Layer-2 switch considerations

Clearly you should pick a switch type and brand after consulting with the AoIP vendor that you choose; each will be able to recommend certain models, certified to work in their particular systems. If your intent is to use multiple VLANs then you will need managed switches. If you maintain a ready spare, make sure you save all the switch configurations, (after the system is up and running) so that the spare can be configured properly should it need to be used.

Irwin is transmission systems supervisor for Clear Channel NYC and chief engineer of WKTU, New York.