EBU TECHNICAL is launching a new Group to specify minimal interoperability requirements for intercom systems based on IP. The work will build on EBU's Audio Contribution over IP specification (EBU Tech 3326).
| From phones to IP
Intercom systems used to be based on analogue phone technology. Nowadays, modern systems are based on IP. However, the interoperability of these systems is limited. Typically intercoms can only 'talk' to intercoms from the same manufacturer. So in that sense the switch from analogue to digital technology has had a negative side-effect. Obviously interoperability is a design choice, but without a clear specification to adhere to chances of non-proprietary implementations appearing on the market are small. The EBU N/3IP (Intercom Interoperability via IP) Group is now tasked to create a solution. |
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Manufacturers actively involved
To be successful, active participation from intercom manufacturers is needed. At IBC 2008 first contacts have been established and these showed to be very promising. By allowing for interoperability between systems from different vendors at a basic level, and by building on the evolving family of Audio and Voice over IP standards, costs for deployment would be significantly reduced.
Tasks
The main tasks fo the N/IIIP Group are:
1. To create a minimum interoperabilty specification (voice grade audio only).
2. To involve manufacturers in this process.
3. To verify the specification in practical interoperabiltiy tests.
The N/3IP Group is chaired by Ms Claire Merienne (France3). If you are interested to join this Group, please register via the Group's webpage or contact project manager Mathias Coinchon (EBU).