Hilversum, 10 September 2024

StreamXpert Adds In-Depth DAB/DAB+ Analysis

In the evolving landscape of digital radio, ensuring broadcasts meet strict technical standards is essential for high-quality and reliable performance. DekTec’s StreamXpert, a leading real-time stream analyzer, now steps up its game with advanced DAB/DAB+ support — ensuring broadcasters and manufacturers stay ahead of the curve.

Advanced Analysis and Decoding Capabilities

The latest StreamXpert update allows broadcasters and equipment manufacturers to not only decode DAB and DAB+ audio streams but also to analyze the Fast Information Channel (FIC) metadata in depth. All Fast Information Groups (FIGs) in the FIC are supported, and all metadata fields are displayed comprehensively in the GUI.

StreamXpert’s enhanced feature set for DAB/DAB+ empowers broadcasters to ensure that all parameters are properly configured and compliant with industry standards, guaranteeing flawless audio delivery and regulatory compliance, while manufacturers gain a reliable tool to debug and verify metadata processing.

DekTec is committed to expanding StreamXpert’s DAB/DAB+ capabilities. Future updates will include ETI file analyzing and recording, displaying embedded pictures in X-Pad data, various export options and custom tools based on specific user requests.

Detail of the decoded FIG tree in StreamXpert, displaying comprehensive metadata analysis for DAB/DAB+ streams.

Why DAB and DAB+?

Digital Audio Broadcasting (DAB) and DAB+ represent the next generation of radio technology. DAB+ utilizes efficient HE-AAC v2 compression, allowing broadcasters to transmit more stations within the same bandwidth compared to traditional FM/AM. It also supports enhanced features such as real-time song information, traffic updates, and other metadata, offering a more immersive listening experience. As many countries shift towards adopting DAB+ for its improved sound quality and transmission efficiency, tools like StreamXpert become essential for maintaining high broadcasting standards.

Complementary Modulation and Reception Tools

In addition to DAB stream analysis, DekTec offers modulator products like the DTU-315 portable USB-3 modulator that can play out .eti files and generate an RF signal. This RF signal can be fed to DAB receivers, making it ideal for developing radio software or compliance testing. DekTec also supports channel simulation to stress-test receivers under various conditions.

Furthermore, DekTec provides advanced reception tools, such as the DTU-331 portable RF probe, which is capable of receiving a full DAB stream including all its metadata. The StreamXpert software can run on these devices to analyze DAB in real-time, giving broadcasters and engineers deep insights into their radio transmissions.

Nicky van de Groep demonstrates the advanced DAB analysis features
in the latest version of StreamXpert at IBC 2024.

Hilversum, 9 September 2024

Unlock Pro-Level Workflows in vMix with DekTec SDI Cards

DekTec is pleased to announce that the DTA-2172 and DTA-2174B have been officially validated and approved for use with vMix. This integration empowers broadcasters and content creators to elevate their video production by seamlessly incorporating DekTec’s cost-effective, high-performance video capture and playout solutions into their vMix setups.

The DTA-2172 provides two SDI inputs supporting up to 3G-SDI, while the DTA-2174B offers four SDI inputs up to 3G-SDI or a single 4K 12G-SDI input for higher-resolution workflows. Both cards are part of DekTec’s flagship SDI lineup, known for their reliability and flexibility in handling diverse video formats and standards. With these cards, vMix users can now capture and process professional SDI streams directly within their vMix environment.

Special versions of the DTA-2172 and DTA-2174B, optimized for vMix and other DirectShow-based applications, are available at an attractive price point. Order using the codes DTA-2172-LIVEPRO or DTA-2174B-LIVEPRO.

To use the DTA-2172-LIVEPRO or DTA-2174B-LIVEPRO in vMix, install the DekTec DirectShow SDK which is available for download here.

About vMix
vMix is live video production and streaming software that lets you create, mix, switch, record, and stream professional productions on a Windows PC or laptop.

Hilversum, 6 September 2024

New 25G SmartNIC for SMPTE 2110 - Supports 2x UHD!

Want to build a custom SMPTE 2110 application for UHD streams but not sure where to start?

Our 25G SmartNIC is your perfect solution. It enables you to focus on writing your software, while the card manages the intricate timing and protocol complexities - so you don't have to.

DekTec's new DTA-2125, a 25G SmartNIC optimized for SMPTE 2110.

Whether you're developing on Linux or Windows, the DTA-2125 interfaces seamlessly with your application while also functioning as a versatile, generic NIC. It even supports multiple SMPTE 2022 TS-over-IP and SDI-over-IP streams, giving you the flexibility to tackle a wide range of broadcast scenarios.

To get you started quickly, DekTec provides complimentary example code, including support for real-time streaming, available on the DekTec Drivers and SDKs Downloads section under 'AvFifo - Code examples for Windows' and 'AvFifo - Code examples for Linux'.

For even greater versatility, the DTA-2125 integrates with FFmpeg, further expanding your development possibilities. For more information, visit our FFmpeg for DekTec devices page.

Hilversum, 5 September 2024

Meet the DTA-2128: DekTec's Highest-Density Satellite Receiver

DekTec is excited to unveil the DTA-2128, our most advanced and highest-density satellite receiver yet. This state-of-the-art PCIe card supports eight DVB-S2X channels in a compact half-height design, making it the ideal solution for high-density satellite IRD applications.

The DTA-2128 features four L-band inputs, each feeding two independent receivers, allowing for the simultaneous reception of eight DVB-S2X streams.

Equipped to power four LNBs, the DTA-2128 can simultaneously receive eight independent DVB-S2X video or data streams. With advanced RF and stream monitoring capabilities, it provides comprehensive real-time statistics for seamless integration into your systems. Fully supported by the DekTec SDK, the DTA-2128 is designed for rapid and effortless deployment across a wide range of applications.

Multiple DTA-2128 cards can be installed in a single server, enabling unprecedented satellite receiver density for your solutions.

The DTA-2128 will be available in production quantities by the end of the year.

Hilversum, 22 July 2024

StreamXpress Remote Control with Python

DekTec’s StreamXpress, a flexible stream player application, now offers expanded remote control functionality through Python scripting, empowering developers to automate and streamline media playout processes. With Python Script Examples for StreamXpress Remote Control, users can easily integrate StreamXpress into various workflows, from automated testing to advanced synchronized transmission setups.

Remote Control Made Easy

The newly introduced Python scripting examples allow users to control StreamXpress remotely, opening up possibilities for automation in broadcast, testing, and development environments. The examples cover a range of use cases, such as selecting specific output ports, initiating playback, and monitoring the status of streams. Users can quickly get started with the provided step-by-step guide on setting up Python on a Windows system.

Power Users: Take Control to the Next Level

For advanced users, the possibilities expand even further. Want to control multiple instances of StreamXpress simultaneously? Or orchestrate synchronized GPS-timed playouts? The advanced Python examples cover these scenarios. StreamXpress even supports multi-instance management, perfect for MIMO testing or other complex setups, giving you potential applications you could never imagine.

 📰  Explore the Python Examples for StreamXpress

Hilversum, 1 July 2024

DekTec PCIe Gen3 Cards Compatibility Issue in Gen4/Gen5 Slots

DekTec has identified, through customer reports, a compatibility issue where PCIe Gen3 cards may fail to initialize when inserted into PCIe Gen4 or Gen5 slots with the Data Link Feature Exchange (DLFE) enabled.

This problem occurs because DLFE messages from PCIe Gen4 slots are not recognized by Gen3 cards, potentially resulting in system stalls and undetectable cards on both Windows and Linux platforms. In some instances, this issue can prevent PCs from booting, displaying a "PCI bus enumeration" error.

To resolve this issue, users are advised to disable DLFE in the BIOS settings. For detailed instructions, please visit our disabling DLFE page.

Hilversum, 28 March 2024

Simplifying SMPTE 2110, ATSC 3.0 with DekTec's Advanced Solutions

At NAB this year, we are eager to show how effortlessly our customers can create SMPTE 2110 applications, sidestepping complex technical details like PTP timing.

Our highlights, the DTA-2110 10G and DTA-2125 25G SmartNICs, are fully integrated with the DekTec SDK and our Test & Measurement software. These advanced PCIe cards are crafted to simplify the creation of 2110 solutions, freeing designers to focus on the creative aspects of their A/V projects.

Moreover, we're excited to present our comprehensive toolkit for ATSC 3.0. From generation to reception and detailed analysis, DekTec delivers a full suite of tools for every facet of ATSC 3.0 testing. Join us for live demonstrations at the DekTec stand, where we'll showcase the capabilities and advantages of our ATSC 3.0 solutions.

We will also display our full range of current hardware products and demonstrate the latest advancement in our industry-standard player and analyzer software, StreamXpress and StreamXpert.

Don't miss the opportunity to visit us and meet our team, including design engineers, at LVCC West Hall Booth W3501.