CB Electronics TG-1 Timecode Gearbox User Manual

CB Electronics TG-1 Timecode Gearbox User Manual

The CB Electronics TG-1 Timecode Gearbox is a versatile device used to convert between different timecode standards and frame rates. You can use it to convert between 24fps film, 25fps EBU, and 29.97fps SMPTE timecode, as well as drop-frame and non-drop frame formats. This device is ideal for situations where you are working with different timecode standards, such as when you are dubbing a final mix to film at 24fps and you are supplied a dialogue tape recorded to a 25fps video, or when you need to convert from drop to non-drop timecode. Additionally, the TG-1 can be used to slave a video machine to a different frame rate, which is helpful for preparing music tracks for a 24fps film to a 25fps PAL video or for NTSC releases of PAL video.

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CB Electronics TG-1 Timecode Gearbox User Manual | Manualzz

CB ELECTRONICS

Loddonside, Lands End House, Beggars Hill Road, Charvil, Berks RG10 0UD, UK

Tel: +44 (0)118 9320345, Fax: +44 (0)118 9320346, www:colinbroad.com

TG-1 Timecode Gearbox

Timecode Standard/Framerate Converter

* Timecode Input any standard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

24, 25(EBU), 30(SMPTE), DROP FRAME

* Timecode Output any standard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

24, 25(EBU), 30(SMPTE), DROP FRAME

* Input : Output Frame Rate Gearbox . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23.97 : 24 : 24.97 : 25 : 29.97 : 30

* Switchable Timecode Generator Lock Source . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Reader, Video

* RS232 Serial Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ASCII Protocol

* RS422 Sony P2 Output . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Video Slave at any Frame Rate

* 6 Preset configurations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Easy Setup for Repeat Jobs

The Timecode Gearbox is used whenever you have to mix code standards, This is normally because someone has supplied you with an Audio or Video ant a different standard or Frame rate:-

Example 1:

The M & E track has been supplied with 29.97 fps SMPTE timecode and you are working with

25 fps EBU timecode.

Example 2:

You are dubbing the final mix to film @ 24 fps and you are supplied a Dialogue tape recorded to a 25fps Video.

The Timecode Gearbox may also be used to change standard/timecode value without gearbox action

Example 3:

You are working with a system that does not recognise Drop frame code and you need to convert from drop to non drop.

Example 4:

You have almost finished your Mix and a new video is supplied with different timecode.

The Synchroniser section of the TG-1 may be used to synchronize any non-linear VTR (V-Mod, V-1,

Viper) or Dynamic scan VTR at a different frame rate.

Example 5:

You wish to prepare the music tracks for a 24fps Film to a 25fps PAL video, you can use the

TG-1 to slave the Video to 24fps so that there is no pitch shift on the final version.

The Synchronizer section of the TG-1 may be used in the generation of different format tapes for release.

Example 6:

You wish to make a NTSC release of a PAL video, use the TG-1 to slave the replay machine to the timecode output of the Record machine.

CB Electronics TG-1 Timecode Gearbox TG1 1

CB Electronics TG-1 Timecode Gearbox TG1 2

CB Electronics TG-1 Timecode Gearbox TG1 3

CB Electronics TG-1 Timecode Gearbox TG1 4

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CONTENTS

1.0 DISPLAY

1.01 Generator timecode

1.02 Reader timecode

1.03 Generator USER bits

1.04 Reader USER bits

1.06 FRM.D.

1.07 STD

1.08 REF

2.0 GENERATOR

2.10 G.RESET

2.11 FREEZE

2.20 JAM/TRANSLATE

2.21 RATIO IN

2.22 RATIO OUT

2.23 Displaying the % Deviation from Nominal Speed

2.24 JAM/TRANSLATE WITH OFFSET

2.25 JAM/TRANSLATE EXAMPLES

3.0 GENERATOR SETUP

3.01 Generator setup

3.1 Set Sync Point: Exit with GEN led illuminated

3.2 Set Offset: Exit with OFST led illuminated

3.3 Set Different Reader & Generator Sync Points: Exit with READ led illuminated

4. UNIT / VIDEO / SERIAL CONFIGURATION

4.00 UNIT CONFIGURATION

4.01 GENERATOR STANDARD

4.02 GENERATOR REFERENCE

4.03 GENERATOR USER BIT SOURCE

4.04 LOW/HIGH SPEED CODE

4.05 CONTINUOUS CODE

4.06 STATIONARY CODE

4.07 BURST LENGTH

4.08 TIMECODE OUTPUT

4.09 JAM DROPOUT FILTER

4.10 DIFFERENCE DISPLAY

4.11 SERIAL-B CHASE TYPE

4.12 G.USER DISPLAY

4.13 SERIAL-A POSITION SOURCE

4.14 DEFAULT SMPTE NON DROP FRAME RATE

4.15 Default DROP/NON-DROP for SMPTE Timecode

4.16 24 Frame timecode at 25 fps

4.17 Conversion Delay Correction +/- 10 frames

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4.** USER CONFIGURATION TABLE

6.00 RESET

6.01 POWER-UP RESET

6.02 CPU CARD RESET

6.03 SOFT RESET

6.04 HARD RESET

6.05 MANUAL HARD RESET

7.00 SERIAL CONTROL

7.01 USING THE TG-1 WITH A SR/MR SYSTEM

7.02 SPECIAL COMMANDS FROM THE SR/MR

7.10 SLAVING A VTR

7.11 INCREMENT / DECREMENT OFFSET

7.12 ENABLE

7.13 MASTER TIMECODE

7.2 SERIAL CONFIGURATION

7.21 MACHINE TYPE:

7.22 SLAVE POSITION SOURCE

7.23 RECORD ENABLE

7.24 SYNCHRONISER ENABLE

7.25 LOCAL OFSET

7.26 START DELAY

7.27 PARK OFFSET

7.28 LOCATE

7.29 USE LOCATE Only or WIND and Locate

7.30 NUMBER OF TRY’s

7.31 COMMUNICATION POSITION

7.32 ALLOWABLE SYNC ERROR

7.33 CHASE ALGORITHM

7.34 SERIAL TRACK ARM COMMAND

7.35 POSITION REQUEST TYPE

7.36 REVERSE SYNCHRONISE COMMAND

7.37 FORWARD SYNCHRONISE COMMAND

7.37 MACHINE ID

8.00 REAR PANEL CONNECTIONS

8.01 POWER INPUT

8.02 Input XLR

8.03 OUTPUT XLR

8.04 EXT. REF. BNC

8.05 VIDEO REF. BNC’s

8.06 INSERT I/P BNC

8.07 INSERT O/P BNC’s

8.08 SERIAL-A

8.09 SERIAL-B

8.10 Aux-B

Appendices: hardware set-up

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DRAWINGS

TG1FP

Front panel drawing showing KEY and Display functions.

TCRCON

Rear panel drawing showing input/output connectors and typical video interconnection.

FILMCOD-1

Frame rate input and timecode output

FILMCOD-2

Fame rate measurement and generation.

PSU-1

Video reference decoder, reference selection, reference monostable.

PSU-2

Power fail detect, +12 volt, +6 volt, +5 volt, -12 volt regulator circuit, battery backup.

VITVIDEO

Video inserter and microprocessor interface

VITC

VITC reader analog and digital.

MICROD-1

CPU, Front panel driver.

MICROD-2

Time code reader and serial communications.

TG1FRAME

Frame drawing showing all cabling.

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1.0 DISPLAY

In normal operation the eight digit display may show any of the following:-

GEN.

OFFSET

READER

DIFF

G.USER

Generator timecode

Offset

Reader timecode

Difference

Video Position

Depress the SELECT key repeatedly until the required display is selected.

1.01 Generator timecode

To display the timecode output value, push the [SELECT] key repeatedly until the GEN LED is illuminated

1.02 Offset

The user specified offset between the Generator and reader.

1.03 Reader timecode

Timecode Reader 1 (Input)

1.04 Difference

The Difference display can show either of the following as selected in the Unit Configuration:-

diF REAd

Generator position - Reader Position

diF Uid

Generator position - Video position

1.05 Generator USER bits

The G.USER display can show one of the following as selected in the Unit Configuration:-

GUd USER

GUd Vid

GUd tcr2

Generator user bits

Video (Serial B) position

Timecode Reader 2(Aux B) timecode input

1.06 FRM.D

This key is used to enable or disable the display of frames. The FRM.D. LED is illuminated when the frame display is disabled.

This key also enable’s and disable’s the frame display in the inserted video if this option is fitted.

1.07 STD

READER STANDARD

These LED’s will illuminate to indicate the standard and frame rate of the incoming code.

GENERATOR STANDARD

These LED’s will illuminate to indicate the selected standard of the timecode generator.

Note. See the CONFIGURATION section for the method of selecting the generator frame rate and standard.

The standards recognised are as follows:-

24

25

29

29+30

30

24 Frame per second FILM timecode

25 frame per second EBU timecode

29.97 frame per second SMPTE non drop timecode

29.97 frame per second SMPTE drop frame timecode

30 frame per second SMPTE timecode

1.08 REF

CB Electronics TG-1 Timecode Gearbox TG1 9

These LED’s illuminate to indicate the selected frame rate reference for the timecode generator.

The following external references may be selected:-

VIDEO

READER

External composite video input

Internally derived reader frame rate

When play speed code is present the reference LED will flash until the generator is locked to the incoming timecode and selected reference.

Note: See the CONFIGURATION section for method of selecting generator reference.

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2.00 GENERATOR

2.10 G.RST

This key is used to stop, reset and start the generator to the preset start time. When the G.RST

LED is illuminated the generator is stopped and reset to the preset start time. To start the generator depress the G.RST key, the generator will start and the G.RST LED will be extinguished.

Note: See the SETUP section for method of setting the preset start time.

2.11 FREEZE

Freeze(Stop) the generator, when the generator is Stopped the Freeze LED is illuminated.

2.20 JAM/TRANSLATE/GEARBOX

When the JAM LED is illuminated the generator is numerically locked to the reader, where the reader and generator standards are different or where the input and output ratio’s are different the reader time will be translated. There are five different jam modes available, the various JAM modes are selected in the configuration section. The generator is always locked to the selected reference

XTAL-VIDEO-EXT-LINE-READER, if it is required to lock the generator to an external code source then JAM should be enabled in the selected mode and the generator reference should be selected to READER.

The Ratio of input and output timecode speeds is set by two parameters in the configuration section (4.03, 4.04). Two parameters are used as to set this with one parameter would require 49 different settings! The Input and output ratios are set separately reducing this to a total of 14 different settings. To simplify use both an Auto-in and Auto-out mode have been included. The table below shows the input/output ratio when auto is used. Note that Auto assumes that drop and non-drop frame rates are the same for the purposes of speed translation.

2.21 RATIO IN : Auto / 23.97 / 24 / 24.97 / 25 / 29.97 /30

When set to Auto-In the input timecode standard frame rate is used for the input ratio of the frame rate gearbox. When Auto is disabled the 23.97, 24, 24.97, 25, 29.97, 30 keys may be used to set the input Ratio of the frame rate gearbox.

2.22 RATIO OUT: Auto / 23.97 / 24 / 24.97 / 25 / 29.97 / 30

When Auto-Out is enabled the 23.97 / 24 / 24.97 / 25 / 29.97 / 30 keys are used to set both the output timecode standard and the output ratio of the frame rate gearbox. When Auto is disabled the 23.87, 24, 24.97, 25, 29.97, 30 keys are set only the output ratio of the frame rate gearbox.

Auto-In & Auto-Out

25

25

25

25

24

24

24

24

SMPTE DROP

SMPTE DROP

SMPTE DROP

SMPTE DROP

SMPTE ND

SMPTE ND

SMPTE ND

SMPTE ND

24

25

29nd/29d

30

24

25

29nd/29d

30

24

25

29nd/29d

30

24

25

29nd/29d

30

1 : 1

24 : 25

24 : 30

24 : 30

25 : 24

1 : 1

25 : 30

25 : 30

29.97 : 24

29.97 : 25

1 : 1

1 : 1

30 : 24

30 : 25

1 : 1

1 : 1

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Table to show the speed translation when set for Auto in & Auto-out

Input Standard Output Standard Speed Translation

24

24

24

24

25

25

25

25

SMPTE DROP

SMPTE DROP

SMPTE DROP

SMPTE DROP

SMPTE ND

SMPTE ND

SMPTE ND

SMPTE ND

24

25

29nd/29d

30

24

25

29nd/29d

30

24

25

29nd/29d

30

24

25

29nd/29d

30

0%

+4.167%

+24.875%

+25%

-4%

0%

+19.88%

+20%

-19.92%

-16.583%

0%

+0.1%

-19.92%

-16.583%

0%

+0.1%

Generator frame count = (Reader frame count * OutRatio/InRatio)

How it is done

Timecode time (HH:MM:SS:FF) is converted to and from a binary frame count, this conversion is carried out using the reader/generator standard and not the In/Out Ratio. The reader timecode is converted to a binary frame count using the timecode reader standard, the input frame count is converted to the Generator frame count using the In/Out Ratio, the Generator frame count is then converted to timecode using the timecode generator standard.

2.23 Displaying the % Deviation from Nominal Speed

Depress the ALT key to view the percentage deviation from play speed. This will display the Output code speed deviation as follows

If Input Standard = Output Standard then

Speed Deviation% = (100 * Output Ratio / Input Ratio)-100

ELSE

Deviation% = (100 * Output Ratio * Input FPS/Input Ratio * Output FPS)-100 where FPS = ’Frames per Second’.

In the timecode generator setup we can define the nominal speed of SMPTE Non Drop code as 29.97

or 30 frames per second GStd29nd and G Std 30 as two separate frames rates for SMPTE non drop timecode, the timecode reader cannot distinguish between these two possibilities. The user must set a Flag rStd29nd or r Std 30 this will set the assumed nominal speed of SMPTE Non Drop timecode.

In video enviroments this should be set to rStd29nd.

Examples:-

1) Converting between 29.97 drop frame code and 29 on-drop code

Use Auto-In and Auto-Out, set the generator standard to GStd29nd, or G Std 30.

CB Electronics TG-1 Timecode Gearbox TG1 12

2) Generating 25fps code to lock a DAT when running a film transfer at 25fps (4% fast) i) Disable Input Ratio Auto ii) Select Input ratio 24 iii) Enable Output Ratio Auto iv) Select Output Ratio 25 This sets the output standard and frame rate.

2.24 JAM/TRANSLATE WITH OFFSET

It is often necessary to jam the generator to the reader with an offset. When using the gearbox this is always required as the offset changes with the timecode value. There are three ways of setting an offset as follows:-

1) Set the timecode value at which there is a zero offset

Depress the [SET] key and select GEN.

Use the [<-], [->], [DEC], and [INC] keys to set the timecode value required.

[SET] key and exit setup with the GEN. LED illuminated.

2) Set the offset between the Reader and Generator timecode’s.

Depress the [SET] key and select OFFSET

Use the [<-], [->], [DEC], and [INC] keys to set the timecode offset required.

Depress the [SET] key and exit setup with the OFFSET. LED illuminated.

Depress the

Setting a Negative offset

Depress the [SET] key and select GEN.

Depress the [DEC], and [INC] keys simultaneously to reset the Generator timecode value to

00:00:00:00.

Select READER and set the Reader timecode value to the required negative offset.

Depress the [SET] key and exit setup with the READER LED illuminated.

3) Set the Generator time required for a specified reader time.

Depress the [SET] key and select GEN.

Use the [<-], [->], [DEC], and [INC] keys to set the Generator timecode value required.

Select READER and set the Reader timecode value.

Depress the [SET] key and exit setup with the READER LED illuminated.

Generator frame count =

(Reader frame count * OutRatio/InRatio) + [generator reset frame count - (Reader Reset frame count * OutRatio/InRatio)]

Note 1.

When Drop frame timecode is used care must be taken to ensure that the output code does not pass from 23:59:59:29 to 00:00:00:00 when converting assuming a 30 fps ratio. This is due to the

2592 frame difference in the number of frames in a day between 29.97 and 30 frame code.

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EXAMPLE

If the start of picture on a tape is at 9:55:23:13 and a time of 1:00:00:00 is required for the start of picture.:-

Depress the SET key so that the SET LED is illuminated.

Depress the SELECT key repeatedly until the GEN. LED is illuminated. Use the [<-[, [->], [INC],

[DEC] keys until the display shows 1:00:00:00.

Depress the SELECT key twice so that the READER LED is illuminated. Set the display to

09:55:23:13.

Depress SET to leave configuration. Enable JAM if and run the tape, G.RST may be used to stop the generator, the generator should be enabled as soon as good code is read.

2.25 JAM EXAMPLES/TRANSLATE

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3.0 GENERATOR SETUP

The GENERATOR SETUP mode is entered by depressing the SET key, when the setup mode is active the SET LED is illuminated.

When the SET LED is illuminated the function of the SELECT key is modified so that only the generator timecode, user bits, or reader timecode may be selected.

The user may then specify the generator reset timecode value, the generator user bits and the reader timecode which is equivalent to the generator timecode when jamming with an offset. The value is modified as follows, the decimal point is used as a cursor to indicate the digit which will be modified by the numeric or INC and DEC keys. The cursor keys < and > move the cursor clockwise and anti-clockwise.

CLEAR: If both INC and DEC keys are depressed simultaneously the current displayed data will be cleared to all zero’s.

To leave the setup mode depress the SET key.

3.1 Set Sync Point: Exit SET with GEN led illuminated

To set a Sync point where both Generator and Reader times are identical, Select GEN, set the generator time and exit whist the GEN led is illuminated.

3.2 Set Offset: Exit SET with OFST led illuminated

To Set an Offset, sellect OFST adust to desired value using inc, DEC, <- and -> keyst then exit with the OFST led illuminated.

3.3 Set Different Reader & Generator Sync Points: Exit SET with READ led illuminated

To set a sync point with different Generator and reader times. Select GEN adjust to required output timecode value, then select READ and adjust to the desired input sync point. Exit with the READ led illuminated by depressing the [SET] key.

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Menu Flow Chart

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4. UNIT / EEPROM / SERIAL CONFIGURATION

CONFIGURATION SELECTION

The configuration of the unit is selected by first depressing the SET key so that the SET LED is illuminated then depress both <- and -> simultaneously to enable configuration selection. The first display allows you to select which configuration you wish to adjust UNIt / EEPRONN / VIdEO / SErIAL.

Make your selection and then depress <- and -> simultaneously to select.

4.000 EEPROM

The adition of an EEPROM to the system allows the user to select between three different settings as follows:

1) Current: Held in battery backed RAM destroyed when Read User or Read Factory are selected or a Hard Reset command.

2) User: Selected by Read User or a hard reset command

3) Factory: Selected by Read Factory

The EEPROM section of the setup that determins the action to be taken on leaving Setup as follows

NoUPdAtE No action

SAVE USR Write current user setings from Batery backed RAM to EEPROM

LOAd USR Write saved settings from EEPROM to Batery backed RAM

LOAd FAC Write Factory Default settings to Batery backed RAM

Units shipped after May 2003 have the EEPROM fitted by default, older units can be updated by a a plug in PCB and new software.

Installing EEPROM Software for the first time

iv) v) vi) vii)

When new software is installed where it is necessary to initialise user setup in the EEPROM as follows:i) Enter Setup ii) iii)

Select the EEPROM Menu

Select LOAd FAC.

Exit setup.

Enter setup

Select the EEPROM Menu

Select SAVE USR iii) Exit Setup and wait until Urite EE stopps flashing

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4.00 UNIT CONFIGURATION

The first display in the unit configuration indicates witch of the four selectable setup’s the unit is set to.

The four choices CONFIG 1 .. CONFIG 4 may be selected simply by using the INC, DEC, <- or -> keys, once you have chosen and modified the configuration use the SET key to exit.

CONFIGURATION MODIFICATION

To modify a parameter within a selected configuration then simultaneously depress both <- and -> keys a second time to enter the configuration menu (note. a third simultaneous depression of these keys will enter the SERIAL CONFIGURATION MENU). Once in the CONFIGURATION MENU the display indicates either the parameter to be modified or the various selections of a particular parameter as follows:-

G Std 25 / G Std 30 / G Std 24 / GStd 29d / GStd29nd

GEn rEF

GUSR SET / GU rdr t / GU rdr u

GSPd SPH / GSPd PPH / GSPd SPP / GSPd PPP

CONT ON / CONT OFF

SCodE ON / SCod OFF

BURST 06

Norn Out / PLAY Out / SYNC Out

DroPO 10 diF REAd / diF Vid

USE SErb / ChS PLAY / ChS UAri / ChS Cnnd / ChS CndP

GUd USER / GUdVid / GUd tcr2

SEr Auto / SER GEN / SEr Port / SEr rdr

Ain2997 / Ain 30

ANONdroP / A droP

24 At 24 / 24 At 25

OFST 00

The < and > keys are used to select the parameter displayed. The INC and DEC keys are used to change the selection of the displayed parameter.

When the SET key is depressed both the CONFIGURATION and SETUP modes are exited. The parameters are then set as selected whilst in setup or CONFIGURATION.

4.01 GENERATOR STANDARD:

G Std 25 / G Std 30 / G Std 24 / GStd 29d / GStd29nd

The generator standard may be set to any of the following:-

25

30

25 fps EBU timecode

30 fps SMPTE non drop timecode

24

24 fps FILM timecode

29d

29.97 fps SMPTE drop timecode

29nd

29.97 fps SMPTE non drop timecode

The System will behave the same for both 30 and 29nd unless Auto output is selected when the speed ratio is different.

4.02 GENERATOR REFERENCE:GEN REF

The generator frame rate reference may be set to any of the following:-

VIDEO

External video reference.

READER

Internal reference from the time code reader.

4.03 GENERATOR USER BIT SOURCE: GEnU-PSt / GU-rdr t / GU-rdr u

The source for the generator user bits may be selected to the following:-

GEnU-PSt

As preset by the user in SETUP.

GU-rdr t

Timecode reader time

GU-rdr u

Timecode reader User bits

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4.04 LOW/HIGH SPEED CODE:

GSPd PPP / GSPd SPH / GSPd PPH / GSPd SPP

When the input pulse rate is below 2/3 of play speed the output frame rate can no longer track the input. When the input pulse rate is above 4/3 of play speed the output frame rate can no longer track the input.

GSPd PPP

Slow speed:- The timecode output frame rate is set to nominal speed and position update on change.

High Speed:- The timecode output frame rate is set to nominal speed and position update on change.

GSPd SPH

Slow Speed:- The timecode output frame rate is set at 1/4 of nominal speed and position update on change.

Hi Speed:- The timecode output frame rate is set at 4 x nominal speed and position update on change.

GSPd PPH

Slow speed:- The timecode output frame rate is set to nominal speed and position update on change.

Hi Speed:- The timecode output frame rate is set at 4 x nominal speed and position update on change.

GSPd SPP

Slow Speed:- The timecode output frame rate is set at 1/4 of nominal speed and position update on change.

High Speed:- The timecode output frame rate is set to nominal speed and position update on change.

4.05 CONTINUOUS CODE: CONt OFF / CONt ON

The output when the film is stopped is determined by this flag:-

CONT OFF

CONT ON

No timecode output.

Stationary timecode.

4.06 STATIONARY CODE: SCod ON / S Cod OFF

If the output is inhibited when the film is stopped some timecode readers will not recognise the jump in timecode value when G.RST is depressed. If this problem is encountered then setting this option to

S Cod OFF may solve this problem. When enabled the generator starts one second before the G.RST

point and than plays to the point.Synchronizers that work correctly with stationary code include the

Adams Smith, Studer 4000 and Timeline, synchronizers that will not work with stationary code include

Tascam, Studer 2000 and Q-Lock.

S Cod ON

Stationary code allowed, Time code numbers may be repeated.

SCod OFF

Stationary code not allowed, Time code numbers should increment to current position.

NOTE: See section 4.09, this must be set to CONt OFF.

4.07 BURST LENGTH: bUrSt 06

When JAM CODE is enabled and the generator is jammed to high speed code it is not possible to follow frame by frame because the generator runs at play speed only. The output of the generator jumps in value to follow the input code. Most readers require several sequential frames of code before they will read. BURST sets the number of sequential frames output. BURST may be set between 1 and

30.

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4.08 TIMECODE OUTPUT: Norn Out / PLAY Out / SYNC Out

This flag determines when the timecode output is enabled as follows:-

Norm Out

The timecode output is enabled at all times.

PLAY Out

The timecode output is only enabled when generating incrementing Code at play speed.

SYNC Out

The timecode output is only enabled when the generator is phase locked.

4.09 JAM DROPOUT FILTER: droPO 10

When JAM is enabled this parameter sets the minimum length of dropout accepted before it is assumed that the input code has stopped. This parameter may be set between 1 and 99 frames.

A dropout longer than specified will result in the generator stopping with the numbers jammed to the last known good reader timecode. When new code arrives the generator starts up and re-jams to the new code.

4.10 DIFFERENCE DISPLAY: diF REAd / diF Vid

This parameter allows the user to display either the difference between the Generator and Reader or the difference between the Generator and Video Slave when the difference display is selected.

4.11 SERIAL B CHASE TYPE:

ChS SERb / ChS PLAY / ChS UAri / ChS Cnnd

This parameter allows the user to set the serial chase type for each configuration. Note. When enabled this selection overrides the selection made in the serial B configuration.

USE SERb

Use the selection made in Serial B.

ChS PLAY

Chase then lock using variplay, send PLAY command once frame lock is acheived.

ChS UAri

Chase then lock using Vari-Play commands only.

ChS Cnnd

Send Chase command to machine.

ChS CndP

Send Chase until locked command to machine.

4.12 GEN USER DISPLAY: GUd USER / GUd Vid / GUd tcr2

The parameter allows the user to display different data in place of the Generator User bits as follows:-

GUd USER

GUd Vid

GUd tcr2

Generator user bits

Video (Serial B) position

TCR2 (Aux B) timecode input

4.13 SERIAL-A POSITION REPORT

This parameter defines the position reported by Serial-A when responding to a Sony Protocol position request as follows:

SEr Auto

SEr GEN

SER Port

SEr rdr

Timecode Generator output in play, converterted Video Machine position when stopped.

Timecode Generator position (Gearbox Output)

Video Machine Position (as reported on Serial-B),

Timecode Reader Position (LTC Input)

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4.14 Default SMPTE Timecode Rate

This parameter defines the assumed speed for SMPTE timecode when set to Auto Input Ratio.

Ain 2997

Ain 30

In ratio = 29.97

In Ratio = 30

4.15 Default DROP/NON-DROP for SMPTE Timecode

This parameter defines the Generator Standard when Auto out is enabled and either 29.97 or 30 are selected as the output Ratio.

ANONdroP

A droP

Output Standard for 29.97 & 30 = SMPTE Non-Drop

Output Standard for 29.97 & 30 = SMPTE Drop

4.16 24 Frame timecode at 25 fps

This parameter is used when slaving a video machine running 24 frame code at 25fps via Port B

24 At 24

24 At 25

Normal, machine connected to port B running 24 frame timecode at 24 fps.

25 fps mode, connected to port B running 24 frame timecode at 25 fps.

4.17 Conversion Delay Correction +/- 10 frames

This parameter is used to correct for the delay incurred in video processing, The timecode output is adjusted only when in play. when stationary the timecode output is not adjusted.

CB Electronics TG-1 Timecode Gearbox TG1 21

4.2 SERIAL-A, SERIAL-B CONFIGURATION

See Section 7 Serial Communications

4.** USER CONFIGURATION TABLE

When installing new software or after a HARD RESET it is important that the configuration of the unit remains the same. This sheet is provided for that purpose, please write down the current configuration so as to be able to reset the unit correctly. Remember that the next engineer to use the unit may not be a fully understand why it has been set up in this way!

GENERATOR SETUP

The user may then specify the generator reset timecode value, the generator user bits and the reader timecode which is equivalent to the generator timecode when jamming with an offset. The value is modified as follows, the decimal point is used as a cursor to indicate the digit which will be modified by the numeric or INC and DEC keys. The cursor keys < and > move the cursor clockwise and anti-clockwise.

CLEAR: If both INC and DEC keys are depressed simultaneously the current displayed data will be cleared to all zero’s.

To leave the setup mode depress the SET key.

SELECT

GEN

OFFSET

READER

Generator Reset Time

Generator Reset USER

Generator Reset OFFSET

Setting

_____________

_____________

_____________

Nominal

10:00:00:00

00:00:00:00

00:00:00:00

UNIT CONFIGURATION

Setting

_____________

_____________

_____________

_____________

_____________

_____________

_____________

_____________

_____________

_____________

_____________

_____________

_____________

_____________

_____________

Nominal

CONFIG 1

GEn Std 25

Ref READER

GUSR SEt

GSPd PPP

Cont ON

SCode ON bUrSt 06

Norn Out droPO 10 diF Vid

USE SErb

GUd USER

SEr Port nd-2997

Options

CONFIG 1 / CONFIG 2 / CONFIG 3 / CONFIG 4

GStd 24 / GStd 25 / GStd 29nd / GStd 30 / GStd 29d

VIDEO, READER

GUSR SEt / GU rdr t / GU rdr u

GSPd SPH / GSPd PPH / GSPd SPP / GSPd PPP

CONT ON / CONT OFF

SCodE ON / SCod OFF bUrSt 06

Norn Out / PLAY Out / SYNC Out droPO 1-99 diF Vid / diF REAd

USE SErb / ChS PLAY / ChS VAri / ChS Cmmd

GUd USER / GUd Vid / GUd tcr2

SEr Port / SEr rdr / SEr GEN nd-2997 / nd-30

SERIAL A CONFIGURATION

SERIAL B CONFIGURATION

CB Electronics TG-1 Timecode Gearbox TG1 22

6.00 RESET

6.01 POWER UP RESET

When switched on the unit will reset, On reset the memory is not completely cleared since the current film position, timecode offset, and configuration are battery backed. If a memory backup failure is detected the unit will reset the whole memory. During the power up sequence the LED

Display will show the following:-

LEd Good

Ran Good

RAn BAd bC12

HArd rSt

This indicates that the CPU, ROM, LED display, and driver are working correctly.

This indicates that the RAM has been checked and is good.

This indicates that the RAM has been found to be bad.

This is the revision code of the software

This indicated that an error was found in the configuration ram and that the memory backed ram has been reset.

6.02 CPU CARD RESET

When servicing the unit it may be required to reset the unit without switching off the power. To do this short the two pins on the front of the PROCESSOR BD labels SW1.This will reset the unit in the same way as a power up reset.

6.03 SOFT RESET

A power up reset may be initiated from the front panel by a simultaneous depression of the SELECT and SET keys.

6.04 HARD RESET

If it is required to reset the battery backed memory manually a hard reset may be initiated from the front panel by simultaneous depression of the SELECT and FREEZE keys. This may be necessary when new software is fitted. CAUTION this will wipe the Configuration memory! If the front panel software is not working correctly the unit will only reset if the SELECT and FREEZE keys are depressed during the power up sequence.

6.05 MANUAL HARD RESET

The front panel hard reset is only possible if the front panel software is running correctly. If all else fails switch off the power, open the unit, and unplug the PROCESSOR BD.This will disconnect the memory from the backup battery.Replace the PROCESSOR BD, and power up the unit.

CB Electronics TG-1 Timecode Gearbox TG1 23

7.00 SERIAL COMMUNICATIONS

7.01 USING THE TG-1 WITH A SR/MR SYSTEM

The Serial-A port should be connected to the required machine control port on the SR/MR controller, the Serial-B port may be connected to a VTR. When the machine is connected to serial-B it is controlled through the TG-1 from the SR/MR keyboard.

The position reported to the SR/MR controller is determined by 4.14 SERIAL POSITION REPORT

7.02 SPECIAL COMMANDS FROM THE SR/MR

MACRO 112 FEET or MACRO 158 LOCAL TIME or Macro 160 Set Generator

Use Store followed by Feet or Local Time will set the generator sync point when showing TG-1 as the machine ID.

Use Store followed by Set Generator to set the generator sync point with any machine id.

MACRO 149 SET READER

Use Store followed by Set Reader to set the Reader sync point

OFFSET

Use Store followed by Chase/Offset to set the offset between reader and generator.

MACRO 198 and 199 DEC/INC Offset

7.10 SLAVING A VTR

To slave a VTR the following must be carried out.

1) The SYNCHRONISER should be setup as required with the VTR timecode output if used connected to AUX-B and the serial control to SERIAL-B.

2) The unit timecode output at the sync point should be the same as the timecode at the video start mark.

3) The VTR should be selected to SERIAL REMOTE CONTROL

4) Select the required 7.33 CHASE ALGORITHM dependant on the generator speed.

5) The synchroniser should be enabled using the VITC key as described below.

If all the above are carried out and the VTR timecode is within 2 hours of the current timecode the VTR will then locate to the current GENERATOR TIMECODE position (GEN).

If a VO9800 or VO9850 is used and you expect to use timecode on track 1 or 2 as well as the dedicated timecode track then it is recommended that the modification as detailed in our application note are carried out. The machine modification as designed by our Italian agents (Audio International) allows the use of time code from any of the tracks by a simple switch behind the front panel.

7.11 INCREMENT / DECREMENT OFFSET

To fine tune the synchronisation the offset may be adjusted whilst synchronised.

INCREMENT OFFSET:SET + INC

DECREMENT OFFSET:SET + DEC

This will adjust the TG-1 generator Output offset.

7.12 ENABLE

To Enable the synchroniser depress the VITC key so that the LED is illuminated.

7.13 MASTER TIMECODE

The master timecode is the timecode output from the TG-1, the video slave will be locked to this timecode.

CB Electronics TG-1 Timecode Gearbox TG1 24

7.2 SERIAL CONFIGURATION

CONFIGURATION SELECTION

The configuration of the unit is selected by first depressing the SET key so that the SET LED is illuminated then depress both <- and -> simultaneously to enable configuration selection. The first display allows you to select which configuration you wish to adjust UNIt / SERIAL A / SERIAL b. Make your selection and then depress <- and -> simultaneously to select.

To enter the SERIAL configuration mode first enable SET then when the SET LED is illuminated depress both < and > simultaneously. Use the < or > keys to select SERIAL b. In SERIAL

CONFIGURATION the display indicates either the parameter to be modified or the various selections of a particular parameter in the same way as in CONFIGURATION.

0 INPUt / 1 USER / 2 bUU800 / 3 UO9850 / 4 A500 / 5 SSL SS / 6 dA-88 / 7 r-dAt

SEr Pos / TAch-LtC / SEr-LtC rEC OFF / AUDIO 1 / AUDIO 2 / AUDIO 12

SYNC ALL / SYNC ENb

LOFSt 00

PLAYd 08

PAr-O OO

LOCAtE02

Loc OnLY/ Loc-Uind trYS 05

Conn Nid / ConStArt

Error 04

ChS PLAY / ChS UAri / ChS Cnnd / ChS CndP

RdY OFF / RdY A-U / RdY AU8d

POS LtC / POS tin 1 / POS UItC / POS L-U / POS LUt

R-P JoG / R-P VAri / R-P Shut

F-P VAri / F-P Shut / F-P JoG / F-P PPLY

BUH-1100 / tG-1 / bUU-950 / dA-88 / PCN-7030 / FOStEC

The < and > keys are used to select the parameter displayed. The INC and DEC keys are used to change the selection of the displayed parameter.

When the SET key is depressed the SERIAL CONFIGURATION MENU, CONFIGURATION MENU and

SETUP MODE are exited. The parameters are then set as selected whilst in setup or

CONFIGURATION.

The serial configuration is used to optimize a video slave to the Master.

7.21 MACHINE TYPE:

0 INPUT / 1 USER / 2 BUU800 / 3 U9850 / 4 A500 / 5 SSL SS / 6 dA-88 / 7 rdAt

Input, USER and seven different machines have been defined, when a machine type is changed (2..7) the parameters are updated with the factory preset information. When the machine type is not changed the user may adjust the individual variables for his machine.

0 INPUT

This should be used on SERIAL-A when remote control from a hard disk controller is used.

1 USER

This is selected to use the default parameters programed in the firmware.

2 BVU800

3 V9850

4 A500

5 SSL SS

CB Electronics TG-1 Timecode Gearbox TG1 25

The SSL Screen Sound has a slow start time and is set-up with a two second park offset and a 25 frame Play delay. The settings required will vary with the amount of audio on the work top.

6 dA-88

7 r-dAt

7.22 SLAVE POSITION SOURCE: SEr POS / TAch-LtC / SEr-LtC

The position of the Serial slave may be determined in two ways:-

SEr POS

This is the simplest selection, the position is determined via the RS422 serial link by using the timecode reader in the machine.

TAch-LtC

This selection uses the serial tach (Timer-1) from the machine and receives timecode via the rdr2 on the unit. The rdr2 input on the unit is AUX-B. Useful for machines without a timecode reader card or where a the timecode is no an audio track. Note This will auto switch the position request to Timer-1

POS tin1.

Use Timer 1

SEr-LtC

Use Ltc if Present in preference to the serial position data from the machine.

7.23 RECORD ENABLE: rEC OFF / AUDIO 1 / AUDIO 2 / AUDIO 12

In order to record on the serial slave it is necessary to send a record command as follows:-

rEC OFF

AUDIO 1

AUDIO 2

AUDIO 12

Record disabled

Record on Channel 1 only.

Record on Channel 2 only.

Record on Channels 1 & 2.

7.24 SYNCHRONISER ENABLE : SYNC ALL / SYNC ENb

The synchroniser is either always enabled and following the GENERATOR TIMECODE or he appropriate enable command must be used.

SYNC ALL

The synchroniser is always enabled, in this case the machine Local/Remote switch should be used to enable the synchroniser.

SYNC ENb

The VITC key is used as an enable key as described above.

7.25 LOCAL OFSET: LOFSt 00

This is a frame ofset added or subtracted to the master time only in play before locking the video slave.

7.26 START DELAY: PLAYd 08

If the video is parked less than two seconds ahead of the master it will wait for the master to arrive at its position. Video machines take a little time to accelerate to play speed. It is therefore necessary to send a play command to the video slave before the master arrives at the same point, PLAYd defines when to send the play command to the slave. Increase PLAYd if the video always has to speed up to lock, decrease PLAYd if the video always has to slow down to lock.

7.27 PARK OFFSET

Normally the video slave is parked at the same position as the master. When the slave has only a very small vari-speed range this will lead to very long lock-up times. The solution is to down-stream park the slave and trim the START DELAY for optimum performance.

CB Electronics TG-1 Timecode Gearbox TG1 26

7.28 LOCATE

This parameter is used to specify the effectiveness of the machines locate. If is mainly used when chasing as moving master. Set this number higher if the slave appears never to catch up with the master.

7.29 USE LOCATE Only or WIND and Locate

On some machines the locate is very slow on these machines it is better to Wind close to the master and then issue a locate command. On Tapeless machines it is better to always use the Locate command.

7.30 NUMBER OF TRY’s

After locking the video machine it is released to video syncs, when this happens the video machine will sometimes move by one frame, the synchroniser will then take over and pull the video machine to zero error, and let go again. This parameter sets the maximum number of times the video may be pulled into lock.

7.31 COMMUNICATION POSITION

Commands are sent to the video machine once per frame. Depending on the relative phase of the

Video and timecode changes the performance of the lock-up. This can also be tape dependant!

7.32 ALLOWABLE SYNC ERROR

Maximum allowable sync error in frames after the trying for zero error "Try" times, normally set to four to allow for a 8 field colour frame sequence.

7.33 CHASE ALGORITHM

ChS PLAY

ChS VAri

ChS Cnnd

ChS CndP

Use vari-play to pull machine into lock followed by a PLAY command

Use vari-play to pull machine into lock, remain in vari-play.

(Not For Video Mcn) Send a chase command to the machine.

(Not For Video Mcn) Send a chase until locked command to the machine.

7.34 SERIAL TRACK ARM COMMAND

This parameter determines the length of the edit preset (track arm) command sent to the slave machine. It is used if it is required to pass a record command from the serial input to the serial output.

RdY OFF

Rdy A-U

RdY AU8d

No Ready Commands

U-matic and Betacam

8 track Audio, Digital Betacam

7.35 POSITION REQUEST TYPE

This parameter determins which positional information is requested from the machine

POS LtC

LTC only

POS tin1

POS VItC

POS L-U

Timer 1 only

VITC only

VITC or LTC

POS LUt

VITC, LTC or Tach

7.36 REVERSE SYNCHRONISE COMMAND

This parameter determines the reverse synchronisation command

R-P JoG

Jog

R-P VAri

R-P Shut

Vari-Play

Shuttle

CB Electronics TG-1 Timecode Gearbox TG1 27

7.37 FORWARD SYNCHRONISE COMMAND

This parameter determines the forward synchronisation command

F-P VAri

Vari-Play

F-P Shut

F-P JoG

F-P PPLY

Shuttle

Jog

Programable Play (+/- 12.5%)

7.37 MACHINE ID (Only used when 0 Input is selected in Section 7.21)

bUH-1100

All CB products will recognise this as a MC-1

TG-1

SR software recognise this.

BUU-950

Editors

dA-88 8 track record on earlier AMS software

PCN-7030

FOStEC

Test

Test

7.4 RS422 Interface cable:-

RS422 operation Serial-A:- PB4 link pins 1 & 2 (towards front of unit).

Serial-B:- PB5 link pins 1 & 2 (towards front of unit).

SERIAL-B (To Machine)

9 pin ’D’ Function

7

8

5

6

9

3

4

1

2

Internal

Rx Data A-

Tx Data B+

Gnd.

+5v

Gnd.

Rx Data B+

Tx data A-

Gnd

CB Electronics TG-1 Timecode Gearbox TG1 28

8.00 REAR PANEL CONNECTIONS

8.01 POWER INPUT

The unit is supplied for either 220-250v A.C. or 110v-125v A.C. operation. The mains IEC input socket contains an integral power line filter and mains switch. The mains lead supplied should be connected as follows:-

Brown

Blue

Live

Neutral

Green/Yellow Earth

Later units are supplied with a voltage selector switch.

8.02 INPUT XLR

The 3 pin XLR INPUT socket is a balanced input to the timecode reader. The input is connected as follows:-

Pin 1

Pin 2

Pin 3

Chassis

Positive Input

Negative input

When connected to an unbalanced source of timecode the connection should be made as follows:-

INPUT

Pin 1

Pin 2

Pin 3

SOURCE

Chassis

Signal

Signal Ground

8.03 OUTPUT XLR

The 3 pin XLR OUTPUT plug is a balanced output from the Time Code Generator. The output is connected as follows:-

Pin 1

Pin 2

Pin 3

Analog Ground

Positive output

Negative output

When connected to an unbalanced load the connections should be made as follows:-

OUTPUT LOAD

Pin 1

Pin 2

Pin 3

Ground

Signal

Leave open

8.04 EXT. REF. BNC

Not Used

8.05 VIDEO REF. BNC’s

The two VIDEO REF BNC’s are connected in parallel and routed to the reference input of the time code generator. This input when selected should be fed with a nominal 1 volt composite or black and burst video signal. The input has an impedance of approximately 100K.

The video input will normally be fed from station sync’s in parallel with the video recorder’s. In an audio studio there is normally a Sony F1 or equivalent which may be used as a source of station

8.06 INSERT I/P BNC

not Used

CB Electronics TG-1 Timecode Gearbox TG1 29

8.07 INSERT O/P BNC’s

Not Used

8.08 Serial A

RS422 operation Serial-A:- PB4 link pins 1 & 2 (towards front of unit).

8.09 Serial B

RS422 operation Serial-B:- PB5 link pins 1 & 2 (towards front of unit).

SERIAL-B (To Machine)

9 pin ’D’ Function

7

8

5

6

3

4

1

2

9

Internal

Rx Data A-

Tx Data B+

Gnd.

+5v

Gnd.

Rx Data B+

Tx data A-

Gnd

8.10 AUX-B INPUT XLR

The 3 pin XLR INPUT socket is timecode reader 2 input. The input is connected as follows:-

Pin 1

Pin 2

Pin 3

Chassis

Positive Input

Negative input

When connected to an unbalanced source of timecode the connection should be made as follows:-

INPUT

Pin 1

Pin 2

Pin 3

SOURCE

Chassis

Signal

Signal Ground

CB Electronics TG-1 Timecode Gearbox TG1 30

CB Electronics TG-1 Timecode Gearbox TG1 31

CB Electronics TG-1 Timecode Gearbox TG1 32

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Key Features

  • Timecode Standard/Framerate Conversion
  • Switchable Timecode Generator Lock Source
  • RS232 Serial Interface
  • RS422 Sony P2 Output
  • 6 Preset Configurations
  • Synchroniser section
  • Video Slave at any Frame Rate
  • Easy Setup for Repeat Jobs

Frequently Answers and Questions

What is the purpose of the CB Electronics TG-1 Timecode Gearbox?
The TG-1 Timecode Gearbox is designed to convert between different timecode standards and frame rates, allowing for compatibility between various video and audio equipment.
Can the TG-1 Timecode Gearbox handle drop-frame and non-drop frame timecode?
Yes, the TG-1 Timecode Gearbox can handle both drop-frame and non-drop frame timecode, allowing for flexibility in various timecode conversion scenarios.
Can the TG-1 Timecode Gearbox be used to slave a video machine to a different frame rate?
Yes, the TG-1 Timecode Gearbox has a Synchroniser section that can be used to slave a video machine to a different frame rate. This is helpful for preparing music tracks for a 24fps film to a 25fps PAL video or for NTSC releases of PAL video.

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