Biamp TesiraFORTE X User manual

TesiraFORTÉ X
The TesiraFORTÉ X is the next generation of Tesira DSP processing and is introduced in conjunction with Tesira 4.0
software and firmware. TesiraFORTÉ X combines powerful elements of multiple previous Tesira devices in one product
for quick and easy integration in medium to large conference spaces.
The TesiraFORTÉ X 400/800/1600 products are conference room DSPs featuring multiple network and analog audio
connection points. With 4, 8, and 16 channels of Acoustic Echo Cancelation (AEC) respectively, users can choose the
model that meets the number of microphones required for the room.
TesiraFORTÉ X is designed to be used primarily with Biamp’s beam-forming microphones, PoE amplifiers and
speakers. A system including these elements and a UC-room system, display and camera will provide a complete
technology solution for a UC-enabled conference room.
The typical function of the TesiraFORTÉ X is to process local Biamp microphone input and speaker output signals in
support of audio-only and audio/video conference calls from dedicated conference rooms, but TesiraFORTÉ X can also
be custom programmed for many other applications.
TesiraFORTÉ X offers installers two discrete modes of operation. The default behavior allows single-button press auto-
configuration assisted by Biamp Launch. The second option allows users to manually configure and completely
customize the device signal paths a la a traditional Tesira DSP device.
TesiraFORTÉ X discovery and connection can be done through the Biamp Discovery app or using Biamp
Tesira software (version 4.0 and higher).
Models
There are 3 TesiraFORTÉ X models supporting various densities of AEC processing depending on your requirements.
All are externally physically identical aside from their model name. The same power supply model is used for all 3 units.
• TesiraFORTÉ X 400 has 4 channels of AEC,
supporting up to 4 Parlé microphones
• TesiraFORTÉ X 800 has 8 channels of AEC,
supporting up to 8 Parlé microphones
• TesiraFORTÉ X 1600 has 16 channels of AEC,
supporting up to 16 Parlé microphones
When using Biamp Launch auto-configuration a maximum of 8 Parlé microphones are supported on TesiraFORTÉ X
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1600. Up to 8 channels of amplification are supported on all models when using Biamp Launch auto-configuration.
These limitations do not apply to manually configured TesiraFORTÉ X.
Biamp Launch
TesiraFORTÉ X features Biamp Launch functionality, allowing for one-touch room hardware
discovery, configuration, and tuning. Upon completion of the Launch process, a report card
detailing the room’s acoustic performance before and after optimization and the Biamp hardware
manifest is available for viewing via a web browser. The Launch report card can also be printed as
a pdf.
TesiraFORTÉ X is fully auto-configurable but users also have the option to customize its
programming just like any other Tesira DSP device. The device will be available to accept a configuration file from
Tesira software if the TesiraFORTÉ X is first cleared using the Tesira software Device Maintenance > Clear
Configuration option. A user can restore Launch auto-configuration in TesiraFORTÉ X via a hardware reset using the
pinhole reset button. The reset button is located between the GPIO block and the power connector.
Auto or manual configuration
TesiraFORTÉ X offers users 2 discrete modes of operation - auto-configuration or manual
configuration. TesiraFORTÉ X ships ready for Biamp Launch auto-configuration.
Auto-configuration
With the assistance of Biamp Launch, TesiraFORTÉ X features automated system hardware discovery, configuration,
and tuning. Upon completion of the auto-configuration process, a report card detailing the room’s acoustic performance
before and after optimization plus the Biamp hardware manifest is available for viewing via a web browser and can be
printed as a pdf.
Auto-configuration is a closed system which allows a consistent and repeatable installation process for many conference
room applications. Auto-configuration is initiated using the Biamp Launch button on the front of the device or via the
Audio webpage. Please review the Biamp Launch article for details on the auto-configuration process and behaviors.
When TesiraFORTÉ X is auto-configured it offers Tesira’s dedicated AEC processing on up to 8 Parle microphones
(depending on hardware model), support for up to 8 channels of amplification using Biamp Parle amplifiers, 1x1 channel
USB connectivity with HID mute sync, VoIP with support for the Biamp HD-1 dialer, (5) 1G network ports including (4)
ports offering PoE+, and support for audio over AVB between TesiraFORTÉ X and select Biamp Tesira peripheral
hardware including Parle mics and amplifiers and the EX-UBT USB and Bluetooth-capable expander. The EX-UBT adds
an additional 1x1 USB audio connection as well as a 2x1 Bluetooth connection.
If additional AVB ports are required, up to (3) TesiraCONNECT TC-5 devices may be linked on P2-5 to increase the port
count as needed. If multiple TC-5 are required, TC-5 may be connected in a daisy chain, star, or hybrid daisy-chain/star
configuration. The TesiraFORTÉ X (P2-P5) participates as a media network switch in this configuration.
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Always use the non-PoE+ port (P1) of the TC-5 to link to the upstream device to maximize the available PoE+ ports and
prevent possible damage connecting PoE source to PoE source.
TC-5D may be used in place of TC-5 in Launch auto-configured systems, but Launch will not be able to leverage the
additional Dante features of TC-5D. Other AVNU certified AVB switches may also be used to connect AVB peripherals
in manually configured or Launch auto-configured systems.
Manual configuration
Manual configuration allows users to treat the TesiraFORTÉ X as a standard Tesira server-class device and define the
signal paths required for the application. The device's analog I/O, GPIO, and Dante I/O become available for use when
manually configured. When TesiraFORTÉ X is manually configured, the auto-tuning functions are not available.
When manually configured, TesiraFORTÉ X shares the same Tesira programming platform as previous Tesira hardware
and can be easily included in systems with all other Tesira devices. An I/O block family for TesiraFORTÉ X is found
under the Forte menu in Tesira software.
When the device is manually configured, TesiraFORTÉ X offers Tesira’s dedicated AEC processing for up to 16 input
channels (depending on hardware model), up to 2x2 channels of USB connectivity (with HID mute sync on
1x1 speakerphone), VoIP, (5) 1G network ports including (4) ports offering PoE+, support for 128x128 audio channels
on 64x64 streams of AVB between Biamp Tesira devices, 32x32 audio channels on 32x32 flows of Dante, (2) analog
mic-line inputs with phantom power, (2) analog mic-line outputs, and (4) ports of GPIO. (Note that some
hardware functions are only available when TesiraFORTÉ X is manually configured.)
Prior to running Launch configuration TesiraFORTÉ X will
display a Device ID of 0, indicating it is unconfigured.
To manually configure the device you will first need
to "Clear Configuration" from Device Maintenance to wipe
the Launch capability from it (just like a Forte with the
default layout preloaded), then "Reboot" the device. A
pop-up will notify users prior to loading a config file if this
step is required on a device.
• Launch functions may be restored through a pinhole reset of hardware. The reset button is located between the
GPIO block and the power connector.
Launch-configured devices are visible from Tesira SW with the system description "Biamp Launch" and show a Device
ID of 1, but the "Connect To System" option is not available. The web UI is the path to interact with it.
If additional AVB network ports are required, up to (3) TesiraCONNECT TC-5 devices may be linked on TesiraFORTÉ X
P2-P5 to increase the port count as needed. If multiple TC-5 are required, TC-5 may be connected in a daisy
chain, star, or hybrid daisy-chain/star configuration. The TesiraFORTÉ X (P2-P5) participates as a media network switch
in this configuration.
Always use the non-PoE+ port (P1) of the TC-5 to link to the upstream device to maximize the available PoE+ ports and
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prevent possible damage connecting PoE source to PoE source.
TesiraFORTÉ X or Devio SCX?
TesiraFORTÉ X offers the best of both worlds, allowing either auto-configuration or manual configuration, depending on
the requirements of the job. This flexibility allows one device to fill many roles. Users who are unsure of whether they will
need to sometimes manually configure devices as part of larger or bespoke systems can simply order TesiraFORTÉ X
and have both options available in one device. Devio SCX only allows auto-configuration of the device.
• Both device types have a web UI for users to manage the VoIP configuration and network settings, to run Launch,
and more.
• The Launch-configured Devio SCX and Launch-configured TesiraFORTÉ X offer the same user options and user
experience.
• TesiraFORTÉ X supports manual configuration through Tesira SW v4.0 and higher. It then behaves like any other
Tesira device and can be included in files with older Tesira devices.
• TesiraFORTÉ X has analog input and output connections, GPIO connections, and support for Dante audio when
manually configured.
• Launch-configured TesiraFORTÉ X devices do not use the analog I/O, Dante, or GPIO. These features become
available when manually programmed.
• Neither TesiraFORTÉ X nor Devio SCX can have a Launch file extracted from the device. It is a closed system.
Launch tuning results are shown in the device's Report Card.
Network Connectivity
TesiraFORTÉ X is a 5-port media network appliance. All
(5) Ethernet ports are 1G connections, ports 2-5 support
PoE+.
Port 1 supports Tesira discovery and control in all device
modes.
Network discovery
TesiraFORTÉ X does not have a front panel text display.
Device IP discovery is done via a network connection to port 1 (P1) using the Biamp Discovery app or Biamp
Tesira software in all device modes. The latest Tesira software and firmware should always be used
with TesiraFORTÉ X.
Connections between PC and TesiraFORTÉ X are via ethernet connection on port 1, the USB port is a dedicated audio
endpoint.
In separated networks mode the TesiraFORTÉ X may be discoverable with Tesira software via the P2-P5 media
interfaces but the software may not be able to connect, send a configuration, or perform control network functions with
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the hardware if P1 is connected. Connect using the P1 control interface to perform these functions. Once a device is
placed in Converged port mode any port can be used for programming using Tesira software.
Biamp Discovery can query the local network for auto-configurable TesiraFORTÉ X and Devio SCX devices and will
return a list of discovered devices, along the serial number, IP address, and a link to the web user interface (web UI)
for each device.
Password
The web UI will prompt for authentication. The default username is admin and the default password is the
device's 8-digit serial number. The password is expected to be reset with more secure unique credentials by the installer
in most installations. Web page security is managed on the Settings page in the web UI.
Password changes persist through both device resets via Device Maintenance > Clear Configuration and pinhole resets.
Web user interface
The TesiraFORTÉ X web UI is accessible via the control and VoIP interface port via the control IP address found with
the Biamp Discovery app or Biamp Tesira software (version 4.0 and higher).
Password changes persist through device resets via Device Maintenance > Clear Configuration and pinhole resets.
VoIP settings persist through device resets via Device Maintenance > Clear Configuration or configuration updates but
are cleared by pinhole resets.
The TesiraFORTÉ X web UI behavior changes depending on whether the device is configured manually or using the
Launch auto-configuration process.
When the TesiraFORTÉ X is manually configured it displays fewer webpages to the user. The Devices,Audio,Network,
and Troubleshooting pages are not displayed. These pages are devoted to functions that are either handled by
Tesira software or that are not available without the Launch auto-configuration file.
The Settings,VoIP,Event Scheduler, and About webpages are accessible when TesiraFORTÉ X is manually
configured. The Devices,Audio,Network,Settings,VoIP,Event Scheduler,Troubleshooting, and About webpages are
accessible when TesiraFORTÉ X is Launch-capable.
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Network behavior
TesiraFORTÉ X network port modes were updated with
software and firmware 4.2.
The new port modes are described in
the article TesiraFORTÉ X network port modes.
Network Command String block
The Network Command String (NCS) block can be used by
TesiraFORTÉ X to communicate with devices visible on
any interface, allowing command strings to be sent through
either the control port (P1) or the media ports (P2-5). When
configuring the NCS block, the IP address assigned to the NCS block Server address will determine which network
ports the string traffic is routed to. The NCS block must use a device address which is valid within either the control
subnet or the media subnet or it will not be able to connect. The control and media network ports must be in different
subnet domains so the addresses are logically separated.
TesiraFORTÉ X will not relay a command string from the control port P1 through to P2-5, it does not function as a
control tunnel.
To control LEDs and other attributes of Dante devices connected to the media interface (P2-5) an NCS block can be
used to send command strings to the device. These commands cannot be sent directly across from a control system
connected to P1, as P1 does not pass traffic to P2-5. The control system (connected to P1) must trigger the NCS block
whose target IP address points to a device connected to P2-5.
Optionally with TesiraFORTÉ X, the control system could be placed on the media network and control TesiraFORTÉ X
via its Dante IP address on P2-5 using TTP. This would allow the control system to interface directly with the other
Dante interfaces on the network as well as with TesiraFORTÉ X, and the NCS block would not be needed.
Control devices
Control devices such as HD-1, TEC-1, and TEC-X communicate over IP with the TesiraFORTÉ X.
In manually configured systems the control devices may be connected on the control network where they must use an
IP address in the same subnet range as the control interface, or they can be connected to the media ports where they
must use an IP address in the same subnet range as the media interfaces.
When used with a Launch-configured TesiraFORTÉ X, an HD-1 can be connected to and discovered on the media ports
(P2-5). It must acquire an IP address in the same range as the AVB (media_avb_2) interface, and these addresses
must be in a different IP subnet range than the control port (P1) for proper behavior. An HD-1 with the default ID of
HD-1ID 01 should connect to the TesiraFORTÉ X automatically. An HD-1 placed on the Launch-configured control
network will not receive a configuration, it must be on the media network. The HD-1 screen will show "biamp" once it is
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configured. Speed dial entries can be added using the HD-1 interface; press the Directory/Speed Dial button then
use the Add button indicated on the HD-1 screen.
TEC-X and TEC-1 do not receive any programming from a Launch-configured TesiraFORTÉ X.
Firmware Update
Unconfigured or auto-configured TesiraFORTÉ X and Devio SCX devices support firmware updates via their web UI.
TesiraFORTÉ X uses the file tesiraforte-x_fw_web_v#-#-#.tfa for releases 4.1.2 and later. (Firmware releases 4.1.1
and earlier updates for both device types used the Devio SCX Firmware #.#.#.tfa file.) The tfa is a smaller file specific to
these hardware devices, allowing stable updates via the web interface.
The TesiraFORTÉ X and Devio SCX firmware can also be updated via Tesira software using the same Tesira
Firmware #.#.# .tfa2 file as other Tesira hardware uses. The tfa2 file contains firmware resources for all Tesira devices,
plus the Devio SCX devices.
Firmware must be release 4.0 or later to support the TesiraFORTÉ X and Devio SCX.
Always be sure to load the latest firmware to ensure hardware is up to date. Revision B Parle microphones and network
boxes require firmware version 4.2.1 or higher to function, they may appear to be unresponsive until the host
TesiraFORTÉ is updated.
•TesiraFORTÉ X Firmware
•Devio SCX Firmware
Input / output options
Dante and AVB
TesiraFORTÉ X is the first TesiraFORTÉ model to support AVB,Dante, and AES67 in one device, hosting a virtual
32x32 channel Dante interface as well as a 128x128 channel Tesira AVB interface. AES67 is supported in the Dante
interface and must be enabled using Dante Controller software. AES67 channels are counted against the Dante channel
count.
If additional AVB or Dante ports are required, up to (3) TesiraCONNECT TC-5 devices may be linked using P1 to
TesiraFORTÉ X P2-5 to increase the system's port count as needed. If multiple TC-5 are required, TC-5 may be
connected in a daisy chain, star, or hybrid daisy-chain/star configuration. TesiraFORTÉ X (P2-5) participates as a media
network switch in this topology.
Always use the non-PoE+ port (P1) of the TC-5 to link to the upstream device to maximize the available PoE+ ports.
Both Dante and AVB media protocols are passed on one network port. If stand-alone Dante and AVB networks are
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linked by connections through a TesiraFORTÉ X, the networks become bridged.
AVB
TesiraFORTÉ X supports up to 128x128 AVB audio channels on up to 64x64 AVB streams using implicit AVB. AVB is
available on all media ports.
Audio transport between TesiraFORTÉ X and other Tesira devices in the same system is done via implicit AVB. With
implicit AVB there is no need to manually define AVB paths, the Tesira compiler will automatically determine the path
and establish the required AVB streams between devices.
TesiraFORTÉ X supports explicit AVB when running firmware version 4.2.2 or later.
If additional AVB-capable network ports are required, up to (3) TesiraCONNECT TC-5 devices may be linked to
TesiraFORTÉ X P2-5 to increase the system's port count as needed. (Adding additional TesiraFORTÉ X to the design
will also increase the available port count with the benefit of additional DSP and AEC processing.) If multiple TC-5 are
required, TC-5 may be connected in a daisy chain, star, or hybrid daisy-chain/star configuration. TesiraFORTÉ X (P2-5)
participates as a media network switch in this topology.
Always use the non-PoE+ port (P1) of the TC-5 to link to the upstream device to maximize the available PoE+ ports.
TC-5D may be used in place of TC-5 in Launch auto-configured systems, but Launch will not be able to leverage the
additional Dante features of TC-5D. Other AVNU certified AVB switches may also be used to connect AVB peripherals
in manually configured or Launch auto-configured systems with TesiraFORTÉ X (NOTE: the connecting port must not
supply PoE to the TesiraFORTÉ X).
TesiraFORTÉ X auto-configuration supports Biamp AVB peripherals including Parle microphones, Parle amplifiers, EX-
UBT, and HD-1 controllers. Please review the Biamp Launch hardware discovery article for details.
Dante
TesiraFORTÉ X supports up to 32x32 Dante audio channels on up to 32x32 Dante flows.AES67 may be enabled on
the TesiraFORTÉ X Dante interface in Dante Controller. It is recommended to operate TesiraFORTÉ X in Converged
Nework Port mode when using AES67 due to the PTPv2 clock profile.
If additional Dante IO channels are needed a TC-5D can be added to the system as long as TesiraFORTÉ X is in
converged control and media network port mode.
The Dante IP is visible on the DAN tab in Device Maintenance. It can be changed while the device is unconfigured and
is read-only once a configuration is loaded. Similarly, the Dante device name can be changed only when the Forte X is
unconfigured.
Dante discovery does not pass across the TesiraFORTÉ X between port 1 and ports 2-5 when Forte X is in a
dedicated network port mode.
Dante is available on all media ports. The TesiraFORTÉ X can be used as a Dante-capable switch if multiple Dante
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devices are connected. The Ethernet ports can be thought of as windows into the device, through which the single
TesiraFORTÉ X Dante interface is visible - there is not a unique Dante interface on each network port. Only 1 link is
required from TesiraFORTÉ X to a Dante network (NOTE: the connecting port must not supply PoE to the TesiraFORTÉ
X). Contact Biamp support at [email protected] with your network topology requirements.
Up to (3) TC-5 can be used to add Dante-capable ports to a TesiraFORTÉ X (always connect P1 of the TC-5 to P2-5 of
TesiraFORTÉ X). A TC-5D is not needed. The Dante I/O interface is hosted in the TesiraFORTÉ X.
To manage connected Dante endpoints, a PC running Dante Controller can be attached either directly to the
TesiraFORTÉ X on ports 2-5, or to port 2-5 through a separate switch (NOTE: the connecting port must not supply PoE
to the TesiraFORTÉ X).
Some firewall and VPN software packages have been observed to block Dante Controller's ability to discover the
TesiraFORTÉ X Dante endpoint, or if it is discoverable, to block responses to queries of its device attributes and routing.
Pausing or disabling the firewall or VPN software allows Dante Controller discovery and querying to behave normally. In
the firewall settings it may be necessary to allow specific ports including 8751, 8800, 55123, and 65117. See Which
network ports does Dante use? for more details.
If control commands for LED color changes need to be sent to a Dante device the Network Command String block
may be used.
USB X
TesiraFORTÉ X has a type B USB port which may be configured as
a mono 1x1 speakerphone or stereo 2x2 channel audio input/
output. USB audio uses a 48kHz sample rate with 16-bit or 24-bit
resolution. The USB bit rate is auto-negotiated with the host
computer. (FW release 4.0 supported only 24-bit connections)
When manually configured in either the 1x1 or 2x2 speakerphone
options, the USB port supports HID mute sync for use with UC
platforms, and supports AEC offloading for UC platforms which
support the option.
When auto-configured with Biamp Launch, TesiraFORTÉ X will present a mono 1x1, 48kHz 16-bit or 24-bit
speakerphone as its USB connection. In the Launched 1x1 speakerphone configuration, the USB port supports HID
mute sync for use with UC platforms, and supports AEC offloading for UC platforms which support the option.
A Windows 10 update seen on some systems has added Speakerphone audio signal
enhancement feature which is enabled by default. This has been seen to be detrimental
to USB audio resulting in added noise and very low transmit levels. Disabling the feature
in the Advanced options of the Speakerphone audio settings resolves the issue.
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Mic LED behavior - Launch
When TesiraFORTÉ X is auto-configured, the Parle mic LEDs will illuminate in green when idle or when audio streaming
is detected, and be solid red when mute is engaged.
In firmware 4.2 and later a new Microphone LED toggle
has been added.
• Always on = LED always green unless muted, red
when muted.
• On During Call = LED off when idle, green while
joined to a meeting and streaming, and red when
muted.
When Teams is selected as the preferred UC vendor, the "On During Call" option is automatically engaged.
The "On During Call" option can be manually selected for other vendors on the Audio webpage when Launch
configured. The setting will persist through subsequent Launch cycles.
USB block and Mic LED behavior - manual configuration
When TesiraFORTÉ X is manually-configured the USB X blocks are visible in Tesira software. Both the USB input and
USB output blocks support logic connections which are unique to the input or output USB path. To link mic LED
behavior to USB mute state a logic link must be used to join the blocks.
The USB block logic input node is labeled M(mute) and engages the USB block mute when logic is high.
The USB block logic output nodes are labeled C(Connected state), S(Streaming activity), M(Mute state), and H(Hook
Switch). The Cnode will go high when a USB connection to a PC is detected, the Snode will go high when audio is
streaming to or from the PC, the Mnode will go high when the USB input or output is muted. The USB output mute state
will sync with the mute state of many UC room clients using HID. The Hnode will go high when joining a meeting if the
UC platform utilizes the USB Hook Switch HID command. This can be thought of similar to going off/on hook with a
telephone. In most cases this can provide more accurate call state feedback as opposed to using the S(Streaming
Activity) output node.
The Parle mic block has 2 LED logic options, set in the Parle mic Properties.
The default behavior of "None, LEDs always follow device Mute status" is the same as the "Always On" option. Mic
LEDs will be green at idle or when in a call, and red when mute is engaged.
The 2nd option is "Logic Inputs control LEDs". When selected, a logic link must be used to join to blocks to link mic LED
behavior to USB mute state. See the article "Parle-series microphone tips and tricks" for a guide.
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VoIP X
TesiraFORTÉ X hosts our next generation VoIP interface,
adding enhanced security features as well as support
for other new VoIP features including the Opus audio
codec. Forte X no longer supports the G.723 codec.
TesiraFORTÉ X VoIP supports 1 line with 2 call instances.
VoIP X supports all current Tesira VoIP vendors,
except Skype for Business.
The HD-1 dialer is compatible with TesiraFORTÉ X and
can be connected via ports 2-5. In Launch-configured systems, the HD-1 is automatically provisioned provided the HD-1
device ID is at the default "HD-1ID 01".
TesiraFORTÉ X VoIP is entirely software-based and is configured solely via an internally-served web page. The web
page can be opened by connecting to the device directly via its IP addresses and choosing the VoIP > Line Setup pages
or double-clicking on the Control/Status block in Tesira software (manually-configured systems only).
TesiraFORTÉ X port 1 is dedicated to Control and VoIP in the default network configuration, with both sharing a single
IP address. If VoIP is required to be on a separate VLAN, VLAN assignment is allowed for the VoIP interface. When a
VLAN is assigned to VoIP a unique IP address is available for the VoIP interface, independent of the control IP address
and subnet range. Only one Gateway address can be used by the device, so the VoIP Gateway should be be applied
and others left undefined or set to match the VoIP gateway. Control and VoIP still share a common network port (P1) but
are now logically separated.
Troubleshooting VoIP X:
•Line registration status can be seen in real-time on the VoIP > System webpage's Diagnostics tab. Feedback on
line registration progress and call status is visible on the HD-1 display and on the Audio webpage in a Launch-
configured device.
• VoIP X features include an ASCII VoIP log which will capture log all traffic including SIP and RTP traffic. It will be
possible to select pre or post TLS encryption in logging in the VoIP endpoint. VoIP logging is managed on the VoIP
> System webpage's Maintenance tab. Logs are not displayed in real-time but can be downloaded at any time by
clicking Control-Shift-F12 to reveal the "Download Logs" button. A program such as Windows Notepad++ is
helpful for viewing logs.
• The current VoIP X configuration may be downloaded via the DOWNLOAD button on the VoIP > Line Setup
webpage's SIP Config tab. (requires firmware 4.2 or later)
The VoIP X interface allows users to upload a custom ringtone file (wav format) in addition to its default ringtones.
In TesiraFORTÉ X VoIP, SRTP,ZRTP and SRTP-DTLS are supported for media encryption. The media security
mechanisms are mutually exclusive. ZRTP and SRTP-DTLS are new RTP security mechanisms available in TesiraForte
X, while older Tesira VoIP interfaces support only SRTP.
In TesiraFORTÉ X VoIP, SSL/TLS are supported for SIP signaling encryption. TLS 1.2 is supported and is downward
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compatible to TLS 1.1 and TLS 1.0. Users can configure the device for compatible versions. Older Tesira VoIP
interfaces do not allow users to configure the compatible TLS version.
A TFTP server is able to be configured in the VoIP endpoint either statically or via DHCP option 66 (or a custom option).
VoIP X supports the TFTP server address as either dotted quads or FQDN.
The use of a VoIP VLAN (802.1Q) is optional. If a VLAN is configured, ingress traffic with an unmatched VLAN tag shall
be discarded. If a VLAN is configured, all egress traffic will be tagged. The VoIP VLAN must be configured statically,
either via Tesira Device Maintenance or via the web UI in the Network page.
AEC
AEC channels are not tethered to an analog I/O and may be assigned to any input desired (analog / AVB / Dante /
AES67). The device will use (1) channel of AEC processing per Biamp Parle microphone or other input channel type.
TesiraFORTÉ X uses dedicated AEC processing hardware per channel, the same as all Tesira devices, for optimal
AEC performance. The number of supported AEC channels is indicated by the model name.
• TesiraFORTÉ X 400 offers 4 AEC channels (TesiraFORTÉ X 400 supports auto-configuration with up to a
maximum of 4 microphones).
• TesiraFORTÉ X 800 offers 8 AEC channels (TesiraFORTÉ X 800 supports auto-configuration with up to a
maximum of 8 microphones).
• TesiraFORTÉ X 1600 offers 16 AEC channels (TesiraFORTÉ X 1600 supports auto-configuration with up to a
maximum of 8 microphones).
The 250ms AEC tail length on TesiraFORTÉ X is the same as is found on other TesiraFORTÉ hardware.
Analog I/O
TesiraFORTÉ X has 2 channels of mic-line input with phantom power and 2 channels of mic-line output. Gain structure
on both input and output matches other Tesira analog I/O ports. TesiraFORTÉ X uses female 3-pole 3.81mm-pitch block
connectors for inputs and outputs.
GPIO
TesiraFORTÉ X has 4 channels of GPIO available for user configuration.
• Each channel is configurable as a logic input, logic output, LED driver, or control voltage input.
• Logic inputs are compatible with 5V TTL or contact closure
• Logic outputs are configurable as either open collector with internal pull-up or direct LED drive.
• Open collector is 5V TTL compatible, allowing a maximum voltage of 40V and maximum current of 300mA.
• When configured for direct LED drive each output can supply 5V at 10mA .
• Control voltage inputs allow connection of a potentiometer for a simple user assignable level control.
GPIO behaviors are the same as seen on ports 13-16 of the Tesira EX-Logic box and the GPIO ports on other Tesira
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Server-class devices.
TesiraFORTÉ X uses a female 6-pole 3.81mm-pitch block connector for the GPIO connection.
Installation
Wall Mounting
TesiraFORTÉ X comes with a pre-attached wall mount and
drywall anchors to allow placement behind wall mounted
displays. The wall mount features an integrated cable
management caddy with tie down points for neatly and securely
terminating all I/O and power cabling. A separate Velcro anchor
strap is included for attaching the external power supply to the
wall.
TesiraFORTÉ X is powered via an external inline supply with a
threaded chassis connection to ensure the cable is not
accidentally disconnected.
Overall Chassis Dimensions:
• Height: 1.66 inches (42.3 mm) Width: 8.11 inches (206 mm) Depth: 11.85 inches (301 mm) Weight: 2.2 lbs (0.99kg)
with the mounting plate attached
• Height: 1.47 inches (37.3 mm) Width: 8.11 inches (206 mm) Depth: 8.11 inches (206 mm) Weight: 1.9 lbs (0.86kg)
without the mounting plate attached
Rack Mounting
The RMX 100 rack shelf allows up to (2) TesiraFORTÉ
X, Devio SCX, TC-5, or TC-5D in any combination to be
securely mounted in a single rack unit space. The RMX
100 rack shelf ships with all fasteners necessary to
attach devices to the shelf, and the shelf to the rack rails.
Components are attached to the shelf with (4) M3 x 10mm screw, washers, and lock
washers (included with shelf kit). Rack mount screws are provided in (3) common sizes, #10-32 x .75", #12-24 x .75",
and M6 x .75".
Plenum Mounting
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The Plenum Box 12x12 is a fire-resistant enclosure used to install a variety of Biamp
devices in plenum spaces. The Biamp Plenum Box 12x12 is UL2043 compliant and is
approved for use in air-handling plenums. This product also meets Chicago Building
Code Chapter 14E-3 requirements for use in a plenum space within the city of Chicago.
Cooling
All models of TesiraFORTÉ X are actively cooled by a variable speed fan. Air enters the right side and exits the left side
of the unit when viewed from the front. When the unit is wall mounted the orientation is not enforced, but best cooling
performance (convection plus fan assistance) will happen when the left side is pointing up.
Hardware bundles
TesiraFORTÉ X is available in hardware bundles for different room sizes to make installation fast and easy.
Medium room (4.5m x 6m (27 m2or 290 ft2), 8-11 people)
oMRB-M-X400-C -Ceiling mic: TesiraFORTÉ X 400, (1) TCM-XA, and (1) pair of C-IC6 plus cables.
oMRB-M-X400-T -Table mic: TesiraFORTÉ X 400, (1) AMP-450BP, (1) TTM-X, and (1) pair of C-IC6 plus cables.
Large room (4.5m x 8.5m (38.25 m2or 412 ft2), 12-18 people)
oMRB-L-X400-C -Ceiling mic: TesiraFORTÉ X 400, (1) TCM-XA, (1) TCM-XEX, and (2) pair of C-IC6 plus cables.
oMRB-L-X400-T -Table mic: TesiraFORTÉ X 400, (1) AMP-450BP, (1) TTM-X, (1) TTM-XEX and (2) pair of C-IC6
plus cables.
Block family
A new TesiraFORTÉ
X block family is
available in
Tesira software version 4.0 and higher.
TesiraFORTÉ X devices allow the selection of 4, 8, or 16 channels of AEC when the block is placed. When devices are
assigned in the Equipment Table the actual hardware device needs to match or exceed the AEC channel count defined
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here or else you will not be able to assign your layout to a physical device.
Audio transport between TesiraFORTÉ X and other Tesira devices in the same system is done via implicit AVB. There is
no need to manually define AVB paths, the Tesira compiler will automatically determine the path and establish the
required AVB streams between devices.
The USB X interface allows 1x1 or 2x2 configuration and a choice of line in and line out or speakerphone behavior with
AEC in the audio DSP or AEC in the PC. The speakerphone options allow Tesira to set a flag for the connected USB
host to indicate a preference for AEC on the Tesira device or AEC in the UC application. Not all UC platforms offer
support for this option and will simply ignore this choice.
The USB X interface supports HID mute sync for use with UC platforms.
The VoIP X Control/Status block is not available for
configuration while offline. Unlike other Tesira VoIP
devices, TesiraFORTÉ X VoIP is entirely software based
and is configured solely via an internally served web
page. The web page can be launched by double-clicking
on the Control/Status block in Tesira SW or connecting to
the device directly via its IP address and choosing the
VoIP pages. If users attempt to configure the VoIP block
while offline a popup message will remind them of the
behavior.
TesiraFORTÉ X added support for explicit AVB (AVB.1)
endpoints with FW 4.2.2. AVB I/O blocks can be manually
added as desired, they are not placed into a layout
with TesiraFORTÉ X by default.
Dante is supported on all manually configured TesiraFORTÉ X devices. This includes support for AES67 through the
Dante interface. Dante I/O blocks can be manually added as desired, they are not placed into a layout
with TesiraFORTÉ X by default.
The Dante interface shares an IP address with the AVB interface on TesiraFORTÉ X, in most applications this is not a
hindrance to implementing desired network topologies. There may be special conditions with specific user-defined
network restrictions where a desired network topology is simply not possible due to IP address rules.
GPIO functions are available using the Logic Input, Logic Output, and Control Voltage blocks, as with other Tesira
devices.
3rd-party control systems
Control systems can communicate with manually-configured TesiraFORTÉ X either on P1 using the TesiraFORTÉ X's
control IP address, or on P2-5 using the TesiraFORTÉ X's media_avb_2 or Dante IP address.
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TesiraFORTÉ X will not relay a command string from the control port P1 through to P2-5; it does not function as a
control tunnel. TesiraFORTÉ X's control and media IP addresses must be in unique logical subnets or the device will not
function properly.
TesiraFORTÉ X uses the same TTP commands as all other Tesira hardware so control libraries remain
unchanged. TesiraFORTÉ X uses SSH by default, telnet may be enabled if desired.
Launch-configured devices do not support the use of TTP commands by 3rd party control systems.
One behavior unique to TesiraFORTÉ X is the VoIP X interface which now hosts 2 call instances rather than 6 as seen
in other Tesira devices. The TTP commands are unchanged, the difference is that the control system will never see a
call appearance on call instances 3, 4, 5 or 6. In practice we have found 6 call instances to be unwieldy for most
installations and 2 call instances mirrors the behavior of many phones, making it more intuitive for the everyday user.
Larger Forte X system considerations
TesiraFORTÉ X is similar to other Tesira AVB DSP devices but adds the new consideration of a built in AVB media
switch. The TesiraFORTÉ X, TC-5 and TC-5D network devices are designed for small to medium scale applications.
They are not a universal tool. Some applications require a high stream count and should leverage the power of
enterprise grade AVB switches and the Tesira Server-IO AVB or TesiraFORTÉ AVB endpoints which do not incorporate
a lightweight internal AVB switch.
A maximum of (3) TC-5 has been recommended with one TesiraFORTÉ X to ensure that stream counts and hop limits
are observed, with enterprise grade switches advised for larger systems. In larger systems with multiple
TesiraFORTÉ X, the additional TesiraFORTÉ X should be considered equivalent to TC-5 when considering network
device counts in the design.
While deployments exceeding this recommendation may work, the cost per port typically tips in favor of the enterprise
switch in this device count range. Additionally, on networks with more than the recommended number of units, users will
need to consider the position of each device in the network topology when applying firmware updates to ensure all
devices can receive the update without being blocked by a mid-span device updating simultaneously. This scenario may
require manually selecting a sub-set of devices for their firmware update, then manually selecting a second group once
the first has completed their updates.
• The Control ports (P1) of each TesiraFORTÉ X need to be on a common control network. (FW 4.0 and 4.1)
• The AVB ports (P2-P5) of the TesiraFORTÉ X need to be on a common AVB network to share media. (FW 4.0 and
4.1)
• The Tesira system limit of 128 devices needs to be observed as defined in the Tesira help files.
• TesiraFORTÉ X and/or TC-5 can be daisy-chained and will pass AVB and Dante to connected devices.
• The limit of 9 hops between the farthest 2 AVB endpoints in a system should be respected. A hop is counted as the
link between 2 AVB-capable network components.
• The TC-5 and TesiraFORTÉ X are expected to support up to 150 streams on the AVB network. Systems need to be
designed with this maximum stream count in mind. If more streams are needed enterprise grade switches and
Server-IO or Forte AVB (dedicated AVB endpoints) are recommended. The number of AVB endpoints on a network
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is a major factor in the CPU load on participating AVB switches, and a high number of AVB endpoints may influence
the maximum number of streams supported.
• Always use P1 of the TC-5 to connect to P2-5 of the TesiraFORTÉ X.
• If a 3rd party switch is connected to P2-5 of the TesiraFORTÉ X it must be a non-PoE capable switch. Damage to
the TesiraFORTÉ X will occur if PoE is injected to P2-5 from an external source. (A PoE port that has been disabled
can still cause an issue at the hardware level.)
AVB Network Diameter
A network hop is a link between two networked devices.
Biamp recommends a maximum AVB network diameter of 9 hops in order to guarantee that 2ms deterministic latency is
maintained.
AVB networks that consist of purely gigabit-capable devices may allow the maximum network diameter to be 9 or more
hops while maintaining 2ms deterministic latency. The total latency will be dependent on numerous variables
including switch models being used and the firmware they are running, network size and topology, and the total number
of AVB streams and AVB devices on the network.
Every network device has a pass-through latency, including AVB talker and listener endpoints and copper or fiber links
and converters. The sum of all latencies must be less than 2ms to guarantee the ability to maintain
playout synchronization across all endpoints at 2ms (2,000µs). The path from talker to listener must be under 2ms for
all talker-listener paths in the system.
Biamp AVB endpoints incur 125µs latency per source and sink device.
Pass-through latency on switch hardware varies from 125µs to 200µs per device. Because the exact latency is
unknown, we assume the worst-case scenario of 200µs across all network hops. Eight network switches at 200µs each,
plus two endpoints at 125µs each totals 1850µs, leaving 150µs to spare. A daisy-chained system with 10 network
devices requires 9 connecting links or "hops." This is how we determine the 9-hop maximum diameter.
A network comprised only of devices with a 125µs pass-through latency would allow a theoretical maximum of 15 hops
while respecting the 2ms cumulative latency.
In practice, most networks end up with a blend of network device latencies. Some hardware has 125µs pass-through,
while other devices may be 150µs pass-through, and others may be 200µs pass-through. Fiber converters may add
considerable latency to a hop. This should be taken into account when designing the network and may allow for
flexibility in the hop limit that is chosen.
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In networks with a star topology, the overall network diameter must be calculated between the two farthest-
apart AVB devices in the daisy chain.
It is generally recommended that no more than 9 hops exist between the furthest edges of the AVB network when using
a 1G network. Larger diameters may be supported if throughput latency is known, but 9 hops is a conservative value
that should always guarantee robust operation.
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