Dielectric To Introduce SNMP-Enabled Dual RF Switch Controller

Dielectric will introduce a new dual RF switch controller to the market that simplifies local and remote control of transmission systems in early January, with its public debut scheduled for the 2020 NAB Show.

The new DRFSC device integrates SNMP and secure web-based capabilities to streamline the management of waveguide and coaxial transfer switch activation for modern TV and radio transmitters. Dielectric says benefits include plug-and-play adaptability to accelerate installation, streamlined hardware requirements, and networked status monitoring with richer data sets.

Powered by Burk Technology, a U.S. supplier of remote monitoring and control systems, the DRFSC can control up to two, four-port RF switches to provide flexible RF routing in systems with auxiliary transmitters and/or antennas. Users can locally activate control applications from its front panel, or remotely through a web browser interface. Burk’s specialized Plus-X protocol is also integrated, enabling connectivity to Burk’s ARC Plus remote control system via a network connection. This allows engineers to centralize DRFSC functions with other control and monitoring applications.

The DRFSC’s integrated SNMP control differentiates the unit from other RF switch controllers on the market. SNMP is a universal networking protocol integrated with most transmitter systems currently available. Dielectric says the new DRFSC “can now take advantage of this widely used interface, providing a common interface protocol. Installation is straightforward and an intuitive touchscreen-enabled configuration process enables installers to setup and deploy the system in two hours or less.”

“The U.S. market has seen an influx of modern television transmitters installed as a result of the repack initiative, and worldwide we continue to see replacement of analog TV and radio transmitters with high-efficiency digital systems,” said Steven Moreen, Western regional sales manager, Dielectric. “All of these transmitters have built-in SNMP capability, and we are bringing this modernized solution to our customers for the purpose of simplifying how they remotely access, control, monitor and communicate with their RF systems. This device will also seamlessly integrate with Dielectric’s large global base of installed waveguide and coaxial switches, providing our customers with a functional and interoperable unit that is easy to configure, install and operate out of the gate.”

The DRFSC provides additional protection through its ability to control transmitter interlocks as switches change position. This prevents damage by ensuring that RF energy is turned off when RF switches are commanded to move to a new position.

“We are pleased to build on our strong partnership with Dielectric with the design, manufacture and support of this new dual RF switch controller,” said Matt Leland, director of sales, Burk Technology. “The DRFSC can operate standalone and is plug-and-play compatible with the ARC Plus remote control system. This powerful combination allows customers to integrate switch control into an overall facility view with graphical control screens, automated functions and flexible alarm reporting. The DRFSC represents the next-generation solution in switch controllers. We look forward to continuing our partnership and assisting our common customers with technical support and integration.”

Dielectric will demonstrate the controller at its 2020 NAB Show booth (C2622) April 19-22 at the Las Vegas Convention Center.