Chris Scott & Associates - www.scott-inc.com 
 PUBLIC RADIO NETWORK AUTOMATION
 The module easily interfaces to most automation systems - "cue tone sensor style"
Public radio stations have had mixed success using timed break triggers with NPR feeds.  NPR is unique among radio networks in that  many programs are fed without cue tones or other break-start signals. Instead, NPR producers use scheduled timeposts", which flank the cutaway breaks. Theoretically, these one second pauses would be simple to target with a carefully timed automatic insertion, given the time synchronization accuracy available. In practice however, several factors conspire to cause transitions to occur during network announcer speech, resulting in "upcut" or truncated audio. This system effectively solves this problem, using a time constrained "pause detector" to both trigger the break, and rejoin the network.  Pause Detector Module:  

The sensor for automating NPR's All Things Considered and other network programs fed without cue tones or other break signals.  For more detail, see the Pause Detector FAQ page.  
 

The PAUSE DETECTOR sensor
 
 

The pause detector provides an output signal to the automation system cue-tone-detector style. It prevents transition during audible program material. 

 

To enhance reliability, the threshold of audibility detection is carefully controlled. The sensitivity of the unit is augmented by shaping the frequency response to emulate human hearing. The well known Fletcher and Munson response curves were modeled as the weighting factor. Since it's also known that quick pulses of frequencies normally audible will not generally be heard if they are brief enough, the attack time of the level detector was tailored to approximate the DIN standard 45406 for peak program meters which addresses this effect. 
 

Read the "white paper" 

Specifications: 
  • Balanced mono or stereo line level high impedance input 
  • Connects directly to sat demod and automation system 
  • Can be integrated into audio console, or rack mounted. 
  • Semi Fletcher & Munson frequency response 
  • Threshold level adjustment 
  • 700 millisecond sense time adjustable ~ + - 400 ms. 
  • Open collector output 
  • Requires +12 - +16 vdc @ 60 ma 
  • Mute input (closure to ground) 
  • LEDs indicate threshold, peak, and timeout 

    •   ORDERING 

    FAX your order or inquiry to (270) 781-1232 [FAX] 

    Mailed or Faxed  purchase orders accepted.  
    • Price: $139.00 inc ground shipping, Con US. 
    • With optional power supply add $15.00 
    • Ground shipping standard 
    • Other shipping methods: 135.00 + actual shipping cost. 
    • COD available at additional charge. 
    • Availability: Ships within 48 hours. 
    Really want a unit that comes in a rack enclosure? We can supply it. (fax inquiries preferred) 

    Chris Scott & Associates 
    P.O. Box 52 
    Bowling Green, KY 42102 

    Phone: (270) 781-5301 
     

    Fax: (270) 781-1232 

    Email: [deleted to reduce spam - click below]  
     

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This product is waranted to meet published or written quoted specifications. Due to the considerable variability in installation and application, no other warranty is offered. Technical consultation is available at nominal cost. Uninstalled units returned without defect are subject to a 25% restock fee.