Quick Set Up :wave in a BLINK Network

If you want your :wave to synchronise timecode data with other Timecode Systems products, such as SyncBac PRO, :wave, or other :wave units, you need to set up a BLINK network. This is a group of Timecode Systems devices that all use the same RF channel to communicate with each other, and one of the devices, typically a :pulse or :wave, has to be set to run in a master mode. All of the other devices have to be set to run as slaves. The timecode that will be used is set in the master, and it will send the timecode to the slaves automatically when they are in range.

For a brief overview of how to set up your :wave to run as a master or slave, see:

• Set Up :wave as a Master
• Set Up :wave as a Slave.

 

Set Up :wave as a Master

To set your :wave to run as a master in a BLINK network:

1. Switch on your :wave unit (see Switch :wave On and Off).

2. Use the control knob to apply these settings:

   Menu	Operation	Further Information
   Timecode Mode	Choose Int-Gen TX, Ext-TC TX, or Ext-TC/C TX (these are the master modes). With the Int-Gen TX mode, the :wave's timecode, user bits, and frames-per-second values are used and sent to the slave devices. With the Ext-TC TX and Ext-TC/C TX modes, the timecode, user bits, and frames-per-second values are set in a camera, sound mixer, or other device that is connected to the :wave via the TC port - the :wave receives these values, applies them in its own settings automatically, and then sends them to the slaves.	Set the Timecode Mode.
   RF Channel	This is the channel number that is used by the other other Timecode Systems devices in the same BLINK network.	Set the RF Channel.
   System Settings	Set the RF Country/Area to the country in which you are using the :wave.	Set the RF Country/Area.
   TC Generator	Set the timecode, user bits (metadata) and frames-per-second values. These are used by the :wave and are also sent to the slave devices in the BLINK network.	Set the Timecode Data.
   SYNC Generator	These settings are only used if the :wave is connected to a camera, sound mixer or other device via the TC/SYNC BNC port. They are used for setting the :wave to send timecode, genlock, or word clock data via BNC. Set the BNC Op Mode to the appropriate genlock for cameras, word clock for sound mixers, or choose LTC to output timecode. For the BNC O/P Level, choose Normal. If the :wave fails to send genlock, word clock, or LTC via the TC/SYNC port, change the BNC O/P Level to High.	Set up Timecode Output. Set the Word Clock Output. Set the Genlock Output.
   Wi-Fi	Turn on if you want the :wave to communicate with the BLINK Hub app wirelessly. If you are not going to use BLINK Hub or you are going to use an Ethernet connection instead, turn Wi-Fi off to preserve battery power.	Set up Wi-Fi for Data Streaming.

With these settings in place, your :wave will connect to the slave devices that are in the same BLINK network and are in range. It will provide them with the timecode data so that they are synchronised.

Set Up :wave as a Slave

To set your :wave to run as a slave in a BLINK network:

1. Switch on your :wave unit (see Switch :wave On and Off).

2. Use the control knob to put the following settings in place:

   Settings	Option	Further Information
   Timecode Mode	Ext-RF Slave	Set the Timecode Mode.
   RF Channel	The RF Channel number that is used by the other Timecode Systems devices in the same BLINK network	Set the RF Channel.
   System Settings	Set the RF Country/Area to the country in which you are using the :wave. If you purchased your :wave in North America, you cannot change the country area due to regulatory requirements - if you need to change the country, please contact Timecode Systems for assistance.	Set the RF Country/Area.
   TC Generator	Ignore these settings - they will be provided by the master in the BLINK network.	Set the Timecode Data.
   SYNC Generator	These settings are only used if the :pulse is connected to a camera, sound mixer or other device via the TC/SYNC BNC port. They are used for setting the :pulse to send timecode, genlock, or word clock data via BNC. Set the BNC Op Mode to the appropriate genlock for cameras, word clock for sound mixers, or choose LTC to output timecode. For the BNC O/P Level, choose Normal. If the :pulse fails to send genlock, word clock, or LTC via the TC/SYNC port, change the BNC O/P Level to High.	Set up Timecode Output. Set the Word Clock Output. Set the Genlock Output.
   Wi-Fi	Turn on if you want the :pulse to communicate with the BLINK Hub app wirelessly. If you are not going to use BLINK Hub or you are going to use an Ethernet connection instead, turn Wi-Fi off to preserve battery power.	Set up Wi-Fi for Data Streaming.
   Ethernet	Turn on if you want the :pulse to communicate with the BLINK Hub app via a wired Ethernet connection. If you are not going to use BLINK Hub or you are going to use a Wi-Fi connection instead, turn Ethernet off to preserve battery power.	Set Up Ethernet for Data Streaming.

With these settings in place, your :wave will connect with the master device in the BLINK network as long as your :wave is in range. It will receive the timecode data from the master and continue to communicate with the master to ensure that they remain synchronised.

 

 

Quick Setup :wave Connected to Camera

The process for connecting your :wave to a video camera varies, depending on whether you want to use:

• Your :wave independently, where it is jammed to the timecode signal provided by an external device.
• Your :wave as part of a BLINK network, where it can synchronise with other Timecode Systems devices as well as your video camera.

To make it easier for you, we have split the quick set up instructions into two separate sections:

• Quick Set Up Free Run :wave to Video Camera
• Quick Set Up BLINK Network :wave to Video Camera.

For a general introduction to the concept of using your :wave to provide a camera with timecode and genlock, see Synchronising with a Camera.

Note: For details on how to set up your video camera for remote control via the BLINK Hub app, see Quick Setup: BLINK Hub and :wave.

Note: This section does not apply to GoPro HERO4™ Black or Silver cameras. These cameras can be physically connected to Timecode Systems' SyncBac PROs, and then :wave can communicate with the SyncBac PRO and the cameras via the BLINK network (see Master and Slave Relationships in a BLINK Network).

 

Quick Set Up Free Run :wave to Video Camera

To set up your :wave to run independently of a BLINK network and synchronise with a video camera:

1. Switch on your :wave unit (see Switch :wave On and Off).

2. Use the control knob to access the Timecode Mode menu.
3. Select the appropriate mode:

   Settings	Option	Further Information
   Timecode Mode	Free Run/Jam-Ext to set your :wave to run independently of a BLINK network. You should choose this setup if you want your :wave to synchronise with your video camera, but not with any other Timecode Systems devices.	Set the Timecode Mode.

4. Choose the type of connection that your :wave will use for communicating with the BLINK Hub app. Use the control knob to access Wifi Settings :

   Settings	Option	Further Information
   Wi-Fi Settings	Turn on if you want your :wave to communicate with the BLINK Hub app wirelessly. If you are not going to use BLINK Hub , turn Wi-Fi off to preserve battery power.	Set up Wi-Fi for Data Streaming.

5. Connect your external timecode source to the TC LEMO 5 port on your :pulse. When connected, use the control knob to access the TC Generator option and jam your :pulse to the external timecode.

   Settings	Option	Further Information
   TC Generator	Select Jam EXT T/C to synchronise your pulse with the external timecode source. When the jamming is successful, you can disconnect the external timecode source. You will need to re-connect the external timecode source and re-jam at regular intervals (typically 1-2 times per day).	Free Running and Jamming.

6. When your :pulse has jammed successfully, disconnect it from the external timecode source.
7. Connect your video camera to the timecode output on your :pulse. There are two ways of outputting timecode to a video camera.
   • via the TC port with a TCB-20 (5-pin to 5-pin LEMO) cable.
   • via the TC/SYNC port with a TCB-10 (BNC to BNC) cable.

   For more details, see Set up Timecode Output.

Note: You will need to re-connect the external timecode source and re-jam at regular intervals (typically 1-2 times per day).

Quick Set Up BLINK Network :wave to Video Camera

To set up your :wave to run as part of a BLINK network and synchronise with a video camera:

1. Switch on your :wave unit (see Switch :wave On and Off).

2. Use the control knob to access the Timecode Mode menu. Select the appropriate mode:

   Settings	Option	Further Information
   Timecode Mode	Int-Gen TX to set your :wave as the master in the BLINK network. The timecode will be generated from your :wave (TC Generator settings). Your :wave can output this timecode to your video camera. Ext-TC/C TX to set your :wave as the master in the BLINK network and the timecode will come from an external source. If the timecode source is disconnected, the :wave's internal timecode is used instead. The :wave forwards the timecode to the slaves.It also sends the timecode out to any devices that are connected to its output ports. Ext RF Slave to set your :wave to run as a slave. It will receive timecode from the master device in the BLINK network, and this timecode will be passed on to the video camera (via the :wave's output ports).	Set the Timecode Mode.

3. Choose the type of connection that your :wave will use for communicating with the BLINK Hub app. Use the control knob to access Wifi Settings :

   Settings	Option	Further Information
   Wi-Fi Settings	Turn on if you want your :wave to communicate with the BLINK Hub app wirelessly. If you are not going to use BLINK Hub, turn Wi-Fi off to preserve battery power.	Set up Wi-Fi for Data Streaming.

4. Apply the radio (RF) settings for communicating with other Timecode Systems devices:

   Settings	Option	Further Information
   RF Channel	The RF Channel number that is used by the other Timecode Systems devices in the same BLINK network.	Set the RF Channel.
   System Settings	Set the RF Country/Area to the country in which you are using the :wave. If you purchased your :wave in North America, you cannot manually change the country area due to regulatory requirements. However, there is a way to change the country - please contact Timecode Systems for assistance.	Set the RF Country/Area.

5. This step only applies if your :wave is set to run in the Int Gen-TX mode. If your :wave is set to a different mode, ignore this step.

   Use the control knob to access the TC Generator menu, and set the timecode and metadata for your :wave:

   Settings	Option	Further Information
   TC Generator	Set the timecode (Set T/C) and metadata (Set U/B). This data is 'stamped' into the video files that are created by your video camera. They are also sent to any slave devices in the BLINK network.	Set the Timecode Data.

6. This step only applies if your :wave is set to run in the Int Gen-TX mode. If your :wave is set to a different mode, ignore this step.

   Use the control knob to access the TC Generator menu, and set the frames per second rate:

   Settings	Option	Further Information
   TC Generator	Define the frames-per-second rate data by using the Set FPS option. The FPS has to match the FPS used by the video camera for the shoot. This data is used for synchronising each frame of filming with the timecode.	Set the Frame Rate Per Second.

7. This step only applies if your video camera has a genlock input (refer to the manufacturer's instructions for more details).

   Use a TCB-10 (BNC to BNC) cable to connect your video camera's genlock input port to the :wave's TC/SYNC port.

8. This step only applies if your video camera has a genlock input.

   Use the control knob to access the SYNC Generator settings and choose the appropriate genlock settings:

   Settings	Option	Further Information
   Set BNC O/P Mode	Set the BNC O/P Mode to the appropriate genlock signal for your video camera. The manufacturer's instructions for the video recorder should include information on the type of genlock signal that is required.	Set the Genlock Output.
   Set BNC O/P Level	Your video camera's instructions may specify a required signal level. If so, set the BNC O/P Level to Normal or High as appropriate. If the instructions do not specify a level, set the BNC O/P Level to Normal.	Set the Genlock Output.

9. This step only applies if your video camera has a genlock input.

   Set your video camera to receive an external genlock signal. Please refer to the manufacturer's instructions for more details.

10. Connect your video camera to the timecode output on your :wave. There are two ways of outputting timecode to a sound mixer/recorder.
    • via the TC port with a TCB-20 (5-pin to 5-pin LEMO) cable.
    • via the TC/SYNC port with a TCB-10 (BNC to BNC) cable.

    For more details, see Set up Timecode Output.

11. This step only applies if you want your :wave to output timecode via the TC/SYNC port (see previous steps).

    Access the Sync Generator menu and set the Set BNC O/P Mode to LTC. This sets your :wave to output timecode via the TC/SYNC port.

12. Set your video camera to receive timecode data via the appropriate port. Please refer to the manufacturer's instructions for more details.

:wave and the BLINK Network

To set up your Timecode Systems devices, including your :wave, you need to understand how a BLINK network works. In the following sections, we explain the key concepts of BLINK networks and answer some of the most common questions:

• What is a BLINK Network?
• Master and Slaves in the BLINK Network
• What if a Slave Can't Find a Master?
• What if there are Multiple Masters in the Same BLINK Network?.

If you are familiar with BLINK networks and just want to set up your :wave, see Quick Set Up :wave in a BLINK Network.

 

What is a BLINK Network?

A BLINK network is a group of devices that are all set to use the same RF channel.

Timecode Systems devices synchronise with each other by using radio (RF) to send and receive timecode. Each device has to be set to use a specific RF channel and can only synchronise with other devices also using that RF channel. For example, if you set your :wave to use RF channel 9, it can communicate and synchronise with other devices that also use RF channel 9. But it can't synchronise with devices that use different RF channels, such as RF channel 3 or RF channel 5.

Each BLINK network should have one device set to run as a master, with all of the other devices running as slaves. The master device will send its timecode to the slave devices, so that all of the devices in the network use the same timecode.

 

Master and Slaves in the BLINK Network

To synchronise, the devices in a BLINK network use a master and slave relationship. This allows the master's timecode data to be applied to all of the devices.

The master-slaves relationship works like this:

1. One device is set to run in master mode and all of the other devices are set to run as slaves.
2. When a slave is switched on, it announces itself on the network, and the master will detect it (as long as the slave is in range of the master).
3. The master device then sends its timecode data to the slave device, and the slave device applies the timecode automatically.

This process is repeated for each slave in the BLINK network, so that all of the slaves and the master are synchronised using the same timecode.

To make sure the timecode data continues to be synchronised, the master and slaves communicate regularly.

Note: You don't have to use your :wave as part of a BLINK network. You can use it as a stand-alone device if required, by putting it into Free Run/Jam-EXT mode (see Free Running and Jamming).

What if a Slave Can't Find a Master?

When you switch a slave device on, it announces itself on the network so that it can be detected by a master device. But it will only be detected by a master device if:

• The slave device is within range of the master device.
• There is a master device in the BLINK network (there should be one master device per BLINK network, but it is possible that the master is off or has been set up incorrectly).
• There is no interference or blockage of the RF signal between the master and slave.

If a slave cannot connect to a master, or loses its connection with its master, it:

• Runs using its own internal clock. If it was previously synchronised with a master, the slave's internal clock will still be closely matched to the master's clock (as they were synchronised).
• Continues to search for a master. If it was previously synchronised with a master, it will only search for that specific master. The slave will not connect to any other masters that come into range.

When the slave detects a master, it connects and synchronises. If the slave was previously connected to the master but lost its connection, the resynchronisation will be smooth, with no sudden jumps in the timecode.

 

 

 

 

Synchronising with a Sound Mixer/Recorder

Some sound recorders and mixers, such as the Sound Devices 6-series range, can receive timecode and word clock signals from an external source. You can use your :wave as the external source - it will provide timecode and word clock signals.

The timecode signal provides the 'time stamp' information that is added to the recording, such as the time and any user-defined metadata. The word clock signal allows the sound mixer to synchronise the timing of its audio recording with the timecode. This significantly reduces the amount of work required in post-production.

If your sound mixer does not support external word clock, :wave can still provide it with highly accurate timecode. In this situation, there is no word clock signal to synchronise the timecode with the timing of the audio recording, so while the time stamps in the recording will be slightly less accurate. In one day of recording, there should be no, or very little, clock drift. Over a longer period, the clock drift may increase. For this reason, we recommend that you re-sync your :wave and sound mixer at the start of each day (as a minimum requirement).

When you set up your :wave to provide timecode and word clock to a sound mixer/recorder, there are three stages:

1. Set the timecode mode for the :wave. This defines its relationship with any other Timecode Systems devices and also sets the :wave to either send or receive timecode data via its TC port.
2. Set the sound mixer/recorder to accept external word clock and timecode signals.
3. Set the :wave to output the type of word clock signal that is supported by the sound mixer/recorder.

The most common arrangement is to set your :wave to send/receive timecode via the TC port and send word clock via the TC/SYNC port. It is possible for your :wave to output timecode via the TC/SYNC port, but it cannot be used to output word clock at the same time.

For setup details, see Quick Set Up :wave Connected to Sound Mixer/Recorder.

Quick Set Up :wave Connected to Sound Mixer/Recorder

The process for connecting your :wave to a sound mixer/recorder varies, depending on whether you want to use:

• Your :wave independently, where it is jammed to the timecode signal provided by an external device.
• Your :wave as part of a BLINK network, where it can synchronise with other Timecode Systems devices as well as your sound mixer/recorder.

To make it easier for you, we have split the quick set up instructions into two separate sections:

• Quick Set Up Free Run :wave to Sound Mixer/Recorder
• Quick Set Up BLINK Network :wave to Sound Mixer/Recorder.

 

Note: For details on how to set up your Sound Devices 6-series sound mixer/recorder for remote control via the BLINK Hub app, see Quick Setup: BLINK Hub and :wave.

Quick Set Up Free Run :wave to Sound Mixer/Recorder

To set up your :wave to run independently of a BLINK network and synchronise with a sound mixer/recorder:

1. Switch on your :wave unit (see Switch :wave On and Off).

2. Use the control knob to access the Timecode Mode menu.
3. Select the appropriate mode:

   Settings	Option	Further Information
   Timecode Mode	Free Run/Jam-Ext to set your :wave to run independently of a BLINK network. You should choose this setup if you want your :wave to synchronise with an external device or system and then pass the timecode on to your sound mixer/recorder. Your :wave will not communicate with any other Timecode Systems devices.	Set the Timecode Mode.

4. Use the control knob to access Wifi Settings :

   Settings	Option	Further Information
   Wi-Fi Settings	Turn on if you want your :wave to communicate with the BLINK Hub app wirelessly. If you are not going to use BLINK Hub , turn Wi-Fi off to preserve battery power.	Set up Wi-Fi for Data Streaming.

5. Connect your external timecode source to the TC LEMO 5 port on your :wave. When connected, use the control knob to access the TC Generator option and jam your :wave to the external timecode.

   Settings	Option	Further Information
   TC Generator	Select Jam EXT T/C to synchronise your :wave with the external timecode source.	Free Running and Jamming.

6. When your :wave has jammed successfully, disconnect it from the external timecode source.
7. Connect your sound mixer/recorder to the timecode output on your :wave. There are two ways of outputting timecode to a sound mixer/recorder.
   • via the TC port with a TCB-20 (5-pin to 5-pin LEMO) cable.
   • via the TC/SYNC port with a TCB-10 (BNC to BNC) cable.

   For more details, see Set up Timecode Output.

Note: You will need to re-connect the external timecode source and re-jam at regular intervals (typically 1-2 times per day).

Quick Set Up BLINK Network :wave to Sound Mixer/Recorder

To set up your :wave to run as part of a BLINK network and synchronise with a sound mixer/recorder:

1. Switch on your :wave unit (see Switch :wave On and Off).

2. Use the control knob to access the Timecode Mode menu. Select the appropriate mode:

   Settings	Option	Further Information
   Timecode Mode	Int-Gen TX to set your :wave as the master in the BLINK network. The timecode will be generated from your :wave (TC Generator settings). Your :wave can output this timecode to your sound mixer/recorder. Ext-TC/C TX to set your :wave as the master in the BLINK network and the timecode will come from an external source, such as your sound mixer/recorder. If the timecode source is disconnected, the :wave's internal timecode is used instead. Ext RF Slave to set your :wave to run as a slave. It will receive timecode from the master device in the BLINK network, and this timecode will be passed on to the sound mixer/recorder.	Set the Timecode Mode.

3. Choose the type of connection that your :wave will use for communicating with the BLINK Hub app. Use the control knob to access the Wifi Settings :

   Settings	Option	Further Information
   Wi-Fi Settings	Turn on if you want your :pulse to communicate with the BLINK Hub app wirelessly. If you are not going to use BLINK Hub or you are going to use an Ethernet connection instead, turn Wi-Fi off to preserve battery power.	Set up Wi-Fi for Data Streaming.

4. Apply the radio (RF) settings for communicating with other Timecode Systems devices:

   Settings	Option	Further Information
   RF Channel	The RF Channel number that is used by the other Timecode Systems devices in the same BLINK network.	Set the RF Channel.
   System Settings	Set the RF Country/Area to the country in which you are using the :wave. If you purchased your :wave in North America, you cannot manually change the country area due to regulatory requirements. However, there is a way to change the country - please contact Timecode Systems for assistance.	Set the RF Country/Area.

5. This step only applies if your :wave is set to run in the Int Gen-TX mode. If your :wave is set to a different mode, ignore this step.

   Use the control knob to access the TC Generator menu, and set the timecode and metadata for your :wave:

   Settings	Option	Further Information
   TC Generator	Set the timecode (Set T/C) and metadata (Set U/B). This data is 'stamped' into the audio files that are recorded by your sound mixer/recorder. They are also sent to any slave devices in the BLINK network.	Set the Timecode Data.

6. This step only applies if your sound mixer/recorder has a word clock input (refer to the manufacturer's instructions for more details).

   Use a TCB-10 (BNC to BNC) cable to connect your sound mixer/recorder's word clock input port to the :wave's TC/SYNC port.

7. This step only applies if your sound mixer/recorder has a word clock input.

   Use the control knob to access the SYNC Generator settings and choose the appropriate word clock settings:

   Settings	Option	Further Information
   Set BNC O/P Mode	Set the BNC O/P Mode to the appropriate word clock signal for your sound mixer/recorder. The manufacturer's instructions for the sound mixer/recorder should include information on the type of word clock signal that is required.	Set the Word Clock Output.
   Set BNC O/P Level	Your sound mixer/recorder's instructions may specify a required signal level. If so, set the BNC O/P Level to Normal or High as appropriate. If the instructions do not specify a level, set the BNC O/P Level to Normal.	Set the Word Clock Output.

8. This step only applies if your sound mixer/recorder has a word clock input.

   Set up the sound mixer/recorder to receive word clock data from an external source. Please refer to the manufacturer's instructions for your sound mixer/recorder.

9. Connect your sound mixer/recorder to the timecode output on your :wave. There are two ways of outputting timecode to a sound mixer/recorder.
   • via the TC port with a TCB-20 (5-pin to 5-pin LEMO) cable.
   • via the TC/SYNC port with a TCB-10 (BNC to BNC) cable.

   For more details, see Set up Timecode Output.

10. Set your sound mixer/recorder to receive timecode data via the appropriate port. Please refer to the manufacturer's instructions for your sound mixer/recorder.
11. This step only applies if you want your :wave to output timecode via the TC/SYNC port (see previous steps).

    Access the Sync Generator menu and set the Set BNC O/P Mode to LTC. This sets your :wave to output timecode via the TC/SYNC port.

Synchronising with a Camera

One of the key features of your :wave is that it can provide timecode and genlock to professional video cameras, such as the Sony^® F55^®. The timecode data provides the 'time stamp' information that is added to the recording, such as the time and any user-defined metadata. The genlock signal allows the camera to synchronise the frames of its recording with the timecode, so that the video and timecode always match. Using a combination of timecode and genlock eliminates problems caused by the camera's clock drift and significantly reduces the amount of work required in postproduction.

For cameras that do not have genlock, :wave provides highly accurate timecode only.

Note: If you are using a camera without genlock and have your :wave in Free Run/Jam Ext mode, you will need to synchronise your camera and :wave at the beginning of each day of filming. This is not required if your :wave is part of a BLINK network and is connected to your camera.

When you set up your camera and :wave, you need to connect the camera to the :wave's TC port for timecode sync and to the TC/SYNC port for receiving genlock. You also need to set the camera to receive external genlock.

To set up your :wave, you need to choose the appropriate genlock signal (this should be specified in the manufacturer's instructions for the camera). You also need to consider whether your :wave is free running or part of a BLINK network.

If it is the master in the BLINK network, it will send a genlock signal to the camera. For timecode, it will either send its own timecode to the camera and the slave devices or it will receive timecode from the camera and send it to the slaves. You control this by setting the master mode for the :wave (see Set the Timecode Mode).

If your :wave is a slave in the BLINK network, it will receive timecode from the master device and then pass it on to the camera.

If your :wave is set to run in Free Run/Jam Ext mode, It has to be synchronised ('jammed') to a timecode source. This timecode is then sent to the camera as well as a genlock signal (if supported).

Note: It is possible for your :wave to output timecode via the TC/SYNC port, but it cannot be used to output genlock at the same time.

To learn how to set up your :wave to output genlock and timecode, see Quick Setup :wave Connected to Camera.

Free Running and Jamming

If you want to use your :wave independently or in a third-party system instead of a BLINK network, you will need to set it to run in Free Run/Jam Ext mode. This is because for synchronisation with Timecode Systems products, :wave uses our proprietary RF protocol and master-slave relationships, and these are not recognised by other systems. In Free Run/Jam-Ext mode, your :wave can run in a more traditional 'external jamming' workflow, where synchronisation is achieved by connecting devices and jamming to a timecode signal.

To use your :wave in an external jamming workflow, you need to:

1. Set up your :wave for Free Running and Jamming
2. Jam your :wave to the External Timecode Source.
   
   

Note: RF is automatically disabled in Free Run/Jam-Ext mode. To preserve battery life, it also makes sense to disable the other features that won't be used in an external jamming workflow, such as Wi-Fi.

 

Set up your :wave for Free Running and Jamming

To set up your :wave so that it is ready for free running and jamming:

1. Switch on your :wave unit (see Switch :wave On and Off).

2. Press the control knob.

3. Turn the control knob to scroll to Timecode Mode.

4. Press the control knob.

5. Turn the control knob to scroll to the Free Run/Jam-Ext option.

6. Press the control knob to confirm your selection.

Note: Disabling Wi-Fi support is not essential to free running and jamming, but turning it off will help to preserve battery life.

 

When you have your :wave set to run in Free Run/Jam-Ext mode, your next step is to Jam your :wave to the External Timecode Source.

 

Jam your :wave to the External Timecode Source

When you have your :wave in Free Run/Jam-Ext mode, you can synchronise it with an external timecode source, such as a camera. To do this, you will need to connect the timecode source to the :wave via the TC port. You can then set the :wave to start jamming to the timecode source.

1. Connect the external timecode source to the TC LEMO 5 socket on your :wave.

2. Switch on your :wave unit (see Switch :wave On and Off).

3. Press the control knob.

4. Turn the control knob to scroll to the TC Generator option.

5. Press the control knob.

6. Turn the control knob to scroll to the Jam EXT T/C option.

7. Press the control knob.

   Your :wave will now attempt to synchronise with the timecode source by jamming to the signal. You will see Jamming T/C appear on the main screen as the attempt to jam to the signal takes place.

   If your :wave can't synchronise to the signal, the message Jam Failed No Signal is shown. This usually indicates that the timecode source is not connected properly or is not outputting a timecode. Check the connections and make sure the timecode source device is set up to output its timecode.

   When the jamming is successful, the :wave is synchronised with the external timecode source. You can now disconnect the external timecode source. But you will need to re-connect the external timecode source and re-jam at regular intervals (typically 1-2 times per day).

 

 

Switch :wave On and Off

Your :wave unit has an internal battery and can also be powered via the 9-36V DC LEMO socket or the USB 2.0 socket. As long as it has a power source, you can use the control knob to switch it on and off.

To switch your :wave on:

1. Press the control knob.

   

   The :wave screen lights up and displays the message: Turn knob to switch on.

2. Turn the control knob.

   The :wave switches on and shows one of the status screens. If you turn the control knob, the :wave will cycle through the status screens.

    

Note: If your :wave does not come on when you press the control knob, the battery may need to be charged (see Charge your :wave).

 

To switch your :wave off:

1. Press the control knob and keep it pressed down. A countdown appears on the screen: Shutting down in 3.
2. Keep the control knob pressed down until the countdown is finished and the following message is displayed: Turn knob to switch off.
3. Turn the control knob. This extra step is designed to prevent you from accidentally turning the :wave off. If you do not turn the control knob within a few seconds, the :wave stays on and the screen reverts to showing the main display.

 

Set the RF Country/Area

Your :wave uses radio (RF) to communicate with other Timecode Systems devices in a BLINK network. It only uses our proprietary RF protocol for sending and receiving timecode data. The regulations for the use of radio frequencies vary in different countries, so it is important that you set your :wave to use the correct frequencies for the country in which is it being used.

Note: The RF Country/Area setting does not apply to :wave units sold in North America and Canada. If you purchased your :wave in the US or Canada and wish to use it in another country, please contact Timecode Systems. We can provide you with a free updater application that will allow you to set the country/area.

To set the RF country/area:

1. Switch on your :wave unit (see Switch :wave On and Off).

2. Press the control knob.

3. Turn the control knob to scroll to the System Settings option.

4. Press the control knob.

5. Turn the control knob to scroll to the Set RF Country/Area option.

6. Press the control knob.

7. Turn the control knob to select the appropriate area:
   • Europe/UK
   • Japan/China
   • US/CA/AU/NZ (for USA, Canada, Australia, or New Zealand).

   Note: If you want to use your :wave in another region, please contact Timecode Systems for advice.

8. Press the control knob.

Your :wave will now communicate using radio frequencies that are appropriate for the region you selected.

Set the Timecode Mode

For time synchronisation, your :wave can be used independently (free running) or as part of a BLINK network, where it can be set as a master or slave. If it is set to be a master, it will send its timecode to the slave devices in the BLINK network, and if it is a slave, it will receive timecode from a master device.

You can set your :wave to free run or operate as a master or slave, by using the Timecode Mode setting.

Timecode Mode	Operation
Free Run/Jam-Ext	:wave runs independently (free running). It is not part of a BLINK network. In Free Run/Jam Ext mode, you need to synchronise ('jam' ) the :wave with timecode from an external source. It can then be used independently and it can output the timecode via its TC or TC/SYNC port. For more details, see Free Running and Jamming.
Int-Gen TX	:wave is the master unit and it uses the timecode values that you apply in the :wave's settings. The timecode will be sent to any slave devices in the same BLINK network, and can also be sent to a device that is connected to the :wave via the TC port. You can set the timecode for the :wave manually, by using its Set T/C setting (see Set the Timecode Data.
Ext-TC TX	:wave is the master unit and gets its timecode values from an external source, such as a camera (via a LEMO® 5 connector). :wave then sends its timecode to the slaves in the same BLINK network. If the external timecode source is disconnected, the clock in the :wave and the slaves 'freeze' at that time.
Ext-TC/C TX	:wave is the master unit and gets its timecode settings from an external source, such as a camera (via a LEMO® 5 connector). :wave then sends the timecode to the slaves in the same BLINK network. If the external timecode source is disconnected, the :wave will use its internal timecode instead. It will send this timecode to the slave devices.
Ext-RF Slave	:wave acts as a slave unit and receives its timecode from a master device in the BLINK network. It communicates regularly with the master to make sure that its timecode matches the timecode of the master, and it also sends its status data to the master device. If the :wave is connected to a camera or sound mixer, it can output its timecode via its TC port or TC/SYNC port. For more details, see Set up Timecode Output.

Note: If you are unfamiliar with the concept of master and slave devices, please read Master and Slave Relationships in a BLINK Network.

To set the Timecode Mode:

1. Switch on your :wave unit (see Switch :wave On and Off).

2. Press the control knob.

3. Turn the control knob to scroll to the Timecode Mode option.

4. Press the control knob.

5. Turn the control knob to scroll to the required Timecode Mode.

6. Press the control knob to confirm your selection.

To illustrate how the timecode modes work, we have included examples of each setup.

Set the RF Channel

Your :wave uses radio to synchronise with other Timecode Systems devices. To do this, the :wave and the other devices have to be set to use the same RF channel, which then creates a group, which we call a BLINK network. All of the devices in a BLINK network send/receive timecode data via the same RF channel, and the network can contain any Timecode Systems products, including SyncBac PRO, :pulse, :minitrx+, and other :wave units.

To get your :wave to join a BLINK network, you need to set it to use the same RF channel as the other devices in that network.

Note: Each :wave can only be part of one BLINK network. If you need to remove a :wave from a BLINK network and set it to join another one, simply change the :wave's RF channel.

1. Switch on your :wave unit (see Switch :wave On and Off).

2. Press the control knob.

3. Turn the control knob to scroll to the Set RF Channel No. option.

4. Press the control knob.

5. Turn the control knob to change the RF channel number. You can choose from 1 to 14.

6. Press the control knob to confirm your selection.

Look at the main screen to find out which channel a :wave is set to use. The channel is shown in the bottom-right corner, next to the battery indicator.

In the image above, Ch.CE09 indicates that the :wave is set to use RF Channel 09.

For details on country/area, see Set the RF Country/Area.

To learn more about master and slave relationships, see :wave and the BLINK Network.

Set the Timecode Data

Note: This section only applies if you have set your :wave to run in Int-Gen TX mode (:wave is master and uses its internal timecode setting).

You need to set the timecode for the master :wave unit, so that it has the correct timecode settings for your requirements. These timecode settings will be sent to any slave devices in the same BLINK network, and also to any connected cameras or sound mixers.

In this section, we explain how to set the timecode (time), which is the time stamp that will be added to your video and audio recordings.

Note: The timecode data also contains user bits and frames-per-second information, which you can also define in your :wave's settings. To learn how to do this, see Set the User Bits and Set the Frame Rate Per Second.

To set your :wave's timecode:

1. Switch on your :wave unit (see Switch :wave On and Off).

2. Press the control knob.

3. Turn the control knob to scroll to the TC Generator option.

4. Press the control knob.

5. Turn the control knob to scroll to the Set T/C option.

6. Press the control knob.

7. Turn the control knob to select the numbers you want for the first pair of digits in the timecode.

8. Press the control knob to confirm your selection.

9. Using the same technique as you used for the first two digits, select and confirm the numbers for the remaining pairs of digits.

10. Press the control knob to confirm your selection.

 

Set the User Bits

To make it easier when editing your recordings, you can add metadata to the timecode data. You can define 4 pairs of characters to add as metadata, and typically, these are used to add the date and the scene number. As the metadata is sent along with the timecode signal, it means that the master device will automatically send the metadata to the slave devices.

To add metadata to the timecode of a :wave, you need to use the Set U/B feature, which stands for Set User Bits.

1. Switch on your :wave unit (see Switch :wave On and Off).

   If your :wave is running in EXT-RF Slave mode, continue from step 2.

   If your :wave is free running or running in a master mode, ignore steps 2-8 and continue from step 9.

2. Press the control knob.

3. Turn the control knob to scroll to the TC Generator option.

4. Press the control knob.

5. Turn the control knob to select the Local or EXT U/B option.

6. Press the control knob.

7. Turn the control knob to choose the option you require:
   • Use EXT Source U/B - your :wave will receive its user bits settings from an external source. These will be applied to the :wave automatically. If you select this option, you do not need to define the User Bits settings.
   • Use Locally Set U/B- your :wave will use its own user bits settings and will ignore any user bits data that it receives in timecode from the master. If you choose this option, you will need to set the User Bits on your :wave.

8. Press the control knob to confirm your selection.

9. Press the control knob.

10. Turn the control knob to scroll to the TC Generator option.

11. Press the control knob.

12. Turn the control knob to scroll to the Set U/B option.

    

13. Press the control knob.

14. Turn the control knob to select the combination of letters and numbers you want for the first pair of characters in the user bits metadata.

15. Press the control knob to confirm your selection.

16. Using the same technique as you used for the first two characters, select and confirm the letter/numbers for the remaining pairs of characters.

17. Press the control knob to confirm your selection.

 

 

Set the Frame Rate Per Second

Note: This section only applies if you are using your :wave is running in Int-Gen TX mode (see Set the Timecode Mode and is being used to provide timecode to video cameras. If your :wave is running in Ext-TC TX or Ext TC/C TX mode, it will receive the FPS value from the external timecode source (camera) and if it is running as an RF Slave, it will receive the FPS value from the master in the BLINK network.

When running in Int-Gen TX mode, your :wave provides the timecode and frames-per-second (FPS) settings that are used by the :wave and sent to the slaves in the BLINK network. The FPS value needs to match the FPS of the video cameras being used on the shoot, so that the timecode can be applied accurately to each frame that is recorded.

To set the FPS value in your :wave:

1. Switch on your :wave unit (see Switch :wave On and Off).

2. Press the control knob.

3. Turn the control knob to scroll to the TC Generator option.

4. Press the control knob.

5. Turn the control knob to scroll to the Set FPS option.

6. Press the control knob.

7. Turn the control knob to select the appropriate frame rate for your recording. You need to set the FPS to match the FPS settings of the cameras being used for filming.

8. Press the control knob to confirm your selection.

 

Set the Word Clock Output

If your sound mixer/recorder has a word clock input, you can set your :wave to provide a word clock signal as well as timecode data. Your sound mixer/recorder will use the word clock signal to time its audio recordings so that they are synchronised with the timecode 'stamp'. Using timecode data and a word clock signal provides greater accuracy than using just timecode.

Note: Word clock is not supported by all sound mixers/recorders. If your sound mixer/recorder does not have a word clock input, it will only use the timecode data from your :wave.

1. Use a TCB-10 (BNC to BNC) cable to connect your sound mixer/recorder's word clock input port to the :wave's TC/SYNC port.
2. Use your :wave's SYNC Generator settings to apply the appropriate output mode and level:

   Settings	Option
   Set BNC O/P Mode	Set to the appropriate word clock signal for your sound mixer/recorder. The manufacturer's instructions for the sound mixer/recorder should include information on the type of word clock signal that is required.
   Set BNC O/P Level	Your sound mixer/recorder's instructions may specify a required signal level. If so, set the BNC O/P Level to Normal or High as appropriate. If the instructions do not specify a level, set the BNC O/P Level to Normal.

3. Set up the sound mixer to receive word clock data from an external source. Please refer to the manufacturer's instructions for your sound mixer/recorder for more information.

Your :wave will now output a word clock signal to your sound mixer/recorder via the TC/SYNC BNC port.

If the sound mixer/recorder does not receive a word clock signal, check that the BNC cable is connected correctly. If there is still no word clock signal, change the Set BNC O/P Level to High in the :wave's settings. If that doesn't resolve the problem, contact Timecode Systems for assistance.

Set the Genlock Output

If your camera supports genlock, you should set your :wave to output a genlock signal as well as timecode. Genlock is a signal that is used to set the time for the recording of each frame, and when used in conjunction with timecode, it means your recording and timecode data will be synchronised with no clock drift. This is the best form of synchronisation, but is not supported by all cameras.

1. Set up the camera to receive genlock from an external source. Please refer to the manufacturer's instructions for your camera for more information.
2. Use a TCB-10 cable to connect your camera's genlock input to the TC/SYNC output port on your :wave.
3. Use a TCB-20 cable to connect your camera's timecode port to the TC port on your :wave.

   Note: It is possible to output timecode via the TC/SYNC port instead of the TC port, see Set the Genlock Output.

4. Use the control knob to access the SYNC Generator menu.
5. Apply the following settings:

   Settings	Option
   Set BNC O/P Mode	Set to the appropriate genlock signal. To find out which genlock signal is correct for your camera, please refer to the manufacturer's instructions.
   Set BNC O/P Level	Your camera's instructions may specify a required level. If so, set the BNC O/P Level to Normal or High as appropriate. If the instructions do not specify a level, set the BNC O/P Level to Normal.

   Your :wave will now output a genlock signal to your camera via the TC/SYNC BNC port. If the camera is not receiving the signal, check the BNC cable is connected correctly and try changing the Set BNC O/P Level to High. If the camera still does not receive a genlock signal, contact Timecode Systems for assistance.

Set up Timecode Output

Your :wave is designed to send timecode data to other devices, such as your sound mixer/recorder or other Timecode Systems products. By using the same timecode, the devices can all have synchronised time and user bits (metadata).

There are two different ways of outputting timecode data to sound mixers:

• via the TC port with a TCB-20 (5-pin to 5-pin LEMO) cable.
• via the TC/SYNC port with a TCB-10 (BNC to BNC) cable. This method requires the Sync Output mode to be set to LTC, and as the port is being used for timecode, it cannot be used for sending a word clock signal.

 

Timecode output via TC

1. Use a TCB-20 (5-pin to 5-pin LEMO cable) to connect your sound mixer to the TC port on your :wave.
2. Set your sound mixer to receive external timecode. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions for more information.

3. Switch on your :wave unit (see Switch :wave On and Off).

   If your :wave is a slave in a BLINK network, it will receive timecode settings from the master in the network and send them to the sound mixer.

   If your :wave is a master in a BLINK network, it will send timecode settings to the sound mixer/recorder. The timecode settings are either set manually for the :wave in the TC Generator menu, or come from an external source, depending on which master mode the :wave is using.

4. This step only applies if your :wave is in Int-Gen TX or Ext-TC/C TX mode. To set the :wave's internal timecode settings, apply the following settings in the TC Generator menu:
   • Set T/C - set the timecode that will be sent to the sound mixer/recorder.
   • Set U/B - set the user bits (metadata) that will be included in the timecode data that is 'stamped' on the sound mixer/recorder's recording.