User manual
32
Multicast settings
In addition to a "one on one" connection (unicast) between a transmitter and a receiver, the 7700 Series unit
also supports multiple connections. With multicasting, several decoders receive the video signal from an
encoder at the same time. There are two methods for multiple connection: multi-unicast and multicast.
In multi-unicast mode, the unit's data stream is duplicated and passed on to multiple receivers.
Note
Multi-unicast places a heavy demand on the units' CPU, which can lead to reductions in image quality.
In multicast mode, duplication of the data stream takes place on the network itself. The data is then passed on
to multiple receivers.
Note
The prerequisite for multicast operation is a network enabled for multicasting with the IGMP group
management protocol and data transfer via UDP.
Even with multiple connections, a transparent data connection can be established only to a single device,
usually the first receiver connected. However, after about five seconds of inactivity, the data connection is
automatically suspended and another receiver can exchange transparent data with the transmitter.
The audio link is likewise established only with a single receiver. It is also generally maintained by the first
receiver connected until that connection is closed.
The 7700 Series unit supports multi-unicast operation for MPEG-4 for up to five simultaneously connected
receivers. The unit operates in multi-unicast mode with the following settings: Multicast streaming: MPEG-4
and Multicast group IP address: 0.0.0.0.
With the settings Multicast streaming: MPEG-4 and a valid multicast group IP address, the unit functions in
multicast mode.
Multicast group IP address:
A special IP address (class D address) must be configured for multicast operation in a multicast-enabled
network.
The network must support group IP addresses and the Internet Group Management Protocol (IGMP). The
address range is from 224.0.1.0 to 238.255.255.255.
Multicast video port encoder 1:
Enter the port address for the video port of encoder 1.
Multicast video port encoder 2:
Enter the port address for the video port of encoder 2.