Ambient Recording ACL 204 User Manual

PDF

Document

Lockit Timecode

Lockit

ACL 204

Rev. 4.10

experience quality.

ACL204

Rev. 4.10

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page

13. Accessories, Cables, and Spares

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ACL204

Rev. 4.10

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Introduction

The Ambient ACL204 Lockit box continues the line of our highly accurate portable synchronizers, which have become an indispensable tool in modern workflows where multi camera shoots and dual system sound is the rule.

Like its predecessors, it provides timecode with a deviation of less than +/- 0.1 ppm of a given reference and a sync signal locked to this. The Lockit timecode products can be calibrated to this reference in the field using the Clockit Controller ACC501, providing the same accuracy still after years, compensating the usual aging of the crystals, and opening possibilities which are unique to the Lockit approach.

What counts on a set is that all recording devices run on the same speed, and with the Lockit method of being able to tune the devices, this goal can be achieved.

The reference for tuning may be a GPS signal, but just as well the timecode of the master recorder or camera or a video reference signal generated by the studio / OB-truck’s synchronizer.

In addition to those classical features of the Lockit product range, the ACL204 features a wireless network module and a serial data port, so the status of each unit on set can be monitored and metadata of the connected devices can be communicated to the Ambient Lockit Network ACN Master.

ACN also permits to sync the ACL204 remotely and write back metadata to the recorders.

Package Contents

ACL204 synchronizer

ACL-T204, protective leather pouch

LTC-OUT cable, Lemo JGG.305 to BNC right angle connector

BNC cable, BNC to BNC right angle connector

Manual www.ambient.de/en 3

ACL204

Rev. 4.10

Safety Instructions

For your own safety and trouble-free use of your Lockit ACL204 please carefully read through the instructions below. Always keep a copy of these instructions and hand them out with the unit to other users.

This unit is exclusively intended for indoor use. Keep it safe and away from water, rain and humidity and dry under all circumstances even when powered off. Clean gently with a slightly moistened cloth and never let water, detergents or liquids of any kind get into the unit as this will imply the risk of short circuits and electrical hazard.

Keep distant from sources of heat and never expose to direct sunlight. Admissible ambience temperature is from +5° to +50° Celsius.

Do not throw or expose to mechanical impact and keep it safe from hard vibrations.

Only use genuine accessories such as cables antennae etc. which have been supplied by an authorized dealer. Always observe integrity and the pertinent compatibility with all units connected to.

Do not perform software updates in situations the integrity of mains supply can not be granted such as thunderstorms and remove connections from and to all devices directly or in directly connected to mains.

Only use intended batteries type Mignon AA with 1.5V. Watch correct polarity when inserting the batteries, instructions can be found in the manual and on the device itself. Disregard of handling may cause battery leakage or even risk of explosion.

To maintain secure electrical contact the batteries are loaded with high spring tension and can shoot out of the compartment if opened without attention.

Always secure the outer battery contact and release slowly when accessing the compartment.

Proper recycling of used batteries might mandatory be instructed by local law. Please check for requirements and dispose at foreseen institutions. With regard to environment only dispose completely discharged batteries.

When powering from external sources remove the batteries and put the power switch into the "OFF" position. Pay attention to the use of LPS sources in compliance to part 2.5 of EN 60950-1.

When using the wireless connection of the Lockit ACL204 place it centrally and keep it distant from sources of possible interference such as microwaves or electrical devices with large metal surfaces.

If possible always use the integrated antenna. If the application of an external antenna seems mandatory only use the original part directly attached to the socket. Extension or use of 3rd party accessories is not licit.

Never open the unit. Inappropriate and unauthorized access will void the warranty and imply possible risk of harm to the user.

When disposing the unit follow the legal requirements for recycling electronic equipment.

ACL204

Rev. 4.10

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Powering

The ACL204 can be powered:

2 Mignon type (size AA) Alkaline, Li-Ion, or NiMH rechargeable cells. This will be indicated by a battery icon in the upper right corner of the OLED that also serves as a battery status monitor.

Set correct battery type in Sys/Config menu for reliable low voltage warning.

Important: Batteries loaded under spring pressure! To avoid risk of injury through batteries being rapidly ejected keep contact hinge firmly pressed when opening slider and softly release.

Obey correct polarity as shown on label. Push down battery hinge and close slider.

6 to 18 Volts DC via pin 4 of “A: TC/Tune” Lemo socket.

5 Volts DC via USB (under the slider near to power and configuration switch).

Applying powering from either Lemo or USB will bypass the power switch and turn on the unit. The

OLED screen will override the battery symbol with “EXT” to indicate external power.

You may leave the batteries in the unit in this condition to seamlessly switch over and keep the generator running on power loss. External power has always priority over battery, so unit will automatically switch over to external and no battery will be drained. However, there is no charging function for rechargeable batteries when powered from external.

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ACL204

Rev. 4.10

Unit Description

① ② ③ ④ ⑤⑥⑦

⑧

⑨

⑩

⑪

① Battery compartment slider to be pushed left/right for access to switches or batteries

② USB socket type Mini-B 5-pin

③ Configuration switch

(further “config switch”, ↓ for pushing in, ↔ for toggle left/right)

④ Power switch

⑤ IR transceiver, used to set and check the ACL204 from the ACC501 controller

⑥ Display

⑦ Signal LEDs

⑧ External antenna connector

⑨ Sync signal connector

⑩ Lemo 5-pin socket “B”:

“Blue” socket, timecode and metadata port.

Connect blue coded cables here.

⑪ Lemo 5-pin socket “A”:

“Red” socket, timecode, ext. DC in and Tune.

Connect cables with ext. power supply here.

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Connectors

Lemo connectors: series 0B 5-pin (matching connector FGG/JGG.0B.305.CLADxx)

“A: TC/Tune” “Red” socket, connect cables with ext. power supply only here

Timecode, ext. DC and tune port. pin 1: GND pin 2: LTC IN pin 3: ASCII IN / OUT pin 4: Tune reference 1.92 MHz out / DC-IN 5 to 18 Volts

“B: TC/ACN”

“SYNC”:

“ANT”:

“USB”: pin 5: LTC OUT

“Blue” socket, connect blue coded cables here.

Timecode and metadata port. pin 1: GND pin 2: LTC IN pin 3: ACN / RS232 TX pin 4: ACN / RS232 RX pin 5: LTC OUT / 3.3 Volts DC OUT

BNC coax 75 Ohms / 37.5 Ohms selectable, Sync out genlock, word clock or AES black audio sync out

SMA-F, unpopulated, for optional external antenna, use only genuine manufacturer equipment parts ANT-2.4-SMA-M(90).

Mini USB type “B”

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ACL204

Rev. 4.10

Menu Description

The graphical interface of the Lockit Menu combines ease of use with maximum flexibility for experienced users and mostly consistent through all devices. Consecutive, interactive menus ease fail safe configuration, guiding the user step by step through initial configuration.

Each menu pane with submenus features a “Home” symbol which will be preselected, allowing the user to quickly move up one level when pressing the wheel erratically or just checking the settings.

Complexity of adjustments is defined by a 2 step menu depth which can be set from the System setting

Menu . Additionally you can “Lock” the graphical interface here after setup has been completed. To unlock, follow the prompt and hold the configuration wheel left for 3 sec until an according message appears.

Note: Due to the power logic on ACN-TL, ACN-LS, and ACN-ML, this message will also pop up when shutting down these units with the required long press to the configuration wheel. It is however not necessary to unlock the menu to power down. Just keep the button pressed for 3 seconds and the unit will shut down as desired.

“Standard” view will show the settings that have proven practical for the majority of productions, so we highly recommend leaving it sitting here unless you run in apparent limitations to your required configuration. In the above example of ACL204, when selecting a video sync format the only applicable

TC frame rate will be preselected on the step-by-step configuration and only thing required is to confirm. When starting with TC frame rate and then moving to Sync and choose Video the first matching project rate will be suggested for each video format. However, as video is on a higher priority, changes applied here will result in TC FPS being accordingly adjusted and the new frame rate will be showed for confirmation.

Note: “Standard” will not allow for TC/video cross rates, each video format will only have 1 matching TC rate which will be preselected. Only exception are NTSC area rates 29.97 and 59.94 which will give you the option between 29.97 (non drop) and 29.97DF (drop frame).

Important: When using 29DF make sure the whole set does. NEVER run a setup with units mixed on non drop and drop! 29DF will neither sync with 29.97, 30, or any other non drop rate.

“Extended” will grant access to the complete options and allow for the most complex configurations to suffice even the most avid TC and Sync Supervisor.

E.g. this mode will unlock video and TC being “crossed”, so you can pick 24 fps TC along with video rates of 25, 50, or 60 fps. However, you still cannot pick invalid settings such as PAL area TC rates along with

NTSC area video formats (23.98, 29.97, 47.95, 59.94) and vice versa. It will also unlock sync output for

3D rigs, more uncommon video and TC rates of 30 and 60 fps, PAL and NTSC SD sync. Additional options include Audio and PPF sync options, and applying an Offset to the TC output for compensation of frame processing delay. Clearly, these are options not required for most applications and there will be hardly reason to unleash this level. “Extended” will disclose additional settings. Values available only on this level will be marked (E) accordingly in the following description.

Note: Settings are persistent through a level change which allows you to start off with guided default depth and tweak in “Extended” if required.

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The Lockit Slate menu has been enhanced with a guided Display menu which replaces the rigid presets of the information displayed on clap on firmware 3.xx. With 4.xx, you can consecutively assign 0-20 seconds to Userbits, Clapped Timecode and the generator’s Running TC to be displayed for after the late had been hit. Default will be set to ”UB:0s CT:10s TC:0s” which displays the clapped timecode value and then blanks the LED display which exactly corresponds to the former default “Claptime” setting.

The menu description below will use these conventions:

Underlined: marks a (sub) menu, pressing the navigation wheel will open the next lower level, which may contain submenus or parameters.

“Quoted Italic” : marks a parameter setting. This is the lowest level of a menu. Depending on the available options these will be listed visible or can be scrolled (separated by “/” in the explanation below). Active values will be highlighted. To change use the navigation wheel to select and press to apply, to keep current settings just press. Both will automatically jump up one menu level with “Home” selected. So, intentionally or accidentally, you will always quickly find your way back home.

Bold : marks the factory default setting of a parameter, the unit will load these values on performing a

Sys/Reset.

(E): Only available when “Extended” is selected in Sys/Menu.

Some menus, parameters, or settings will also be exclusive to different devices and marked accordingly

(1) ACL204 Lockit, (2) ACN-TL Tiny Lockit, (3) ACN-LS Lockit Slate, (4) ACN-ML MasterLockit www.ambient.de/en 9

ACL204

Rev. 4.10

Main Menu

↑ Mode TC Sync (1, E 2) / Slate (3) ACN Sys

Sync menu only available on ACL204 Lockit and ACN-TL Tiny Lockit ( “Extended” ), Slate Menu only on

ACN-LS Lockit Slate

To open the Main Menu press the 3-directional configuration wheel in home screen, navigate by toggling left/right. Menus are rotational, so you can go from the first to the last setting by moving left.

Pressing the highlighted selection will open its submenu, pressing the arrow up/house symbol will take you back again. When there is no further submenu the current active setting will be highlighted. If you do not want to apply changes just press on the highlighted selection and you will fall back to main menu without alterations.

Mode Menu

↑ int TC

C-Jam

TRX ext TC (E ) Reader (3)

Selecting the operation Mode will allow for one step configuration when initializing your Lockits for a new project. Just pick your application and all necessary adjustments will be performed automatically under the hood. Together with the “Full” Jam mode and auto frame rate setting there is hardly anything left to do but choose your sync option on ACL204 if applicable and Jam sync your units via cable or ACN after having put one unit into C-Jam Master mode. Each mode has a dedicated LED blink code of the two colored LEDs above the OLED display, which will also show selected mode and active transmission direction.

“ Int TC” : “Classic” Lockit mode, the unit will run on its internal generator with standalone accuracy of

.1ppm, ACN disabled. MIDI timecode (MTC) will be put out over USB (ACL204 and ACN-LS) or Lemo ACN

(ACN-TL).

“C-Jam” : Default, as “Int TC” but with ACN enhancement. This is the recommended setting when running any combination of ACN ready units. The devices can be jammed and TC framerate applied over ACN, metadata transfer with a Master Lockit in Hub mode is activated. Additionally the units will automatically adopt their pace to a “Master” unit for unprecedented zero drift accuracy and divergence down to 10uS.

On powering up, Lockit devices will generally start up with unset generator and thus in idling slave mode with a red flashing LED. Then jam one (and only one) deliberate unit to time of day and enable

“Master” in its ACN menu and you never need to worry about TC for the rest of the day as long as the

Master keeps power. This Master will be identified by a dedicated blink pattern and “M” will show up in the lower right corner of the OLED. The other units will then jam their generators and framerate and follow as “Slaves” indicated by “S” and an according blink code. The intelligent C-Jam algorithm will automatically improve the accuracy and establish zero latency, zero drift lock between units within the

ACN.

With an active “Master” already in range “Slaves” will automatically re-jam after powering on or a battery swap. As ACN broadcasts only happen every 6 seconds, it may take this long for a freshly booted “Slave” to pull in. If “Slaves” lose connection to a previously present “Master” they will keep their loyalty for 30 seconds and then switch over to “(S)” which means you can move over “Master” to another unit.

Note: Always make sure just one unit is set to “Master”.

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“TRX” : ACN TC radio link. Unit will act as an auto-configuring transceiver. Without TC source the units will idle slowly blinking red and wait for either physical TC injection or signal via ACN. On detection of an external SMPTE LTC or MIDI TC source the device will transform into transmitter (indicated by “TX” on OLED and according blink code) and send status and frame rate to other units (marked “RX”) which will automatically follow the source. Source detection is fully automated, including bidirectional

MTC/LTC conversion. TC will be displayed on LED display of Lockit Slate, clapped time broadcasted as metadata.

“Ext TC” : In this mode the device serves as a bidirectional LTC to MIDI TC convertor. TC will be displayed on LED display of Lockit Slate. Useful in studio environments to sync TC between external equipment and digital audio workstation where ACN is a not required feature.

“Reader” : Only available on Lockit Slate, this mode allows to visualize external LTC on the slate. No

MTC conversion, no output, no ACN, but the slate will follow TC playback in low or high speed and even reversed which makes it the preferred mode for special effect shots.

Note: As these modes are not suited for proper synchronization selecting a sync output is not available in “TRX”, “Ext TC” and “Reader”. www.ambient.de/en 11

ACL204

Rev. 4.10

TC Menu

↑

FPS

FPS Jam Output UB

FPS: 23.98/24/ 25 /29.97/29.97 DF/30 (E)

Select timecode framerate, toggle and press. When changing an existing setting you will be asked to confirm or discard the new selection. If video sync output is already enabled on ACL204 available values may be limited or even locked depending on menu depth.

CAUTION! Switching between PAL and NTSC or Non-Drop and Drop rates will restart the generator with the new time base and interrupt the video or audio sync signal, doing this while recording will result in a corrupted file.

Jam

Full Auto Once Edit Off

Determines how the generator can be jammed over ACN, cable, or IR (only via ACC501 controller).

“Full” : Automatic setting, unit will jam if generator is not set or external TC is different from generator.

Also the unit will apply the external TC framerate via LTC or ACN to its generator with the exception that video sync output has been enabled on ACL204

In that case the Jam mode will fall back to Auto (see next parameter). Still, jam mode will be kept active, so if you disable video sync “Full” will be hot again. This will effectively prevent misadjustments during operation while bringing maximum of ease on initial configuration.

“Auto” : Unit will jam if generator is not set or external TC is different from generator.

“Once” : Unit can be jammed once and then lock inputs (cursor moves to “Off” ). Unlock again by selecting desired jam mode.

“Off” : defeats jamming of the internal generator from external. Still, you can manually edit timecode as per below.

Edit: Enter TC value manually hh:mm:ss:ff . Toggle to edit blinking value, press to confirm and proceed.

TC generator will start on from selected value after confirmation, so you can exactly trigger a certain TC start. Editing TC does not change your jam mode in general. However, if edited manually and confirmed generator will be set and hence “Full” will temporarily fall back to “Auto”.

Note: The active jam mode will be visualized upper left to the running TC on the main screen by indicating “F” , “A”, “O” or a lock symbol for “Off”.

Output

Level (2) Mute Offset (E)

This menu configures the TC output signal available on both Lemo sockets. If Level is not applicable and Offset hidden while in “Standard” view, entering Output will directly access the Mute submenu as only option.

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Level

Select TC level:

/-3/--6/-9/-12/-15/-18/-21/-24/-27/-30/-33/-36/-42 dB

Only available for ACN-TL Tiny Lockit

Adjusts TC level on Lemo B in -3dB steps from 0 to -36dB plus -42dB . Useful when recording TC on audio tracks of DSLRs or non-TC capable recorders.

Mute

Mute on Gen Not Set:

/Yes

Disable the physical output of timecode in case the generator is not set (flashing red) in int TC and C-

Jam modes. This can be useful to leave the Lockit connected to your audio recorder with a bidirectional cable and jam it to time of day from the recorder after start up and then seamlessly becoming the timecode source. Also with no TC output most cameras will display a warning in the viewfinder monitor which provides immediate visual troubleshooting.

Note: No TC is as good or bad as inconsistent TC, therefore there is no drawback to have the output muted. Rather, it will give you better indication if setup is not complete/correct.

Offset

Offset: +/-00.00

Extended Setting

Shifts the TC output up to +/- 10 frames in .05 increments on both Lemos and LED display on ACN-LS

Lockit slate against the generator. This allows for compensation of frame processing delay on cameras and TC offset to 3 rd

party equipment (e.g. delayed TC out from audio track on playback).

UB

Show

↑ Show (t) Jam

Toggles userbits to be displayed in main screen, will reduce the font size of TC.

Edit

Jam

On Off

“On” : Userbits will be jammed on change. This will happen on TC Jam but also on every change without the TC generator being interrupted. When C-Jam is enabled this can be used to increment scene/take on the fly via ACN.

Note: Update will occur with up to 6 seconds delay on the next C-Jam broadcast.

“Off” Userbits will be locked. Use this mode to apply a fixed ID through userbits.

Edit

Allows manual changes to userbits on the fly, enter 8 UB digits with hex-code values 0-F. On changing existing UB value a prompt will pop up to confirm or discard the new value. This will override the current value but not change jam mode itself. So, for static ID set Jam to “Off” www.ambient.de/en 13

ACL204

Rev. 4.10

Sync Menu

↑ Video (1) Audio (E 1) PPF (E 1, 2)

Sync Menu and output only available on ACL204 and ACN-TL (Extended mode).

Video

Off

480i(E)/576i(E)/720P/1080i/Psf/P 23/24/25/29/30 (E)/59/60(E) Single/Dual/3D(E)

Available only on ACL 204. Selectable frame rates depend on selected video format. (E) only in

Extended mode

Consecutive, interactive menu: “Genlock” video sync output on BNC. Select video line count first and then choose from matching framerates. In Extended mode you will then be able to select single or dual camera load (required for 3D rigs).

After setting video sync, the direct matching TC frame rate will be preselected and displayed for confirmation. “Standard” menu depth only allows this native TC frame rate, if you require cross-sync rates, valid selections are available in “Extended” view.

This logic effectively inhibits invalid area mixing such as integer TC rates with non-integer video rates and vice versa.

Note: Genlock and TC output are hard locked against each other. If TC FPS has been set before entering the sync options, the first matching video frame rate will be preselected. However, there are multiple video formats applicable for each TC framerate but just one native TC frame rate to each video format. So, if you need genlock out, it is advised to select the correct format first and then just confirm the correctly preselected TC rate.

Audio

Wordclock/Black Audio 31968/…/48000*/…/192192

Only available on ACL204 and in Extended mode

Consecutive menu: Choose between “Wordclock” (50% duty cycle clock at SR) or “Black Audio” (AES3 carrier signal with no signal) and then pick sample rate from 32kHz through 192kHz incl. pull up/down rates.

PPF

1/2/4x

Only available in Extended mode

High/Low

P ulse P er F rame) is used to steer industrial cameras. Rarely used, hence Extended. Pick between 1 , 2 , or

4 pulses per frame with rising ( “High” ) or falling ( “Low” ) slope at frame start.

Off

This will reduce current draw, so if not required, disable sync output.

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Slate Menu

This menu is exclusive to the ACN-LS Lockit Slate

↑ Display LEDs

Display

Sensor

Userbits:

...20s → Clapped TC: 0s…

10s

…20s → Running TC:

...20s/inf

Defines the slate displaying on clap. Successively apply 0 to 20 seconds for Userbits , Clapped TC and

Running generator TC . Selecting a time will automatically move on to the next parameter and the selected value will display in the line above, led by the parameter indicator ( “ UB ”, “CT” , “TC” ).

LEDs

Flash LED:

Clap

/Clap+Seconds/Off

Configures the flash LEDs on front.

“Clap” will light up the 2 bright LEDs only when the slate is operated, allowing for clear identification of the slated frame.

“Clap+Seconds” also flashes LEDs on every second transition.

“Off” defeats the flash LEDs.

Sensor

↑

Adjusts Tilt and Brightness sensors

Tilt Brightness

Tilt “ On/Off” enabling will revert the 7 digit display when the slate is operated upside down for special markers like end slate e.g.

Brightness , choose between “ Man ”, “ Low” , “ Medium” and “ High” .

“ Man ual” lets you adjust the display brightness in 9 steps during operation by flicking the 3-function wheel. Looking from the back, flicking left will de- and moving right increase brightness.

“Low” enables the environment light sensor with a dim setting usefull for late night shoots. Still, when light falls on the slate it will increase brightness for better reading and dim down to not interfere with the shoot.

“Med” is automatic dimming with maximum medium brightness.

“High” is applicable for outdoor shoots in bright light but still with a concern about battery life.

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ACL204

Rev. 4.10

ACN Menu

↑

Slave

Jam Master Ant

Only visible in ACN enabled modes “C-Jam” and “TRX” . “ Slave” , “ Jam” , and “ Master” options are only available in C-Jam mode

ACN Modes

“C-Jam” is an enhanced multidirectional radio connection between ACN enabled units. Timecode is continuously jammed via a master without compromising the autonomous accuracy of the Lockit devices. Also, this mode serves for metadata networking when using a Master Lockit. For more detailed information please refer to the dedicated ACN background chapter.

“TRX” transforms the unit into an ACN based TC radio link with a twist. Each device is in hybrid mode and will automatically turn into a transmitter once LTC or MIDI TC is applied. The generator will then jam sync, follow external timecode on its framerate and transmit timecode, framerate and source status to the receiving units which again kick in their freewheeling generators to follow: No TC output with no TC connected or stopped, “standing” TC (repeating frame at frame rate) with standing TC on TX input and running TC with TC source running. This combines the transparent action of a “classic” timecode radio link with the drop-out proof concept of a freewheeling generator and the intelligent, adjustment-free ACN algorithm.

Note: To further ease configuration and to avoid interference when running both modes in one environment, selecting “C-Jam” and “TRX” have dedicated default channels which will automatically be applied on switching the mode. Factory defaults are 18 for “C-Jam” and 11 for

“TRX” but you can select custom values for both modes in the Ant menu which will be valid until a factory reset is performed.

C-Jam Sync Modes

“Slave” : receive mode. This is the default and on power cycling it will fall back to this. If the unit once had been jammed from a “Master” and initiated the dynamic C-Jam tune this will be indicated by “S” on the main screen lower right. If that master is lost but C-Jam tune is still in operation “S” will alter to “(S)”.

Keep this mode for all units but the dedicated C-Jam master.

“Jam” fires off a One-Time Jam burst, used best when only setting the free running TC generator is required. Quite similar to the classic jam using a cable, you will need to re-jam units after battery change or power cycle. As this is a singular operation the unit will fall back to the “Slave” mode in idle.

“Master” : to enable this mode the generator needs to be set first (indicated by a green flashing LED).

The unit will resend timecode pulses every couple of seconds. “ Slaves” will automatically rejam their generator if not set and dynamically adjust their clock reference to best match the speed of the

“ Master” . Thus, an accuracy window of 10us is achieved, reflecting synchronicity on video line level.

After replacing the batteries on either slave it will automatically jam to the set TC.

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Note: Although each unit can serve as C-Jam master it is very important that just one is actually designated as such and sending out broadcasts. All other units just set to C-Jam mode as slaves.

Changing from “Master” to any other mode will immediately stop C-Jam broadcasts from this unit.

Ant

Select C-Jam ACN channel:

→

Select TRX ACN channel:

→

LNA:

→

Off

/On Ant:

Int

/Ext

(E1, E2)→

Power :

8 dBm

(E , PIN protected)

The Antenna Menu is also available under Sys/Config for configuration when no ACN mode is currently selected.

Sequentially adjust the ACN RF settings. First, select individual default ACN channels for “C-Jam” and

“TRX” mode. Frequencies refer to channels 11 through 26 of the IEEE 802.15.4 LR-WPAN standard (see

Appendix for details). Afterwards enable the Low Noise Amplifier if required. This will improve the reception with a slight impact on battery life. In “Extended” menu view on ACL204 and ACN-TL you can persistently select between internal and external antenna and lastly increase the radiated power. Since this may not be legal depending on your local regulations the last setting is PIN protected. Please consult your dealer if in doubt.

Note: Fitting an external antenna will give you the most noticeable range boost of all tweaks and comes at no cost of battery life. As such, more recent ACN devices such as ACN-LS and ACN-ML do not offer internal antenna. If you plan on using the ACN intensively, retrofitting an external

SMA antenna to Lockit and Tiny Lockit is highly recommended. www.ambient.de/en 17

ACL204

Rev. 4.10

SYS Menu

↑

“Standard” will only show valid settings that have proven practical for the majority of productions, so we highly recommend leaving it sitting here unless you run in apparent limitations to your required configuration. In the above example of ACL204, when selecting a video sync format the only applicable

Important: When using 29DF make sure the whole set does. NEVER run a setup with units mixed on non drop and drop! 29DF will neither sync with 29.97, 30, or any other non drop rate.

“Extended” gives you all available configuration options and reflects the complexity of previous firmware. This mode will unlock video and TC being “crossed”. E.g. you can pick 24 fps TC along with video rates of 25, 50, or 60 fps. This will also unlock sync output for 3D rigs, more uncommon video and

TC rates of 30 and 60 fps, PAL and NTSC SD sync. Additional options include Audio and PPF sync options, apply an Offset to the TC output for compensation of frame processing delay.

Config

Display

Ant USB (1, 3) / LemoACN (2) Bat (1, 2, 3) IR (E )

Brightness: 1…3*…10 →

Consecutively adjusts the OLED in brightness and timeout.

AutoOff:5sec…30sec*... never

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Ant

Select C-Jam ACN channel: 18

→

Select TRX ACN channel: 11

→

LNA: Off /On

→

Ant: Int /Ext

(E1, E2)→

Power

(E , PIN protected)

The consecutive antenna sub menu is restricted to Extended menu and offers sequential tweaks to the

ACN radio.

“LNA: Off/On” enables/defeats the Low Noise Amplifier. This may improve receiving range on the sacrifice of battery life time, default is “Off” .

“Select ACN Antenna: Int/Ext” this option switches between built-in and the optional available SMA antenna for increased range (available on Tiny Lockit and Lockit ACL204 in Extended menu only, ACN-

LS and Master Lockit do not have internal antenna).

Note: To accommodate for retrofitting of external antenna this choice will be permanently stored and be maintained through a factory default restore. Only enable with genuine manufacturer part firmly attached to unit.

“Select ACN tx power: 8dBm” restricted to Extended mode and additionally PIN protected. As per default the ACN is set to the globally maximum allowed ERP level for LR-WPAN of +8dBm. Consult your supplier only if your application legitimizes higher settings up to 18dBm. Increasing output power will strongly affect battery life time, so even if applicable use with good consideration.

USB / LemoACN

MTC

Not available on ACN-ML Master Lockit

COM

Sets the data port mode this is a dedicated USB port on ACL204 and ACN-LS (hence labelled “USB”) and available on pins 3 & 4 on the Lemo “ACN” connector on ACN-TL, see pin out appendix for reference.

ACN-ML Master Lockit has no USB option for ACN and does not show this menu.

“MTC” puts USB into MIDI mode. Connected to a computer the device will be mounted as a standard

USB audio/MIDI device and recognized by supporting software. No drivers or configuration required on both, PC or MAC.

“COM” sets the data port to USB serial. This is usually only necessary for updating.

Note: Although the setting is mode dependent and default to “COM” on “C-Jam” and “int TC” for easy firmware update, you can enable “MTC” in these mode to make the device a MIDI TC generator. If you want to convert LTC to MTC and vice versa, just select modes “TRX” or “Ext TC”.

Bat

Alk

NiMH

Not available on ACN-ML MasterLockit

This menu lets you tweak the battery telemetry read out to the cell type in use. Pick from Lithium,

Alkaline primary cells, and NiMH rechargeables. Readout follows typical discharge curve and accuracy may vary over different manufacturers and battery types, so take with grain of salt. www.ambient.de/en 19

ACL204

Rev. 4.10

IR

Off

Enables the infrared port above the OLED. Only useful in combination with ACC501 controller.

However, leaving the IR port open increases interference sensitivity and compromise reliability of the unit in normal operation, so it is off by default and can only be enabled through “Extended” mode.

Reset

Factory Defaults: Yes

Resets the devices to factory defaults as marked bold in this description

Info

No*

DEV info Debug1 Debug2 Screen test

First screen will show critical device information for serial number, firmware and FPGA software revision, and MAC address, followed by 3 debug screens for developer use only.

LED Blink Codes

Code Legend

●

●●

● ●

● -● flash (generator sync) double flash (low batt warning every 2 seconds) double blink (active ACN transmission) blink (generator free lock) long blink (ACN reception)

Red: Generator Not Set, no ext TC present

Green: Generator Set, running ext/ACN TC detected

Red & green simultaneously: standing ext/ACN TC detected

ACL204

Rev. 4.10

Mode/Seconds

IntTC/C-Jam

Gen Not Set Mute

Gen Not Set Mute, lo Bat

1 2

●

●●

Generator Not Set ● ●

Generator Not Set, loBat ●●

Generator Set ● ●

Generator Set, loBat ●●

Additionally active C-Jam shows the following codes every 6 sec:

C-Jam Master

C-Jam Slave, Master present

C-Jam Slave, Master lost

● ●

●--●

TRX no TC no TC, loBat

TX (ext. LTC/MTC detected)

TC running

TC running, lo Bat

TC standing

TC standing, loBat

RX (TC over ACN detected)

TC running

TC running, loBat

TC standing

TC standing, loBat

●●

●

●●

●

●-●

●●

●

●●

●

●●

●-●

● ●

●-●

Reader (Ext TC) no TC no TC, loBat

TC running

TC running, loBat

TC standing (Ext TC)

TC standing Lo Bat (Ext TC)

●-● ●-●

●-● ●●

●--------- ---------●

●--------- --● ●● ●--

●---------

●-●

●---------

---------●

●-●

--● ●● ●--

experience quality .

www.ambient.de/en 21

ACL204

Rev. 4.10

Firmware Update

To Update your Lockit devices ACL 204, ACN-TL, and ACN-LS download the Lockit Firmware Updater from http://ambient.de/en/downloads/

Unzip or install the version suited for your platform, PC or MAC. Power on your Lockit, go to

Sys/Config/USB or LemoACN menu and select “COM” mode. Connect Lockit or slate via mini USB cable,

Tiny Lockit requires ACN-USB cable. Start the tool and watch the connected unit is listed correctly on the upper right corner. Below you will see the available firmware options.

On clicking “Update” the unit will upload and restart the unit with red and green LEDs flashing alternating while the progress bar fills up until it reaches 100% after which the unit will reboot with new firmware and a success message will appear in the status window. This completes the Firmware update and you can disconnect your unit. Possible major changes under the hood always require a factory restore after updating the firmware.

ACL204

Rev. 4.10

experience quality .

10.

Application Notes

Basics of TC, Sync, ACN and their use cases

Please also watch our video tutorials online: www.ambient.de/en/university and join the Lockit Timecode User Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/lockitusersgroup/

Timecode & Sync

One of the most common misconceptions is that timecode is sync and this is simply not true. It is just one of 2 but both still essential components of synchronization.

“Synchronous” means same time. Now, while timecode is a required information to jam sync several units together and hence make them synchronous, it will not take care to keep them synchronous over a longer time as it will not synchronize the internal clocks. This is usually done via a blank SD or HD video signal, commonly referenced to as genlock. This is why (except for the ARRI Alexa) cameras do have dedicated inputs for timecode and sync and to achieve proper sync setup one should connect both signals. The ACL 204 Lockit provides both and contrary to other existing solutions timecode and sync are always hard locked against each other making it an integral part of the camera.

Choosing the correct video sync format and TC frame rate

Camera market is moving fast and the latest technology of today may be obsolete by tomorrow. Also, manufacturers frequently update the firmware on their products, so it is nearly impossible to give a comprehensive and bullet prove advice which setting is 100% correct for a specific production.

As a rule of thumb, it’s always useful to refer to the project frame base.

Terms like system rate may also apply. This is not only the frame rate the camera is internally working at but also post production and editing will be performed at. It is important that this project rate should not be confused with the sensor speed/frame rate. Also, e.g. in case of Panasonic, the camera may run at

29.97 system frame rate but still record 23.976 – again, it is the system rate that matters and video sync and TC should be set accordingly.

TC should always follow the video frame rate.

There are very few cases that you really would need to cross sync a video to a differing TC rate (e.g. apply 30 or 25 fps TC to 24fps video sync).

What lead to some confusion is the fact, that there are no TC framerates higher than 30 fps. This lies in the specification by the SMPTE. As a result when shooting with “double rates” such as 1080i or P at 48,

50 or 59.94 the correct timecode frame rate will be the according single rate of 24, 25, or 29.97(DF).

To simplify the complex setup the Lockit will preselect the first logical corresponding setting when making adjustments to either TC or video sync. As one particular video format has exactly one matching timecode frame rate, but a TC rate may work with multiple video formats it is recommended to first set the video sync. The correct TC value will automatically be enabled and presented for confirmation. The only choice you will have in Standard mode is to pick from Non Drop vs. Drop (DF) when shooting with a TC rate of 29.97.

Note: Do NEVER mix and match DROP with NON DROP or NTSC area with PAL area rates!

To even further ease the setup process we have condensed the following guideline for the most common camera types. Again, this list does not result in claim or liability to be complete or generality, so if in doubt, please always refer to the specific camera’s manual. If you find inconsistencies or can provide additional information, we would welcome your input to further improve this list. www.ambient.de/en 23

ACL204

Rev. 4.10

ARRI Alexa: being the one and only camera on the market that can actually sync its internal clock to TC, it doesn’t have or require options for external sync. To sync it, set TC to “external regenerate”, attach TC with project frame rate and leave it permanently attached.

ARRI Amira: use project video format.

Canon: the manuals for EOS cinematic cameras are unfortunately quite sparse about external sync, but

“When a reference sync signal (analog blackburst or tri-level signal) is input through the GENLOCK terminal, the phases of the camera’s V and H sync will automatically be synchronized to it.“ hint that using the exact project settings should work. Also, it seems 1080p sync is accepted for shooting in 720p. XF legacy cameras or mode will require 59.97i/60i when shooting at 23.98/24.

Panasonic: 1080i @ double or single project (system) frame base for 1080P & PsF, follow project

(system) format for 720P or SD.

RED One: set the sync format according to the project frame rate

RED DSMC: always 1080P @ project frame base (23.976/24 on HFR rates), set HDSDI out to auto except when shooting 47.5/48 HFR select 23.976/24.

Sony: 1080i or PsF @ project frame base, as 1080i double completely corresponds to 1080PsF single rates you may stick with either (e.g. 1080i 50 for 25 or 50fps, 1080i 29.97 for 29.97 and 59.94 fps).

Note: Sony won’t operate at 24 but 23.98, so always use 1080i 47.95 on cinematic productions.

Panasonic: 1080i or PsF @ project (system) frame base for 1080P & PsF, follow video format for 720P or SD.

ACN

ACN is a proprietary wireless protocol, specifically engineered for highest reliability, data integrity, and range. It operates on 2.4GHz using channels 11-26 of the IEEE 802.15.4 LR-WPAN standard.

Aside time code and sync, ACN is the key feature of the current Ambient Lockit range. Building up on the unrivalled tunable oscillator it can be used to enhance the accuracy from better than frame accurate down to video line level grade.

All that is needed is an arbitrary number of Lockit devices set to C-Jam mode and one of them configured to be the C-Jam master. The C-Jam master will then send out broadcast pulses which the slaves will respond to and in case they detect a discrepancy automatically correct their pace. This will, however, in no way sacrifice the unparalleled, self-contained accuracy. In case the radio cuts out, all units will continue to operate as used to.

Note:

O nly ONE C-Jam master is allowed! Make sure no other unit is set to send sync broadcasts.

Also the ACN can be used to set up a metadata network on the set to collect, con- and distribute metadata between different units and departments. At the core will be one Master Lockit which is acting as server and can be used to monitor and control all other ACN enabled devices remotely via a web interface that is accessible from any modern unit with internet browser.

A second mode, TRX, will allow the units to operate as an enhanced TC radio link. Again, this is not your ordinary timecode over wireless but instead the transmitter will jam a free running generator in the receiver(s) to incoming TC with auto frame setting and then send information whether the source is running, stopping with standing TC or has stopped altogether. The receiving unit will then duplicate the

TC source’s status as it would directly be connected without danger of drop outs compromising the desired functionality.

On top, this not only works with “classic” SMPTE TC but also MIDI timecode (MTC) with the Lockit device connected to MAC or PC via USB acting as a USB MIDI interface.

ACL204

Rev. 4.10

experience quality

As all current products including the Lockit Slate come equipped with ACN transceiver any device can serve as transmitter or receiver. This dramatically cuts down costs for additional equipment at a maximum of flexibility.

11.

Physical Specifications

(L / W / H): 100 x 74 x 36 mm Dimensions:

Weight:

Power consumption:

0.25 Kg (no batteries)

90 mA (3 Volts, typical)

12.

ACN Radio

Integrated internal antenna, for better range see Accessories, Cables, and Spares for optional external

SMA antenna.

RF Standard: IEEE 802.14.4, LR WPAN, 2.4GHz

ACN Channel Center Frequency [MHz]

2445

2450

2455

2460

2465

2470

2475

2480

2405

2410

2415

2420

2425

2430

2435

2440 www.ambient.de/en 25

Rev. 4.10

13.

Accessories, Cables, and Spares

ACM-204

Ambient Lockit Mount is a quick release mount with a fixable 3/8” male thread.

ACM-TL

Quick release mount with a fixable 3/8” male thread for older Lockits and/or other Ambient

Lockit units.

ACM-FS

Adapter 3/8” to cold shoe

TC-SYNC/EPIC

Lockit TC & Sync output split cable, for

RED Epic/Scarlet

Lemo 0B 5-pin/BNC 90° to Lemo 00 4-pin,

40 cm

RCP-I/O

Meta data interface cable for RED cameras

5-pin Lemo to 4-pin Lemo, 40 cm

ACL204

Rev. 4.10

LEP

External Lockit power cable

4-pin Hirose plug to 5-pin Lemo, 50 cm

LEP/ALEXA

Lockit extern power cable for Alexa 12 V output

2-pin Lemo plug to 5-pin Lemo, 50 cm

LEP/PC

Lockit extern power cable

D-Tap to 5-pin Lemo, 50 cm

ACL-T

Pouch for Ambient Lockits, old designs (ACL202 & ACL203).

Pleather with polythene foil window

experience quality .

www.ambient.de/en 27

ACL204

Rev. 4.10

14.

Warranty

Ambient Recording GmbH warrants the Lockit Sync Box ACL204 against defects in materials and workmanship for a period of ONE (1) year from date of original retail purchase. This is a nontransferable warranty that extends only to the original purchaser. Ambient Recording GmbH will repair or replace the product at its discretion at no charge. Warranty claims due to severe service conditions will be addressed on an individual basis. THE WARRANTY AND REMEDIES SET FORTH ABOVE ARE

EXCLUSIVE. AMBIENT RECORDING GMBH DISCLAIMS ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED,

INCLUDING WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. AMBIENT

RECORDING GMBH IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES

ARISING FROM ANY BREACH OF WARRANTY OR UNDER ANY OTHER LEGAL THEORY. Because some jurisdictions do not permit the exclusion or limitations set forth above, they may not apply in all cases.

For all service, including warranty repair, please send the ACL204, along with proof of purchase date to your retailer, or, if not applicable, to:

Ambient Recording GmbH

Schleissheimer Str. 181 C

DE – 80797 Muenchen, Germany

Please obtain a return authorization through the contact form on our website before sending in a unit.

15.

Approvals

CE Conformity Statement:

Declaration of Conformity

According to ISO/IEC Guide 22

Manufacturer’s Name: Ambient Recording GmbH

Manufacturer’s Address: Schleissheimer Str. 181 C, DE – 80797 Muenchen, Germany declares that the product: ACL204 Synchronizer is in conformity with:

- EN 60950-1:2006 + A11:2009+A1:2010+A12:2011+AC:2011

- EN 300 440-1 V1.6.1

- EN 300 440-2 V1.4.1

- EN 301 489-1 V1.9.2

- EN 301 489-3 V1.4.1 which is indicated and affirmed by the applied CE marking.

FCC Statement

The FCC requires that the following statements be included in this manual for ACL204:

ACL204

Rev. 4.10

experience quality

FCC § 15.19

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:

(1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

Canada CNR-Gen Section 7.1.3

This device complies with Industry Canada licence-exempt RSS standard(s). Operation is subject to the following two conditions:(1) this device may not cause interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.

Le présent appareil est conforme aux CNR d'Industrie Canada applicables aux appareils radio exempts de licence. L'exploitation est autorisée aux deux conditions suivantes : (1) l'appareil ne doit pas produire de brouillage, et (2) l'utilisateur de l'appareil doit accepter tout brouillage radioélectrique subi, même si le brouillage est susceptible d'en compromettre le fonctionnement.

FCC § 15.21

Any changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.

FCC § 15.105

Note: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

—Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

—Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.

—Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.

—Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

ICES-003

This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.

Cet appareil numérique de la classe B est conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada.

March 2012, Ambient Recording GmbH

Updated August 2013, Ambient Recording GmbH, Sebastian Fell

Updated January 2016, Ambient Recording GmbH, Klaus Grosser

Updated July 2016, Ambient Recording GmbH, Klaus Grosser www.ambient.de/en 29

experience quality.

MADE IN GERMANY

Ambient Recording GmbH

Schleissheimer Straße 181 C | D E – 80797 Munich | vox +49 89 360 55 10-0 | fax +49 89 651 85 5 8 www.ambient.de | info@ambient.de

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