Externally locking the time code

The internal time code generator of the camera can be locked to an external time code generator. In addition, the time code generator of an external equipment can be locked to the internal time code generator of the camera.

Example of connections for external locking

As shown in the figure, connect both the reference video signal and the reference time code.

For details on reference signal and genlock, refer to “Selecting external reference signal and genlock setting”.

External lock operation procedure

To externally lock the time code, follow the steps below.

Set the <TCG> switch to <F-RUN>.

Set the <DISPLAY> switch to <TC>.

Set to the [OTHERS] menu → [GENLOCK] → [GENLOCK] → [GL IN].

Set to the [RECORDING] menu → [TC/UB] → [TC IN/OUT SEL] → [TC IN].

Input a reference time code and reference video signal that are in a phase relationship (that conforms to time code specifications) to the <TC IN/OUT> and <GENLOCK IN> terminals.

The built-in time code generator is locked to the reference time code. When approximately ten seconds has elapsed after locking, the externally locked status will be held even if the reference time code from the external device is disconnected.

  • When the input reference signal of genlock is disrupted, recording cannot be performed normally. [TEMPORARY PAUSE]/[IRREGULAR SIG] is displayed in the viewfinder screen, and the clip is divided. The continuity of the time code is not guaranteed. Recording will be resumed when the signal returns to normal.

  • When the time code is externally locked, the time code is instantaneously locked to the external time code, the same value as the value of the external time code is displayed on the counter display area. Do not start recording for several seconds until the sync generator has stabilized. Furthermore, lock the time code to the <TC IN/OUT> terminal signal.

  • When externally locking in 23.98p mode, be sure to input non-drop frame time codes. An external lock is not possible using drop frames. When the external lock is activated, images may look corrupted. However, this is an operation to match the 5-frame cycle so it is not a malfunction.

  • When set to the [RECORDING] menu → [PRE REC] → [ON], disrupted images or stopped time codes may be recorded if the time code is slave locked by entering an external time code to the <TC IN/OUT> terminal right before recording.