Cambridge Consultants have developed a new wireless audio distribution system for hearing assistance or simultaneous translation in auditoria and conference centres. Dubbed Salix, the system uses a Digital Enhanced Cordless Telecommunication (DECT) platform to eliminate the high installation and configuration costs of current infrared systems, delivering high quality stereo audio at a fraction of the installed cost of an infrared system.

 

Most audio distribution systems in use today are based on infrared technology, which has limited range and requires a clear line of sight between the transmitter and receiver, compelling the installation of several transmitters in a venue, generally on the ceiling. This can be expensive, not only because of the need for multiple transmitters, but also because of the time-consuming and complicated installation.

 

Salix overcomes these problems by utilising DECT wireless technology, which has an effective operating range of at least 100 metres, does not require line of sight contact, and is self-configuring to ensure interference-free transmission. The result is high-quality, zero-dropout audio distribution from a single transmitter installed anywhere – significantly reducing hardware and installation costs. For simultaneous translation applications, several Salix systems can coexist in an auditorium, conference centre or school, thanks to a robust spectrum etiquette scheme shared by all users of the DECT bands.

 

The Salix system comprises a transmitter board that can be populated for one or two stereo channels and a receiver board with selector buttons for volume, power and audio programme, an audio output socket and a built-in lithium polymer battery. A modern high quality, low latency music codec delivers stereo audio with a 15 kHz bandwidth.

 

The Salix reference design, which has been tested and proven, is available as a hardware documentation package including photoplot and assembly information, with executable software for the transmitter and receiver modules. Source code licensing is also available for custom design.

 

Image: Cambridge Consultants