
- What is the difference between a RDS Encoder Silver and an FMB10?
- Both of them can perform basic RDS functions, and each has only a serial port for communication. The FMB10 is a rack mounted device, the RDS Encoder Silver comes in a smaller plastic enclosure. The FMB10 can also create ‘formatted’ text on both PS and Radiotext displays, which allows the encoder to retain a default message and return automatically to that message when the duration of the current song expires. The RDS Encoder Silver cannot.
- Can the RDS Encoder Silver display song information from my automation system?
- Yes! The keys are communication (the Silver has only a serial port) and getting the automation to send the correct command PS_TEXT=<text you want to display> followed by a Carriage Return/Line Feed.
- Can I change the baud rate of the COM port on the RDS Encoder Silver?
- Yes, but it presents a challenge. The configuration software for the Silver is designed to operate at 9600 baud. When you need to use a lower baud rate to be compatible with a slow data path (STL, etc), you must first configure the Silver – injection level, PI code, etc – using the software. Then you can change the speed setting of the COM port using the command SPEED=xxxx (all caps) where x is the new baud rate you wish to use. Be extremely careful! You will immediately need to change the speed settings of your terminal program to communicate at the new baud rate, and you will not be able to use the RDS Encoder Silver software until you change the speed setting on the encoder back to 9600. This has only been tested with typical baud rate settings (1200 – 9600), other speeds may not work.
- Can the RDS Encoder Silver produce Scrolling PS?
- Changing, or 'Scrolling' the PS (strictly forbidden in some countries, see the CENELEC standard) allows longer messages to be displayed on many car radios. This function is available on all Audemat encoders, but check your local regulations before using this feature.
- Is there configuration software for the RDS Encoder Silver?
- Yes, the RDS Encoder Silver utility software is delivered with the encoder. You can also download the latest version from the download section of this web site.
- Is the RDS Encoder Silver US RBDS compliant?
- The RDS Encoder Silver is compliant with both the CENELEC RDS standard and the US RBDS standard, and can generate the correct PTY codes for both standards.
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