE PHILIPPINES

Munich, July 30th, 2012

Optocore has appointed Audio-Video Solutions Corporation (AVSC) as its new exclusive distributor in the Philippines. The company will be responsible for marketing the German manufacturer’s premium fibre networks, and broadcast routing solutions from sister company BroaMan.

Representing some of the industry’s leading international brands, AVSC sees Optocore’s high-speed, high-performance digital networking system as the perfect solution for reliable transmission of audio, data and video signals in large installation projects, rental/touring applications and the broadcast market sectors, according to AVSC’s sales manager, Wayne A. Gutor.

AVSC product managers, Wayne Gutor and Janice Villamil, with general manager Michael ‘Mike” Sanchez — and Optocore racks

“With the addition of Optocore to our product portfolio, AVSC will be recognised as a total system solution provider for PA and AV markets in the Philippines,” he said. Faced with an increasing demand for a reliable networking system, AVSC approached Optocore back in February this year. Once the deal was agreed they wasted no time in ordering a series of demo racks containing more than 40 interfaces, including DD4MRFX, DD32R-FX, V3R-TP-INTERCOM and various other V3R and X6R converters.

According to Gutor, Optocore will make an immediate impact in various large church installations, and has been earmarked for a 5000-capacity Convention Center / Worship Hall, Entertainment City (with large Casinos and Theaters), an Amusement Park and a Broadcast News Studio. In fact the broadcast segment will become a core market.

“We see the flexibility and compatibility of the Optocore system, in use with other major pro-audio brands such as DiGiCo, Avid, Yamaha, Soundcraft, Clear-Com, Telex, RTS and Neumann, as a major advantage, along with Optocore’s ability to build multi-node large networks via optical fibre and Cat5/6 cables,” he continued.

Technical training has already been put in place as a precursor to joining the OCT Certification programme, and AVSC will appoint a dedicated Optocore product manager supported by an engineering department for technical support and after-sales-service. The brand will be formally launched during their biggest annual pro audio show, PALMM Philippines 2012.

Commented Optocore Director of Sales & Marketing, Tine Helmle, “We are delighted to have found a partner of the calibre of AVSC in this region. I am very optimistic that we will achieve great sales in a short period of time.”

Summing up Wayne Gutor stated, “AVSC is excited by the opportunity to develop the business potential of Optocore here in our country. As stated previously, the Optocore system will enable AVSC to become a total system solution provider for PA and AV markets here in the Philippines.”

BROADCAST ASIA OPENS NEW MARKETS FOR OPTOCORE/BROAMAN

Munich, July 05th, 2012

The recent Broadcast Asia expo in Singapore proved fertile ground for Optocore and its sister company, BroaMan.

  BroaMan devices, part of booth at Expo:
The four day exposition for Digital Multimedia and Entertainment Technology was held at Suntec Singapore, where the German manufacturer shared a booth with one of its key partners, Clear-Com.

Representing Optocore/Broa-
Man, support engineer, Maciek Janiszewski stated, “This was a new show appearance for us, and in addition to opening the broadcast market for our respective technologies, it showed the level of cooperation we enjoy with our strategic partners.”

Optocore operates an open OEM policy, and two years ago formed a strategic alliance with Clear-Com, resulting in the release of the new V3R-FX-INTERCOM and X6R-FX-INTERCOM. Developed specifically for the company, both units were integrated on the booth with Clear-Com’s Eclipse digital matrix in the Vseries panel.

Optocore later worked with fellow intercom provider, RTS, to develop a similar network solution compatible with their devices.

Also on display at Broadcast Asia were BroaMan’s new DiViNe video, audio and data system consisting of the three main frames — Route66, Repeat33 and Repeat48.

Janiszewski could not have been more positive about the company’s participation. “We believe that this show will prove to have been extremely successful in opening a new market for our operations,” he said.

OPTOCORE SETS OUT FAR-REACHING AGENDA AT INFOCOMM 2012

Optocore GmbH has a wide-reaching agenda at this year’s InfoComm 2012 in Las Vegas later this month.

Munich, June 26th, 2012

Principally, the German fibre network specialist will be announcing a technical collaboration with Duran Audio see separate release, please — having developed the new DM1-TP interface connectivity for the AXYS® Intellivox powered loudspeaker range, enabling it to operate within their SANE networks.

At the same time the company will be celebrating the fact that Optocore Certification Training (OCT) has been approved for InfoComm’s CTS renewal programme. Each attendee who completes the training and test will receive three InfoComm CTS Renewal Units toward their CTS, CTS-I, CTS-D re-certification.

The company also applauds the pending release of InfoComm’s new international standard on energy efficiency (InfoComm 4:2012 DS-1:Audiovisual Systems Energy Management). This defines and prescribes processes and requirements for ongoing power-consumption management of audiovisual (AV) systems, identifying requirements for the control and continuous monitoring of electrical power for audiovisual systems, whereby power is conserved whenever possible and components operate at the lowest power-consuming state.

Said Optocore founder Marc Brunke, “We are delighted to note InfoComm’s commitment to both training and energy efficiency — two areas which we take seriously. “Efficient design has always been what Optocore has strived for. Optocore products are extremely energy efficient — for example the DD32R-FX requires only 8W while many other solutions require hundreds of watts, and require larger UPS and HVAC services. I am delighted to see that the industry has started to take note of the important subject of energy efficiency.”

At the same time he noted that recognition of Optocore’s OCT programme would provide a major boost to the certified training initiatives that the company has had in place for some time. “Offering CTS renewal points towards the maximum required for recertification will provide our customers with a huge incentive,” he said. Optocore will also introduce its new sister company, Broadcast Manufactur (BroaMan) on the same booth (#C10350) — with its proprietary DiViNe (Digital Video Network) technology focused on the broadcast market.

DiViNe is designed to provide routing and repeating, as well as transport and distribution of multiple professional SDI video signals over fibre-based infrastructures, preconfigured to customer requirements. The system can be constructed from a series of DiViNe building blocks (such as Route66, Route33, Repeat66, Repeat33 modules), to create a flexible, multiple channel distribution system with or without routing, while Repeat48 is a standalone SDI to fibre converter (with or without WDM multiplexers).

To this family BroaMan will be introducing a new device at InfoComm 2012 — the DiViNe V3R-FX-INTERCOM-SDI. Please, see separate release on http://www.broaman.com. This unit is based around the Optocore V3R-FX-INTERCOM with the capacity for up to six 3G/HD/SD-SDI inputs and outputs and a CWDM multiplexer (all contained in a compact 1RU device). As with all BroaMan DiViNe products they are configured with video I/O and CWDM — according to the wishes of the customer. The DiViNe V3R-FX-INTERCOM-SDI seamlessly integrates into DiViNe, Optocore and SANE networks.

BroaMan will present a live demo, connecting the displays of BroaMan, Optocore and its technical partner Clear-Com — similar to the network constructed at the NAB Show earlier this year. The DiViNe V3R-FX-INTERCOM-SDI will be located on the Clear-Com booth (#C10345).

OPTOCORE AND DURAN AUDIO ANNOUNCE NEW COLLABORATION

New DM1 interface will bring powered Intellivox speakers into the SANE network

Munich, June 18th, 2012

New DM1 interface will bring powered Intellivox speakers into the SANE network Making its debut at InfoComm 2012 will be the new Optocore DM1-TP digital audio interface for Duran Audio’s Intellivox range of AXYS® products — marking the latest technical partnership formed by the German fibre network specialists.

In a joint statement, the respective founders of the two companies, Marc Brunke (Optocore) and Gerrit Duran said, “This product owes its practical implementation within an Intellivox system to the close co-operation between the two R&D teams.”

The DM1-TP is designed to provide SANE connectivity to powered Duran Audio loudspeakers, allowing for seamless integration of the company’s loudspeakers into synchronous, low latency, redundant Optocore and SANE networks. Offering a unique, non-proprietary open standard transport platform SANE is the first fully synchronous CAT5 network solution for streaming and transmitting data in real time.

In addition to the synchronous, low latency digital audio distribution, DM1-TP will provide the Intellivox range with all the other benefits of SANE, including 100 Mb/s Ethernet audio distribution, dual-redundant ring connections, and interfacing to Optocore FX and TP devices.

The introduction of the SANE network will bring significant benefits to system designers, installers and end users. On larger Intellivox installations there will be a significant saving in both the cost of cable and labour, whilst the wealth of additional features will reduce the need for additional processing devices in the system. This once again proves that Intellivox devices not only provide great control of the array’s directivity but also the functionality.

Either redundant point-to-point (star) or daisy-chain topologies are supported (point-topoint requiring an Optocore SANE capable device for a connection to each DM1-TP equipped Intellivox); redundant option offers automatic switch-over to the secondary port in case of failure of the primary port. Daisy-chain with loop-end closing offers a redundant ring topology (with no third party switching required). Other features include low-jitter word clock distribution using standard Optocore solutions and automatic master clock negotiation.

DM1 firmware and internal logic updates over Ethernet are supported, as is standard Intellivox RS-485 interface, while system control and monitoring by AXYS WinControl takes place over a SANE serial bridge, with 8 or 16 digital audio channels routable to the DSP in the Intellivox.

Other peripherals include external fan control output for connection to the Intellivox 'rainhood', while an Ambient Noise Sensing microphone signal can be routed to the SANE network.

The new interface module can be mounted in the following Intellivox products: AXYS® Intellivox DC/DS 115, DC/DS 180 and DC/DS 280, said Optocore’s North American support engineer, Kári Eythorsson CTS-D, “We are delighted to be adding Duran Audio as a technical partner with the release of the DM1- TP module — and hope this is the start of further things to come.”

And Duran Audio International Sales and Marketing Manager, Max Lindsay-Johnson, added, “We see this collaboration as just the first step in making the whole AXYS® range available with the Optocore and SANE interfaces in the future.”

BROAMAN/OPTOCORE MAKES SUCCESSFUL NAB 2012 DEBUT

Redundant audio/video/data network set up with Clear-Com

Munich, May 30th, 2012

Optocore GmbH’s ambitious concept of networking its BroaMan/Optocore booth with Clear-Com, to provide bidirectional audio, video and data transmission, paid handsome dividends at this year’s NAB Show in Las Vegas.

  Optocore & Clear-Com devices
Support & Applications Engineer, Kári Eythorsson explained that a fully redundant network was in operation throughout. At the Clear-Com booth a four-device Optocore net-work was stationed, with a DD4MR-FX connected to a Clear-Com Eclipse inter-com matrix frame that featured the new Clear-Com E-MADI interface card. At the same time, an Optocore V3R-INTERCOM-FX and a X6R-INTERCOM-FX networked two Eclipse frames and a HelixNet base station.

The Clear-Com booth additionally featured a special version of Optocore’s V3R-INTERCOM-FX with four SDI outputs and an SDI input; a remote controllable Q-Ball camera was connected to the input of this device and fed to a BroaMan DiViNe Route 66 router, located at the BroaMan/Optocore booth, with the camera output connected to a monitor and the camera itself controlled by a CCU over the network.

In addition, a Clear-Com V-Series IP panel was connected to the network, allowing BroaMan/Optocore personnel to seamlessly communicate with the Clear-Com booth. The connected system then fully displayed Optocore products, including a 48-16 analogue stagebox (built from X6R devices), a Yamaha DM1000 mixing console and Optocore DD32R-FX, DD4MRFX and DD2FR-FX interfaces.

But the real story was the full trade show debut Optocore was able to give to its new broadcast brand, BroaMan. Setting the scene for customers in his territory, Bill Coons who heads up Optocore North America, said “BroaMan’s DiViNe [Digital Video Networking] is nothing less than Optocore for video.

“Considering that almost all other digital audio transport manufacturers are limited to low channel count, long latency and simple point-to-point capability, it’s easy to see how Optocore has changed the industry. We led the fibre optic movement in creating multiple format delivery systems via multiple node networks for upwards of 1,000 audio channels. We’ve now accomplished much the same thing for video with the creation of DiViNe.”

Optocore/Broaman booth at NAB-Show 2012

With 80 channels of SD/HD/3G-SDI video transport and routing on a 240Gb network that allows virtually unlimited system deployment, DiViNe offers customised solutions, yielding results unattainable with existing technology.

In addition, the DiViNe protocol allows Optocore audio products to integrate seamlessly into the environment, to add a full audio complement of analogue, AES and MADI connectivity making it a single complete audio-video solution — as demonstrated at NAB.

The broadcast world responded to this, and Optocore sales representative, Luke Barry, said he was confident that business would be written from the show. “We had some quality clients visit our stand, including several major US and Canadian networks, who were very interested in what we had to offer, and we also had approaches from potential distributors.”

PAYING TRIBUTE TO AR RAHMAN WITH OPTOCORE

SOUND.COM supports German Film Orchestra Babelsberg over five Indian cities

Munich, May 8th, 2012

Any concert dedicated to multi-instrumentalist and record producer AR Rahman — described as the world's most prominent and prolific film composer — requires a sound quality nearing perfection. Meeting this audio challenge at the recent Classic Incantations concerts — presented by the German Film Orchestra Babelsberg across five Indian cities — were SOUND.COM.

This was the first ever tribute to an Indian composer from the western world, and working with Core Networks & Rapport Global, SOUND.COM were extremely proud to be associated with this distinctive production.

The Orchestra, conducted by Matt Dunkley, performed original scores and film music written by the Indian maestro — accompanied by the choir and soloists from his own KM Music Conservatory in Chennai.

Sunil Karanjikar, Holger Schwark, Waren Dsouza, Joel Dcruz

Once again the sound crew relied on their Optocore network to transmit pristine signals. SOUND.COM’s Sunil Karanjikar and Joel Dcruz toured the country with FOH mixing engineer Holger Schwark (on a DiGiCo SD10), playing back to back shows, while SOUND.COM’s MD, Warren Dsouza acted as stand-in systems engineer for the Delhi and Kolkata leg of the tour.

The Optocore solution was used where the Input sources from the stage exceeded the 48 Mic pre amps available as standard on a Digi Rack. The additional 14 channels were picked up by an Optocore X6R-FX 16MI and transported to the SD10, interfaced coaxially to Optocore by means of a DD4MR-FX.

The DD4MR-FX and a DD2FR-FX also simplified a relatively tough job of multi-tracking each concert on two computers (one used as backup), confirmed SOUND.COM head of engineering, Sunil Karanjikar. Both computers used RME MADIface interface units to the multi-track and all inputs on the SD10 were MADI mirrored on the Optocore DD4MR-FX and DD2FR-FX to implement this solution. “This facility allowed us to multi-track a full 56ch system using just one fibre and one coax pair each for the two redundant systems,” stated Sunil.

The Bangalore show, where production fielded four main hangs of JBL VerTec, 36 delay clusters of paired VRX932LA boxes and a final row of SRX712M boxes, proved particularly challenging. “This was something of an audio milestone in India — and the fact that it was successfully executed was down to the Optocore node racks and Harman HiQnet System Architect, which managed the Crown I-Tech HD12000 power amplifiers,” said Warren Dsouza.

In Bangalore, the Optocore DD4MR-FX also collected outputs from the SD10 to be routed to four SOUND.COM OptoRacks, with each OptoRack consisting of a DD32R-FX and a X6R-FX 16MI. AES outs from the DD32R-FX fed the Crown ITech HD amplifiers, which were driving the PA and delay clusters, while the LAN and SANE ports were used to transport Ethernet data from the master computer to the Crown ITech HD racks, allowing for full system control (including delay and EQ) for each cluster. Optical isolation allowed SOUND.COM the freedom to use multiple power sources in the venue, keeping cable runs to a minimum.

Warren D’Souza stated that the tour had been executed to the highest level, while Sunil Karanjikar concluded, "The Symphony tour was personally very gratifying as we exploited technology to its maximum potential. This was especially true of the Optocore fibre optics, CAT5, AES and analogue, which handled all the audio transport, and the combination of optical and electrical MADI for the multitrack recording and replay. This was all due to the solid platforms Optocore and RME provided us with.”

Added Holger Schwark, “I think we had five very good shows, all totally different in circumstances, and I am extremely grateful for all the support we received, especially from SOUND.COM’s audio crew.”

OPTOCORE AT HEART OF COMPLEX FINNISH THEATRE UPGRADE

Munich, April 12th, 2012

Hedcom and msonic advanced digital design prepares Svenska Teatern for premier of new hit musical, Kristina från Duvemåla The Svenska Teatern, a Swedish-speaking theatre in Helsinki, has taken delivery of an Optocore system as part of a complete new technical infrastructure. This was designed to coincide with the Finnish premier of Kristina från Duvemåla — the hit musical written by former ABBA members Björn Ulvaeus and Benny Andersson — at the end of February.

The Optocore fibre loop will form a digital backbone (with SANE extensions) for signal distribution to the amp racks, TTA Stagetracker localization and Yamaha processing. It also includes MADI converters.

Svenska Theater in Helsinki

The equipment was supplied by the company’s Finnish distributor, msonic, who also assisted the Theatre’s long-serving technical manager Andreas (Stanley) Lönnquist — and the theatre’s consultants (including Santtu Sipilä) — with the design and specification of the highly complex audio networking system, as well as the tender document. Locally based integration company, Hedcom Oy, had the capabilities to implement this within the time frame and were contracted to carry out the installation following their successful bid.

The digital infrastructure itself was mainly designed by Janne Sivonen and Lönnquist along with Tero Hölttä from msonic and Santtu Sipilä. Also assisting with the design was Optocore’s support engineer, Maciek Janiszewski.


"Close up" Optocore devices at Svenska Theater, Helsinki

Optocore devices used in the installation include quantities of DD32R-FX providing AES/EBU I/O, X6R analog converters, DD4MR-FX and DD2MR-FX dual MADI devices, compatible with Optocore’s Cat5-based Sane platform.

This famous theatre, with its striking red and gold architectural décor, was originally designed by Russian architect Nikolaj Benois and built in 1866. It is the national stage for the Swedish speaking minority and has hosted many concerts and repertory theatre productions during its illustrious history. The great hall seats around 600 and a second studio theatre, around 100.

The decision to renovate the theatre was made several years ago with part of the previous technical equipment infrastructure sold or decommissioned, and part redeployed. However, Lönnquist has kept faith with d&b audiotechnik loudspeakers, now upgrading to the T-series, which will be the main sound reinforcement component among the 100-plus d&b speakers specified, while the former C-series will be relocated to the second room. DiGiCo digital consoles have been installed in both the FOH and monitor positions.

Stated Hölttä, “The main aim was to keep the entire signal path digital, in order to maintain the audio quality and keep the latency as low as possible.” Which is where Optocore comes in. The German manufacturer delivered a number of devices in order for the network topology to be built around two independent redundant rings.

At front-of-house is a DiGiCo SD7T console, with EX-007 Sidecar and six SDracks, while the monitor desk is a DiGiCo SD10. Three MADI units add the open standard connectivity to the DiGiCo environment in one Optocore-based loop. The second, pure Optocore loop provides analogue, AES/EBU and MADI inputs and outputs throughout the entire building. The system is also equipped with multiple SANE-enabled Y3R-TP cards, providing digital channels to the Yamaha DME64 processors, while two DD32R-FX devices feed the amplifiers in the amp room.

The Optocore loops are connected by two DirectOut M1K2 MADI routers, each loop compatible with Optocore’s 1Gbit network. The entire system has been designed to carry almost 1000 audio input channels. Meanwhile, development remains ongoing, and future plans are expected to include a production/recording room within the facility. Kristina från Duvemåla, meanwhile, looks set for a long run. The musical itself is based on a series of four novels, collectively known as ‘Utvandrarna’ (‘The Emigrants’) by Swedish author Vilhelm Moberg, detailing a family's povertydriven migration from Sweden to America in the mid-19th century.

OPTOCORE GETS PUNK'D

Munich, April 5th, 2012

Coffey Sound’s New Intercom System takes Film/TV Location Work to Next Level When the ninth season of Punk’d hit the airwaves, few may realize the massive effort required to capture the excitement of MTV’s celebrity driven hidden camera prank show.

To help streamline those operations, Gary Vahling of Coffey Sound, a Trew Audio company, long recognised as one of Hollywood’s leading sources for audio equipment in the entertainment industry, relied heavily on Optocore’s latest intercom devices.

To deliver the action amongst the production crew, Optocore V3R-FX-Intercom and X6R-FX-Intercom network devices were paired with Clear-Com’s V12-PDX4 display panels connected to a PiCo frame, which are part of the Eclipse Digital Matrix product line.

Optocore’s V3R-FX and X6R-FX interfaces provide four and eight ports via single module or multimode fibre respectively or CAT5 ‘SANE’ (Synchronous Audio Network plus Ethernet) ring connectivity that allows intercom to travel over the entire Optocore audio network.

Along with fibre audio muxing solutions, to and from Clear-Com’s remote panels, these units can also send and receive 4-wire audio around the connected ring. Better still, redundant LAN for IP panels and/or PC Management can be made from anywhere on the network. Six different interfaces were constructed by designer Gary Vahling – a remote camera rack, video rack, a director’s table, RF Mic rack, along with Intercom and Mix racks. The evaluation process needed to prove a vastly reduced set-up time, with simple plug and play, improved sonic fidelity and greater functional flexibility. “I could see immediately that the plug and play facility would make for superfast setup, which reduces productions costs,” noted Vahling. “And it went much further than that. The integration of the Optocore improved the quality of the entire audio package. The noise floor was reduced substantially, the dynamic range was increased, and the advantage of audio networking came into play.”

Optocore ticked all the boxes, at the same time demonstrating the vast amount of time saved using ‘one click’ reconfiguration changes for different scenes without rewiring. “The Clear-Com integration also included reduction of external cabling and increased sound quality in the communications circuits, continued Vahling.” Director of Optocore North America, Bill Coons, added, “This location sound solution provides a faster, quieter, smaller, lighter and less expensive option than they had previously. With this, fibre intercom for location production has now become a reality.”

Close up, Optocore in "action"

In addition to the Optocore intercoms and Clear-Com display panels, Sennheiser MKH 8070 microphones with MZD-8000 Digital Modules were used with Neumann DMI-2 Digital Microphone Interface to fully take advantage of digital capabilities of the fibre optic audio network. A Yamaha O1V96 with Optocore YG2 card mixer was used as the interface’s centrepiece alongside a Sound Devices 788T for the show’s multi-track recording.

Punk’d production sound mixer, Sean O’Malley, is pleased with the fast set up times and the overall sound quality. “The gear has performed flawlessly on set, helping to herald in some amazing audio tracks and provide seamless communication within the crew. Communication is such an important factor during our reveals, if it fails, the entire episode could collapse,” adds O’Malley. Since Coffey Sound provides packaged support systems for both large and small productions, the pairing of Vahling’s long term relationship with Punk’d made the producer’s decision to work with Coffey Sound that much easier.

The Optocore solution had exceeded all expectations, says Vahling. “It has really brought this package to the next level with its ability to operate as a plug and play system. It has also significantly improved the workflow of the audio crew — and the sound quality project being sent to post is better than ever.”

OPTOCORE UPGRADE SERVER/CLIENT SOFTWARE

Munich, April 4th, 2012

Back in 2010 Optocore developed Server/Client software that would facilitate simultaneous network control from multiple computers. In other words, for the first time different personnel, with their own computers, could initiate simultaneous changes for different devices in the network.
Optocore has since developed the software, continually adding new features and devices. The functionality will be enhanced further with the release of the new software, version 2.14.014.

This will provide a number of new features, the two most important ones being to give users the ability to daisy chain up to four X6R-TP devices by Cat5 from the SANE port of a DD32R-FX, along with a fibre diagnostic.

With the new Software release a ‘Health’ feature is also available for each device connected to the network — and this can be accessed from the Network Tree by right-clicking one of the devices. A status of the chosen device is displayed, providing information about the optical links status — such as the transceiver type used for each link, the optical output and input power, ID of the device which is connected to each link and the connection status (linked or not linked).

It also informs about the device performance — the main board voltages, PSU status and the main board temperature — and alerts when the parameters exceed the normal values.

“The ‘Health’ option is useful for troubleshooting the links and the devices — it will save us and our customers a lot of time and effort,” says Optocore support engineer Maciek Janiszewski. “Many of the support calls are caused by a fibre infrastructure problem, but now it can be easily eliminated. “Finding neighbour devices in the loop is also a great feature, especially in complex systems when you close the loop with a fibre patchbay.”

OPTOCORE DEVELOPS NETWORK INTERCOM FOR RTS

Munich, March 27th, 2012

New devices provide greater intercom transport flexibility Following the strategic partnership set up last year with intercom solutions provider Clear-Com, which saw the launch of the V3R-FX-INTERCOM and X6RFX- INTERCOM, Optocore has taken a further step towards making the Optocore system more flexible with intercom transport by developing a similar network intercom solution for RTS.

The ‘V3R-FX-INTERCOM for RTS’ and ‘X6R-FX-INTERCOM for RTS’ interfaces are a result of cooperation with the leading intercom manufacturer. Based on Optocore’s well-known V3R-FX / X6R-FX1U series architecture the devices are equipped with standard RJ45 interfaces, which make cabling simple and cost-efficient. As a result of creating an intercom version based on these converters, the new intercom devices are also Line-In and Line-Out converters. The V3R-FX-INTERCOM for RTS integrates seamlessly into the Optocore Optical Digital network system and intercom inputs can be routed to MADI, AES/EBU or Line outputs, with Intercom messages and control data from RTS user panels or matrix sent transparently through the optical network. Each single intercom channel can be routed to every INTERCOM device in the network via the Optocore Control software.

The V3R-FX-INTERCOM device is equipped with eight RJ45 intercom interfaces — four ports for panels and four ports for matrix. The pin out of the connectors is compatible with all RTS devices, so there is no need to use special cables or adapters — a standard straight CAT5 can be used.

The Word Clock IN and OUT enables the synchronisation of the units to an external source and is used to pass on the word clock from one unit to the next. For stand-alone applications, the devices are equipped with an internal word clock.

One V3R-FX-INTERCOM can exchange up to 1024 intercom channels from the fibre network, 64 intercom channels from the SANE network and eight intercom channels from the I/O interfaces. The V3R-FX INTERCOM units can be operated and controlled via the Optocore network with Optocore Control, without the necessity of any external data cable. For control in stand-alone applications, USB, RS232 or LAN port on the front / rear panel can be used.

The FPGA (field programmable gate array) based concept of the internal logic circuitry permits updating of the firmware ensuring a continual state-of-the-art device.

The X6R-FX-INTERCOM for RTS has similar architecture and features, but with eight ports (to Panel) and eight ports (to Matrix); one port can be used either to Panel or to Matrix — though not at the same time (for example Ports 1-4 may be connected to RTS panels and ports 5-8 to RTS Matrix).

The new V3R/X6R-FX INTERCOM for RTS will begin shipping immediately.

MARC BRUNKE EMBARKS ON DiViNe JOURNEY VIA ROUTE 66

Munich, March 23rd, 2012

Optocore founder’s new start-up focuses on configurable, all-standard video routing, with Optocore integration.

German digital fibre specialist Marc Brunke has formed a new company, Broadcast Manufactur GmbH, dedicated to developing its proprietary DiViNe (Digital Video Network) technology for the broadcast market.

DiViNe is designed to provide routing and repeating, as well as transport and distribution of multiple professional SDI video signals over fibre-based infrastructures, preconfigured to customer requirement at the time of order. This is accomplished by WDM multiplexing/de-multiplexing, enabling multiple distribution through single fibre or COAX cables.


Marc Brunke at PLS 2012, Stand Broaman

The system itself can be constructed from a series of modules, which use DiViNe building blocks to create a multiple channel distribution system with or without routing. The devices consist of Route66, Route33, Repeat66, Repeat33 for flexible applications, and Repeat48 as standalone SDI to fibre converter with or without WDM multiplexers.

The individual devices can be tailored to provide solutions for specific projects with a requirement to send, receive, multiplex and demultiplex as well as convert professional video signals, including SD, HD and 3G. The devices can also be interfaced to audio and data network systems, like Optocore, SANE (Synchronous Audio Network plus Ethernet), MADI and Ethernet.

The new system went into production after Marc Brunke’s design team, which has traditionally provided optical fibre network solutions for the large-scale events industry, had been asked to fulfill a request from Studio Hamburg MCI for four independentlyconfigured automatic routing systems for Sveriges Television (SVT) via a modern, fibrebased video stagebox concept.

“The ability to do this had not existed previously,” explained Brunke. “We designed for SVT an auto-router for video, where the stagebox can be connected anywhere and the central router will always route the channel to the correct position. In addition, we provide solutions which are entirely cost-optimised.”

All devices offer routing and signal repeating respectively, as well as the ability to convert the signal from electrical (BNC) to optical (fibre). Every product can be configured differently to handle up to 66 (or 33 in the half-populated board) 3G video channels respectively.

Each unit can be delivered in 1RU or 2RU housing, depending on the number and type of BNC SDI and fibre interfaces required. The 2RU frames are equipped with up to 24 SDI ports for SD/HD/3G video and up to 56 simplex LC fibre ports while the 1RU frame will support up to ten SDI and eight simplex LC fibre ports. SDI ports can be delivered as inputs with adaptive EQ, inputs with reclocker, outputs with or without reclocker and selectable I/O. Optocore can also provide black burst sync.

In addition, the internal logic is upgradeable and comprehensive status control is offered via LED banks on the front. The system can be controlled remotely via external control platforms (like VSM) or routed automatically.

Route/Repeat 66/33 devices can optionally be equipped with standard Optocore FX boards, which are taken from their popular R-series devices, to seamless add audio and/or data routing to the system.

“DiViNe technology presents a unique solution,” states Brunke. “We can route, distribute, and we can take multiple video and audio channels and put them down a single fibre — in fact there’s almost nothing we can’t do with this system.”

Since the device is already complete within its own frame (and inherent power supply), even a large system can be installed inside two hours. The layout is more logical than other systems on the market, and is more energy- and cost-efficient. It also offers a higher channel count and more flexibility than competitive models.

DiViNe technology will make its world broadcast debut at NAB Show in Las Vegas.

OPTOCORE AND FIBER DOMINATE THE 54th GRAMMY AWARDS

Munich, February 17th, 2012

On Sunday, February 12, 2012 the 54th Grammy Awards were held at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, CA to celebrate the industry’s best recording artists and unlike previous years the technical setup was predominantly based on fiber optic networks with minimal conventional copper interfaces.

For the second year in a row ATK Audiotek relied on an Optocore network to transport the award winning music of Adele, Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band, The Foo Fighters, and The Beach Boys, just to name a few of the 21 performances and the 33 separate artists.

Band Coldplay at the 54th Grammy Awards 2012


The complex nature of the Grammys show in conjunction with the ‘mission critical’ delivery aspect of a live event defines the need for flexibility and absolute fault tolerance and recovery that only Optocore’s unique 3-way redundant architecture provides. Jeff Peterson, the incumbent System PA Designer for the award show expanded this year’s fiber optic network drive system to a mere 8 Optocore devices in 4 locations, distributing the primary AES signal and an analogue backup feed to the processors and amps as well as all the XTA speaker processor’s control data.

The front end of the PA system was comprised of redundant Digico consoles at three mix locations; 2 desks at FOH (Production and Music Mix), plus a main and backup console at each of two separate monitor locations.

At FOH, the Optocore network received 3 MADI feeds from the Digico consoles. The SD 10 Production console provided the main show feed and the prime word clock sync to one of two Optocore DD4MR-FX dual channel MADI interfaces. The second DD4MR-FX received two MADI streams from the dual engine SD 7 Music Mix desk along with redundant word clock thus providing a complete backup feed for the system.

Additional FOH oriented content on the Optocore network was the Network Control data for the Powersoft amplifiers for the main PA, subs and fill cabinets. Two dual fiber multimode tactical cables ran from FOH to three node locations under the stage at center, left and right positions.

At the center position were 2 Optocore DD32R-FX AES devices which fed signal and control data to 10 XTA speaker processors. Peterson’s clever utilization of the DD32’s bi directional AES ports allowed for the post-processor AES signals to be re-injected into the network for distribution to stage right and left processors. Three outputs were allocated for front fill speakers and subwoofer amps.

On each side of the stage to feed the main line array amplifiers was an Optocore X6R-FX-16AE with 16 AES out and a V3R-TP-8LO, 8 line out device which was used to feed auxiliary areas that required analog signals. TP Series devices have additional independent AES outputs via DB-25 ports that can be configured as either inputs, outputs or an 8/8 I/O configuration, where in this instance fed more Powersoft amps. The X6R-FX-16AE resided on the network via optical ports and was connected via it’s additional SANE CAT5 RJ45 ports the V3R-TP-8LO creating a sub ring topology.

Peterson, a certified Optocore Event Technician was first exposed to Optocore 2 years ago at the 2010 Jerry Lewis Labor Day Telethon for Muscular Dystrophy, where he saw the ease of how devices can be rapidly deployed, and connected simply with lightweight fiber optic cable, allowing for long runs and better sound quality than a traditional copper cabling system would yield. Combined with high channel counts, large matrix capability, and flexible and redundant routing features, he became an instant advocate as his specialty is high profile live television shows and major LA based globally broadcast award shows.

When asked, Jeff Peterson said “Optocore made set up effortless. I received the devices on Friday, a week before the show, Monday morning we set up and I was able to go home Monday night because the system was up and running and dead quiet due to the fiber network’s optoisolation.”

Peterson added “I was able to seamlessly route signals as needed. With the Macro feature of Optocore Control, I could instantly switch between main and backup consoles, and reroute around any failed speaker processor. Fortunately, we never had to use the feature, but I’m glad it was there.”

OPTOCORE HELPS VANGELIS INAUGURATE DOHA AMPHITHEATRE

Munich, February 15th, 2012

De Préférence provides advanced solution for celebratory work at Katara. An Optocore system has been used by leading French rental company De Préférence for a one-off show by Vangelis, to inaugurate the new Katara Amphitheatre in Doha.

The Greek composer had written a celebratory opus for the grand opening and the Paris-based production company, which specialises in large-scale spectacular events such as this, was tasked with constructing an optical fibre ring using seven of their Optocore and SANE converters to deliver the sound to an audience of 3,000 people. The concert also brought together the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra (a multinational ensemble) and Moscow's Yurlov State Academic Choir, boosted by superstar soprano Angela Gheorghiu and tenorissimo, Roberto Alagna.

This required De Préférence, and their 14-strong crew, to construct an elaborate network loop via Optocore fibre and SANE Cat5 Ethernet platforms, using X6R-TP / X6R-FX converters, capable of handling the main and pre-mixes, including the orchestra and chorus premixes from the Yamaha DM2000 desk; at the same time Optocore DD4ME’s were deployed to connect via a MADI bridge to the DiGiCo SD7 FOH desk for recording purposes.

Placed on the network were Yamaha DM2000 digital consoles, one handling the stage recording premix and one sending a chorus premix to the DiGiCo SD7 FOH and monitor consoles (for recording). From the DiGiCo environment the digital signal passed through an Optocore DD4ME Dual MADI network device to the Yamaha DME64 PA processor.

The DD4ME’s interfaced between the DiGiCo SD7 and the Optocore loop (the MADI 1 OUT assigned to the chorus premix between the DM2000 and SD7 consoles, while Madi1 IN was a copy of the DiGiCo stage rack).

An Optocore DD2FR-FX was used as the MADI interface for recording, with two multitrack recorders — one for playback connected directly to the FOH DiGiCo SD7 and one to the Yamaha desk.

Thus, confronted with the challenge of trying to tame reverberant surfaces, De Préférence were able to send pristine, low-latency Left/Right signals to the clusters ofL’Acoustics KARA loudspeaker enclosures, positioned around the amphitheatre, via the 8-In/8-Out Optocore X6R converters;these were also assigned to the intercom, while a 64-input Optocore stagerack serviced the chorus.

Summarised De Préférence’s Dominique Guerder, who handled the project, “The show was a big success. Thanks to our large inventory of Optocore devices we have the capability to construct advanced networks for events of this scale.”

OPTOCORE APPOINTS SOUNDWARE
AS DANISH DISTRIBUTOR

Munich, February, 2012

Optocore has appointed Soundware as its new distributor in Denmark.
The Risskov-based company, which represents a portfolio of leading studio, broadcast, theatre and live pro audio brands, confirms that Optocore will fit perfectly into its existing roster, alongside DiGiCo, ClearCom, Direct Out and many others.

"Optocore has a first-class pedigree in the distribution of audio, IP Intercom and video," noted Soundware Pro Audio Manager, Kim Johansen, who had personally encountered and used Optocore systems over the years, but felt the brand's potential was not being fully realised.

The German manufacturer also believes it has found the ideal partner.Said International Sales & Marketing Manager, Mark Davidson, "We chose Soundware due to their knowledge of the broadcast, fixed install and live performance markets in Denmark as well as their experience and reputation."



One obvious attraction to Soundware was the fact that Optocore can be integrated with major brands including DiGICo, Studer, Lawo, ClearCom and Neumann, while SSL, Studer and DiGiCo desks also control Optocore preamps.

As a result, Kim Johansen said he was relishing the challenge ahead and the exciting prospect offered by Optocore.

"Although Optocore has long been a leader in fibre optic solutions, by recently extending its core area to the CAT5 SANE protocol - enabling their devices to be made into an optical ring while having a small side network running SANE -the possibilities are greatly increased.

"Having high quality products to offer to our clients is a keystone in our business," he concluded. " We deal directly with rental houses and broadcast facilities which all need and expect the best. And with brands like Optocore on board we endeavour to provide them with precisely that."

Soundware already has Optocore demo racks containing DD2FR, DD4MR, X6R-FX and X6R-TP network interfaces and will be undertaking OCT training in due course.

OPTOCORE boosts functionality for Muscat's World-Class Opera House

Munich, January 31st, 2012

Occupying an eight hectare site, the magnificent new Royal Opera House Muscat (ROHM), built at the behest of Sultan Qaboos Bin Said, was officially opened in October. The complex, consisting of a concert theatre, auditorium, formal landscaped gardens, cultural market with retail outlets and luxury restaurants, is an arts centre for musical, theatrical and operatic productions, and has been designed to reflect contemporary Omani architecture.

Despite being classified as an Opera House, the main performance space converts from a theatre setting into a world class concert and organ recital hall.

The technical infrastructure of ROHM has now been further boosted with the delivery of an Optocore optical fibre network system which will enhance connectivity and route signals to the many different performance spaces within the complex. At the same time a MADI bridge will enable recording from the proposed Capture/Production suite whilst using Optocore converters to link with a Midas XL8 front-of-house mixing console.

In proposing the Optocore design, Bruno Silva, one of ROHM's Deputy Sound and Broadcast Managers (formerly a manager at Kings Place in London), sourced the 20 Optocore components for the network from long-standing UK Optocore specialists, HD Pro Audio.

He is one of three resident experienced sound engineers, who joined the project in September 2010. The remainder of the team comprises Head of Sound and Broadcast, Collin Chivers (formerly a manager at the Royal Opera House Covent Garden) and Joint Deputy Manager of Sound and Broadcast, Mike Compton (formerly a senior sound engineer at the Royal Shakespeare Company, Stratford upon Avon).

Working with the consultants, they modified some of the specifications, adding additional equipment including the Optocore network. "We knew this would boost the sound and video comms connectivity via analogue, optical, video and Ethernet patches," stated Bruno Silva.

In addition to the main configurable auditorium, the Optocore network extends coverage to the smaller 80-seat studio theatre the terrace, on the roof of the building, the front of house foyer spaces and to the a large outside marbled space ('Maidan').

Bruno adds, "The ROHM is Oman's premier venue for culture and arts, receiving acts from around the world. Its many performance spaces can host many different events and all will benefit from the Optocore ring."

Headroom has been built into the system so that the Pro Tools capture suite, with a proposed Lawo mc90 desk and video gallery, can eventually be connected to the Optocore network, without the need for an additional stagebox; the network can also be arranged to provide multi-tracking to OB's.

The newly commissioned Optocore solution provides the house with a flexible input and return system. At the hub is a DD32R-FX in the main theatre comms room, offering 32 AES ports with SANE and Ethernet. Providing a much more energy efficient option than its predecessor (the DD32E) the SANE port has allowed the ROHM team to be highly creative, adding analogue channels, Ethernet and MADI-based CAT5 connectivity to the network.

The DD32R-FX interfaces with the new X6R-TP (8MI/8LO) converter and Optocore DD2FR-FX, providing MADI ports, linked to Klark Teknik DN9650 processors and to the two Midas XL8 FOH consoles via a RME MADI bridge.

The two main stage racks offer 48 channels, so that one or both racks can be deployed for the orchestra or split across other areas of the building.

The racks consist of four further X6R-FX and CAT5-linked X6R-TP modules, (variously configured 16MI and 8MI/8LO), before outputting to a further X6R-TP (16MI) and X6R-FX (8MI/8LO) on the Terrace stage, connected via an Optocore DD4MR-FX and LX4B FOH network converter, with 48 outputs and 16 inputs at FOH.

Also linked into the digital architecture are the Foyer/Porch, via an additional X6R FX (8MI/8LO), and three rack modules in the Studio Theatre - comprising X6R-TP's (configured 16MI) and X6R FX (8MI/8LO).

"The whole idea behind Optocore is to enable us to relay audio and record, across the stage areas," says Bruno Silva. "For instance if we need to put a band into the second theatre we can use the Optocore to connect the multi-channels to the FOH Midas desk using the local Optocore preamps and to also split the feeds simultaneously to the Capture suite and Lawo mc90 desk, deploying the MADI stream of the DD2FR-FX interface."

Having Optocore running across the building provides all kinds of possibilities, he says. "We can link the signals and relay from area to area, using all available pro audio standards including AES/EBU and MADI."

The design of the ROHM was a collaboration between a UK based design team, including Acoustic Dimensions and architects WATG, working with the in house interior designers and the client (The Royal Court of Affairs Oman).

At the same time, one major feat, achieved in conjunction with the consultants Theatre Projects, was the making of the main stage and auditorium reconfigurable - adjusting the acoustic space to produce a beautiful sounding seamless concert space.

NORWEST EXTENDS OPTOCORE CAPACITY
FOR PAN ARAB GAMES

Munich, January 15th, 2012

The 12th quadrennial Pan Arab Games took place in Doha, Qatar recently - the first time that the country had hosted the multi-sport event.

Khalifa International Stadium was the main venue for the competition - as well as the Opening & Closing Ceremonies, which were attended by around 40,000 people.

Norwest Productions again worked alongside event sound designer Scott Willsallen, fielding a specialist crew including Ian Shapcott, Steve Caldwell, Trevor Beck and Justin Arthur. Another familiar presence at the stadium was the giant Optocore fibre ring.

According to Norwest Project Manager, Andrew Marsh, "The designs for these Opening & Closing Ceremonies almost always use Optocore for the signal distribution. We have a great investment in the Optocore brand and we hold many of the devices in our rental inventory. Optocore is a very unique product that has placed itself at the top of the signal distribution pile."



Prior to the event Norwest purchased an additional six of the new X6R-FX network converters with Ethernet to add to their already considerable Optocore stock. This enabled them to facilitate the 19 nodes that were required - five of which five collected the bulk of the inputs on the Optocore network.

To achieve the distribution architecture the network was constructed around a mixture of Optocore DD32-E, DD32R-FX, DD4MR-FX, DD2FR-FX, X6R-FX, X6-16 In, X6-16 Out, X6-8 In/8 Out interfaces - deployed across the 19 nodes.

Around 5.5km of multimode 4-core tactical fibre was deployed to link all nodes, enabling Norwest to use the last two cores in the cable to connect Gigabit fibre switches at each node for the purpose of running an audio LAN.

"All nodes were used to deliver system outputs of some kind," confirmed Marsh, "whether it was PA system outputs, time code, paging etc."

AES and MADI signals were sent to line array clusters distributed around the stadium. The main L'Acoustics PA comprised 116 x L'Acoustics Kudo and 36 x SB218 subs with 16 x EAW BH760 subs, 28 x dV Dosc, 8 x dV Sub. The system was powered via 54 x L'Acoustics LA8 amplifiers, 36 x Lab Gruppen PLM10000Q amplifiers, and mixed through a pair of Digico SD8 digital consoles.



Inputs were split at the source to enter both Optocore and analogue networks at each node and outputs were fed back from the patch to Norwest's Dolby Lake switching processors, which acted as switching devices at each node. While Optocore MADI devices were used on the primary system Digico Digirac's were used on the parallel analogue redundant system.

A pair of Merging Technology Pyramix Mass Core DAW's delivered the show audio to the Optocore network using MADI splitters and SRC's to enable both the playback machines to feed the Optocore and back up networks simultaneously.

Each project brings its own set of challenges and in this instance Norwest's main task was to get the equipment to site and installed in time, within a stadium that presented its own logistical difficulties. "In general, as people push for increased efficiency, we find that there is less and less time to install events like this. The beauty of Optocore is that it is fast and incredibly flexible in these situations plus the new generation of products has a very high I/O capability."

The show theatre itself created a dramatic spectacle and went without a hitch. The cultural section included a number of performers from the region such as Jordanian performers Nadim Sawalha and Abeer Issa. There was a solo performance from Egyptian singer Ehab Tawfiq who performed during the pre-show. During the main ceremony there was performances from Qatari singer Fahad Al Kubaisi and Syrian singer Asala Nasri.

Andrew Marsh attributed the success of the show to the technical design and implementation of the distribution system. "We were happy with how our crew and equipment performed and are looking forward to the next challenge. From our client's point of view, it sounded great and nothing failed … so I think they are very happy."