VACS Client / Server Networking

CorTek Software's premier product, the Virtual Audio Console System or VACS, is a innovative new approach to the control of professional audio systems.

The VACS software has been designed using a client/server technology, which splits the software functionality between several software modules.   The server module contains logic tailored for a specific manufacturer's console, while the client portion of the software contains the man/machine interface that provides the front panel controls and display for the audio system.  The software modules communicate with each other by exchanging network messages.  This allows the client and server parts of the software to be split apart and used on multiple computer systems that communicate with each other over a computer network.

The networking capability of the system provides many advantages for live performances:

• The mixing system can be controlled simultaneously from 8 separate locations.
  

• The console hardware can be located backstage, while an engineer controls the mix from the audience seating area with a low profile workstation or laptop PC. 
  • More available seats for paying customers
  • Reduced cabling and labor costs
  • Increased mobility of mixer control system
    
• The system supports wireless LAN technology and laptop computers, allowing the engineer to roam about to support difficult situations.   Ideal for large venues or theme parks.
  
• The systems portability and wireless capability allows you to "fine-tune" the listening environment from exactly where the audience hears the program.
  
• Since the networking is accomplished using the standard TCP/IP protocol, the console can even be controlled via the Internet from anywhere in the world. This feature also allows dial-in and wireless LAN access.  Read the "DCX Network Oveview" for more information on setting up a DCX network.

VACS technology can be applied to any manufacturer's audio system, by customizing the server software specifically for the target platform.  Hardware required to implement the VACS system includes a PC compatible computer system, with the appropriate media interface for the audio hardware, such as MIDI, serial connection, network port, etc.

Capability

The VACS software has been optimized to operate hundreds of controls per audio channel allowing the automation of complex systems.  This includes the ability to store, recall, and replay complex control sequences. For example, the VACS software operates and automates over twelve-thousand controls in real-time when used with one manufacturer's audio console.

The VACS software can also be extended to integrate the control of lighting, pyrotechnics, and other devices using MIDI Machine Control.

Application

Cortek has applied the advanced technology of the Virtual Audio Console System (VACS) to the Gamble DCX professional mixer, a high-end multichannel audio control system. Together, this system allows for remote volume and parameter setting that can be applied to:

Theme Parks
Venues
Live Sound Productions
Performing Arts Centers
Conference Centers
Houses of Worship
Distance Learning (works over the internet)
Corporate Offices
Function Rooms
Hotels
Clubs
Theatres

Cortek gives you the tools and technologies so that you can get jobs done that were never possible before.

CORTEK's - Virtual Audio Console Software for the DCX

Cortek Software, Inc. has developed the control system software for the industry’s first all-software controlled analog audio mixer system. Cortek’s Virtual Console Software is being used with the Gamble Associates DCX line of audio products. The Gamble DCX system is unique in that it has no hardware controls or indicators, but relies exclusively on a computer generated control console. The software supports control of up to eight, 240 channel DCX audio systems. In addition to providing local control, the software allows up to eight remote workstations to operate the system over a computer network, using both wired and wireless LAN technology.

Cortek’s VACS software will be bundled and shipped with the Gamble DCX systems.

VACS Software Features:

VACS Sever software runs under Windows NT for maximum reliability.

VACS Client software runs under Windows 9X and Windows NT.

Fast display and update of control and VU data.

12,383 On-Screen Controls.

276 On-Screen VU Meters, 586 On-Screen Peak-Clip Indicators.

Automatic saving of current console settings at preset timed intervals.

Unlimited Mute, Fader (VCA), Cue Grouping, and Scene saving.

Digitally controlled over a TCP/IP network.

Dial-up Network remote control of all console functions, "Live" over the Internet.

Up to 8 operators can control the DCX Server with Client software at the same time.

Up to 8 DCX Racks can be controlled by one user’s computer at the same time.

Sequencing - stores and recalls all moves made during the entire show.

Sample Screen Display of VACS Software
(click on image for actual size)

VACS DISPLAY FEATURES

Full color keyed, multi-window display.

Fast display panning for live feel.

Direct dB indication of control position.

Multi-functional controls allow parameters to be set by sliders, scroll buttons, and by direct input.

Powerful cross fade feature allows smooth transitions between scenes.

Channels can be instantly re-arranged on the screen to accommodate changes or additions in the mixer setup, i.e. channels 1 and channels 20 can be re-arranged to be viewed adjacent to one another without affecting the physical setup.

To learn more about the DCX hardware visit the Jim Gamble Associates DCX Web site.

For information on wireless networking see our wireless LAN information page.