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8.4 Multi-client Operation
RME audio interfaces support multi-client operation. Several programs can be used at the same
time. The formats ASIO and WDM can even be used on the same playback channels simulta-
neously. As WDM uses a real-time sample rate conversion (ASIO does not), all active ASIO
software has to use the same sample rate.
However, a better overview is maintained by using the channels exclusively. This is no limitation
at all, because TotalMix allows for any output routing, and therefore a playback of multiple soft-
ware on the same hardware outputs.
Inputs can be used from an unlimited number of WDM and ASIO software at the same time, as
the driver simply sends the data to all applications simultaneously.
RME's sophisticated tool DIGICheck operates like an ASIO host, using a special technique to
access playback channels directly. Therefore DIGICheck is able to analyse and display play-
back data from any software, no matter which format it uses.
8.5 Digital Recording
Unlike analog soundcards which produce empty wave files (or noise) when no input signal is
present, digital interfaces always need a valid input signal to start recording. Taking this into
account, RME added a comprehensive I/O signal status display to the Digiface AVB, showing
sample frequency, lock and sync status in the Settings dialog, and two status LEDs directly at
the unit.
The sample frequency shown in the Settings dialog is useful as a quick display of the current
configuration of the unit and the connected external equipment. If no sample frequency is rec-
ognized, it will read 'No Lock'.
This way, configuring any suitable audio application for digital recording is simple. After connec-
tion the Digiface AVB displays the current and external sample frequency. This parameter can
then be changed in the application's audio attributes (or similar) dialog.
8.6 Clock Modes - Synchronization
In the digital world, all devices must be either Master (clock source) or Slave (clock receiver).
Whenever several devices are linked within a system, there must always be a single master
clock.
!
A digital system can only have one master! If the Digiface AVB's clock mode is set to 'Inter-
nal', all other devices must be set to 'Slave'.
This also applies in a network. Typically, a single device is defined as a clock master (Grand
Clock), controlling both the network and all connected devices. The Digiface AVB can be
synchronized as slave over incoming network streams or an attached word clock. As master, it
uses its internal clock, becoming the clock master of the entire network.
RME's exclusive SyncCheck technology (first implemented in the Hammerfall) enables an easy
to use check and display of the current clock status. Input Status indicates whether there is a
valid signal (Lock, No Lock) for the coaxial input, or if there is a valid and synchronous signal
(Sync).
User's Guide Digiface AVB © RME
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