Blackbox Company Ltd on Track for Success with Zenitel’s VIPA-API IP-Based Integration

Zenitel recently supported another successful IP-based integration with their VAIA amplifier using the VIPA-API, this time in collaboration with Blackbox Company (UK) Ltd.

Blackbox Company is a leading provider of digital passenger information systems for the rail industry. The company specialises in delivering real-time information across multiple channels including platform displays, public address systems, on-train announcements and API-driven solutions.

As the number one PAVA supplier for Network Rail, Zenitel was the intelligent choice to help Blackbox enhance their Digital Customer Information System (CIS) platform. The plan was to streamline site deployment through Zenitel’s VIPA-API, enabling seamless integration with station Public Address and Voice Alarm (PAVA) systems and the local LEX player.

The LEX player introduces a significant shift in how interfaces operate, making the station audio infrastructure more secure, reliable and cost effective. The system delivers seamless audio and visual coordination, with full PA campaign control. It is also more neighbourhood-friendly, boasting the ability to introduce moments of silence to reduce noise fatigue.

Zenitel’s PAVA systems support third-party IP connectivity via the VIPA-API, allowing remote monitoring, control and straightforward integration with third-party platforms at a PA level. Its Voice-over - Public Address (VIPA) protocol, accessible via the VIPA-API, is a powerful tool that supports both Windows and Ubuntu Linux environments.

The VIPA-API ensures fast, efficient integration even in complex and demanding transport infrastructures such as train lines, with hundreds of sites. Its comprehensive features ensure success on every project: thorough, easy-to-follow documentation, pre-built building blocks for rapid development, diagnostic tools for troubleshooting and validation, plus platform-specific libraries (Windows/Linux).

“Interfacing with Zenitel was a natural choice for us,” says David Marlow from Blackbox Company. “Their trusted reputation in critical communication systems complements our vision for delivering a next-generation public address (PA) experience. Together, we’ve created a powerful, future-ready solution that raises the standard for clarity, control, and efficiency.”

Several UK Train Operating Companies (TOCs) have successfully deployed this integration and Zenitel’s latest VAIA amplifier, whilst maintaining full backward compatibility with the more powerful VIPEDIA platform for optimum flexibilty.

Zenitel are committed to delivering secure, reliable and future-ready communication solutions and are always pleased to see impressive results from projects such as this. Henry Rawlins, Vice President of Marketing and Product Management at Zenitel reflects on the success of the project: “We are thrilled to see innovative companies like Blackbox harness the full potential of our VIPA-API to revolutionise station operations and deliver exceptional experiences for passengers and operational staff alike.”

For more information on the Zenitel VIPA-API system, contact Zenitel today.