CAT CAT Digital Audio and Networking 2

Question 1

In AVB (Audio Video Bridging), what is the role of a 'Talker'?

Accepted Answer

The device that originates and transmits audio streams on the network

Answer

In AVB terminology, a Talker is a source device that advertises and transmits audio streams, while Listeners are the destinations that subscribe to those streams.

Question 2

What is the function of the PTP (Precision Time Protocol) in a networked audio system?

Accepted Answer

To synchronize clocks across all devices on the network to a common time reference

Answer

PTP (IEEE 1588) synchronizes device clocks across a network to sub-microsecond accuracy, ensuring all audio nodes sample and play back audio at the same clock reference.

Question 3

What VLAN practice is recommended when deploying audio-over-IP networks in a commercial installation?

Accepted Answer

Segment audio traffic onto a dedicated VLAN separate from general data and management traffic

Answer

Placing audio-over-IP traffic on a dedicated VLAN isolates it from general network traffic, reducing congestion and improving reliability and QoS enforcement.

Question 4

What is latency in a digital audio network, and why does it matter in commercial audio systems?

Accepted Answer

The delay between audio input and output; excessive latency causes lip sync issues and monitor feedback problems

Answer

Latency is the time delay through the audio chain; in commercial systems it affects synchronization between video and audio, creates problems in monitor mixes, and can cause comb filtering in multi-speaker deployments.

Question 5

What does the term 'word clock' refer to in a digital audio studio or live system?

Accepted Answer

A master timing signal that synchronizes the sample rate of multiple digital devices

Answer

Word clock is a square wave reference signal at the system sample rate that all digital devices lock to, ensuring they all sample and convert audio at exactly the same rate to prevent clicks and noise.

(CAT) Commercial Audio Technician Practice Test

(CAT) Commercial Audio Technician Practice Test

CAT CAT Digital Audio and Networking 2