To whom it may concern,

Following the announcement of the Log4j2 security flaw (reference CVE-2021-44228), as providing secure solutions to our customers is key, our R&D team evaluated, back in December, all AETA systems and services.

None of our solutions are affected by this security flaw.
No corrective measure is therefore required on any AETA systems and services.

Reference of the security flaw in question:
https://nvd.nist.gov/vuln/detail/CVE-2021-44228

Is using AETA’s mobile IP connections to keep audience informed

French commercial radio station Sud Radio is relying on AETA Audio Systems to help deliver timely news and information to its audience. The predominately talk radio station with a focus on news, social, political, economics and sports, has been making use of AETA’s ScoopTeam, Scoopy +S and Scoop 5S codecs for coverage of various remote events since 2014.

The station, which covers topical information such as national elections or the country’s Yellow Vest movement, opted for AETA products because of their flexibility and versatility. Over time, Sud Radio continues to depend on the numerous advantages the units provide, including that of offering artifact-free remote mobile IP broadcasts.

During the Yellow Vest protests, which began in 2018, for example, the station turned to AETA ScoopTeam when it needed a multipurpose device that was able to operate as a portable studio. The unit’s embedded mobile 4G capability and reliable IP performance played a fundamental role in the success of the station’s coverage of these ongoing demonstrations. The reliability and ease of operation allowed the station to seamlessly broadcast live for up to three hours, without the burden of having to worry about managing IP or ISDN lines.

After witnessing the flawless operation of their colleagues during the Yellow Vest protests, and despite originally being slightly skeptical about the dependability of mobile IP connections, the rest of the station’s team decided it was time to broaden their use of AETA’s mobile IP links.

Since then, Sud Radio has multiplied its remote programs and now features regular live broadcasts from across the nation. Even during lock down, Sud radio technicians distributed Scoopy and ScoopTeam units to all station contributors so they could broadcast from home. According to Misha Agard, system administrator for Sud Radio, for these WFH broadcasts, the use of SIP service eased the migration greatly.

“We use AETA products every day and they continue to demonstrate their reliability in any situation,” said Agard. “We’ve also been creative in making the most of the units to maximize their benefits. What’s more, thanks to their stability and quality connections, we no longer have to rent ISDN or IP lines and save a lot in time and money using wireless connections through SIM cards housed in ScoopTeam devices.”

One example of the station’s creativity is that, while ScoopTeam was originally designed as a commentator station for sports events, to help facilitate coverage of the Yellow Vest demonstrations, the Sud Radio team began using the unit to simultaneously connect four microphones/headsets and transmit outdoor broadcasts and use the codec as a complete mobile mini studio. “This allows us to report from virtually anywhere and, thanks to ScoopTeam’s ability to communicate with codecs, to keep our listeners up to date with the latest news.”

For Yann Vonarburg, general manager of AETA Audio Systems, Sud Radio’s creativity with ScoopTeam and all AETA’s units illustrate the vast potential the products offer to the broadcast market. “Ease of use and dependable connections under any circumstances are key and ensure station staff can successfully do their job and deliver important information to their audience. This is exactly what AETA wants to offer to its valued customers.”

Originally based in Andorra, Sud Radio, which broadcasts to the south of France and the Paris region, is a subsidiary of Fiducial Medias and is a member of Indés Radios and the Independent Radio Union (SIRTI).

When paired with a docking station the unit transforms into a full commentary unit

AETA Audio Systems, manufacturer of innovative audio and IP codecs, has introduced ScoopyFlex, a portable codec that comes with a docking station to let users quickly and easily turn the device into a full-fledged commentary unit.

Evolving from AETA’s historical product, Scoopy, the new modular ScoopyFlex is designed to meet broadcasters’ present and future needs by offering flexibility and advanced functionalities, such as 5G capability, embedded Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, as well as two mobile network connections.

With an autonomy of up to eight hours, the unit can house three SIM cards and manages recording, editing and video tasks. It uses two stereo streams and supports HD voice.

ScoopyFlex is suitable for multiple applications. The ultra-portable device is ideal for reporters on the go or spot interviews, ensuring dependable, high-quality audio broadcasts. What’s more, ScoopyFlex lets users connect a second mic to the unit to help ensure optimal sanitary conditions that protect both reporters and guests during interviews.

For sports commentaries or remotes from more complex infrastructures, presenters can pair ScoopyFlex with a docking station, turning it into a complete commentary unit. With this configuration, ScoopyFlex offers up to three mics, additional audio I/Os and a redundant AES67 connection on top of a second ethernet port, battery recharge, intercom buttons, and of course easy access to level knobs.

This means ScoopyFlex and the docking system afford users the versatility and ability to carry a complete compact commentary unit in their suitcase and to use ScoopyFlex alone as a broadcast-proof portable device, or together with the docking station to create a complete commentary unit, depending on the job at hand.

“With ScoopyFlex, we offer the quality and tradition of our flagship product, Scoopy, in a new modular version that enables users to benefit from the unit’s advanced features and versatility, allowing them to craft timely and compelling remote broadcasts,” said Yann Vonarburg, general manager of AETA Audio Systems. “In the past, to achieve this, station staff would have to have two units: one light device for mobile use and another one for commentary applications. That’s now changed with ScoopyFlex and its docking station, and this significantly lowers the cost of gear for broadcaster.”

AETA will showcase ScoopyFlex on at IBC2021 on booth 8.D75.

Represents a significant leap forward in the world of audio transport

AETA Audio Systems has added 5G capability to the lengthy list of innovative ScoopTeam features, ensuring users enjoy an even simpler and safer user experience.

This latest upgrade to the commentary unit represents a significant leap forward in the world of audio transport for outside broadcast applications. It offers a future-proof solution for both large and small stations and means they can now seamlessly cover events, while guaranteeing their audience enjoys impeccable audio quality.

Representing the future of wireless communications with improved speeds up to 100 Gbps — theoretically 100 times faster than 4G — 5G is set to not only ease the task of the broadcaster but also enhance the user experience. Practically speaking, for the broadcast journalist, this technology eliminates the risk of losing precious time on connection setups, such as network bonding, even when working in crowded environments.

“After carrying out some in-depth R&D work, we’re happy to be able to offer our clients the most advanced network connectivity available today,” said Yann Vonarburg, general manager of AETA Audio Systems. “The fact that ScoopTeam can now embed a 5G network connection will result in safer audio links, even via wireless networks that should not be saturated anymore, greatly reducing obstacles inherent to AoIP connections.”

The flexible ScoopTeam commentary unit also offers Ethernet, 4G, Wi-Fi, VoLTE ISDN and AES67 connections together with “AETA remote access” technology so technicians in the master control room can take control of one or more units wherever they are.

ScoopTeam’s 5G upgrade comes after AETA’s announcement that the unit can now embed two wireless modules. With these upgrades, ScoopTeam will be able to connect to both 4G and 5G networks simultaneously, as well as offering bonding and double streaming options, if still necessary.

We know how important it is for populations around the world to have access to reliable information, and also the possibility to voice their opinions, concerns and questions. Broadcasters play an important role in encouraging this conversation, but to do so successfully, they also need to be able to depend on quality products and technical support to ensure there is no failure in the communication chain.

For AETA Audio Systems, it’s essential that station staff has access to safe and reliable remote broadcasting gear, no matter which corner of the world they are located, and whether they are broadcasting from the studio or the field.

Take, for example, Africa. For many years, AETA has been working with local partners to facilitate the fair flow of information from both the authorities and the population. It’s vital for radio broadcasters (public or private, large or small) to be covered when it comes to having the right tools that allow them to create and air timely — and often life-saving — programs to their audiences.

The Power of Radio

In Africa, radio still has the broadest geographical reach and the largest audiences compared to the internet, television and newspapers. It’s cheap for those who can’t afford expensive smartphone and mobile data plans and can provide information, education, entertainment, and more.

We believe communication is fundamental in the political and economic development of any country, and broadcasting is certainly an important form of communication. The Oxford English Dictionary defines communication as, “The imparting or exchanging of information by speaking, writing, or using some other medium.”

The key here for AETA is “exchanging of information,” as in collaboration or discussion. And our goal, through providing trustworthy broadcasting equipment in the form of simple and safe audio links, is to enable both large stations, as well as the single reporter, to easily connect with their audiences, encouraging a two-way and democratic dialog.

As part of this mission, we continue to work closely with Africa. At a continental level, for example, AETA has over the years supplied many Scoop5S-IP units to the Bank of Africa. This has allowed the organization to share simultaneous multi-language translations from its meeting rooms to many other institutions around the world.

At a regional level, AETA has been very active in Southern Africa in collaboration with our local distributor SoundFusion. In that area, we offer extensive technical support to many community radios as well as to larger institutions, such as parliament and the ministry of international affairs.

Local Projects

In French-speaking western Africa, we’ve participated in many seminars in collaboration with our local partner AVS solution, and on those occasions took the opportunity to visit various radio organizations, such as the national public broadcaster RTI and Radio Alpha Blondy.

In addition, we’ve donated many of our Scoopy codec to city halls around Abidjan to help in their local radio projects and to facilitate communication at a local level for all citizens, again with the goal of facilitating exchange and conversation.

We’re also present in Morocco through systems integrator PHF COM. In fact, we recently delivered AETA Scoopy+ S codecs, one Scoop5 to help Maghreb Arabe Press provide timely information to its audience through the press agency’s newly launched radio service, Radio de l’Information Marocaine.

Finally, in Nigeria our partner Ecalpemos Technologies has delivered many Scoopfone and Scoopy+ units to the community, and we also have a presence in Tanzania, through our local partner Energy and Telecom, as well as Rwanda, Senegal, Angola and Mozambique.

Nelson Mandela stated in in 2003 during a speech at the University of the Witwatersrand South Africa, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” We know we can’t change the world overnight but we’re proud of our success stories and contribution thus far to this vast and varied continent and the relationships we’ve built with our local partners and customers.

We see this as just the beginning of a very long path. One that will facilitate, even if in some minor way, the of exchange of information, education, and more — encouraging the conversation.

AETA Audio Systems, a leading manufacturer of audio and IP codecs, is helping Maghreb Arabe Press (MAP) deliver timely information to its audience through the press agency’s newly launched radio service, Radio de l’Information Marocaine (RIM).

Founded in 1959 and based in Rabat, Morocco, MAP provides official news services in Arabic, English, French, Spanish and Tamazight. In addition to providing news, the agency cofounded a national charter for the improvement of women’s images in the media with the ministry of social development and family and solidarity and the ministry of communication and culture in 2005.

As part of an expansion plan, the information agency also recently added RIM to its offerings. The radio station broadcasts news and information 24 hours a day, nationwide and online.

In order to offer RIM listeners a constant flow of up-to-the-minute information, MAP shopped for a reliable system that could record and deliver live stream audio programs in broadcast quality. After issuing a tender in November, the organization selected AETA equipment because of its ability to deliver RTC, ISDN, ADSL and 3G/4G connectivity at a competitive price. Casablanca-based systems integrator PHF COM Morocco managed the sale and is providing staff training to RIM.

PHF’s Managing Director Younes Yamouni explains that the station was searching for an easy-to-use mobile solution for its roving reporters, and AETA, a reference in the remote broadcast world, was the obvious choice. In January, PHF delivered two AETA Scoopy+ S codecs and one Scoop5 S codec in addition to five D021B LEM mics to MAP for use for coverage of remote events.

AETA’s General Manager Yann Vonarburg adds that both Scoopy+ S and Scoop5 S codecs offer trustworthiness in the field in terms of connections and also regarding staff safety. “Our entire Scoop range of audio and IP codecs are adaptable to fit broadcasters’ various needs,” he said. “Thanks to a simple and intuitive interface, reporters can focus on on their broadcast without having to fuss over configuring the unit.”

AETA recently introduced dual mobile connectivity for the Scoopy+S codec, and also enhanced the unit’s double streaming capabilities and bonding functionalities. Dual mobile network connectivity with double streaming and bonding options gives presenters full mobility and audio reliability so they can concentrate on the broadcast and contribute from almost anywhere. This makes remotes easier in terms of logistics and streamlines the tech crew’s task of preparing the system for its presenters.

Welcome to 2021 and the AETA Audio Systems quarterly newsletter! As we enter the New Year we look to the future with hope and anticipation.

For AETA, evolution is all part of the game and 2021 combined with the omnipresence of our changed reality offers a fresh start, a new beginning of sort. We see this as a perfect time to take a step beyond, to reflect on our past experiences of course. But also to move forward with ambition and the objective of crafting ever more clever technologies for the broadcast industry. All this while never losing sight of our continued goal to protect future generations through long-term development and sustainability.

In addition to the transitions taking place in the greater universe, AETA has been busy evolving in its own galaxy. In December, for example, we said goodbye to our good friend and coworker Serge De Jaham — who after a quarter of a century with AETA — decided to take on new challenges. As with any change, we adapted accordingly and thus have begun writing a new chapter with the entry of Quentin Richard as company CTO.

We look forward to the day we can share all the details in person but for now we’ll continue to exchange information with you through our virtual tools. The entire AETA team takes this opportunity to thank you for being our business partner and wish you a safe, prosperous and, above all, healthy 2021.

EVOLUTION

With Quentin Richard’s entry as CTO comes new possibilities, and we’re planning some exciting milestones in 2021!

In addition, we continue to innovate and invest in R&D, transforming our internal process so that we’re increasingly agile and able to respond even quicker to evolving market requirements.

Innovation and efficiency has always been key for AETA, and this year we’ll unveil a host of new products and upgrades, which reflect our long heritage and expertise and that are able to swiftly respond to our customers’ needs.

eSCOOPFONE DEVELOPMENTS

FREE WEBCAST SERIES

WE WANT YOUR INPUT

“Stay Safe” (or the equivalent in many languages) has become a common expression over the last nine months. It’s not like the term was invented in 2020. But it has perhaps taken on a more significant meaning since the health crisis came to dominate our nearly every action.

But “stay safe” has various layers and when we begin to peel them away, we see that it’s not only used to bid farewell and take care of yourself, but it also implies that the person should try to avoid danger and not get into trouble. While we obviously can’t control everything, we can certainly take preventive measures to try to minimize any type of risk. This is true for both our personal and professional lives.

Automated Features

At AETA Audio Systems we put safety first both in terms of operation and functionality but also regarding staff safety. We continue to integrate new and innovative features into our products. Most recently, for example, we released two automated parameters. These are the “auto jitter buffer” and the automatic management of OPUS bitrates on AETA devices.

The new auto jitter buffer allows users to set the button to “auto” and the codec will then automatically adapt to changes in the network’s delay. This will prevent audio link problems when the quality of the network varies during transmission.

In addition, the automatic management of OPUS bitrates on AETA units adapts the bandwidth that’s used to the network’s capacity by either upgrading or downgrading the audio. So audio is never interrupted and, where possible, it’s even improved.

As part of our continued mission to provide secure and dependable solutions, AETA now also offers embedded dual mobile network connectivity for its ScoopTeam and Scoopy+S codecs.

Available as an option for both units, this means users can quickly and easily connect to two mobile networks simultaneously. They also now have the added flexibility to manage remote broadcasts either through double streaming or bonding (splitting the stream over two networks), depending on network quality and congestion.

Concentrate on the show

Dual mobile network connectivity together with double streaming and bonding features give presenters full mobility so they can concentrate on the broadcast and contribute from almost anywhere. It makes remotes easier in terms of logistics, and streamlines the tech crew’s task of preparing the system for its roving reporter.

For us, safety both in terms of audio links and personnel is paramount. With the many enhancements to our products, we aim to ease the entire workflow, so broadcasters can focus on their programs and — also — their surroundings.

After all, our philosophy at AETA is “Safe and Simple Audio Links!”

Welcome to the AETA Audio Systems quarterly newsletter! 

Each quarter we send directly to your inbox information on AETA’s latest developments, product upgrades and more. Despite the challenges we’ve all been facing this year, we’re determined to serve you more efficiently than ever.

Even though we couldn’t get together at NAB in Las Vegas, LLB in Stockholm, ARD/ZDF Medien Akademie in Heimbuchenthal or IBC in Amsterdam, out of sight doesn’t mean out of mind! 

In fact, we’ve used this time constructively to carefully evaluate our entire product offering and integrate new features where needed. After all, at the end of the day, our goal is to help you stay at the forefront of your business. For AETA that means not only having access to the most advanced technologies, but doing so in a safe working environment. 

Read on to discover in detail how AETA products offer you both simplicity and security through innovative, reliable solutions and a safe user experience.

SIMPLICITY

To further facilitate the use of its devices by reporters and technicians, AETA has released two automated parameters: 

• The “jitter buffer” helps manage jitter on the network. Before users could only manually adjust this feature through the “network quality” parameter. But now it’s possible to set it to “auto” so it adjusts automatically, according to network characteristics. This is particularly useful when the quality of the network varies during transmission. 
• In addition, operators can now either manually or automatically manage the OPUS bitrate of AETA units during a call. The bitrate therefore spontaneously adapts to the network’s capacity. It assesses network capacity and either upgrades or downgrades the audio, depending on network stability. This means audio is never interrupted and, when possible, it’s even improved.

These two new functionalities simplify connection safety, perfectly reflecting AETA’s tagline — “Safe and Simple Audio Links.”

SECURITY

At the end of 2018, AETA released its double streaming feature that allows audio streaming through a redundant network. The company has now unveiled a bonding feature. 

With this new functionality it’s still possible for users to use two IP networks simultaneously. But instead of making use of a full redundant stream (that may cause problems when bandwidth is limited), it permits operators to divide the audio stream between the two networks, allowing the audio to flow where it was previously impossible.

Discover all the benefits of dual mobile connectivity with double streaming capabilities and bonding functionalities for ScoopTeam and Scoopy+S.

In other exciting news, AETA’s eScoopfone is now available on Android! Since the beginning of 2020 eScoopfone has been is available on iOS (iPhone). And as of June it’s available on Android too! You can download it at the Google Play store.

Finally, AETA has also released an Application note giving all the tricks available to cope audio on IP networks. Find out all about it!

AETA Audio Systems now offers embedded dual mobile network connectivity for its ScoopTeam and Scoopy+S codecs.

Available as an option for both units, the new technology allows users to quickly and easily connect to two mobile networks simultaneously.

Previously, AETA ScoopTeam and Scoopy+S customers were able to double stream through two different mobile networks using one built-in modem plus an external dongle. With the new dual mobile network connectivity option, there are two wireless on-board modems. Thus external devices are no longer necessary.

This makes connections easier and faster to set up. It also allows users to benefit from cost savings thanks to its use of SIM cards, meaning ISDN or wired IP connections aren’t a prerequisite in the quest for quality remote broadcasts anymore.

In addition, users now have the added flexibility to choose to manage remote broadcasts either through double streaming or bonding (splitting the stream over two networks), depending on network quality and congestion.

“At locations where wired connections aren’t possible, difficult or expensive, broadcasters need to rely on mobile networks,” said Yann Vonarburg, general manager, AETA Audio Systems. “In some cases a mobile network can be unstable, so being able to depend on two mobile networks secures the live feed either through double streaming or our newly released bonding functionality.”

Dual mobile network connectivity with double streaming and bonding options gives presenters full mobility so they can concentrate on the broadcast and contribute from almost anywhere. Simply put, it makes remotes easier in terms of logistics, and streamlines the tech crew’s task of preparing the system for its roving reporter.

For the audience this translates into no hick-ups during the live contribution. They get the information in due time and can enjoy the highest possible audio quality.

“AETA places the utmost importance on safety, both in terms of audio links and personnel,” added Vonarburg. “With the new embedded dual mobile network connectivity for ScoopTeam and Scoopy+S, we simplify the process so reporters can focus on their programs and — also — their surroundings, instead of on the unit.”

Embedded dual mobile network connectivity is available as an option for Scoopy+S or ScoopTeam codecs. When ordering this feature, customers receive the unit with two SIM card slots and a set of antennas.

eScoopFone is now available on Android through Google Play Store!