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Tieline reporter units: flexible, extendable and versatile

The Tieline G3 codec line consists of 3 products namely the Commander G3 table top unit, the Commander G3 19” rack and the i-Mix field unit. Each unit consists of a chassis with extension slots to insert different modules. These hardware modules have to do with the telecom networks ISDN, PSTN(POTS) and GSM. The optional software kit on the other hand is related to the extension of standard functionalities e.g. the flexible programming of the matrix router or the implementation of the back-up function of either the ISDN or the analogue (POTS) network.

Each of these codecs is extraordinary as it combines 4 important functions in one unit:

• mixer
• intercom
• codec
• and telephone coupler.

We would like to highlight each of these 4 important functions.

Mixer

All Tieline products have a digital audio mixer on board. The number of channels depends on the model. The Commander G3 has 2 channels whereas the i-Mix G3 has 5. Each reporter unit also has a digital matrix. The combination of matrix with mixer enables one to configure every imaginable combination of audio paths. A number of much used configurations has been defined as standard profiles. The special matrix software however enables one to customise one’s own combination of configurations.

Intercom

When making use of the built-in digital matrix one has at one’s disposal an entire intercom system. With the push of a button any intercom connection can be set up. This could be to persons, who are connected to the unit or to the studio using the audio codec or to an external intercom system. For this very purpose the i-Mix G3 has a 16x8 Digital Crosspoint Router and the Commander G3 has an 11x6 Digital Crosspoint Router. The intercom function is unique for a reporter unit and makes the Tieline codec even more versatile.

Codec

Besides G.711 and G.722, with the introduction of the ISDN module, the codec now supports all common protocols including MPEG Layer 2 and Layer 3 for mono, dual mono and stereo. Compatibility with all large makes of ISDN codecs goes without saying.

The POTS module guarantees a 15 kHz audio connection over a normal analogue telephone line. This already always was a unique feature of the Tieline codecs. It is even possible nowadays to establish a stereo POTS connection using 2 POTS lines. And this is also possible over one ISDN channel! Daily thousands of reporters world-wide are using the 15 kHz POTS codecs.

If the GSM network that supports HSCSD (high speed circuit switched data) is used, then 15 kHz audio is also possible using the mobile phone network. This is beyond many people’s wildest expectations. And yet it is a fact. GSM networks, which support HSCSD, are available in more than 30 countries in Europe. If this network is not present then the standard GSM network in any case allows 7.5 kHz audio quality to be achieved (digital over 9,6 kbps).

Telephone coupler

In certain situations it would be quite handy if telephone calls can be made from the reporter unit without interrupting the live broadcast. Such a live telephone call could be to organise something outside of the live broadcast (off air) or to accept a call from a listener, whom one wants to switch on-air a few moments later. All control buttons to realise this are standard on the unit. In this way a complete program can be made in the field.

You could think can one wish for more? Yet there are a few more features we would like to bring to your attention:

• The codec is easy to operate!
  Maybe you find the number of available functions overwhelming, yet Tieline has succeeded in keeping the main functions so simple that every reporter can operate the unit with only one push of a button. You can send your non-technical staff into the field with total confidence.
• Completely remote controlled
  Obviously there will be situations in which the reporter in the field needs to change a setting, but has neither the time nor the inclination to do so. As soon as a connection has been made between the studio and the field codec all functions (including input level control!) can be set from the studio.
• Two codecs in one reporter set!
  One of the standard matrix profiles enables one to split the unit into 2 (duplex) codecs, working completely independently from each other. This could be very useful. Imagine for example doing one program simultaneously in 2 different languages or having a combination of a program and a co-ordination channel

Applications: news and sports broadcasts, foreign correspondents, the roving reporter, voice overs, reports from location, city radio, weather forecast, PR departments etc.