Sonifex AVN-GPIO GPIO to LAN Transceiver (EMBER+ & UDP)

The AVN-GPIO, a part of the AVN series, converts GPIO (General Purpose Inputs & Outputs) into network commands for controlling or being controlled by other devices or software over a network. It features 10 configurable GPIOs, with 8 supporting PTP programming and a relay. It also offers virtual GPIO for wire-free interaction with other Sonifex devices via Ethernet. The device can be network-linked or managed using Ember+ and UDP commands for versatile control integration.

Sonifex AVN-GPIO Applications:

Motor racing timing: PTP enabled time outputs can be used to start a race at a specified time, then PTP enabled time inputs can be used to accurately record the time when cars pass the finish line with a nanosecond resolution. The results can be queried via UDP messages with a history of previous recordings also stored for querying.

To connect legacy equipment, with only hardware I/O, to a network for remote control purposes. There are many Redbox units with hardware remotes that could now be controlled over a network, for example, the RB-DD4, RB-SD1 or RB-OA3.

Button presses can be converted to network commands, for example to act as inputs to software for event handling, or to control remote equipment.

Inputs from mechanical buttons & switches, or devices, can control lights and equipment connected to the AVN-GPIO across a network.

Timed control switching, e.g. switching lights on/off at specific times of the day, reconfiguring which light switch turns on/off which light and/or controlling light on/off via a webpage.

Time control of power on/off to test equipment and heating systems, together with providing times at which tests are passed.

Controlling the power for other equipment at unattended/remote locations, whilst logging precise event data. (e.g. unattended weather stations).

Configuring automated systems, controlling conveyor belts, turning on/off machinery.

Notification system for a control room, to indicate an area that needs inspection which can be connected to alarm/bell.

Signal detection on a Sonifex AVN-CU2/4 commentary unit can be linked to a virtual GPO which is then used as an input to the AVN-GPIO.

A physical input to an AVN-GPIO can be routed to a virtual GP output, which could be a virtual input on the AVN-CU2/4. This could be used to change the commentator on/off air status, turn on/off ducking, or mute/unmute commentator as examples.

A physical input to an AVN-GPIO can be routed to a virtual output, to act as a virtual input on a Sonifex AVN-Portal which can be used to mute/unmute a mix-point.

Sonifex AVN-GPIO Features:

• 10 assignable GPIOs, 8 of which are PTP enabled.
• PTPv2 keeps the hardware clock in sync with a PTP master to achieve a sub 10ns accuracy.
• Single voltage free relay contact to operate external equipment.
• Virtual GPIO for sending physical GPIO action commands across a network.
• A single cable can be used for both power and control.
• The built-in webserver makes the AVN-GPIO easy to configure and allows it to be controlled by any device with a web browser.
• It can provide power to other devices via DC outputs.
• Uses Ember+ and UDP for communication, allowing programs to be written to interface with it.
• A PTP synced hardware clock ensures that when recording input events, even from two AVN-GPIOs a large distance away from each other, the timings are highly accurate (
• It allows highly accurate activation of outputs - two outputs kilometres away from each other could be triggered with only a few nanoseconds difference when PTP synced.

Sonifex AVN-GPIO Specifications:

• PTP Timing Specification:
  • Profile Support: IEEE 1588 Default Profile, AES67 Media & Customs Profile
  • Timing Protocol: PTPv2, IEEE 1588-2008
  • Timing Accuracy: PTP time stamping resolution 8 nanoseconds
• Connections:
  • Network: 1 x 100 Mbit/s Ethernet (RJ45/100BASE-TX) with Power over Ethernet (PoE)
  • GPIO, Power Out and Relay: 1 x 24-Pin Phoenix Style Terminal Block
  • DC Power In: 1 x 2.5mm locking DC inlet (Max 24V DC)
  • GPIO, PTP Enabled: 8
  • GPIO Normal: 2
  • Voltage Free Relay Contact: 1 NC, NO, Wiper, 12V
• Power over Ethernet (PoE):
  • Standard: IEEE 802.3af
  • Class: 0
  • PD Power Range: 0.44 W to 12.94 W
  • Typical PSE Power Usage: TBC 2.3W
  • Max PSE Power Usage: 15.4 W
• DC Power Out (Using PoE):
  • Max Voltage: 12V DC
  • Max Current: TBC 1.5 A Total
• DC Power Out (Using DC Power in):
  • Max Voltage: 12V DC
• Ember+ Interface Connection:
  • Interface Type: Provider and Consumer
  • Port: 9000
• UDP Interface Connection:
  • Port: 31780
• Equipment Type:
  • AVN-GPIO: GPIO to LAN Transceiver (PTP, EMBER+ & UDP)
• Physical Specification:
  • Dimensions (Raw): 10.6cm (W) x 7.3cm (D) x 4.3cm (H), 4.2" (W) x 2.9" (D) x 1.7" (H)
  • Dimensions (Boxed): 17.4cm (W) x 9.5cm (D) x 5.6cm (H), 6.9" (W) x 3.7" (D) x 2.2" (H)
  • Weight: Nett: 0.2kg Gross: 0.3kg, Nett: 0.44lbs Gross' 0.66lbs