Watchdog and Redundancy
Darim’s Watchdog unit controls the external switch box in case the main server fails. As the device monitors the operational integrity of the computer system, hardware and application software, it closes output GPI signal in case of any failure occurs. With the aid of external commutator, the Playout server manages switching over either to transmitted signal or to the mirroring server.
Watchdog box is a specialized accessory used for Redundancy Options of FS series servers. Connects to the USB port of the server and simulates a COM port. Provides two outputs via BNC connectors: Normally Closed and Normally Open. Optional for: FS Series. Dimensions: 80x80x25 mm (without connectors). Power: 5V DC, 0.2A (from USB)
Watchdog and Redundancy Scheme
а) Bypass - switching over to the transmitted signal due to main server failure.
б) Mirror - switching over to the mirroring server due to main server problem.
в) Mirror + bypass - switching over to the mirroring server then to the transmitted signal if both main and mirroring servers fail.
Pictures comments:
- Server – automated broadcast server
- Commutator – video/audio signals commutator 2->1, optionally supplied by third companies.
- Watchdog Box : monitoring device of the video server state (OS, FD300 board, broadcast server working officiency control). The device receives messages from the server via USB interface in a predefined time period (regularly). In case of messages failure, it switches over the commutator to reserve (transmitted signal or reserve server - mirror).
- You can also use other models of failover switchers from other manufacturers for these purposes: MaxDigital MAS-201AV (single channel, SD only), ISIS HD-212 (dual-channel, HD/SD compatible).
Note : For mirroring the customer has to purchase the second video server identical to the main one.
GPI I/O Box
General Purpose Interface Input/Output is used to provide signal about certain condition to external equipment or accept such signal from elsewhere. Connects to the USB port of the server and simulates 2 identical COM ports. Provides 1 output and 1 input via BNC connectors on each of the port.
Optional for: Virtual Studio Series, FS Series, Sport Replay
Dimensions: 80x80x25 mm (without connectors)
Power: 5V DC, 0.12A (from USB)
Features :
- GPI interface is widely used for controlling external devices, as well as for receiving their commands.
- The number of COM ports on a PC is limited, some new PC models do not have COM port on the case at all (although it may be on the motherboard).
- Every GPI-box is connected via USB and emulated 2 COM ports on the system. The given COM port has GPI-In and GPI-Out, i.e. 2 pairs. Therefore, GPI box allows solving the problem of COM port lack via GPI control.
- The user himself fulfills commutation (cable) between GPI-box and external devices.
