Cadac's proprietary protocol offers advanced performance advantages over current systems, with superior bandwidth and latency, supporting 256 bi-directional channels of 96kHz 24bit audio, along with all control data and clock synchronisation, on co-axial cable with runs of up to 150 meters (492 feet). MegaCOMMS networks have only 0.2 milliseconds of delay per link, so even after several links in the network there is negligible aggregated latency. An extensive automatic latency management system manages all internal routing and associated processing latency and compensates for any additional A/D and D/A conversions when inserting external analogue sources. This means all audio samples are synchronised before summing, resulting in absolute phase coherency at all outputs.
'Hubbed' around the MC CDC Router, MegaCOMMS Systems allow connection of multiple audio sources and consoles; both CDC consoles (currently CDC4 and CDC eight) and I/O stage boxes, or third party consoles, sources and audio networks via the MADI and Dante bridges. The 2U MC CDC Router currently allows up to four MegaCOMMS consoles to be linked to up to 8 MegaCOMMS units (I/O stage boxes or audio network bridges) within the same audio network; future performance upgrades are already planned for. It will allow a redundant console to run in parallel with the 'live' console - and should the 'live' console be disabled, the redundant one will seamlessly step in, ensuring that control and audio continue uninterrupted.
This means that a number of I/O stage boxes can be placed around a venue, feeding the FOH and monitor positions - and redundant consoles - plus, via the CDC MC MADI Network Bridge, feeding 128 channels to a broadcast truck, as well as a DAW via the CDC MC Dante Bridge.
Commenting on the power of the CADAC MegaCOMMS System Network, Cadac's brand development manager Richard Ferriday states: "No other console manufacturer can offer a complete in-house solution on this scale. This takes our CDC digital systems to a whole different level, with one-stop solutions for any large scale multi-roomed installation or large scale, multi-artist live events, such as TV shows, awards ceremonies, festivals or mega tours."
(Lee Baldock)
