When setting up redundant SoundGrid servers with your live console system, there are a few ways to ensure optimal performance so you can be ready for anything that may occur during a live show.
Use servers of the same model and version
Pairing servers of the same model and version (i.e. Extreme server V3) will ensure that the redundant server would be able to handle the session load when it's time for it to kick in.
If you have servers of different models and/or versions, make sure that both servers can run your session properly (find exact instructions for testing later in this article).
Finding the model/version of your servers
SoundGrid server model names are printed on the front panel as well as on the back panel. Exact version is printed on the back panel.
This information is also available via SoundGrid Inventory > Servers rack drop-down menu > Info (not available in MultiRack).
Use servers that have the same firmware version installed
Firmware updates may include new capabilities, performance enhancements and bug fixes for better stability. Making sure that both servers have the same firmware version installed will assure that they have the same expected performance, capabilities and stability.
Checking the firmware version of your servers
If you are using eMotion LV1 or SuperRack SoundGrid:
If you are using SoundGrid Rack for VENUE:
If you are using MultiRack SoundGrid:
If you find that your servers have different firmware versions, update the older version.
Test redundancy failover before the show
It is important to make sure that both servers can run the session and handle the load. This can be done during setup/sound-check and is even more important to test if the two servers are not identical.
If you are using eMotion LV1 or SuperRack SoundGrid:
If you are running SoundGrid Rack for VENUE:
Please note: When crossing over to a redundant server, audio is muted shortly. On Avid VENUE systems using SoundGrid Rack, this mute is converted to an automatic bypass on/off.
If you are using MultiRack SoundGrid:
Prime your servers
Server redundancy crossover time is affected by two factors:
The following plugins use more data than average:
These plugins require additional data besides the server’s standard firmware which is used by all Waves plugins. This data not being loaded on the server can substantially increase redundancy crossover time.
To prime your servers and assure all plugin data is loaded:
In this process, the necessary files are copied to the assigned-primary server, and we assure there is no interference while processing. The result will reduce crossover time to a minimum if/when redundancy switching will take place. Doing this once is enough and permanent — no need to repeat the process after updating firmware or restarting the servers.