User manual

TCDS Series User Manual – Rev. 2.0.1 Page 31
Troubleshooting
The easiest way to verify that TCDS is decoding time code is to observe the LED colons on the front of
the clock. The colons will be on continuously when the TCDS synchronized to a time source (i.e.
decoding time code). If the colons are flashing at a rate of 1 pulse per second or dashes are displayed,
then there is an issue with the input time code signal.
A secondary method is to monitor the time code status while using the TCD-Set application.
Time code decoding problems can include any of the following:
• No time code present
• Ground loops or other interference such as coupling from nearby AC power lines,
bad/intermittent cables, wiring or connectors incorrect wiring connection for unbalanced or
balanced input signals
• Out of range signal level that is too high or too low
• Fluctuating signal level
• A signal that is distorted
• Excessive loading on the time code line
• A time code type or encoding that the TCD option does not support
There are no user serviceable parts inside the TCDS digital clock/display.
Please contact Masterclock, Inc. if you require servicing or repair.
Clock is displaying dashes (- - - - ) and/or colon’s are flashing (i.e. unable to “lock” to time code)
Possible reasons/solutions:
1. Clock is not currently connected to a time code source.
2. There is a problem with the cabling between the clock and the time code source.
3. There is a ground loop or other interference between the clock and the time code source.
Verify that a common ground exists between the clock and the time code source. If the
cabling distance between the time code source and clock is large you may want to consider
inserting an audio distribution amplifier between the devices.
4. The signal level of the incoming time code is out of the range of the time code circuitry.
5. The signal level of the incoming time code is fluctuating or has changed. The signal level must
be stable for the TCDS to detect and decode the time code. Cycle power of the TCDS device to
re-initiate the auto-detection of time code.
6. The time code being fed to the TCDS is not a recognized format. Verify that your time code
source is providing one of the time code formats that the TCDS can decode.