The ContentServer R6 technology combines internal audio coding, support for remote audio encoders, multimedia data management and multiplex generation with powerful redundancy features that work across remote sites. A convenient user-friendly web interface supports configuration and system monitoring via remote access, enabling Content-as-a-Service operation scenarios.

“The ContentServer technology has earned a reputation worldwide for highest reliability and quality. The greatly enhanced functionality of the ContentServer R6 technology allows broadcasters to bring audio content and attractive data services on air with ease. Due to its flexible configuration, it provides the ability to perfectly match the diverse needs of broadcasters and network operators from community stations, to local or regional broadcasters, up to large-scale national networks. At the same time, receiver manufacturers benefit from the solution’s ability to reach close to 100 percent test coverage regarding signaling, audio configurations, data services and multiplexing options when operated in its Developer Edition,” said Alexander Zink, product manager of the Fraunhofer ContentServer technology at Fraunhofer IIS.

One strong building block of the ContentServer technology’s favorable reputation is its out-of-the-box support for a large number of versatile interfaces for audio and content provision, which allow straightforward integration into broadcasters’ and network providers’ broadcast environments. With R6, the range of supported interfaces is further enhanced, along with advancements such as new redundancy features – including local backup audio encoding in case of failing external audio provision – and innovative network structuring options such as Extended STI-C, where centralized service multiplexers feed into regionalized DAB networks.

Additional new features of R6 include:

• Emergency Warning Functionality (EWF) to quickly alert the public when disaster strikes
• xHE-AAC as the standard audio codec for Digital Radio Mondiale (DRM) and support for multiple PAD multimedia applications per audio service
• Internal Audio encoders with AES67-AoIP live audio input (Livewire, Ravenna) as well as advanced support for remote audio encoders
• Powerful Monitoring System controlling all system functions including content provision
• Data provision via established protocols XML/JSON RPC API

The ContentServer is typically located in the studio, playout center, transmitter site, or within the dedicated network provider premises with full remote control for administration and data provision. The Fraunhofer ContentServer R6 technology is available for DAB and DRM as a complete package, including hardware and specific customers support services, from Fraunhofer’s OEM partners.

To experience the new features of the ContentServer R6 technology visit Fraunhofer at IBC in Hall 8, Booth B.80 from September 11 to 15 at the RAI Congress Center in Amsterdam, or one of Fraunhofer’s OEM partners.