The Studio Technologies Model 5682 ST 2110 to Dante Bridge provides a high-performance means of interconnecting ("bridging") SMPTE® ST 2110 audio channels with Dante® audio-over-Ethernet channels. Both the ST 2110 and the Dante interfaces are typically associated with independent local area networks (LANs). The Model 5682 supports this scenario, as well as a single network that carries both ST 2110 and Dante audio signals. The unit is compatible with the SMPTE ST 2110-30 standard for PCM audio signals and the ST 2110-10 standard for signal timing. On the Dante side, the Model 5682 is compatible with the Dante Domain Manager™ (DDM) software application and is complaint with the AES67 interoperability standard. The Model 5682-02 allows up to 64 audio channels. Internal sample rate conversion (SRC) capability provides sample rate, bit-depth, and timing conversion to ensure that audio signal integrity is maintained.
The suite of ST 2110 standards is finding wide-ranging use in broadcast applications. While also handling video and control signals, the Model 5682 is focused on ST 2110-compliant audio channels and their associated timing parameters. Dante audio-over-Ethernet has found acceptance in broadcast, audio/visual, and general audio applications due to its ease of use, excellent performance, strong interoperability, and wide adoption by many equipment manufacturers. However, interconnecting or bridging ST 2110 audio channels with Dante audio channels can present a challenge. Using the Model 5682 makes this a simple task, only requiring interconnecting standard Ethernet signals and performing a moderate amount of configuration.
The Model 5682's ST 2110 and Dante interfaces each incorporate three Gigabit Ethernet (GigE) connections. Two GigE ports on each interface are designated for use by the associated ST 2110 or Dante network while the third is reserved for configuration use. The ST 2110 will support redundant streams, following the SMPTE 2022-7 standard. On the unit's Dante interface, a setting performed within the Dante Controller application selects whether the Dante interface will operate in a Switched or Redundant mode. Each Model 5682 audio channel is associated on a one-to-one basis with a channel on each interface. For example, input 1 on the ST 2110 interface is associated with transmitter (output) 1 on the Dante interface. The Model 5682 does not perform any routing or crosspoint functions.
Front-panel LED indicators, an LCD display, and five pushbutton switches are provided to view and revise selected operating parameters. NMOS, ANEMAN, and JSON configuration support for the unit's ST 2110 interface is provided. The Dante Controller software application, available free of charge from Audinate, is used to configure the unit's Dante network and audio parameters.
The Model 5682 can be powered by 100-240 V, 50/60 Hz or a source of 12 volts DC. Both can be simultaneously connected to provide redundant power operation. The unit's lightweight enclosure mounts in one space (1RU) of a standard 19-inch equipment rack. Industry-standard connectors are used for the Ethernet, AC mains, and DC power interconnections. The unit is built to professional standards and is intended for continuous, 24-hour operation.