Audionetzwerk Nexus

NEXUS Overview

Applications

In Radio and TV broadcasting:

  • Central transmission rooms, full broadcast-centre networking,
  • Studio routing matrices,
  • Transmission links

In recording and post-production studios:

  • Routing matrix for mixing consoles and studios
  • Complete wiring of studio complexes
  • A/D, D/A and format conversion

In theatres, concert halls, convention centres, exhibition grounds :

  • Interconnection of recording studios, stages, sound-reinforcement facilities, and other areas
  • Hall and building networking

Functionality

NEXUS is THE routing and forwarding system for digital audio. It has a distributed modular structure and ensures brilliant sound, absolute and intuitive control, and optimum reliability.

Networking

NEXUS offers almost unlimited and cost-efficient connectivity via optical fibres. Distances of up to 100 kilometers (more than 60 miles) can be spanned without deterioration in audio-quality or sync inaccuracies.

Components

NEXUS Base Devices are 19" mainframes that come in 1, 3, 6, 9, 12, or 15 unit sizes. All inputs and outputs are made available on 3-U plug-in boards.

Audio Conversion

All audio boards read and write the internal 24-bit audio format of the time-division multiplex bus system. Thus, audio inputs of any type can be routed via NEXUS to any type of audio output (e.g. analogue inputs to digital outputs, or Y2 inputs to AES/EBU outputs). With NEXUS, format conversion — usually a complex and awkward business — ceases to be an issue.

Signal Processing

Signal distribution does not require signal-processor boards. However, a NEXUS DSP can be routed to wherever signal processing is needed — virtually anywhere on the system, providing all necessary controls for EQ, delay, dynamics, faders, etc.
The processing modules are controlled from the NEXUS user interface.

Non-Audio

NEXUS routing and forwarding capabilities also apply to other signal types. The system can distribute and even generate various serial formats such as RS 232, RS 422, RS 485, MIDI, DMX, LTC etc. and control signals for downstream devices, e.g. power-amplifiers, lighting and machine control.

Operation

NEXUS is operated using a graphical control program running on a PC and/or from AURUS, CRESCENDO and AURATUS audio mixing consoles. Intuitive access to, and control of, all system components is provided by NEXUS control software. All settings can be stored, and presets can be easily recalled.

Reliability

Reliable operation is a core feature of the NEXUS. Systems can be configured with a high level of redundancy, and every Base Device includes a dedicated controller board. The concept of »distributed intelligence« prevents total failure in case of malfunction. Defects are immediately indicated by the graphical alert system. Single boards can be replaced during operation without affecting other system components (hot-swap capability). Every board is available on the system within a few seconds after installation.