AVB (Audio Video Bridging) is a standard technology designed for the transmission of audio and video streams over Ethernet networks, specifically engineered to meet the high bandwidth and low latency requirements for real-time audio and video transmission. AVB is based on a series of standards defined by IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) and ensures stable, synchronized, and high-quality transmission of audio and video content over the network, particularly for communication between audio/video devices and networks.
Core Features of AVB Technology
Low Latency and High-Precision Clock Synchronization
AVB uses time synchronization protocols like IEEE 1588 Precision Time Protocol (PTP) to ensure all devices on the network maintain precise clock synchronization. This is crucial for the synchronized transmission of audio and video signals, preventing the common issue of audio-video desynchronization.
Bandwidth Reservation and Traffic Control
AVB employs traffic management and bandwidth reservation mechanisms to prioritize audio and video data packets on the network. This helps avoid delays or packet loss caused by other types of traffic (e.g., standard data packets). AVB ensures stable transmission of audio and video streams, especially when the network is under heavy load.
Quality of Service (QoS)
AVB supports QoS features that prioritize audio and video data packets by marking them with high priority in the network, reducing latency and improving overall transmission quality.
Standardized Network Protocols
AVB is based on the IEEE 802 standard and uses Ethernet protocols, making it compatible with existing network infrastructures. This allows audio and video devices to connect through standard Ethernet switches and routers, reducing costs and simplifying deployment.
Key AVB Standards
■ IEEE 802.1Qat: A standard for traffic reservation and bandwidth allocation, ensuring that audio and video streams receive the required bandwidth on the network.
■ IEEE 802.1AS: Provides precise time synchronization across network devices, similar to PTP (Precision Time Protocol).
■ IEEE 802.1Qav: Defines AVB traffic prioritization and traffic control to ensure low latency and high bandwidth for real-time data transmission.
■ IEEE 1722: A protocol specifically designed for audio and video streams, ensuring the correct transmission of audio and video data packets over an AVB network.
Applications of AVB
Professional Audio/Video Systems
AVB is widely used in audio production, broadcasting, conferencing, and live performances, enabling seamless, real-time data transmission between multiple audio and video devices.
Automotive Industry
AVB is used in automotive applications for high-bandwidth audio and video stream transmission, such as in-car entertainment systems and autonomous vehicle data flows.
Industrial Automation and Control Systems
AVB is used to transmit real-time control signals and data, especially in applications where low latency is critical.
Live Streaming and Conferencing Systems
AVB meets the needs of high-quality, low-latency live streaming and remote conferencing, ensuring smooth and synchronized transmission of audio and video content.
AVB and TSN (Time-Sensitive Networking)
AVB is closely related to IEEE 802.1's TSN (Time-Sensitive Networking) standards. TSN is an evolution of AVB that extends its capabilities to support a wider range of applications, offering more refined time synchronization and stronger traffic control features.
Conclusion
AVB is a network technology specifically designed for the real-time, synchronized, and high-quality transmission of audio and video content. It is widely used in professional audio and video applications, providing low-latency and high-bandwidth transmission for a variety of industries and use cases.