SYNC I/O Guide Version 1.1 For Pro Tools TDM 6.x Systems on Windows or Macintosh Digidesign 2001 Junipero Serra Boulevard Daly City, CA 94014-3886 USA tel: 650·731·6300 fax: 650·731·6399 Technical Support (USA) tel: 650·731·6100 fax: 650·731·6384 Product Information (USA) tel: 650·731·6102 tel: 800·333·2137 International Offices Visit the Digidesign Web site for contact information Web Site www.digidesign.
Copyright This guide is copyrighted ©2004 by Digidesign, a division of Avid Technology, Inc. (hereafter “Digidesign”), with all rights reserved. Under copyright laws, this guide may not be duplicated in whole or in part without the written consent of Digidesign. DIGIDESIGN, AVID and PRO TOOLS are trademarks or registered trademarks of Digidesign and/or Avid Technology, Inc. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
contents Chapter 1. Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 SYNC I/O Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 System Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Digidesign Registration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Compensating for Time Code Offsets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 Generating & Regenerating Time Code . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 Generating a Window Burn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Chapter 5. Additional Operational Information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
chapter 1 Introduction Welcome to the Digidesign SYNC I/O, a multipurpose synchronization peripheral for Pro Tools systems. The SYNC I/O supports all Pro Tools sample rates, and synchronizes to all major time code and clock reference standards used in audio, video, film, and multimedia production. SYNC I/O can also be used as a stand-alone synchronization device. SYNC I/O with Pro Tools Pro Tools|HD With Pro Tools|HD, SYNC I/O provides highly accurate lock to time code.
SYNC I/O Features SYNC I/O supports all Pro Tools|HD sample rates: 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4, and 192 kHz. SYNC I/O provides the following synchronization features with Pro Tools|HD. (Not all of these features are available on Pro Tools|24 MIX-series systems.
System Requirements For complete system requirements, visit the compatibility page of the Digidesign Web site (www.Digidesign.com/compato). SYNC I/O Setup Software Utility (Windows Only) The optional SYNC I/O Setup software utility requires the following: ◆ Compatibility Information Digidesign can only assure compatibility and provide support for hardware and software it has tested and approved. An available COM port or serial port on the computer to connect to SYNC I/O.
Digidesign Registration Make sure to complete and return the registration card included with SYNC I/O. Registered users will receive periodic software update and upgrade notices. Refer to the registration card for information on technical support. About the Pro Tools Guides In addition to the printed guides that came with your system, PDF versions of the Pro Tools guides are installed automatically with Pro Tools in the Documentation folder in the Pro Tools folder.
About www.digidesign.com The Digidesign Web site (www.digidesign.com) is your best source for information to help you get the most out of your Pro Tools system. The following are just a few of the services and features available.
6 SYNC I/O Guide
chapter 2 Installation and Configuration Hardware Connections The following are the primary hardware connections possible with SYNC I/O: Serial Connections Serial to Pro Tools • AC Power Pro Tools systems require a serial connection between SYNC I/O and a Pro Tools Core card.
To connect SYNC I/O to a Pro Tools|24 MIX system: Serial Connections for SYNC I/O Setup Software Utility 1 Make sure power is off on all equipment. (Windows Only) 2 Connect one end of the included serial cable to the SYNC I/O Host Serial port. 3 Connect the other end of the cable to the DigiSerial Port on your Pro Tools|HD or Pro Tools|24 MIX Core card.
To connect SYNC I/O to Pro Tools|HD interfaces: 1 Using a BNC cable, connect the Loop Sync Out of the SYNC I/O to the Loop Sync In of your primary HD-series audio interface. 2 Connect the SYNC I/O Loop Sync In to the Loop Sync Out of your HD-series interface. SYNC I/O Loop Sync INTERNALLY TERMINATED IN 964530300294856 SERIAL NUMBER OUT BI-PHASE / TACH / GPI / PILOT VIDEO REF HOST SERIAL L T C I N VIDEO L T C A E S O U T with Loop Sync as described in the previous steps.
When Pro Tools launches, the SYNC I/O Word Clock Out port will switch to 256x Slave Clock output. In stand-alone use, you can manually configure the SYNC I/O for 256x Base Clock output using SYNC I/O Setup software utility (Windows only) or front panel controls. Pro Tools|HD Systems For more information on MachineControl connections and operation on Pro Tools|24 MIX systems, refer to the MachineControl Guide.
Remote 9-Pin Deck Emulation Mode To connect a machine for Remote 9-Pin Deck Emulation mode (Windows Systems): Connect the Turnaround adapter to the RS322 to RS-422 cable, and connect them from an available serial or COM port on your computer to the 9-pin output of the machine. ■ Do not use the DigiSerial port on your HD Core card or the 9-pin ports on the SYNC I/O for Remote 9-Pin Deck Emulation mode. The DigiSerial port should only be used for SYNC I/O connections, using a DigiSerial cable.
Character Generator for Window Burn To input Word Clock to SYNC I/O: SYNC I/O can also generate a Window burn while using the same video source signal as the video reference. The following is one example setup for a window burn. ■ Connect Word Clock from the master Word clock signal or device to the SYNC I/O Word Clock In. To supply Word Clock from SYNC I/O: To use the SYNC I/O Time Code Character Generator to make a window burn: 1 Connect your video signal to a SYNC I/O Video Ref In port.
To supply AES/EBU clock reference from SYNC I/O: Software Installation ■ Connect the SYNC I/O AES/EBU output to the AES/EBU input on a DAT machine or other digital device. (AES/EBU clock does not support 176.4 kHz or 192 kHz sample rates.) The following sections provide instructions to install software required to use SYNC I/O with Pro Tools|HD or with the stand alone SYNC I/O Setup software (Windows only).
Configuring Pro Tools|HD and SYNC I/O Pro Tools provides SYNC I/O configuration and firmware update controls. These establish communication between Pro Tools and SYNC I/O. This section describes how to configure Pro Tools for the SYNC I/O, how to check your configuration and firmware, and how to set session settings relevant to the SYNC I/O. Loop Sync SYNC I/O supports Digidesign’s Loop Sync feature for connecting HD interfaces.
Configuring SYNC I/O in the Pro Tools Session Setup Window When connected through Loop Sync and enabled in the Peripherals dialog, SYNC I/O settings become available in Sync Setup section of the Pro Tools Session Setup window. Clock Source Session settings Clock Reference The selected Clock Source device determines your choices for clock reference. When Clock Source is SYNC I/O When the SYNC I/O is the Clock Source, it is the Loop Master.
The Clock Source menu follows your selection of SYNC I/O for Clock Reference, and automatically switches to SYNC I/O. (You can also choose the SYNC I/O as Clock Source first, then select a Clock Reference.) To choose a different Loop Sync device as the Clock Source: ■ Choose a different Loop Sync device and Clock Source from the hierarchical Clock Source menu.
Sample Rate To set the session Time Code Rate: The SYNC I/O sample rate is determined by the current Pro Tools session sample rate. In Standalone mode, SYNC I/O sample rate can be selected with SYNC I/O Setup software utility (Windows only), or using the front panel switches. Current sample rate is indicated by the Sample Rate LEDs. ■ Choose a rate from the Time Code Rate selector in the Session Setup window. When used with a Pro Tools|HD system, SYNC I/O supports all available sample rates.
PAL/NTSC Video Format Choose PAL or NTSC format for the session using the Video Format selector in the Session Setup window. If the session already has video, the format will be set automatically. MachineControl Configuration If using Digidesign MachineControl, do the following to establish basic communication. To configure MachineControl: Transport master See the MachineControl Guide for installation instructions and additional information. 1 Choose Setup > Peripherals.
Configuring Pro Tools|24 MIX with SYNC I/O SYNC I/O can be used with a Pro Tools|24 MIX system as an alternative to the USD. When used with these systems, the SYNC I/O emulates the USD. To connect a SYNC I/O to your MIX system, see “Hardware Connections” on page 7. To configure Pro Tools|24 MIX for a SYNC I/O: 1 Start up your system beginning with hard drives, then the SYNC I/O, then MIDI and other studio equipment, then the CPU. Turn on your speakers and monitoring system last. 2 Launch Pro Tools.
Firmware Messages The following messages may appear during firmware updating: Firmware Not Found If no compatible firmware is found in the SYNC I/O Folder, a dialog appears instructing you to install SYNC I/O firmware. Use the Pro Tools installer CD, or use the latest version of the SYNC I/O Setup software utility (Windows only). SYNC I/O Not on DigiSerial Port In order to update SYNC I/O firmware from Pro Tools, SYNC I/O must be connected to the DigiSerial Port.
Troubleshooting Status LEDs The status LEDs (LOCKED and SPEED CAL) on the SYNC I/O front panel and in the Session Setup window may help you isolate potential problems. Use the Incoming Time field in Pro Tools Session Setup Window as a Reference The Incoming Time field in the Session Setup Window indicates whether or not SYNC I/O is receiving positional reference.
22 SYNC I/O Guide
chapter 3 SYNC I/O Hardware and Software SYNC I/O Front Panel Power Clock Reference Switch VIDEO REF VIDEO IN LTC PILOT CLOCK REFERENCE DIGITAL PULL UP BI-PHASE/TACH INTERNAL/VSO Positional Reference Switch Generator/Parameter Controls PULL DOWN 44.1 K 48 K 88.2 K 96 K 176.4 K 192 K LTC POSITIONAL REFERENCE LOOP SYNC Clock Reference LEDs VITC FRAME RATE BI-PHASE GENERATE LOOP MASTER Loop Master Frame Rate Switch SET Sample Rate LEDs DOWN UP DF 30 LOCKED 29.
Table 4. Sample Rates at Pull Up and Pull Down Settings Sample Rate Pull Up/Down 44100 48000 88200 96000 176400 192000 +4.1667% and +0.1% 45983 50050 91967 100100 n/a n/a +4.1667% 45938 50000 91875 100000 n/a n/a +4.1667% and –0.1% 45892 49950 91783 99900 n/a n/a +0.1% 44144 48048 88288 96096 176576 192192 –0.1% 44056 47952 88112 95904 176224 191808 –4.0% and +0.1% 42378 46126 84757 92252 n/a n/a –4.0% 42336 46080 84672 92160 n/a n/a –4.0% and –0.
Parameters and Values When configuring SYNC I/O with the Set, Run/Stop and other parameter controls, the LED display shows parameter names, values, and other data. For a table identifying each LED abbreviation and function, see “Parameters” on page 57. Positional Reference Switch This switch selects the positional reference source, as indicated by the Positional Reference LEDs. Choices include LTC, VITC, Auto Switch Bi-phase, and Generate.
SYNC I/O Back Panel Video Ref In/Out Video In/Out LTC In/Out INTERNALLY TERMINATED IN 964530300294856 SERIAL NUMBER OUT BI-PHASE / TACH / GPI / PILOT Bi-Phase/Tach GPI/Pilot VIDEO REF HOST SERIAL L T C I N VIDEO Host Serial L T C O U T MTC OUT MTC Out Word Clock In/Out AES In/Out A E S I N A E S O U T Loop Sync In/Out AC 100-240V, 50-60HZ, .5A 30W IN IN 9-PIN OUT 1 OUT OUT WORD CLOCK (1x,256x) 9-PIN OUT 2 9-Pin Out 1 9-Pin Out 2 LOOP SYNC AC Power Figure 2.
Video In/Out LTC In/Out Video In Receives a signal from an NTSC/PAL video source for clock or VITC positional reference input, or for generating a window burn. This connector is internally terminated at 75 ohms. LTC In Receives a Linear Time Code (LTC) source, balanced or unbalanced analog, for clock and positional reference. This port is often used to receive LTC from an audio track on an external deck or the address track of a VTR.
Word Clock In/Out Word Clock In Receives (1x sample rate) Word Clock, for clock reference purposes only. Word Clock is often used with external digital consoles and digital tape machines. Word Clock Out Outputs 1x sample rate Word Clock information, or 256x Slave Clock, to provide clock to Legacy peripherals and Word clock-capable devices. This port is configured using the SYNC I/O Setup software utility on Windows (Word Clock Out), or the controls on the front panel of the SYNC I/O.
Time Code Window Frame Rate The time code display mirrors the LED Time Code Display on the SYNC I/O front panel, displaying (in hours:minutes:seconds:frames) the time code address of the current positional reference. This control selects the frames-per-second (fps) rate of external (or internally generated) time code. When SYNC I/O is reading odd-numbered fields, the separator changes from a normal colon (:) to a period (.); when it’s reading evennumbered fields, the punctuation returns to a colon (:).
LTC Output Level VITC Insertion Enabled This control adjusts the analog audio level of the SYNC I/O LTC output, from –24 dBu to +9 dBu. When selected, VITC will be inserted into the outgoing video signal—assuming that a video signal is present at a SYNC I/O video input, and that SYNC I/O is in a valid mode for inserting VITC. The only invalid positional reference modes are VITC or Auto Switch LTC/VITC. SYNC I/O can’t read VITC and generate new VITC at the same time.
Bi-Phase/Tach Parameters Used for specialized applications that involve film or other equipment that output BiPhase/Tach information. These parameters must be set to match the Bi-Phase or Tach source to achieve lock. Generator/Bi-Phase Preset Serves two functions, as determined by the current SYNC I/O mode: Generate Mode Sets the time code start time directly by clicking in the Hrs:Min:Sec:Frm fields and typing in a value. The Tab key will cycle though the fields.
32 SYNC I/O Guide
chapter 4 Using SYNC I/O SYNC I/O settings can be controlled in three ways: About SYNC I/O Setup Software Utility Remote-Only Mode From Pro Tools Provides access to most SYNC I/O controls from within Pro Tools and from the SYNC I/O front panel. When the default Remote-Only Mode (Front Panel Lockout) is enabled in the SYNC I/O Setup Preferences window, none of the SYNC I/O front panel switches are operational, and the Remote Only LED is lit.
SYNC I/O Controls in Pro Tools, SYNC I/O Setup Software Utility, and the SYNC I/O Front Panel Table 5.
When a parameter name is visible Press Set once to change the Display to show parameter values. Front Panel Generator/Parameter Switches The Generator/Parameter Controls are labelled SET, DOWN, UP, and RUN/STOP/CLEAR/ESC. In addition to their primary generator functions, these switches provide front panel access to most SYNC I/O parameters.
Edit Mode To adjust LTC gain: 1 Press Set until the LED Time Code Display To enter Parameter/Value Edit mode: ■ Press Set (when time code numbers are visible in the LED Time Code Display). The first press displays the first parameter name, “Set Gen,” (for the time code generator). shows a parameter name. The first name is Set Generator (SE7 6En), although you may see a different name, depending on the previous SYNC I/O settings.
Serial Time Code with MachineControl MachineControl-equipped Pro Tools systems can utilize serial time code through either of the SYNC I/O 9-pin ports. When using MachineControl with serial time code as the positional reference, SYNC I/O must be locked to a Video Reference. In this scenario, SYNC I/O is set to Generate mode to indicate that positional information is acquired by Pro Tools directly over the 9-pin cable, not through SYNC I/O.
From SYNC I/O Setup software utility (Windows only): ■ Select the appropriate Digital clock reference option from the Clock Ref pop-up menu. If the chosen clock reference source is unavailable, or the current configuration is not valid, the Locked LED on the right side of the SYNC I/O front panel flashes. Additional Digital Clock Information AES/EBU The SYNC I/O AES In connector only recognizes and uses the clock portion of an incoming AES/EBU audio signal.
To resolve SYNC I/O to Linear Time Code from Pro Tools: In the Sync Setup section of the Session Setup window, choose an LTC setting from the hierarchical Clock Reference pop-up menu. Choices include: ■ LTC 0 (fastest) Allows the quickest resolving to incoming LTC, but with greater jitter. This is the default setting, and should be used when fast lock ups are critical. LTC 1 Provides an intermediate fast setting. LTC 2 (average) Offers a compromise of lock up time and jitter quality.
From SYNC I/O Setup software utility (Windows only): From the front panel: Select Pilot Tone from the SYNC I/O Setup Clock Ref pop-up menu. BI-PHASE/TACH. ■ For additional Pilot Tone information, see “Pilot Tone” on page 71 in Appendix A. 1 Press the Clock Reference switch to select 2 Select the appropriate Pulse Per Frame and Input Signals parameters, as described in “BiPhase/Tach Starting Frame” on page 45 and “BiPhase/Tach Signal” on page 46.
To resolve SYNC I/O to its internal clock: From Pro Tools: 3 Adjust the varispeed value using the on screen slider. In the SYNC Setup section of the Pro Tools Session Setup window, select Internal/VSO from the Clock Reference pop-up menu. ■ From the front panel: Press the Clock Reference switch to select INTERNAL/VSO.
SYNC I/O will only output rates within the limits of the current sample rate. If a varispeed value results in an output frequency (sample rate) that is below or above the limits for the current sample rate, the frequency display turns red. Positional Reference and Options The following sections provide additional information for each available Positional Reference format. 3 Click Set.
Make sure you select the appropriate clock reference, sample rate, frame rate, and freewheel duration. Also make sure the LTC signal is routed properly to the SYNC I/O LTC In connector. Freewheel Duration Freewheel duration (time code freewheel) configures SYNC I/O for a maximum number of frames it should continue generating if time code drops out or is otherwise interrupted. Freewheel settings are ignored when SYNC I/O is in Internal/Generate mode.
To use VITC as SYNC I/O positional reference: From Pro Tools: ■ In the SYNC Setup section of the Session Setup window, select VITC from the Positional Reference pop-up menu. From the front panel: ■ Press the Positional Reference switch to select VITC. From SYNC I/O Setup software utility (Windows only): Select Vertical Interval Time Code (VITC) from the SYNC I/O Setup Positional Ref pop-up menu.
From SYNC I/O Setup software utility (Windows only): From the front panel: Press the Positional Reference switch to select BI-PHASE. ■ Select Auto Switch LTC/VITC from the SYNC I/O Setup Positional Ref pop-up menu. ■ For additional information and examples of Auto Switch LTC/VITC, see “Auto-Switch LTC/VITC” on page 68 in Appendix A.
5 Repeat until you have finished setting SYNC I/O to the desired generator start time. 3 Use the Down and Up switches to scroll be- 6 Press Set. 4 Press Set. The LED Time Code Display stops flashing, and displays the start time. Bi-Phase/Tach Pulses-per-frame (PPF) To set the Bi-Phase/Tach start frame using SYNC I/O Setup software utility (Windows only): 1 In the Generator/Bi-Phase Preset section, type in the time code value of the starting frame, in hours:minutes:seconds:frames. 2 Click Set.
Compensating for Time Code Offsets You can offset the display of incoming time code in the Pro Tools application. This is useful when you want to adjust the display of time code to match the start time of the session (such as with source material that starts at a different time), or compensate for source material that is consistently offset by a fixed number of frames (such as with some color–corrected video masters).
Requirements for Read/Regeneration of LTC, VITC and MTC LTC The external positional reference must be moving at normal, 1x forward speed (±8%). VITC The positional reference must be LTC or BiPhase/Tach, at any readable speed, forward or reverse, or when the positional reference is set to Generate. SYNC I/O will not regenerate VITC if the positional reference is VITC. MTC In order for SYNC I/O to regenerate continuous MTC, the external positional reference must be moving at normal, 1x forward speed (±8%).
Generator Start Time To set the generator start frame: From Pro Tools: Configure the Session Setup window as appropriate for your system and the current project. Refer to the Pro Tools Reference Guide for specific instructions. ■ Make sure LTC is correctly routed as explained in Chapter 2, “Installation and Configuration”. If you need to adjust the level of the SYNC I/O LTC output signal, see “Example: Adjusting LTC Gain” on page 36 for instructions.
To generate LTC using Pro Tools: VITC Video Source Rule 1 In the Time Code Settings section of the Session Setup window, select Using SYNC under Generator. Since SYNC I/O has two video inputs (“Video In” and “Video Ref In”), the following rule describes which of these two signals VITC is applied to. 2 Put Pro Tools online. 3 Start Pro Tools recording or playback. Pro Tools commands SYNC I/O to begin generating LTC with time addresses synchronized to the session time line.
To prevent destruction of the original VITC code, SYNC I/O will not re-apply (regenerate) VITC onto the same video stream from which it is reading VITC. LTC If you want to use LTC as a positional source, do not select Auto Switch LTC/VITC. External In order for SYNC I/O to regenerate VITC based on an external positional reference, you’ll need to select both a clock reference and a positional reference.
To generate VITC internally using the front panel controls: To generate VITC Internally using SYNC I/O Setup software utility (Windows only): 1 Ensure that SYNC I/O is connected in-line with a video source and video destination. 1 Ensure that SYNC I/O is connected in-line 2 Press Set, and use the Up or Down switches to 2 Ensure that VITC Insertion Enabled is selected in the SYNC I/O Setup window, and that you have selected the appropriate format (NTSC or PAL). display VITC Insertion (VI7C In5).
MTC Generation/Regeneration MTC (MIDI Time Code) is a serial digital signal. In many ways, you can think of it as an inaudible type of LTC that can be used by various MIDI devices. MTC is available from the SYNC I/O MTC Out connector, which is a standard DIN-style 5-pin female MIDI connector. To use MTC, connect MTC Out to a MIDI In connector of a device that can recognize and use MTC. Typically, this would be a console, sequencer, synthesizer or sampler keyboard, a drum machine or other device.
Window Dub Requirements Existing Video Signal SYNC I/O can only burn a window dub onto an existing video signal. This means that at least one video “source” signal (from a VTR, nonlinear editing system, or other video device) must be present at one of the SYNC I/O video input connectors (Video In or Video Ref In). When generating a window dub, the VITC Timing Rule applies (see “VITC Timing Rule” on page 67.
To enable a window dub using the front panel controls: 1 Press Set, and use the Down and Up switches to display Burn Enabled (burn EnA). 2 Press Set. The LED Time Code Display will switch to display the current On or Off setting for Window Burn. 3 Use the Down and Up switches to switch be- tween the parameter values. 4 Press Set. Based on the selected positional reference, the time code character generator burns time code addresses onto any video signal passing through SYNC I/O.
56 SYNC I/O Guide
chapter 5 Additional Operational Information Front Panel Generator/Parameter Controls Front Panel Parameters SYNC I/O LED display of abbreviated parameter names LED Parameter SE7 6En Set Generator Start Time dI6 rEF Digital Reference SPL FrEC Sample Freq (Rate) PuLL r7E 1 Pull Up/Down 0.1% PuLL r7E4 Pull Up 4.167%, Down 4.
Set Generator Start Time Base Clock Lets you set a start time for the SYNC I/O time code generator. Configures the Word Clock Out port. Choices are Session (1x the base session sample rate), or 256x (for Slave Clock devices). See “Generator Start Time” on page 49. Digital Clock Reference SYNC I/O can use AES/EBU or Word Clock (1x) for digital clock reference. The base sample rate is 44.1 kHz when session sample rate is 44.1, 88.2, or 176.4 kHz, or 48 kHz when session sample rate is 48, 96, or 192 kHz.
To choose the VITC read lines: Window Dub/Burn 1 Select VITC Read Lines (rdr LInE), using the By enabling this setting, you can superimpose a window dub onto an incoming video signal. Set, Down, and Up switches. 2 Press Set switch. The Time Code Display will shows one of the parameter values: • Auto (ALL-LInE)—where SYNC I/O will search all lines and select the first valid line pair automatically The front panel lets you enable window dub but does not let you adjust any window options.
To set the freewheel duration: To set the LTC servo gain: 1 Select Freewheel Length (FrEE LEn), using the Set, Down, and Up switches. 1 Select Servo Gain (SErVo Gn) using the Set, 2 Press Set again. The LED Time Code Display displays the current setting, in frames. 2 Press Set again. The LED Time Code Display 3 Use Down and Up to scroll parameters. 3 Use the Down and Up switches to display an- 4 Press Set when the desired value is shown. other parameter value.
4 When you have chosen your desired option, press Set. SYNC I/O retains the setting, even when powered off, until it is changed. Video Format/System Selects the format (NTSC or PAL) for both the incoming and outgoing video signals. Bi-Phase/Tach Pulses Per Frame Bi-Phase/Tach involve several settings, including pulse per frame. This sets the number of BiPhase/Tach pulses per frame of time code.
USD Compatibility Mode This setting lets you turn USD emulation on and off, to support older Pro Tools systems and other audio systems. Using Fader Start SYNC I/O provides six GPI outputs in total, two TTL-level and four relays. Together, this combination of outputs makes it possible for SYNC I/O to provide Fader Start capability. Utilization of Fader Start has specific wiring requirements. See “GPI Relay Wiring for Fader-Start” on page 90.
Calibrating the SYNC I/O Oscillator SYNC I/O provides a feature for calibrating the frequency of the on-board crystal oscillator. This allows SYNC I/O to be used as an extremely accurate frequency reference while in Internal/VSO mode. With normal usage, SYNC I/O should never require recalibrating. Each unit is factory calibrated to within +/– 5 ppm (parts per million). You may want to recalibrate SYNC I/O in the following situations: • If greater than 5 ppm accuracy is required.
6 When you reach a value that matches the sticker’s value, stop scrolling and press Set. The LED Time Code Display will return to showing time code numbers. Your SYNC I/O is now properly calibrated. The next time you press Set, the LED Time Code Display will again show O5C CAL. If you then press the Down switch, you’ll disengage the Oscillator Calibration parameter name. To change the setting once again, you’ll need to repeat steps 1 through 6.
Managing and Selecting Video Inputs SYNC I/O has two independent video inputs, referred to as “Video In” and “Video Ref” on the SYNC I/O rear panel. These let you use one of the video inputs as a Clock Reference (the resolver sample clock master reference) and use the other input for working with VITC time code and the character generator (window dub). If you have just a single video source, SYNC I/O provides a very simple method for connecting your single video source to both of the video inputs.
A B Time Code and Window Dubbing Circuit Video Output Video Routing Video routing is automatically switched within the Universal Slave Driver, according to the Positional Reference and Clock Reference settings: • Route A — Positional Reference = Generate; Clock Reference = Video Ref In or Video In Video Ref In • Route B — Any other combination of Positional Reference and Clock Reference settings Video In LTC AES/EBU Word Clock Super Clock Pilot Tone Bi-phase/Tach Sample Clock Resolver Circuit Clock
appendix a Additional Synchronization Information Video and VITC Signals Black Burst and House Video Reference A black burst signal is essentially a “positionless” video signal. As with any “shared” video signal, you’ll want to ensure that your video feed comes from a properly buffered and distributed source, such as a video distribution amplifier, or the house video reference/black burst output of another device in the chain.
Example of VITC Timing Rule Working with Analog Machines As an example, if you are using LTC as a positional reference from a 3/4-inch U-Matic VTR, then that VTR should be referenced to the same video signal that you are applying to SYNC I/O.
Examples of Auto-Switch LTC/VITC AES/EBU SYNC I/O will switch to LTC for positional reference during hi-speed searching and cueing, for example, or whenever the tape speed is too high to read VITC. Some professional digital audio products use AES/EBU “null clock” (which is an AES/EBU data stream that contains only clock information only and no audio information) as a system clock reference source.
Using just Word Clock, it is possible to create a “chain” of digital devices in your studio by picking one source as the Word Clock master, and configuring other sources as Word Clock slaves. Bi-Phase/Tach Bi-Phase and Tach are used with mag machine,16, 35, and 70 mm projectors, flatbed editing systems and other types of motor-driven film equipment. Bi-Phase (sometimes called Quadrature Sync) and Tach information are similar, though they do differ.
This explains how SYNC I/O can use a BiPhase/Tach signal to deduce the direction, and how it also uses the signal as a clock reference— as long as SYNC I/O is told the starting frame of the first clock signal. Pilot Tone SYNC I/O can resolve to an external Pilot Tone signal for synchronizing to (or transferring audio from) certain types of open-reel audio tape recorders.
72 SYNC I/O Guide
appendix b Technical Specifications General Nominal Sample Rates Sample Rate Pull Up/Down 44100 48000 88200 96000 176400 192000 +4.1667% and +0.1% 45983 50050 91967 100100 n/a n/a +4.1667% 45938 50000 91875 100000 n/a n/a +4.1667% and –0.1% 45892 49950 91783 99900 n/a n/a +0.1% 44144 48048 88288 96096 176576 192192 –0.1% 44056 47952 88112 95904 176224 191808 –4.0% and +0.1% 42378 46126 84757 92252 n/a n/a –4.0% 42336 46080 84672 92160 n/a n/a –4.
General Frame Rates 30 fps 30 fps drop-frame 29.97 fps 29.97 fps drop-frame 25 fps 24 fps 23.976 fps Variable Speed Override Burn-in Window Dimensions 74 ±699 cents (±58.25%) Aging: ±2 ppm/year typical Position: 5 horizontal and vertical positions Size: Large and small text Color: Black or white text on white or black background or keyed Height: 1RU/1.75” (4.45 cm) Width: 19.0” (48.26 cm) Depth: 10.5” (26.67 cm) Weight 5.0 lbs (2.
General Shock 5 G max Operating Temperature 32 to 131 degrees F (0 to 55 degrees C) Storage Temperature -40 to 176 degrees F (-40 to 80 degrees C) Relative Humidity 0 to 95%, non-condensing Power Requirements Voltage: 85 to 264 VAC Frequency: 47 to 63 Hz autoswitching Wattage: 9.5 W typical, 30 W maximum Connector: 3-pin, AC and ground (IEC 950:320;3.2.4) Agency Compliance Meets FCC Part 15 Class A limits, CD EN 55022A, CE EN 60950, CE EN 55081:1, UL 1419 and CSA 22.
Rear Panel Connectors Connector Specifications LTC In Format: SMPTE/EBU 80-bit longitudinal, drop frame/non-drop frame Connector: 3-pin XLR female per IEC 268-12 Speed Range: 1/30 to 80X play speed, forward or backward Level: –24 dBu to +9 dBu, differential (pin 2 hot) Impedance: 200K ohms Format: SMPTE/EBU 80-bit longitudinal, drop frame/non-drop frame Connector: 3-pin XLR male per IEC 268-12 Speed Range: ±10% of play speed Level: –24 dBu thru +9 dBu RMS, differential (pin 2 hot) Level
Rear Panel Connectors Connector Specifications Video (Main) Out Level: 1V p-p Source Impedance: 75 ohms Format SMPTE 90-bit, drop frame/non-drop frame Line Range: 10 to 40 (all-line mode), 10 to 22 (single-line mode) Format: SMPTE 90-bit, drop frame/non-drop frame Line Range: Two lines, 10 to 20 Format: NTSC or PAL composite video Level: 1V p-p Termination: 100K ohms Level: 1V p-p Termination: 100K ohms Description: Passive loop-thru of Video Ref in Level: 5 V p-p at 110 ohms (pi
Rear Panel Connectors Connector Specifications Word Clock In Level: 0 to .5 V (low), 2.0 to 6.0 V (high) Connector: BNC Female Level: TTL (3.3 V typical) Connector: BNC Female Level 0 to .5 V (low), 2.0 to 6.0 V (high) Connector BNC Female Level TTL (3.3 V typical) Connector BNC Female Bi-phase/Tach/ GPI/Pilot Connector: 25-pin D-subminiature female (DB25) (Bi-phase/Tach In) Frequency Range: 0 to 76.8 KHz Level: 4.
Rear Panel Connectors Connector Specifications (Pilot In) Level: 100 mV to 5.5 V p-p, differential Frequency Range: 50/60 Hz nominal Impedance: 200K ohms Description: Four opto-isolator inputs/returns Level: 4.5 to 5.5 V Current: 10 mA max Frequency: Frame-rate max Latency: Half frame max Description: Two TTL-level outputs Level: TTL (3.
Rear Panel Connectors Connector Specifications MIDI Time Code (MTC) Out Current Rating: 15 mA current loop Rate: 31.
appendix c Wiring Diagrams and Pin Assignments LTC The SYNC I/O LTC In and LTC Out connectors are balanced XLRs with Pin 2 wired “+” or “hot,” Pin 3 wired “–” or “cold,” and Pin 1 wired to ground (shield). Depending on whether you are connecting a balanced or unbalanced signal to these connectors, different wiring configurations are recommended for optimum signal integrity, especially for long cable runs.
Bi-Phase/GPI/Pilot VCC_P15V VR1 8 VOUT NC GND1 GND2 NC GND3 GND4 1 1 4 2 3 2 0.1UF 1.0UF V.REG,78L12ACM,+12V,0.
Bi-phase/Tach OptoCoupler Input GND_C 5V R49 1K R79 1K 7 U6 XREF=9 BIPHA_I R47 3 - 8 VCC 6N137_DP IC, OPTOCOUPLER 320003987 DIP8 C27 BIPHA 6 EN + 2 634 GND 5 0.1UF GND 5V R77 1K 7 U5 XREF=9 XREF=9 BIPHB_I OPTRETURN R46 634 XREF=13 2 3 8 EN + VCC 6N137_DP IC, OPTOCOUPLER 320003987 DIP8 C25 6 GND BIPHB XREF=13 5 0.
GPI Relay Outputs K4 XREF=9 XREF=9 GPOUT3_A GPOUT3_E2 1 3 7 5 RELAY RLY_SIP4_DG1A_BW GPOUT3_B XREF=9 GND K3 XREF=9 XREF=9 GPOUT2_A GPOUT2_E2 1 3 7 5 RELAY RLY_SIP4_DG1A_BW GPOUT2_B XREF=9 GND K2 XREF=9 XREF=9 GPOUT1_A GPOUT1_E2 1 3 7 5 RELAY RLY_SIP4_DG1A_BW GPOUT1_B XREF=9 GND K1 XREF=9 XREF=9 GPOUT0_A GPOUT0_E2 1 3 7 5 RELAY RLY_SIP4_DG1A_BW GPI Relay Output 84 SYNC I/O Guide GPOUT0_B GND XREF=9
XREF=13 XREF=13 XREF=4 XREF=13 XREF=13 XREF=13 XREF=13 GND 5V GPOUT1_O GPOUT0_O MIDI_OUT GPOUT3_E GPOUT2_E GPOUT1_E GPOUT0_E 20 1 19 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 GND Y7 Y6 Y5 Y4 Y3 Y2 Y1 Y0 C85 326904606 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 0.
GPI (opto) Inputs 5V R56 1K 1K R88 7 U11 XREF=9 XREF=9 GPIN3 R55 392 2 RET3 3 8 6 EN + - 6N137_DP IC, OPTOCOUPLER 320003987 DIP8 VCC C36 GND GPIN3_I XREF=2 5 0.1UF 5V R87 1K GND 7 U10 XREF=9 XREF=9 GPIN2 R54 392 2 RET2 3 8 6 EN + - 6N137_DP IC, OPTOCOUPLER 320003987 DIP8 VCC C35 GND GPIN2_I XREF=2 5 0.
Connector Pin Assignments Connector Pin Assignments Mac Serial Port Pin # Name Description Mac Connection 1 NC No connection Pin 2 (HSKiB) 2 RTS_IN Request To Send (input to USD) Pin 1 (HSKoB) 3 RX_OUT Transmitted data (output from USD) Pin 5 input (RXDB–) 4 GND Chassis ground Ground 5 TX_IN Received data (input to USD) Pin 3 output (TXDB–) 6 GND Chassis ground Pin 8 input (RXDB+) 7 CTS_OUT Clear To Send (output from USD) Pin 7 input (GPiB) 8 NC No connection Pin 6 (TXDB+)
Connector Pin Assignments 88 8 GPOUT2_B GPI Relay 2, contact B 9 GPOUT3_A GPI Relay 3, contact A 10 GPOUT3_B GPI Relay 3, contact B 11 OPTRETURN Return from Bi-phase/Tach opto-isolators 12 BIPHB_I Input to Bi-phase/Tach opto-isolator B 13 BIPHA_I Input to Bi-phase/Tach opto-isolator A 14 GND Chassis ground 15 PILOT_IN– Pilot tone input, negative 16 PILOT_IN+ Pilot tone input, positive 17 RET0 Return from GPI opto-isolator “0” 18 GPIN0 Input to GPI opto-isolator “0” 19 RET
SYNC I/O Serial Cable Pin Assignments Bi-phase/Tach/GPI/Pilot Port Interfacing Notes (Macintosh) ◆ The following table shows the pin assignments for DigiSerial Macintosh. DigiSerial for Macintosh Mini DIN 8-pin Male to Mini DIN 8-pin Male The six opto-isolators are 6N137 devices. The four GPI input ports pass through 390 ohm series resistors to the cathode. The two BiPhase/Tach inputs pass through 634 ohm series resistors to the cathode. 1 2 The two TTL-level GPI outputs are driven by a 74FCT541.
GPI Relay Wiring for Fader-Start GPI TTL WIring The Universal Slave Driver provides a total of four Relay-level GPI outputs on pins 3/4, 3-10 of the DB25 connector (see the circuit diagram GPI (TTL)/MTC Outputs). The circuit can drive approximately 2 mA through a load of 1.6K and maintain a logic high level of 3.3V. In an application where the equipment being controlled has more demanding power requirements, an external buffer or relay circuit mst be used.
index Numerics C 14/16 VITC line pair 51 1x 69 256x Slave Clock 10 9-pin 18 MachineControl serial time code 37 Port 1 and 2 28 character generation (see Window Dub) clock reference 15 and clock source 15 choosing digital source 37 front panel switch 23 LEDs 23 SYNC I/O Setup 29 Clock Source 15 Color, for window dub 54 Connected to SYNC I/O 29 A absolute time code (and LTC) 42 AC Power In 28 AES/EBU choosing as clock reference 37 connecting 12 In 27 Out 27 Auto ID 14 Auto Switch 44 and freewheel duratio
F I factory defaults, reset 64 fader start and GPI wiring 90 overview of 62 using 62 wiring instructions 90 Feet+Frame Rate 17 fields (odd/even) indication 29 firmware updating 19 flatbed and Bi-Phase/Tach 40 fps 29 frame edge 65 frame rate front panel switch 25 SYNC I/O Setup 29 freewheel duration 30 and auto-switch LTC/VITC 69 front panel display of 59 front panel Lockout mode 33 switches and displays 23 Idle MTC Enabled front panel 53 in SYNC I/O Setup 53 installation SYNC I/O and a CPU 7 internal clo
N R NTSC about 30 or PAL, selecting 61 null clock 69 Read/Regeneration Mode 47 reference clock, digital signal information 69 list of supported 2 regenerating time code 47 relays 62 Remote 9-Pin Deck Emulation mode connections 11 Remote Mode about 33 and SYNC I/O Setup 33 connections for 9-pin deck emulation 11 LED for 25 Remote-Only Mode 33 Resolver Locked 29 Resolver Locked 29 RUN/STOP/CLEAR 35 O operating 33 oscillator reset 63 P PAL about 30 and Pilot tone speed 39 or NTSC, selecting 61 phase see B
SYNC I/O 1 checking status in SYNC I/O Setup 29 control options for 33 SYNC I/O Setup overview 28 setting up 18 Status 29 time code display 29 window, features 19 wiring diagram for Windows 89 T Tach additional signal information 70 connector, back panel 26 technical support 5 time code drop outs, freewheeling 43 generating/regenerating 47 MIDI (MTC output) 27 serial 37 SYNC I/O Setup display 29 Time Code Rate 17 TTL 85 wiring 90 U Universal Slave Driver front panel operation 23 Up switch 35 updating firm
