VOGO, a leader in advanced sports communication solutions, introduces the ELITE SMART GATEWAY (ESG) a wireless audio gateway ensuring reliable and secure communication between Video Assistant Referees (VAR) and on-field referees, while also enabling Public Announcement (PA) of refereeing decisions. As the leading provider of audio communication systems for referees at sporting events, VOGO has been a pioneer for 20 years in developing noise-filtered and encrypted audio solutions. With the ESG, VOGO expands its VOKKERO ELITE product line. The ESG offers continuous monitoring, real-time adjustments, and an optimized audio interface, delivering unmatched control over VOKKERO ELITE referee communication systems.
KEY BENEFITS FOR VAR INTEGRATORS :
The ESG effortlessly eliminates any risk of radio interference by instantly visualizing frequency scans and enabling remote, zero-latency channel switching. It proactively detects anomalies and sends real-time alerts for instance, in the event of a headset disconnection or low battery. Audio configurations can be adjusted on the fly, ensuring seamless control of gain, volume, and role assignments. In addition, multiple configurable audio mixes are available through various protocols, allowing easy interfacing with broadcasters.
KEY BENEFITS FOR LEAGUES, FEDERATIONS, AND EVENT ORGANIZERS:
The ESG guarantees the League, Federation, or Event Organizer protection against VAR miscommunication that could impact its credibility. Additionally, it enhances transparency and boosts fan engagement by enabling real-time public announcements to share referee decisions with in-stadium spectators and/or TV broadcasters.
Additionally, a private “technician” channel enables a dedicated audio conference for technical
staff, ensuring flawless coordination from the pitch to the Video Operations Room (VOR).
KEY FEATURES OF THE ESG:
Advanced audio functionalities & control via the dashboard:
- The ESG offers multiple audio interfaces, supporting both analog (XLR 4-wire) and DANTE digital
audio (RJ45, optical fibre), smoothly interfacing with any equipment. - Several audio outputs are available, giving access to specific audio mixes in parallel: all
VOKKERO ELITE terminals, central referee only, pitch-technician, central referee when Public
Announcement is activated, … - In parallel to the audio conference dedicated to VAR comms, a second one is possible through
the ESG, enabling VAR technicians to collaborate and exchange between the VOR room and the
stadium.
Live monitoring and live reporting
Real-time monitoring and reporting enable live tracking of VOKKERO ELITE devices: battery level, radio frequency, audio settings (such as whistle volume), and performance, with instant alerts. Additionally, the ESG provides the capability to generate a comprehensive match event report.
Public Announcement (PA)
The ESG introduces a versatile Public Announcement feature, allowing referees and operators to trigger audio announcements directly from:
- On the field: the central referee activates the PA using a push-to-talk button on their belt.
- The Video Operations Room (VOR): the VAR referee triggers the PA using a dedicated button.
- An operator: a dedicated technician manages the PA from the ESG monitoring dashboard.
With the ESG, VOGO is setting a new standard in sports officiating technology, ensuring secure,
fully optimized and transparent referee communication for sports events.
