Latest Software Also Includes FCC-Mandated MEP Code
LYNDONVILLE, N.Y. — Nov. 19, 2024 — Digital Alert Systems, the global leader in emergency communications solutions for media providers, today announced the release of Version 5.4 software for all compatible DASDEC™ and One-Net™ emergency messaging platforms. Version 5.4 includes provisions for the optional AES67/Livewire+™ audio-over-IP functions that support the company’s award-winning EAS at the EdgeSM architecture, which combines Telos Alliance and Nautel products in a full-AoIP air chain. Also, to enhance security, this version incorporates OpenID Connect for single-sign-on support, giving large enterprises a simple means to control and authenticate access to DASDEC or One-Net devices. Finally, Version 5.4 includes the new Missing and Endangered Persons (MEP) event code mandated by the FCC.
The latest changes reflect Digital Alert Systems’ effort to continuously improve the product and make the overall architecture more secure for all compatible DASDEC-II and One-Net models. These upgrades yield a more robust platform that meets key needs for broadcasters.
For example, radio stations are increasingly moving to full-AoIP workflows, but merely adding an AoIP output is insufficient to support proper operation. The EAS signal must maintain priority over other signals. In the past, it was easy to prioritize EAS signals by placing the EAS device at the end of the baseband audio signal. When an alert came in, the device switched the primary signal to the EAS source. In the AoIP world, things are different, but only from a signal format, because the EAS message must still take priority. Ensuring the EAS audio has priority requires routing information to be included with the AoIP signal, and that’s what has been done in the V5.4 release – adding the option for AoIP and Livewire routing.
More and more Digital Alert Systems customers are adopting single-sign-on (SSO) authentication to improve their overall security posture to replace traditional username and password access. With support for various SSO methods in Version 5.4, broadcasters can be sure that Digital Alert Systems stands with them in their security efforts.
Version 5.4 can be installed in any DASDEC or One-Net device with a 64-bit processor. All units shipped since 2016 have a 32-/64-bit processor, so owners of those devices can simply install Version 5.4 using Digital Alert Systems’ secure field upgrade server. From there, all forthcoming in-version upgrades will be available at no charge.
This update is free for anyone currently running Version 5.0 series software who has either purchased a new DASDEC unit, is enrolled in the company’s Software Assurance Plan, or has participated in the company’s UP•TRADE program since April 2022. The cost for other users varies. Those users can contact the factory for more information and should have their serial numbers handy.
“Aside from adding the MEP code, the two biggest highlights in Version 5.4 are support for single-sign-on with OpenID Connect and support for AoIP with our AES67/Livewire option,” said Bill Robertson, vice president of business development, Digital Alert Systems. “Being able to add a DASDEC device directly into an AoIP air chain simplifies the workflow and makes it possible for broadcasters to take advantage of our multi-award-winning EAS at the Edge concept. With advancements like these, we continue to innovate and solve problems for broadcasters in the ever-changing broadcast landscape.”
More information about Digital Alert Systems is available at www.digitalalertsystems.com.
About Digital Alert Systems
Digital Alert Systems is the leading innovator of next-generation Common Alerting Protocol (CAP) and Emergency Alert Systems (EAS) for radio and television broadcasters. From its headquarters in Lyndonville, New York, Digital Alert Systems provides R&D, manufacturing, sales, and customer service for all Digital Alert Systems brands and maintains its hard-earned reputation for quality, reliability, and service to valued customers around the world.
More information is available at www.digitalalertsystems.com.
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