PTP transparent mode

Mar344

In order to use Zyxel XS1930 switches with Layer 3 option for AV applications, at least PTP transparent mode is required. Are there plans to integrate this functionality into XS1930 devices in the near future?

Zyxel_Melen

Hi @Mar344

After checking XS1930 will not support PTP transparent mode since it requires hardware support.

Additionally, in small-scale environments, we can use multicast to forward PTP packets. Although Dante/SMPTE 2110 specifications require very precise timing, based on actual testing, Dante audio packets in small-scale applications are not affected by the lack of TC (Transparent Clock) mode support.

Zyxel_Barry

Hi @Mar344,

The Zyxel XS1930 series switches do support functionalities relevant to AV applications and PTP.

• The XS1930 series, along with other Zyxel Networked AV switch models, is designed to support AV over IP (layer 3 license required).
• Zyxel switches, including the XS1930, support Precision Time Protocol Version 2 (PTPv2) by allowing you to manually add PTP multicast addresses using Static Multicast Forwarding by MAC or IP. This involves configuring specific PTP multicast IP or MAC addresses (e.g., 224.0.1.129 for PTP-1 or 01:00:5e:00:01:81 for PTP-1) within the switch's settings.
• A new firmware version 4.90 optimizes the Networked AV Wizard to enhance multicast handling for AV protocols like Dante, which rely on precise timing and PTP events. This optimization includes automated DSCP priority settings for PTP events (DSCP 56) and automatic MAC and IP address configuration for multicast groups related to PTP traffic. This feature helps improve performance in AV streaming environments by forwarding traffic only to relevant devices.

For optimal AV over IP performance, Zyxel generally recommends using standalone mode for Dante applications, as some advanced features required for Dante might not be fully supported in Nebula.

To assist you further, please provide the following information:

• Device Model: (e.g., XS1930-10, XS1930-12HP)
• Firmware Version: You can find this in the switch's web GUI under "SYSTEM" > "General Setup" if your firmware is V4.80, or "Basic Setting" > "General Setup" if V4.70.
• Network Topology Map: A diagram showing how your XS1930 switches are connected to your AV equipment and other network devices.
• Specific Error Messages or Symptoms: If you are encountering any issues, please provide screenshots or detailed descriptions.

Mar344

PTPv2 transparent mode increases the stability of PTP and calculates the residence time of the switch.
This is not about optimisation for Dante (PTPv1) but for SMPTE2110...

Zyxel_Melen

Hi @Mar344

We are checking with our product team. Will update you once we get further information.

Zyxel_Melen

Hi @Mar344

After checking XS1930 will not support PTP transparent mode since it requires hardware support.

Additionally, in small-scale environments, we can use multicast to forward PTP packets. Although Dante/SMPTE 2110 specifications require very precise timing, based on actual testing, Dante audio packets in small-scale applications are not affected by the lack of TC (Transparent Clock) mode support.