Erthpot NCS110-CU Conference Controller

Erthpot NCS110-CU Central Control Unit: Controller of Novo Conference System

The Core Engine of Modern Meeting Environments

In the world of professional AV integration, the NCS110-CU stands out as a hardware-centric appliance that prioritizes reliability and ease of use. As the central controller, it provides the necessary 24V power and data management for all connected chairman and delegate units. Beyond simple power distribution, this unit acts as a sophisticated audio processor and system coordinator. It features a high-speed microprocessor that handles real-time voice activation, microphone priority, and signal routing to both analog and digital outputs. Its native Dante interface allows for a purely digital signal chain, ensuring that high-fidelity audio can be routed across standard IT networks to DSPs or recording systems without the signal degradation associated with long analog cable runs.

Furthermore, the NCS110-CU bridges the gap between audio and video by providing automated camera control. Through its dedicated serial ports and BNC video matrix, it enables a “voice-to-video” experience where PTZ cameras automatically frame the active speaker. This level of automation makes it an essential tool for hybrid meeting environments where visual cues are just as important as audio clarity.

Mission-Critical Features for Enterprise Audio

• Scalable Architecture up to 110 Units
  The system natively manages large-scale discussions. While the central unit connects to microphones via CAT5 cabling, the addition of the NEB-124W extension box allows the system to scale up to 110 units, making it suitable for even the largest legislative assemblies.
• Integrated Dante Digital Audio Output
  Equipped with an RJ45 Dante port, the controller provides a low-latency, uncompressed digital audio stream. This ensures seamless interoperability with any Dante-enabled ecosystem, allowing integrators to route conference audio to external mixers or streaming interfaces with ease.
• Multi-Protocol Camera Tracking (RS232/RS422)
  The NCS110-CU supports industry-standard protocols including VISCA, PELCO-D, and PELCO-P. This allows the system to control up to four PTZ cameras simultaneously, automatically switching video feeds based on which microphone is active.
• On-Board Video Matrix (4 In / 1 Out)
  With support for SDI and HD SDI inputs via BNC connectors, the unit functions as a basic video switcher, streamlining the hardware required for automated video conferencing.
• Intelligent Audio Gain Processing
  Feedback is the enemy of any conference room. The built-in automatic gain processing technology proactively prevents feedback loops while enhancing vocal clarity, ensuring every word is heard with absolute precision.

Operational Dynamics: How the System Works

The NCS Novo system utilizes a high-efficiency daisy-chain architecture. Microphones (Chairman and Delegate units) are connected in series using standard Category 5 (CAT5) network cabling. This “Digital & Wired” approach combines the reliability of a physical connection with the ease of network-style wiring. The central controller’s microprocessor automatically detects every unit added to the chain, eliminating the need for complex manual addressing.

Signal routing is handled internally within the 1RU chassis. Audio from the microphones is processed through the gain circuit and then distributed simultaneously to the analog XLR/RCA outputs and the digital Dante port. For camera control, the system monitors the “mic active” signal and sends the corresponding preset command to the cameras via the RS232 or RS422 ports, creating a fully automated, hands-free production environment.

Advanced Conference Management Modes

The NCS110-CU offers four distinct operating modes to suit different meeting protocols:

• FIFO (First-In, First-Out): Once the maximum number of active microphones is reached, the next person to press the button deactivates the oldest active microphone.
• Automatic with Time Limit: Microphones are automatically deactivated after a pre-set duration, ensuring speakers remain concise.
• Request Mode: Allows the chairman to manage the flow of conversation by approving or denying requests to speak.
• Sound Activation Mode: Microphones activate automatically when they detect a voice, providing a seamless “hands-free” experience.

Automated Camera Tracking & Video Integration

Modern hybrid meetings require visual engagement. The NCS110-CU features a robust camera tracking engine that utilizes the DB9 and Phoenix terminal ports for serial communication. By supporting VISCA and PELCO protocols, it is compatible with a wide range of professional PTZ cameras. The system can manage a 4-input video matrix, switching between SDI and HD SDI sources. When a delegate speaks, the system instantly triggers the camera to move to that participant’s coordinate and switches the video output to that camera’s feed, making it perfect for broadcast or high-end video conferencing.

Comprehensive Audio Connectivity Options

Connectivity is a hallmark of the NCS110-CU. For audio output, it provides a balanced XLRM port and a 6.35mm jack, both capable of a maximum output level of 14.6dBu. It also includes RCA Lotus ports for auxiliary input and output, allowing for the integration of external background music, recording devices, or PA systems. The RJ45 Dante interface serves as the primary digital gateway, allowing the conference audio to become part of a larger enterprise-wide audio network.

Technical Specifications

Premier Applications for Professional Deployment

The versatility of the NCS110-CU makes it the ideal choice for various high-stakes environments:

• Corporate Boardrooms: Facilitates high-level executive discussions with seamless Dante integration for video conferencing platforms.
• Government Council Halls: Manages large numbers of participants with structured voting and request-to-speak protocols.
• Higher Education & Training Centers: Ideal for large classrooms where speech intelligibility and camera tracking for lecture capture are paramount.
• Hybrid Meeting Environments: Bridges the gap between in-room and remote participants through automated video and crystal-clear digital audio.

Installation Excellence and System Scalability

Installing the Novo Conference System is a streamlined process. Using standard CAT5 cabling for daisy-chaining eliminates the need for expensive, proprietary cables. The system is inherently scalable; while the central unit is highly capable on its own, it can be expanded using the NEB-124W Extension Box. This box provides additional 72W/24V power modules to support up to 30 additional microphones each, allowing the system to grow as meeting requirements expand. The “everything built into hardware” philosophy ensures that once the physical connections are made, the system functions as a stable appliance with minimal technical intervention required.

The Erthpot Difference: Reliability by Design

The Novo system distinguishes itself through its architectural simplicity. Unlike software-heavy solutions that require constant updates, the NCS110-CU is an appliance-grade hardware unit. Its combination of high-quality metallic construction, native Dante support, and “Plug n Play” auto-detection provides a level of reliability that IT and AV managers depend on. By focusing on speech intelligibility and automated control, Erthpot has created a system that allows users to focus on their meeting, not the technology powering it.