Sage, Orban to Demo Virtualized EAS at NAB

Why It Matters

Virtualized EAS could dramatically cut equipment costs and simplify integration for broadcasters, accelerating the shift to software‑defined audio infrastructures.

Key Takeaways

• Sage demo uses deck‑size industrial PC for EAS alerts
• Demo integrates AES‑67 audio and AAC‑LC streams via LAN
• Minimal hardware replaces traditional EAS encoders and routers
• Orban’s Optimod 5950 processors handle FM and HD sub‑channels
• Industry sees growing demand for software‑based alert solutions

Pulse Analysis

The broadcast industry is rapidly moving toward software‑defined infrastructure, and emergency alerting is no exception. Traditional Emergency Alert System (EAS) installations rely on dedicated encoders, routers, and separate wiring, which add cost, space, and maintenance overhead. By virtualizing the EAS function on an industrial‑grade PC, vendors like Sage Alerting Systems aim to consolidate alert processing with existing IP‑based audio networks. This approach aligns with broader trends such as audio‑over‑IP standards (AES‑67) and cloud‑ready workflows, promising faster deployment and lower total cost of ownership for stations of all sizes.

At the NAB Show, Sage partnered with Orban Labs and DNAV to showcase a live demonstration that stitches together a pair of Optimod 5950 HD processors, FM and four HD sub‑channels, and a compact Sage EAS engine. Audio exits the Sage platform via AES‑67, while incoming live alerts are ingested as AAC‑LC streams, allowing seamless insertion into the broadcast chain without extra hardware. The system runs on a deck‑size PC powered solely by LAN and mains, illustrating how a single device can manage normal programming and emergency inserts in real time.

The demo signals a turning point for regulators and broadcasters alike. Although the virtualized solution is not yet FCC‑approved for mandatory EAS deployment, Orban’s VP of Sales notes that customer demand is already pushing the technology toward certification. If approved, stations could replace bulky legacy gear with scalable software, simplifying upgrades and enabling remote management. As more broadcasters adopt IP‑centric studios, virtual EAS is likely to become a standard component, driving innovation across the emergency communications ecosystem.