Can playout control be operated via an audio switcher?

Yes, PlayIt Live can be controlled via audio switchers through the External Devices feature, which requires the Remote Management Module. This advanced feature allows bidirectional communication between PlayIt Live and external broadcast equipment.

PlayIt Live supports several hardware interfaces for playout control:

• Broadcast Tools/Easy Driver - Direct integration with Broadcast Tools switcher equipment and PIP-compatible Easy Driver relay control
• Serial Port connections - Compatible with Arduino boards, relay controllers, and custom hardware via RS-232 serial ports or USB-to-Serial adapters
• X-keys USB GPIO devices

You can configure Named Inputs to receive signals from your audio switcher (such as GPI signals) and set up Input Triggers to execute playout control actions like:

• Play Next - Advance to the next item in the playout log
• Pause - Pause all playing players
• Stop - Fade out and stop all playing players
• Change Playout Mode - Switch automation on or off

For example, a satellite receiver's GPI output can trigger PlayIt Live to automatically continue playout when a network programme ends and it's time for local content. The External Devices feature also supports Named Outputs to control external equipment like on-air lights based on playout status.

This feature is designed for broadcast engineers and technical staff familiar with serial communications and GPIO hardware. For Broadcast Tools hardware support, contact Broadcast Tools directly as PlayIt Software only provides support for the External Devices configuration within PlayIt Live.