Tech Notes from the Field

How’s that for a generic title? And, WOW, it’s February already!
Anyhow, I’m still working on my Future of Radio series, but it has been tough concentrating on that while doing the daily grind, and I must admit keeping the motivation up. Now that we are in the midst of a NexGen update, going to version 2.13, I am relaying general items that have popped up in the last couple of weeks.

My first interesting conversation was from Burk. I placed a “feature request” in. Not really a feature, but I figured I would ask since I’m dabbling in Linux. The answer is no, they are not working on a Linus version of AutoPilot. Would you believe of all you engineers out there, they claim to have received NO requests for this? My reasoning: Running a monitoring critical operations with a Windows-based system seems a bit disturbing. One would think that having a strong, stable platform running software would be high on the list of requirements. So, I hope I get a call to test out a new package, but something tells me until more of you make the request, no move will happen in the short term.

As I type this, I’m working on my Linux VM. I had to fight, actually learn how to install a plug-in that was not automatic as I am used to. I have a lot to learn on this stuff. Once I get a handle on it, watch out Nautel, I know you guys use Linux for the AUI!

How many of you have MPLS “private” networks across your city, region, or at all? We are in a valley, so our primary STL is T1. AT&T is just the worst now at maintenance and reliability. Seems to me they are taking the same route with point to point T1 circuits as they are with ISDN; slowly letting them die. I figure we would research MPLS and the response from manufacturers like WorldCast is that is the best way to get quality IP connections for audio. Of course this is true if the provider can guarantee bandwidth. This bothers me as many of they companies must lease line segments from the such as AT&T. If I can’t get reliable service from them direct, how can a third party provider? So, if you have something like this, please feel free to chime in with your thoughts.

A couple of years ago I started research for a licensed, high bandwidth data microwave using a combination of 11Gb, 18Gb, and possible 22Gb links. That fell flat when money was shut off. Now I wonder if I can even get a licensed link. I guess it may be time to start that research again. Hopefully the economy improves a bit to make things happen.

Well, better go back and check on that update, and after that check on an air duct to see if it has any dampers or diversions in it. Ah, the life of a radio engineer.