Updated August 2024
This Tech Note describes how clients integrate a wireless microphone for use with the Ava Telepresence Robot using a line level input. This note is for robots that use Cisco RoomKit Codec Plus or Cisco SX20 as their codec.
It should be taken as general guidelines created based on an actual implementation in the field, but exact steps may vary depending on component selection, codec software version and other requirements.
Necessary Hardware
A microphone system that provides line-level output (line level provides a more robust sound than mic level). Clients have used the Sony UWP-D11 system.
A cable to connect the microphone to the video codec’s mic port, 3.5mm balanced male connector to 3.5mm male 4 conductor. Clients have used the Yamaha/Revolabs 35MBTO35M4, which can be found here: https://tac-usa.com/yamaha-cable-3-5mm-balanced-male-connector-to-3-5mm-male-4-conductor/.
Hardware Installation
When installing the external microphone, it is important that it not lay on the internal circuit boards or interfere with the external shell closures. To install:
Remove Ava’s external shells
Connect the mic receiver to the face of the video codec using industrial strength double sided tape
Disconnect the 2nd Ava cable from the 2nd microphone input on the video codec
Connect the cable from the mic receiver to the 2nd microphone input on the video codec
Connect the receiver power to one of the video codec USB power slots
Ensure that the external microphone powers on
Reconnect Ava’s external shells
Video Codec Settings
A user must manually switch between microphones to alternate between using Ava’s mic system and the external mic. This is done in the Codec Web Interface, which Ava Administrators have access to.
Login to the Ava Administrator Console, go to the desired robot detail page
Browse to the Codec Web Interface, login with the proper credentials
Navigate to Setup > Configuration > Audio
To switch between the mic that is in use, change the Mode settings
Using Ava’s Mic | Using the External Mic | |
Microphone 1 (Ava’s mic) | Mode - on | Mode - off |
Microphone 2 (external mic) | Mode - off | Mode - on |
Note: Do not have both Ava’s mic and the external mic active at the same time.
Example Configuration for Using Ava’s Mic System
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