Clear-Com has released new firmware updates (version 4.2) for its HelixNet Digital Network Partyline and LQ Series IP Interfaces both incorporate user feedback in delivering improvements on both platforms.
The HelixNet 4.2 firmware release adds visual communication, two-way radio capability, and a suite of new capabilities for intercom system administrators to tailor intercom stations to specific user workflows. LQ IP Interfaces have the ability to connect to any type and brand of intercom or audio device over IP, and the new 4.2 update now adds the ability to Save & Restore LQ unit configuration.
Specifically, HelixNet 4.2 firmware now includes an “In-Use-Tally” to visually indicate talk activity on individual channels, allowing users to correlate what they hear on their intercom station with individual channels while also providing a visual cue to those who have removed their headsets or may not be listening. Enhanced administrative functions provide the ability for an intercom system administrator to tailor a HelixNet intercom station to its user and environment.
New functions include the ability to set minimum and maximum volume controls, disable channel mute controls, configure loudspeaker operation, and to permanently set the headset toggle key and new operation modes for the HKB shift page. With these new functions, HelixNet intercom stations can be configured to allow an advanced user full control of the system, while heavily restricting controls if needed.
Also with the HelixNet 4.2 update, operation of two-way radios is designed to be easier by allowing keying of the radio to be given selectively to a user using the new “Secondary Talk Action” function which allows individual talk keys to initiate a visual “Call” signal or LQ “Network Control Event.” Call and Control Events can be assigned to a GPO port to interface with two-way radios, enabling selective users to speak to one or more two-way radios with the push of a button. Finally, a new “Interlock Talk Group” option allows the ability to guarantee a user only speaks to one channel at a time.
Meanwhile, LQ 4.2 allows users to save their configuration settings in a file on the computer they use to manage their audio network. A pre-saved configuration can be reloaded onto the LQ device at any time, so if the device is being used for multiple shows or system configurations, each respective configuration can be saved and pre-loaded.
In addition, LQ can now support eight Agent-IC clients as well as up to eight Station-IC clients (Station-IC Release 1.1. for LQ expected Summer 2021), bringing the total numbers of virtual clients supported to 16. Further, LQ’s dynamic capabilities and processing platform enable it to carry out multiple tasks simultaneously. With the addition of a new Resource Calculator, users can ensure their LQ device is operating at its optimal level by assisting administrators in applying LQ’s functionality to an audio network and thus helping determine which connections can be made to maximize use of the device.
“Customer feedback was a driving force in the 4.2 firmware update which has effectively taken us a step forward in maximizing the functionality of HelixNet and LQ,” sayss Kari Eythorsson, Product Manager for Clear-Com. “We are confident that users will embrace these new features and find them helpful in executing their comms needs.”
The 4.2 update is now available in the download center of the company website (here).
