Sync-Generator

Sync-Generator Audio Video sync test generator for broadcast/ live event use

Accurate audio video synchronisation for broadcast and live events is key.  An accurate and repeatable test source to put in front of the camera is essential to achieve this.  While a laptop playing a test file or mobile app is a quick and easy source to use, the quality of these sources is generally poor.  The AV test output generated is often not synchronised or repeatable between playbacks.  This can be seen when measuring such sources with a Sync-One2.

Sync-Generator is a front of camera audio video test generator for broadcast / live event use.  Sync-Generator produces a synchronised audio tone and flash of light once per second or at a variable rate.  Sync-Generator is designed to work alongside a Sync-One2 for measuring any audio video delay / offset further along the broadcast chain.

The pulses are generated once per second, or 1Hz, with the pulse duration being two frames at the set frame rate.  A variable rate is also available, where the time between the pulses varies according to the configured frame rate.  The variable rate is ideal for detecting frame rate mismatches within the system.

Sync-Generator generates synchronous audio and video pulses of two frames in duration.  For example, at a rate of 24fps, the pules are 83.3ms long. At 60fps, they are 33.3ms. Pulses repeat one per second by default, or you can change to a variable rate via the Mode button.

Variable mode operates a repeating pattern, where the time between the pulses of two frames reduces after each pulse.  The gap between pulses is 13, 12, 11, 10, and then 9 frames before repeating.  The timing of these gaps is dynamic based on the set frame rate.

Sync-Generator supports frame rates of 23.976, 24, 25, 29.97, 30, 48, 50, 59.94, and 60.

Features

• Simple to use, turn it on, and it's ready to go in a few seconds.
• Highly accurate internal timing reference.
• Internal audio source and external stereo line output set at 0dBu (0.775v RMS).
• Easy configuration via an application, available for Windows and Apple Macs.
• It uses two AA (LR6) 1.5v batteries. Rechargeable is fine too.
• Low battery warning, with auto-shutdown when the batteries are very low.
• Configurable auto-off timer when on battery power, including disabled.
• USB Mini-B port for configuration and as a power source.
• Firmware is upgradeable and bespoke customisation available.

Audio

• Internal audio source, operating at 2,730 kHz.
• 3.5mm stereo audio line out at 2,730 kHz, set at 0dBu (0.775v RMS) output.
• Audio will automatically switch between internal and external but may be overridden to force internal, external, or both.

Light

• Bright white diffused light output, nominally at 5000k with a CRI of 85

Accuracy

• Timing accuracy is +/- 0.1ms nominal, or 0.006 frames at 60fps

General

• Dimensions (H x W x D), 144mm x 90mm x 30mm (5.6" x 3.5" x 1.2”).
• 165g (5.8oz), excluding batteries.
• Operating temperature from 5 to 50 Celsius (41 to 122 Fahrenheit).
• System firmware is upgradeable to enable upgrades as required.

Power

• 2 x AA (LR6) 1.5v batteries, rechargeable AA batteries are fine too.
• Reverse battery protection.
• A tiny current of less than 0.1 µA is used when off.  Therefore, removing the batteries when not used for a while is always best.
• Low battery indication and auto shutdown when batteries become too low to maintain operation.
• When powered via the USB Mini-B port, batteries can remain installed.

Management application and API interface

• Connection via the USB Mini-B port.
• Sync-Generator manager application enables the setting of all the parameters.  The serial number, firmware revision, and support code are also provided.
• Settings may be changed manually too. A separate manual contains the API commands available.