SYNC™ HD Version 8.
Legal Notices DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY This guide is copyrighted ©2009 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.
Safety Statement This equipment has been tested to comply with USA and Canadian safety certification in accordance with the specifications of UL Standards: UL60065 7th /IEC 60065 7th and Canadian CAN/CSA C22.2 60065:03. Digidesign Inc., has been authorized to apply the appropriate UL & CUL mark on its compliant equipment. Warning Important Safety Instructions 1) Read these instructions. 2) Keep these instructions. 3) Heed all warnings. 4) Follow all instructions. 5) Do not use this apparatus near water.
contents Chapter 1. Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 SYNC Peripheral Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 System Requirements and Compatibility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Digidesign Registration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Generating & Regenerating Time Code. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Generating a Window Dub. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 Chapter 5. Additional Operational Information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 Front Panel Generator/Parameter Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 Using Fader Start . . . . . . . . . .
chapter 1 Introduction This guide covers operation of the SYNC HD and SYNC I/O, Digidesign’s multipurpose synchronization peripherals for Pro Tools HD systems. Digidesign SYNC peripherals support all Pro Tools sample rates, and synchronize to most major time code and clock reference standards used in audio, video, film, and multimedia production. Digidesign SYNC peripherals can also be used as standalone synchronization devices.
SYNC Peripheral Features Digidesign SYNC peripherals support all Pro Tools HD sample rates (44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4, and 192 kHz). Output and Generation • Loop Sync • Digidesign Super Clock (256x sample clock) • Word Clock (1x sample clock) • AES/EBU null clock (AES “digital black”) The SYNC HD supports both industry standard SD (standard definition) and HD (high-definition) video reference rates, while the SYNC I/O supports SD video reference rates only.
Controlling SYNC Peripherals in Standalone Mode If you use a custom serial cable between Pro Tools and the SYNC peripheral, be sure the cable supports hardware handshaking. The maximum supported length for this cable is 100 ft. If you are using a SYNC peripheral in Standalone mode, you can control it with the SYNC Setup software utility (Windows only), or with the switches on the front panel of the SYNC peripheral.
Digidesign Registration Review the enclosed Digidesign Registration Information Card and follow the instructions on it to quickly register your purchase online. Registering your purchase is the only way you can be eligible to receive complimentary technical support and future upgrade offers. This is one of the most important steps you can take as a new user.
About www.digidesign.com The Digidesign website (www.digidesign.com) is your best online 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. Product Registration Register your purchase online. See the enclosed Digidesign Registration Information Card for instructions.
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chapter 2 Installation and Configuration Hardware Connections The following are the primary hardware connections on a SYNC peripheral: • AC Power • Serial to a DigiSerial port on a Pro Tools PCI or PCIe card, or a serial port on the computer • Clock to Pro Tools audio interfaces (Loop Sync or Super Clock) • 9-pin to external machines (requires the Digidesign MachineControl option) • Synchronization, including positional and clock references to and from remote machines Serial Connections Serial to Pro Too
Serial Connections for the SYNC Setup Software Utility To connect a SYNC peripheral to Pro Tools|HD interfaces: (Windows Only) 1 Using a BNC cable, connect the Loop Sync Any system using the optional SYNC Setup software utility requires a serial connection from the SYNC peripheral to a supported Windows computer. (For compatibility information, see “System Requirements and Compatibility” on page 3.) The SYNC Setup software utility will not control the SYNC peripheral through the DigiSerial port.
Using Legacy Audio Interfaces with Pro Tools|HD MachineControl If you are using a Pro Tools|HD system that includes a legacy audio interface (an 888|24, 882|20, 1622, or 24-Bit ADAT Bridge audio interface), connect the Clock output of the HD system to the Slave Clock Input of the legacy interface. On MachineControl-enabled Pro Tools systems, SYNC peripherals support limited Serial Deck Control only.
Synchronization and Time Code Connections to Machines, Decks, and Other Devices The following sections describe connections required for different applications. For more information on time code applications, see Appendix A, “Additional Synchronization Information.” Character Generator for Time Code Window Dub SYNC peripherals can generate a time code window dub on SD signals coming into the Video In port.
Connecting Word Clock Devices SYNC peripherals have Word Clock input and output ports, which can be used simultaneously. Use Word Clock when you want the SYNC peripheral to lock to 1x clock from DAT machines, DA-88s, and similar digital devices. Pro Tools|HD audio interfaces each have their own Word Clock inputs, which provide additional clock options and flexibility. Refer to Pro Tools|HD documentation for details.
Pro Tools and MTC Pro Tools receives MTC from SYNC peripherals through its connection to the SYNC peripheral Host Serial port. This signal does not include standard MIDI time code, but is instead a highquality, proprietary time code signal designed for Pro Tools. A MIDI Interface is not required for Pro Tools to receive MTC. MTC is output whenever the SYNC peripheral is generating time code. This MTC output can be muted when time code (LTC) is idle. See “MTC Output and Idle Muting” on page 56 for details.
6 Select the type of port connection for the SYNC peripheral (DigiSerial Port or COM Port). Emulating a SYNC I/O 7 Select the Synchronizer Type that you are up- (SYNC HD Only) dating (SYNC HD or SYNC I/O). If you are using a SYNC HD with Pro Tools HD 7.4 or higher, Pro Tools will automatically recognize the SYNC HD. 8 Click Begin Update. 9 Locate the firmware file you want to use, and click Open.
Configuring a SYNC Peripheral from Pro Tools HD Pro Tools HD software provides configuration controls that establish communication between Pro Tools and the SYNC peripheral. Loop Sync SYNC peripherals support Digidesign’s Loop Sync feature for connecting Pro Tools|HD interfaces. A SYNC peripheral can be configured as the Clock Source (Loop Master) in order to provide Loop Sync master clock to the rest of your Pro Tools|HD interfaces.
Configuring a SYNC Peripheral in the Session Setup Window When a SYNC peripheral is connected through Loop Sync and enabled in the Peripherals dialog, its settings become available in the SYNC Setup and Time Code Settings sections of the Session Setup window. Clock Source Session settings The Clock Source can be any device in the Loop Sync chain.
When the SYNC peripheral is not the selected Clock Source device, the Clock Reference menu in the SYNC Setup section switches to Loop Sync. For LTC clock reference, multiple choices are available from the LTC sub-menu. See “LTC and Clock Reference” on page 39. To choose a different Loop Sync device as the Clock Source: Select a different Loop Sync device and Clock Source from the Clock Source pop-up menu in the Session Setup window.
Ref Present, Locked and Speed Cal Indicators The Ref Present, Locked and Speed Cal indicators in the Session Setup window display synchronization status of the SYNC peripheral. The Locked and Speed Cal indicators mirror the same LEDs on the front panel. Positional Reference To select a positional reference: Select a positional reference from the Positional Reference pop-up menu, located in the SYNC Setup section.
Audio and Video Pull Up and Pull Down Pro Tools provides up to 4.167% pull up, and 4.0% pull down choices. When working with a Movie track containing video, a separate Video Pull-Down menu becomes available in the Session Setup window, allowing you to apply standard or non-standard pull factors to audio and video separately. This lets Pro Tools synchronize to most supported SMPTE frame rates and formats.
The following video reference rates are available in the Video Ref Format pop-up menu: Video Reference (HD) Rate Video In Format Slow PAL - 23.976 NTSC Slow PAL - 24 PAL 720p - 23.976 NTSC 720p - 24 PAL (NTSC avail) 720p - 25 PAL 720p - 29.97 NTSC 720p - 30 NTSC 720p - 50 PAL 720p - 59.94 NTSC 720p - 60 NTSC 1080i - 47.95/1080psf - 23.976 NTSC 1080i - 48/1080psf - 24 PAL (NTSC avail) 1080i - 50/1080psf - 25 PAL 1080i - 59.94/1080psf - 29.
Clock Reference, Video Ref, and Video In Settings when Importing Avid Video When you import Avid video media into a session, Pro Tools automatically sets the Clock Reference, Video Reference rate, and Video In format appropriate for the imported media.
Lost Communication Troubleshooting Status LEDs The Locked and Speed Cal status LEDs on the SYNC peripheral front panel and in the Session Setup window may help you isolate potential problems. Ref Present Indicator If Pro Tools loses communications with the SYNC peripheral, a dialog appear asking you whether you want to switch to MTC (if available) or continue trying to locate the SYNC peripheral. If you see a “lost communication” dialog, check power, DigiSerial, and other connections.
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chapter 3 SYNC Peripheral Hardware and Software SYNC Peripheral Front Panel Power Clock Reference Switch Clock Reference LEDs Generator/Parameter Controls Loop Master Sample Rate LEDs Positional Reference Switch Time Code Display Positional Reference LEDs Frame Rate Switch Drop Frame Status LEDs LED Frame Rate LEDs Figure 1. SYNC HD front panel Controls and Displays Clock Reference Switch and LEDs All SYNC peripheral local controls are on the front panel.
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 a SYNC peripheral 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 59. 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 Peripheral Back Panel Video Ref Bi-Phase/Tach GPI/Pilot Video In/Out Host Serial LTC In/Out AES/EBU In/Out MTC Out Word Clock In/Out 9-Pin Out 1 9-Pin Out 2 Loop Sync In/Out AC Power Figure 2. SYNC HD Back Panel Bi-Phase/Tach/GPI/Pilot This is an accessory port for Bi-Phase, Tach, and Pilot signals (specific cables are required for different applications). This connector is also used for GPI input, output (including Fader Start), and thru signals. This port handles up to 12 V Bi-Phase.
Host Serial Port LTC In/Out The Host Serial port is a bidirectional (in/out) port to connect the SYNC peripheral to the DigiSerial Port on a HD Core card. When not being used with Pro Tools, the SYNC peripheral Host Serial port can be connected to a standard serial port on a supported computer to run the SYNC Setup software utility (Windows only). LTC In Receives a Linear Time Code (LTC) source, balanced or unbalanced analog, for positional and/or clock reference.
Word Clock In/Out AC Power 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. SYNC peripherals accept a standard power cable and are auto voltage-selecting (100V to 240V). Word Clock Out Outputs 1x sample rate Word Clock information (for Word-clock capable peripherals) or 256x Slave Clock information (for Legacy peripherals).
SYNC Setup Software Utility Help Right-click anywhere in the SYNC Setup dialog and select Help, or press the F1 key. Positional Reference This control selects the SYNC peripheral positional reference. Time Code Window Frame Rate The time code display mirrors the LED Time Code Display on the SYNC peripheral front panel, displaying (in hours:minutes:seconds:frames) the time code address of the current positional reference.
Port Relinquished Lights when the SYNC Setup dialog is not the frontmost window or is unable to allocate a serial port with which to communicate with the SYNC peripheral. LTC Output Level This control adjusts the analog audio level of the SYNC peripheral LTC output, from –24 dBu to +9 dBu.
Dub Window Variable Speed Override (VSO) Settings for the SYNC peripheral character generator/window dub features. (These controls are also available from within the Pro Tools Peripherals dialog.) Used to change (or varispeed) the rate of the SYNC peripheral internal crystal-referenced clock. This change is measured in cents, or hundredths of a semitone. VSO is available at any Positional reference setting, but only when the Clock Reference is set to Internal/VSO.
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chapter 4 Using SYNC Peripherals SYNC peripheral settings can be controlled in three ways: About SYNC Setup Software Utility Remote-Only Mode From Pro Tools Provides access to most SYNC peripheral controls from within the Pro Tools Session Setup window or the Synchronization page of the Peripherals window.
SYNC Peripheral Controls in Pro Tools, SYNC Setup Software Utility, and the Front Panel Table 5.
When a parameter value is visible Press Set once to set the value for that parameter and return the Display to time code. Front Panel Generator/Parameter Switches The Generator/Parameter controls are labeled Set, Down, Up, and Run/Stop/Clear/Esc. In addition to their primary generator functions, these switches provide front panel access to most SYNC peripheral parameters.
Edit Mode 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). Clock References and Options The following sections explain each clock reference choice in detail. For basic instructions on selecting the clock or positional reference, setting frame rate, or setting the SYNC peripheral sample rate, see Chapter 2, “Installation and Configuration.
Video and Clock Reference (SD Video Only) There are two ways to configure SYNC peripherals to use Video Reference and Word Clock: If you have only a single SD (standard definition) video source, and if the video source and the SYNC peripheral have a common video reference, then you can connect the SD video signal to the Video In connector.
Digital Clock (AES/EBU or Word Clock) Options To resolve the SYNC peripheral to external AES/EBU or Word Clock: From Pro Tools: In the SYNC Setup section of the Session Setup window, select the appropriate digital clock reference from the Clock Reference pop-up menu. From the front panel: 1 Press the Clock Reference switch to select Word/AES (SYNC HD) or Digital (SYNC I/O). 2 Press Set, and use the Up and Down switches to display Digital Reference (“dI6 rEF”). 3 Press Set.
LTC and Clock Reference Servo Gain settings include the following: LTC can provide both positional and clock information in the same time code signal. LTC can be recorded onto and played back from an analog track, or a VTR audio, address or cue track. LTC cannot be read when the reference deck is stopped, or playing back at slow or fast wind speeds (roughly 10x playback speed). Pro Tools will not lock until the LTC signal is close to playback speed.
Adjusting LTC Output Level/Gain Pilot Tone To adjust LTC output level/gain: SYNC peripherals can resolve to an external Pilot Tone signal for clock reference, for synchronizing to (or transferring audio from) certain types of open-reel audio tape recorders. Pilot Tone is basically a 60 Hz (NTSC) or 50 Hz (PAL) sine wave tone. Pilot Tone is used on location film shoots to establish a common sync reference between a film or video camera with a portable 1/4-inch analog ATR.
Bi-Phase/Tach and Clock Reference The SYNC peripheral is able to resolve to Bi-Phase/Tach information for use as a clock reference. Bi-Phase/Tach can synchronize positional reference, but you must provide a reference start address (see “Bi-Phase Position Trimming” on page 48 for other requirements). Pro Tools will not lock until the Bi-Phase signal is present.
Variable Speed Override (VSO) To fine-tune the speed (and pitch) of Pro Tools or any device receiving its clock reference from the SYNC peripheral, you can varispeed the rate of the SYNC peripheral’s crystal-referenced internal clock. From the SYNC Setup software utility (Windows only): 1 In the Setup Variable Speed Override section, select VSO Enabled. VSO is available at any Positional Reference setting.
Regulating Output Sample Rate with Pitch Memory Pitch Memory holds the output sample rate steady even when the Clock Reference is unavailable or has gone out of lock range. When Pitch Memory is not enabled, the output sample rate would return to the nominal sample rate setting (for example, exactly 44.1 kHz) when the Clock Reference disappears or goes out of lock range.
From the SYNC Setup software utility (Windows only): Select Linear Time Code (LTC) from the SYNC Setup Positional Ref pop-up menu. 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 peripheral LTC In connector.
To use VITC as the SYNC peripheral 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 the SYNC Setup software utility (Windows only): Select Vertical Interval Time Code (VITC) from the SYNC Setup Positional Ref pop-up menu.
To select Auto LTC/VITC for positional reference: Bi-Phase/Tach From Pro Tools: Bi-Phase/Tach signals are clock reference signals, and do not contain positional information of their own. However, they do contain enough information for SYNC Peripherals to calculate positional information. In the SYNC Setup section of the Session Setup window, select Auto LTC/VITC from the Positional Reference pop-up menu.
Bi-Phase/Tach Starting Frame In order to use the Bi-Phase/Tach signal as a positional reference, the SYNC peripheral also needs to know the time code address for a particular frame of film. This positional relationship is established by parking the film device at a particular frame and setting the SYNC peripheral to the equivalent time code value using the Bi-Phase/Tach Starting Frame parameter.
From the front panel: 1 Press Set, and use the Up and Down switches to display Bi-Phase/Tach Input Signal (“bIPH 5I6”). To set the pulses per frame value for a Bi-Phase/Tach signal: From Pro Tools: 2 Press Set. 1 Choose Setup > Peripherals and click Synchoronization. 3 Use the Down and Up switches to scroll pa- 2 In the Bi-Phase/Tach Pulses/Frame field, enter rameter values: a value from 2 to 254.
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). Pro Tools provides five different types of External Time Code Offset settings.
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. The SYNC peripheral will not regenerate VITC if the positional reference is VITC. MTC In order for the SYNC peripheral to regenerate continuous MTC, the external positional reference must be moving at normal, 1x forward speed (±8 %).
Generator Start Time LTC Generation/Regeneration To set the generator start frame: Regenerating LTC From Pro Tools: SYNC peripherals will regenerate LTC whenever the external positional reference is moving at normal, 1x forward speed (±10%). Configure the Session Setup window as appropriate for your system and the current project. See the Pro Tools Reference Guide for more information. From the front panel: 1 Press Set, and use the Up and Down switches to display Set Gen (“SE7 6En”). 2 Press Set.
Generating LTC VITC Generation/Regeneration In Generator Preset mode, the SYNC peripheral can generate LTC using either an external or internal clock reference. Make sure LTC is correctly routed and that all your other gear is properly configured before you begin. If necessary, adjust the input level for the destination device. When you use a SYNC peripheral to regenerate or generate VITC, you’ll be inserting VITC into an existing video signal. The input is derived according to the following rule.
Unlike LTC, SYNC peripherals can regenerate VITC with both forward and reverse time code addresses. To prevent destruction of the original VITC code, the SYNC peripheral will not re-apply (regenerate) VITC onto the same video stream from which it is reading VITC. To regenerate VITC based on an external positional reference from the front panel: 1 Connect the video source to the SYNC periph- eral Video Ref connector and loop the signal to the SYNC peripheral Video Input connector.
To regenerate VITC based on an external positional reference using the SYNC Setup software utility (Windows only): 1 Ensure that the SYNC peripheral is connected in-line with a video source and video destination. 2 Ensure that VITC Insertion Enabled is selected and that you have selected the appropriate video format (NTSC or PAL).
7 Use the Down and Up switches to scroll 6 In the Generator/Bi-Phase Preset section, through the parameter values and select a VITC line pair. enter the time code start time, in Hrs:Min:Sec:Frm. To reset to 00:00:00:00, click Zero. 8 Press Set. 9 Using the Positional Reference switch, select Generate. 10 Set the time code start time. See “Generator Start Time” on page 51 for instructions.
MTC Output and Idle Muting MTC is normally output whenever LTC is output. Whenever LTC output stops, the SYNC peripheral will continue to output MTC in bursts of one frame every 200 milliseconds. This allows any connected MIDI-reading device to be continuously updated as to the position of VITC or Bi-Phase (either of which might be operating at slow or still speeds). Thus, you can still use a connected MIDI device for Auto-Spotting from VITC or Bi-Phase.
To insert a time code window into a video signal using Pro Tools: To insert a time code window into a video signal using the front panel controls: 1 Choose Setup > Peripherals and click Synchronization. 1 Press Set, and use the Down and Up switches 2 Select Enable Dub Window. 2 Press Set. The display shows the current On or 3 Configure any of the following window dub appearance settings from the corresponding pop-up menu: Vertical Position, Horizontal Position, Size, and Color.
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chapter 5 Additional Operational Information Front Panel Generator/Parameter Controls This section details the parameters available from the multi-function Set, Down, Up and Run/Stop/Clear/Esc switches on the SYNC peripheral front panel. For details on the multi-function Generator/Parameter switches, see “Front Panel Generator/Parameter Switches” on page 35. Parameters SYNC peripheral parameters are selected and edited using the four Generator/Parameter switches.
SYNC peripheral front panel display of parameters Set Generator Start Time Lets you set a start time for the SYNC peripheral time code generator. 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 4.0% Digital Clock Reference bASE CLOC External Clock Out VI7C InS VITC Insertion The SYNC peripheral can use AES/EBU or Word Clock (1x) for digital clock reference.
Base Clock VITC Read Lines Configures the Word Clock Out port. Choices are Session (1x the base session sample rate), or 256x (for Slave Clock devices). This setting determines which line pair of incoming video is used for the VITC source. To choose the VITC read lines: 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. 1 Select VITC Read Lines (“rdr LInE”), using the Set, Down, and Up switches. 2 Press Set.
Window Dub/Burn To set the freewheel duration: By enabling this setting, you can superimpose a window dub onto an incoming video signal. 1 Select Freewheel Length (“FrEE LEn”), using the Set, Down, and Up switches. 2 Press Set. The LED Time Code Display displays the current setting, in frames. 3 Use the Down and Up switches to scroll pa- The front panel lets you enable window dub but does not let you adjust any window options.
Servo Gain Pitch Memory/Hold This setting provides a user selectable LTC servo gain offset. The five choices provide different servo gain settings to reduce the effects of jitter when locking to linear time code. The front panel Servo Gain settings correspond to the same settings available in Pro Tools: Pitch Memory is useful when resolving the SYNC peripheral to off-speed, free-running LTC.
Bi-Phase/Tach Pulses Per Frame Video Format/System Bi-Phase/Tach involve several settings, including pulse per frame. This sets the number of BiPhase/Tach pulses per frame of time code. Selects the format (NTSC or PAL) for both the incoming and outgoing video signals. To set the pulses per frame value for a Bi-Phase/Tach signal: 1 Select Bi-Phase/Tach Pulses Per Frame (“bIPH PPF”), using the Set, Down, and Up switches. 2 Press Set. 3 Use the Down and Up switches to scroll pa- rameter values.
HD Video Format (SYNC HD Only) Selects the video reference rate when the Clock Reference is set to Video Reference (HD). 3 Use the Down and Up switches to select an video reference rate. 4 Press Set. The SYNC peripheral will retain the setting, even when the unit is powered off and on again, until it is changed. MTC Idle Mute The following progressive video reference rates are available from the front panel display: • Slow PAL 23.
Using Fader Start Fader Start allows faders in Pro Tools to trigger external devices to play and stop. SYNC peripherals have six GPI outputs in total: two TTL-level and four relays. Together, this combination of outputs makes it possible to provide Fader Start capability. Utilization of Fader Start has specific wiring requirements. See “GPI Relay Wiring for Fader-Start” on page 94.
• If the unit needs to be matched to a unique (nonstandard) frequency. To restore the SYNC peripheral oscillator calibration to its factory setting: • To precisely compensate for component aging. 1 Press Set, then press Up until Video System – and – • To restore the original factory setting. Oscillator recalibration does not occur during firmware updating or when resetting the SYNC peripheral to factory defaults (see “Restoring Factory Settings” on page 68).
Restoring Factory Settings A SYNC peripheral can be reset to its default factory settings. To reset all parameters to default settings: 1 Switch off power to the SYNC peripheral and wait at least 10 seconds. 2 Hold both the Up and Down front panel switches and turn on power to the SYNC peripheral. Do not release the Up and Down switches until the display reads “FAC-CFG.” Resetting factory settings does not reset the SYNC peripheral oscillator.
Managing and Selecting Video Inputs (SD Video Rates Only) SYNC peripherals have two independent video inputs, “Video In” and “Video Ref,” on the SYNC peripheral 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).
Video In For all other combinations of Clock Reference and Positional Reference, VITC and character generator functions are applied to the video signal arriving at the Video In connector. In this way, the SYNC peripheral can read VITC Figure 1. Video Input Flow diagram 70 SYNC HD Guide from your videotape, or add VITC with or without character generation (window burn) while dubbing to a second VCR. In Figure 1 on page 70, this scenario is identical to “Route B.
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 the SYNC peripheral.
Examples of Auto-Switch LTC/VITC The SYNC peripheral 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. The SYNC peripheral will switch to VITC if LTC stops or is unavailable. This will include, for example, if a tape is paused or parked. If both LTC and VITC are available, the SYNC peripheral chooses which one to use based on the speed of playback.
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.
way. Fortunately, the SYNC peripheral Input Signals option allows you to choose the appropriate method (Tach: Fwd = B is Low, or Tach: Fwd = B is High). Please note that Pilot Tone contains no positional information; it is simply a clock reference. Most 1/4-inch machines have a center track for time code or pilot.
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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 78 ±350 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 If you are connecting an unbalanced signal to the SYNC peripheral LTC In or LTC Out connectors: LTC Connectors SYNC peripheral 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).
Bi-Phase/GPI/Pilot Pin Diagram 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 634 EN + 2 3 - 8 VCC 6N137_DP IC, OPTOCOUPLER 320003987 DIP8 C27 BIPHA 6 GND 5 0.1UF GND 5V 1K R77 7 U5 XREF=9 XREF=9 BIPHB_I OPTRETURN R46 634 XREF=13 2 3 8 VCC 6 EN + 6N137_DP IC, OPTOCOUPLER 320003987 DIP8 C25 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 88 SYNC HD 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 392 R55 2 RET3 3 8 EN + - 6 6N137_DP IC, OPTOCOUPLER 320003987 DIP8 VCC GND GPIN3_I XREF=2 5 0.1UF C36 5V 1K R87 GND 7 U10 XREF=9 XREF=9 GPIN2 392 R54 2 RET2 3 8 EN + - 6 6N137_DP IC, OPTOCOUPLER 320003987 DIP8 VCC C35 GND GPIN2_I XREF=2 5 0.
Connector Pin Assignments Mac Serial Port 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 SYNC peripheral) Pin 1 (HSKoB) 3 RX_OUT Transmitted data (output from SYNC peripheral) Pin 5 input (RXDB–) 4 GND Chassis ground Ground 5 TX_IN Received data (input to SYNC peripheral) Pin 3 output (TXDB–) 6 GND Chassis ground Pin 8 input (RXDB+) 7 CTS_OUT Clear To Send (output from SYNC peri
Bi-phase/Tach/GPI/Pilot Port (Accessory Port) Connector Pin Assignments Pin # 92 Name Description 1 GPOUT0 GPI TTL-level output 0 2 GPOUT1 GPI TTL-level output 1 3 GPOUT0_A GPI Relay 0, contact A 4 GPOUT0_B GPI Relay 0, contact B 5 GPOUT1_A GPI Relay 1, contact A 6 GPOUT1_B GPI Relay 1, contact B 7 GPOUT2_A GPI Relay 2, contact A 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 op
SYNC Peripheral Cable Pin Assignments SYNC Peripheral DigiSerial Cable A 12-foot Serial cable is included with the SYNC peripheral to support connection of the SYNC peripheral to the DigiSerial port on a Pro Tools|HD-series core card. If you need to make a custom DigiSerial cable, refer to the following pin assignment table for the SYNC-to-DigiSerial port cable.
Bi-phase/Tach/GPI/Pilot Port Interfacing Notes 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. The two TTL-level GPI outputs are driven by a 74FCT541. Each output passes through a 220 ohm series resistor. 12 volts is supplied at the connector for the purpose of driving the opto-isolators in film tach applications.
index Numerics 9-pin 20 MachineControl serial time code 36 output ports 28 LEDs 23 list of supported clock sources 2 SYNC Setup software utility 29 Clock Source 15 color (for window dub) 57 A absolute time code (and LTC) 43 AC Power In 28 AES/EBU as clock reference 38 connecting 11 connectors 27 Auto ID 14 Auto Switch 45 and freewheel duration 73 B back panel 26 base clock 61 Bi-Phase/Tach 26, 46, 74 for mag, flatbed, projectors 41 front panel 64 GPI Relay Outputs diagram 88 GPI/Pilot pin assignments 92
front panel Lockout mode 33 switches and displays 23 servo gain 63 wiring diagrams 85 M G generating time code 49 Generator Bi-phase Preset 31 controls for 35 Preset Mode 50 Generator/Parameter Controls 35 GPI and fader start 66 back panel connector 26 pinout 86 TTL wiring 94 GPI (opto) Inputs 89 Mac Serial Port pinout 91 MachineControl 20 mag and Bi-phase/Tach 74 monotonic VITC 71 MTC 55 and Idle MTC Output 30 burst mode 56 generation/regeneration 55 Out (back panel) 27 pinout 89 time code output 27 MTC
Pulses Per Frame configuring 41 front panel 64 Q Quadrature Sync 74 R Read/Regeneration Mode 49 Ref Present indicator 17 regenerating time code 49 relays 66 Remote Mode front panel 25 SYNC Setup software utility 33 Remote-Only Mode 33 RUN/STOP/CLEAR 35 S sample rate 17 and pull up/down rates 24 front panel (sample frequency) 60 front panel LED displays 24 SECAM 30, 64 serial port 27 serial time code and clock reference 36 using for positional reference 46 Servo Gain 63 Slave Clock see SuperClock Speed Ca
Read Lines, SYNC Setup software utility 30 related settings 45 timing rule 71 video source rule 52 W window dub front panel enable 62 generating 56 setting color 57 vertical position 57 wiring diagrams 85 SYNC Setup software utility 93 Word clock 73 1x clock 38 and Video Ref 37 as clock reference 38 base clock output 61 connecting 11 connectors 28 98 SYNC HD Guide
www.digidesign.com DIGIDESIGN 2001 Junipero Serra Boulevard Daly City, CA 94014-3886 USA TECHNICAL SUPPORT (USA) Visit the Digidesign Online Support Center at www.digidesign.com/support PRODUCT INFORMATION For company and product information, visit us on the web at www.digidesign.
