Methods and apparatus for
broadcasting high quality audio “
studio direct” with the same digital information employed in the
studio by the video producer with AC-3
digital audio signals for broadcast to integrated
receiver decoders (IRD). The methods and apparatus permit proper handling of AC-3 data by switching signals to encoders in response to detection of the encoded signals representing compression of the data. Control over
individual data bits such as copyright bits is maintained by determining the bit status, comparing it to a preferred status, changing the status if it does not comply with the preferred status, and reevaluating cyclical redundancy check value in each data packet to avoid disruption in the
data transmission. In addition, the
system includes an uplink device which automatically checks, logs and reports errors in Dolby Digital AC-3 signals by a monitor which employs a processor, a
digital audio card and an SMPTE
timecode reader. As an option, an
ethernet interface may be provided to permit AC-3 transmission to expedite storage and transmission of the audio data by media such as compact disks. The monitor employs a state
machine that finds AC-3 packets, locks into the packets and detects discontinuities or loss of
signal. The monitor then computes and checks the cyclical redundancy check value of the AC-3 packet found. In addition, the
system enables the device to play AC-3 signals such as Dolby Digital out in
sync with video signals, regardless of the storage media for the files. A
sound card having an input for receiving house reference AES
clock pulses enables the AES
clock of the playback
signal to be locked to the frequency of a production house master as a time code reader or an editor's contact closure match video and audio signals playback.