> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.solidyne.ar/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# RDS Configuration

> Radio Data System stage configuration

## RDS

The **542APC** processor includes an internal RDS encoder.\
RDS is a system that adds supplementary information to the FM signal through a data channel. Its main functions include:

* On-screen display of the station network name and program type (news, sports, music, variety, religious, etc.).
* Automatic tuning to a station network selected by the user.\
  Allows listening to the same station during a long trip without manually changing frequency when one station's signal weakens.
* Automatic reception of traffic information.\
  The receiver switches within the same network to the station broadcasting traffic information and then automatically returns to the previously selected station.

### Basic RDS Configuration

RDS configuration and control is done via **Ethernet (IP)** through the 542APC's ETHERNET port.\
Basic parameters are set from the **web interface** under **FM OUTPUT**, which shows a diagram with RDS and access to its configuration.

<img src="https://mintcdn.com/solidyne/a7lu0Xpt375mm9I5/images/542/542-RDS_CONFIG.png?fit=max&auto=format&n=a7lu0Xpt375mm9I5&q=85&s=82c56f0c7ec077598660db2999ffc5d4" alt="542 RDS CONFIG Pn" title="542 RDS CONFIG Pn" className="mx-auto" style={{ width:"73%" }} width="838" height="526" data-path="images/542/542-RDS_CONFIG.png" />

#### Configurable Parameters

* **TCP RDS PORT**\
  Defines the **TCP port** for communication with external RDS software.\
  Default value: `9762`.\
  To modify it, enter the new value and press **APPLY**.

  <Note>
    To control the RDS encoder in real-time, for example to send current song information, an external computer running Magic RDS or Solidyne Audicom software is required.
  </Note>
* **Default PS (Program Service)**\
  Static text, typically the station name.\
  Maximum length: **8 characters** (per RDS standard).
* **PI (Program Identification)**\
  Identifies a network of stations or repeaters in a chain, allowing the receiver to switch automatically based on reception quality.\
  Format: **4-digit hexadecimal** number (0000 to FFFF).
* **Program Type**\
  Defines the type of broadcast content (e.g., news, sports, music).
* **M/S (Music/Speech)**\
  Indicates whether the content is music or speech.
* **TA State (Traffic Announcement)**\
  On/off flag indicating when traffic announcements are on-air.\
  Controlled manually or via remote **GPI**.
* **Traffic PS**\
  Displayed instead of PS field when traffic flag is active.\
  Leave blank if not used.
* **DYN PS (Dynamic Program Service)**\
  Allows displaying dynamic messages (up to **64 characters**) by sequentially replacing the static PS. Usage examples: song titles, artist, news, commercials.\
  Text scrolls at the speed defined in the **Scroll** field.
* **Loop**\
  Time between dynamic text repetitions. During this period, the **static PS** is shown.
* **Scroll**\
  Scrolling speed (high or low).\
  High speed may not be compatible with some receivers, especially in cars or areas with poor reception. This is because PS scrolling **is not included in the RDS standard**. High speed should be avoided.

<Note>
  Dynamic PS usage is restricted in some countries and is not part of the RDS standard.\
  Some receivers may not properly display Dynamic/Scrolling PS.\
  The manufacturer is not responsible for improper use of this feature.
</Note>

### Advanced Usage with Magic RDS

For advanced functions, external **Magic RDS** software (Windows) is required, connected to the same network as the 542APC.\
This software allows dynamic data updates (e.g., song titles) from various playout automation systems.

### Audicom Integration

If the station uses **Solidyne Audicom**, Magic RDS is not necessary. Communication is direct between Audicom and the processor via LAN. For more details, consult the Audicom documentation.

#### Magic RDS Installation

A version of the software can be downloaded at: `www.solidynepro.com/DW/setupRDS.rar`

Configuration steps (valid only for the version distributed by Solidyne):

1. Install and run Magic RDS.
2. Go to **Options → Preferences**.
3. In the preferences window, select the **General** tab.
4. Change connection type to **Ethernet TCP/IP**.
5. In **Port**, enter the TCP configured in the 542APC (default 9762).
6. In **Host**, enter the 542APC's IP address (visible on the unit's display).

<Tip>
  If using RDS with real-time updates linked to automation software, configure the **542APC with a static IP**.
</Tip>

### Remote Access

The processor can receive RDS data via **Internet** when located on another network.\
Requirements:

* ISP must assign a **static IP** on the remote LAN.
* Configure LAN port forwarding:
  * **Port 80** → 542APC local IP
  * **Port 9762** (or other configured for RDS) → 542APC local IP