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Comtech EF Data / Stampede
3.5 FX Series Multicator
The Multicator is a set of three components of the FX Series which allow controlled reliable content
distribution via multicast. These components are as follows:
Multicator Controller (MC)
Within a Multicator deployment, there is one, and only one, FX SERIES ADC appliance which must be
designated as an MC.
An MC is the central point where Multicator configuration parameters are stored. The MC ensures that
only one multicast transmission is occurring at a time. The MC ensures that if there is a network outage, a
multicast which was in progress will resume from the point where the outage occurred. The MC
maintains a central log of all Multicator events.
Multicator Transmitter (MT)
This component actually performs the multicast of the content after checking with the MC. Any FX Series
ADC or FX Series Remote can function as a Multicator Transmitter (MT) if the license is enabled. The MT
employs world renowned open source technology to reliably deliver content via multicast.
NOTE: Any FTP program can be used to upload content to the MT.
Multicator Receiver (MR)
This component receives the content which is transmitted by the MT. Upon completion of a successful
reception of new content, the MR uploads this content to a local FTP server.
NOTE
: Any combination of MC, MT, and MR may be configured on the same appliance as long as
there exists one, and only one MC in the Multicator deployment.
Theory of Operation
A powerful new content distribution system can now be set up with the separately licensed "Multicator"
feature. This feature allows a user to upload a file to an FX Series device via FTP. The file is then reliably
multicast to a group of receivers. The receivers then upload the content to a local FTP server. The
Multicator employs the "Content Distribution Control Protocol" (CDCP) to ensure that only one multicast
transmission is in progress.
Sequence of Events
1. Files are deposited on the Transmitter (Sender) using a standard FTP client.
2. The Transmitter then notifies the Controller that it has data to send and is granted permission
to reliably multicast the data across the WAN.
3. Under the direction of the Controller, the Transmitter establishes a reliable multicast
connection to the Receivers.
4. The Transmitter sends the files to each of the Receivers.
5. Each Receiver sends an acknowledgment of receipt to the Controller.
6. Each receiver uses FTP to send the files to the respective server.
NOTE: In order to configure Multicator, at least one In-Path interface must be defined and
operational.
FX Series Administration Guide - Version 6.2.2
Chapter: FX Series Configuration
Section: FX Series Multicator
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MN-FXSERIESADM6 Rev 6
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