Audio Codec Configuration in RCVx3 Router

Audio Codec Configuration in RCVx3 Router

Overview

The Audio Configuration feature in the RCVx3 Router allows users to set up and manage audio codecs, optimize voice transmission, and ensure high-quality audio communication over VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) networks. It provides various configuration options such as selecting codec types, adjusting packet cycles, enabling echo cancellation, and configuring DTMF (Dual-Tone Multi-Frequency) settings.

These settings are crucial for achieving optimal voice clarity, low latency, and efficient bandwidth usage based on the network conditions and VoIP requirements.


How It Works

Audio configuration in VoIP relies on audio codecs, which compress and decompress voice signals for transmission over IP networks. The router supports multiple codec types, allowing flexibility based on the available bandwidth and required voice quality.

When a VoIP call is made, the codec negotiation process determines the codec to be used between the calling and receiving devices. The router follows a priority order for codec selection, ensuring compatibility with the remote endpoint.

The key parameters in the RCVx3 Audio Configuration include:

  1. Audio Codec Types – Determines how voice data is encoded and transmitted.

  2. Payload Size – Defines the size of the compressed audio data in packets.

  3. Packet Cycle – Specifies how often audio packets are transmitted.

  4. Echo Cancellation – Reduces echoes to improve call clarity.

  5. Auto Gain Control – Adjusts volume levels dynamically.

  6. DTMF Configuration – Ensures proper signal transmission for touch-tone inputs.





Key Audio Configuration Settings

1. Codec Setup

The router supports multiple audio codec types, each designed for different use cases. The available codecs are:

Codec Type
Description
Best Use Case
G.711U
Uncompressed, high-quality audio with low latency
Ideal for high-bandwidth networks
G.711A
A-law version of G.711 used in European telephony
Best for compatibility with European systems
G.729
Compressed codec requiring lower bandwidth but maintaining quality
Suitable for low-bandwidth VoIP calls
G.722
High-definition (HD) voice codec
Best for crystal-clear voice communication
G.723
Low-bit-rate codec (5.3 kbps) with moderate compression
Useful for networks with very limited bandwidth
G.726-32
Adaptive Differential Pulse Code Modulation (ADPCM) codec
Balances bandwidth usage and quality



🔹 Example Usage:

  • If a business wants high-quality calls, it should use G.711U or G.722.

  • If the network has low bandwidth, G.729 or G.723 is a better choice.

  • A call center with multiple simultaneous calls may use G.726-32 to optimize bandwidth usage.


2. Payload & Packet Cycle

  • G726 Payload: 110
    This defines the payload size for the G.726 codec. A larger payload reduces overhead but may increase latency.

  • G.723 Coding Speed: 5.3 kbps
    This setting controls the bit rate at which the G.723 codec encodes audio. Lower bit rates help save bandwidth but may reduce voice quality.

  • Packet Cycle (ms): 20
    The packet cycle determines how often voice packets are sent. A lower value (e.g., 20ms) ensures real-time voice transmission with minimal delays.

🔹 Example Usage:

  • A packet cycle of 20ms is optimal for reducing latency in voice calls.

  • A call over G.723 at 5.3 kbps would be ideal for a low-bandwidth rural VoIP network.


3. Echo Cancellation & Auto Gain Control

  • Echo Cancel: Enabled
    Echo cancellation removes unwanted audio reflections that occur during VoIP calls.

  • Auto Gain Control: Disabled
    This feature automatically adjusts microphone sensitivity. It is disabled by default, but users can enable it if they experience volume inconsistencies.

🔹 Example Usage:

  • If a user hears their own voice echoing, enabling Echo Cancellation prevents it.

  • In an environment where callers have varying speaking volumes, enabling Auto Gain Control ensures even volume levels.


4. Codec Negotiation & Prioritization

  • Use First Matching Vocoder in 200OK SDP: Disabled
    When disabled, the router negotiates the best possible codec instead of forcing the first matching one.

  • Codec Priority: Remote
    This setting means the router follows the codec preference of the remote party instead of enforcing its own.

  • Packet Cycle Follows Remote SDP: Disabled
    If enabled, the router would adopt the packet cycle from the remote device. Keeping it disabled ensures local control over packet transmission.

🔹 Example Usage:

  • If a business wants full control over codec selection, they should set Codec Priority to Local.

  • If they trust the remote system’s settings, leaving Remote priority enabled ensures seamless interoperability.


5. DTMF Configuration

  • Local DTMF Duration: 100 ms (Range: 40–2000 ms)
    This setting defines how long DTMF tones (keypad signals) last. It should be adjusted based on IVR (Interactive Voice Response) systems that require precise tone durations.

🔹 Example Usage:

  • If a user experiences delays in keypress recognition during automated calls, increasing the DTMF duration may resolve the issue.

  • If DTMF is too slow, reducing the duration to 40-60ms speeds up response times.


Use Cases of Audio Configuration

  1. Enterprise VoIP Deployment – Ensuring HD-quality voice calls for businesses with stable internet.

  2. Call Centers – Optimizing bandwidth usage with compressed codecs like G.729.

  3. Telecom Networks – Adapting to different VoIP infrastructure by prioritizing remote codec settings.

  4. Remote Work Communication – Using echo cancellation and auto gain control for better audio clarity.

  5. IVR Systems – Adjusting DTMF settings for seamless interaction with automated voice menus.


Final Notes

  • The default settings provided in the RCVx3 Router are optimized for most VoIP scenarios.

  • Customers can modify these settings based on their network conditions, bandwidth availability, and voice quality requirements.

  • For high-quality voice calls, use G.711U or G.722.

  • For low-bandwidth networks, use G.729 or G.723.

  • If echo issues occur, ensure Echo Cancellation is enabled.

  • Adjust DTMF duration if keypad inputs are delayed or unrecognized.



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