VC04 RDS Encoder
The VC04 is our lower cost model lacking the screen and jog wheel.
Broadcast Equipment
Overview
Built by 2wcom, this encoder includes the full RDS/RBDS feature set and an optional TCP/IP interface.
Each encoder comes with ARCOS BASIC Configuration Software which runs under Windows 95/98/2000/NT/XP. Practical applications of the VC04 extends from basic Station features to Scrolling PS such as realtime Title and Artist display or advanced RDS applications such as paging, Traffic Message Channel (TMC) and Emergency Warning Systems.
Hardware
The box is a standard 19" by 1 R/U. At its heart is a powerful microcomputer for controlling the hardware functions, managing the RDS data and driving the interfaces. Four RS-232-C interfaces are available.
The software is stored in flash memory so that firmware updates can be made easily. Functions such as nonvolatile data storage, watchdog, real-time clock, remote-control inputs and signaling relays are standard in the VC04.
The RDS and VRF signals are generated by digital synthesis using a powerful digital signal processor (DSP). The generated digital RDS/VRF signals pass a D/A-converter followed by a bandpass filter.
The analog RDS amplifier can be adjusted to match with different input impedances and fine level adjustment is quasi-continuous in the selected gain range. The signals are applied and forwarded via decoupled unbalanced (or balanced) inputs and outputs on the front and/or the rear panel depending on the settings.
If the VC04 needs to be connected to a stereo generator or exciter without an SCA port then pass-through mode allows you to simply place the VC04 in series in your program chain. Bypass relays will kick in if the A/C power is lost for any reason.
Optional TCP/IP Interface
The VC04 DSP can be ordered with our TCP/IP interface.
The encoder can then be configured and controlled via the Internet. The big advantage of the TCP/IP interface is to get fast and easy remote access to the equipment from anywhere.
Automation software
Most common automation system interfaces are supported for Scrolling PS, Radiotext and Traffic announcement. viaRadio will support any others as necessary. Of course the included Arcos Basic Software offers a convenient way to setup the VC04 with all necessary RDS parameters.