AMBIENT ACN-LS2 LockitSlate Take2 User Manual

AMBIENT ACN-LS2 LockitSlate Take2

Introduction

The LockitSlate Take 2 (ACN-LS2)

Lockit Timecode by Ambient
Since we released the very first mobile timecode and sync generator ever already in 1992, our devices became the industry standard for timecode and synchronization on set. Lockits provide frame-accurate synchronized video and audio clips for Hollywood blockbusters, TV series and independent productions.

LED Timecode Clapperbaord
The LockitSlate is a highly accurate smart-slate system that displays time- code via an LED display. At the same time, it’s a timecode generator providing all timecode frame rates and full ACN compatibility.

Modular and Bullet-Proof Design
With its modular construction, the electronic section of the LockitSlate can also serve as a fully functional, compact standalone display for documentary or desktop use. Housed in a machined, pearl-blasted and anodized aluminum body, it can easily withstand the roughest production conditions.

Zero Drift (C-Jam)
Lockits are based on a highly accurate temperature-compensated crystal oscillator. Once set, the Lockit boxes stay on time – and drift less than 1 frame apart within 24 hours. With active C-Jam (continuous jam) mode via ACN, any drift is even completely excluded.

TX Mode
Lockits can be started in the so-called TX mode to become a timecode bridge. The TX Master will automatically adapt its speed to the external timecode source and broadcast TC start and stop via ACN to all other Lockits. This is especially relevant if you want your audio recorder to be the master clock on set, in playback situations or in virtual production setups.

Midi Timecode
Connect your LockitSlate via USB to your PC/Mac. The LockitSlate will show up as midi timecode Interface – ready for use in any digital audio workstation (DAW). This way you can broadcast playback timecode through ACN to other Lockits.

Plug & Play
Instead of using the graphical menu of the LockitSlate you can feed in timecode and frame rate externally. Just plug one Lockit to the TC Out port of another device (e.g. your sound recorder) and it’s automatically set and ready to sync – without any additional apps.

LED Menu
No external app needed. Display menu easily operated via buttons.

Wooden Clap Sticks Available
The LockitSlate Take 2 can be ordered or retro-fitted with clap sticks handmade out of Oak Wood.

ACN stands for Ambient Communication Network and is our own wireless network. It utilizes an extremely reliable, proprietary 2.4GHz network with 16 selectable channels for communication to minimize lag and interference with other radio sources. All gathered information is buffered until it is successfully received and stored.
The ACN is used to interchange timecode-related information including time, frame rate and user bits as well as device meta-data between Lockits or third- party devices with built-in Lockit Module. Learn more about the beauty of ACN here: https://ambient.de/en/acn-technology

Unit Description

Front

1. TC-Display Module

2. Clap Stick

3. Clapper Board
   Back

4. OLED Display

5. TC Connector (LEMO-compatible)

6. ACN Antenna, SMA RP 2.4GHz, keep attached to unit

7. Green Button

8. Red Button

9. Power Button

10. Battery Compartment (4 AA cells)

Cleaning the slate board
The ACN-LS is shipped with a slate board equipped with a back-printed sticker which can easily be replaced if needed. Dry markers can be simply wiped off- dry, to remove permanent markers use alcohol or appropriate solvents. The material of the stickers is resistant to all usual solvents, also those containing ketones.

Customize your slate board
CAD prints of the slate board are available to allow for personal construction. https://manuals.ambient.de/lockitslate- board

LED Blink Code

Powering

The LockitSlate Take 2 can be powered by 4 AA cells or USB C. Battery telemetry and circuitry are optimized for NiMH chargeables, but you can run it with alkaline or lithium batteries as well. Applying power over USB will override internal batteries but not charge them. Only use power sources in compliance with USB BC1.2 and EN 62368-1. To replace batteries turn the slate so the backside faces you. Push the slider on the left side down. ATTENTION, batteries are loaded under high tension. To avoid injury, keep the contact flap firmly pressed down and gently release the slider with the flap held down. Insert 4 AA cells as indicated on the back panel, press the contact flap down and close the slider.

Display

1. Timecode
2. Project Rate (FPS)
3. Battery Status / Ext. Power
4. Unit ID* / Unit Name
5. ACN Mode
6. ACN Channel
   • Note: Unit ID can be set via the ACN Radar of the Lockit+

Basic Button Operations

• Turn On: Press and hold Power until the LED lights green to start the unit.
• Turn Off: Press and hold  Power for 5 seconds until the power off menu appears. Confirm shutdown with  Power.
• Access Menu: While the unit is running you can access the menu by pressing simultaneously.

There you can easily set

• Project Rate: 23.98 / 24 / 25 / 29.97 / 29.97 DROP / 30 / 47.95 / 48 / 50 / 59.94 / 59.94 DROP / 60 FPS
• ACN Channel: 11 – 26 / off
• TC Start Preference: zero / one / manual
• Show UB on Clap (Userbits): off / 1s auto / 1s – 20s
• Show Clapped TC: off / 1s – 20s
• Show Running TC: off / 1s – 20s / infinite
• LED Brightness: 1 – 15
• Auto Power
• TC & Sync Offset: -10.00 … +10.00 frames

Note: find more information in chapter 8. Special: Wireless TC & Sync Offset

• Tap to decrease or to increase a parameter value.
• Tap simultaneously to confirm and proceed.
• Tap Power to cancel or to leave the menu.
• Applied settings will be persistent over a reboot until reset or changed.
• Reset: When switched off, press and hold simultaneously to perform a factory reset of the Lockit Module.

Slate Settings / Clap your Slate
On closing the slate the clapped timecode will be displayed for 1 second, then userbits for 1 second, and finally the display module shows the clapped timecode for 5 seconds. Via the display menu you may customise these parameters to display information on clapping your slate (after showing the clapped TC for 1 second).

• Show UB on Clap (default 1s auto)
• Show Clapped TC (default 5 seconds)
• Show Running TC (default off)

Flash LED
Your LockitSlate Take2 features 2 bright LEDs on the front of the display module. They may flash on each clap or even on every transition from second to second. Via the display menu go to “Flash LED” to adjust this setting. Flash on clap for example allows a clear identification in postproduction of the slated frame.

Adaptive Display Brightness
The LockitSlate Take2 offers an all-new semi-automatic brightness mode. If the environment lightning changes the slate will automatically adjust the brightness in several steps to match the new situation. To adjust the general brightness select LED Brightness in the menu. This will adjust the brightness of the timecode display as well.

Flip Sensor
If you flip the slate upside down, e.g. for a tail slate, the display will automatically rotate by 180°.

Operation Modes

Within the ACN there is always one Lockit device acting as a timecode transmitter, broadcasting timecode and frame rate to the Receivers. You can choose between C-Jam, TX and Single Jam Mode.

C-Jam Mode (Continuous Jam)
In C-Jam Mode we utilize our ACN network to completely prevent any drift. In this mode one Lockit device acts as a C-Jam Master. It sends a pulse through the ACN every six seconds to constantly align with all other Lockit boxes. To start the unit as C-Jam Master press and hold , then tap Power.

On the display you will see an (M) appear, indicating that the device is ready to go.

Press and hold to confirm the timecode and start the C-Jam. The icon on the display will switch to M. All other Lockits (that are on the same ACN channel) will now automatically follow the C-Jam Master and display an ACN icon at the lower right of the display.

Since even in C-Jam Mode every unit still uses its own VCO (voltage-controlled oscillator) to generate timecode (and sync), they don’t necessarily have to be in the range of the C-Jam master constantly to be accurate.

Lockit devices that are powered up at a later point in time will automatically follow the C-Jam Master and set their timecode and frame rate accordingly.

Note: Just one unit is allowed to be the C-Jam Master within an ACN channel. A second master will be blocked and will also automatically follow the C-Jam Master and display an ACN icon at the lower right of the display.

TX Mode (Transceiver Mode)
The TX Mode works like the C-Jam Mode, with the difference that the TX Master receives a start/stop timecode and frame rate from an external source via LTC or Midi. The main use cases are playback situations (e.g. music video shootings), rec run setups (e.g. start/stop recording triggered by running timecode) or virtual production setups. To start the unit as TX Master press and hold , then tap Power. On the display, you will see TX appear. The TX master will automatically adapt its speed to the LTC-in timecode source and broadcast the external source’s TC start and stop via ACN to all other Lockits. They will display an ACN icon at the lower right of the display .

As soon as the external source stops sending timecode to the TX Master, the timecode on all Lockits will freeze, and they will start flashing yellow. As soon as the timecode starts running again, they’ll flash green again. To make the TX Mode work, all Lockit Devices must run on the latest firmware (7.xx) which is available for Lockit, NanoLockit, LockitSlate Take2 and Lockit +.

Can be any Lockit device started up with We broadcast Start, Stop and Freeze Frame through ACN.

Pro tip for VFX, Volume, 3D setup and projects with high demand of genlock accuracy:
We recommended to project tune the ACN devices once. The Project Tune feature is available within the ACN Radar of the Lockit+. Find more information here: https://manuals.ambient.de/lockitplus

ACN Receiving Mode
All Lockit devices that are jammed via a C-Jam or TX Master automatically switch to ACN Receiver Mode, indicated by the ACN logo in the lower right of the display.

Lockit devices in ACN Receiving Mode constantly follow the current C-Jam or TX Master. To power up just long-press Power. Lockit devices that are powered up at a later point of time will automatically switch to ACN Receiver Mode after having received a jam via ACN. Their time code and frame rate will be set accordingly.

Single Jam Mode
In Single-Jam Mode you can send a one-time pulse through the ACN to sync all Lockit devices. From then on, each Lockit continues to run autonomously. This is perfectly fine for most occasions, as our Lockit devices are highly accurate and drift less than a frame within 24 hours. To power up just long- press Power. All Lockit devices in this mode can send and receive a Single Jam. Choose one of your Lockits and press for 3 seconds until the green LED lights up twice. This way timecode and frame rate get broadcasted to the other Lockit box-es in the same ACN channel.

Note: Once a Lockit device is turned off the timecode generator stops. After turning on again you must perform the Single Jam again. That’s why we recommend C-Jam Mode over Single Jam Mode, as it eliminates drift and is more convenient to use.

Good to Know: Plug and Play Timecode
Instead of using the graphical menu of the Lockit (pressing simultaneously) – feed in timecode and frame rate externally. Just plug one Lockit to the TC Out port of another device (e.g. your sound recorder) and it’s automatically set and ready to sync – without any additional apps. Just plug the Lockit to the TC Out port of another device (e.g. your Sound Recorder) and it will automatically take over time-code and frame rate. This only works if no Single Jam has been sent – or a C-Jam / TX Master is active in the ACN channel. Indicated by the LED flashing red and green alternately. If the device is already jammed and you attach an external time-code source, you can enter the “Compare Screen”. This displays a potential timecode drift between external source and your Lockit.

Special: Wireless TC & Sync Offset

This setting will offset the timecode and sync on all outputs and the LockitSlate’s timecode display. The OLED will still show the current running timecode with an indication of the offset value. This allows for compensation of frame processing delay on video walls, cameras and further 3rd party equipment.

Use Case 1: How to compensate for processing delays in virtual production

Use Case 2: Adjust internal processing delays of cameras – classic setup

LockitToolbox

Please check ambient.de/en/downloads for new firmware updates. Firmware Updates are distributed via the LockitToolbox, available for Windows or Mac OS. With the LockitToolbox you can update your Lockit, set your RTC or define basic settings for your Device.

Useful Links

• Timecode Cable Guide
  https://faq.ambient.de/hc/en-001/articles/4415083061650-Timecode-Cable-Guide

• ACN Technology
  https://ambient.de/en/acn-technology

• Ambient FAQs
  https://faq.ambient.de/hc/en-001

• LockitToolbox and Firmware Updates
  https://ambient.de/en/downloads

Appendix

ACN Channel Frequencies
The ACN is designed to allow for friendly coexistence of different systems on the same channel. Still, equivalent ARRI remote focus equivalents are listed to further help avoid interferences. The default ACN Channel is 18.

• Learn more on https://ambient.de/en/acn-technology

Connector Pinouts
The connector carries TC in and out as per industry standards. It accepts Lemo FGG.0B.305 compatible push-pull plugs.

• LTC Out Impedance 1kΩ
• LTC In Impedance 15kΩ

Safety Instructions

For your own safety and trouble-free use, please carefully read through the instructions below. Always keep a copy of these instructions and hand them out with the unit to other users. This unit is exclusively intended for indoor use. Keep it safe and away from water, rain and humidity and dry under all conditions, even when powered off. Clean gently with a slightly moistened cloth and never let water, detergents or liquids of any kind get into the unit as this will imply the risk of short circuits and electrical hazard. Keep distant from sources of heat and never expose to direct sunlight. Admissible ambience temperature for operation and storage is from +5° to +50° Celsius. Power down before storing or shipping, detach external power sourc-es, and, if applicable remove batteries. Do not throw or expose to mechanical impact and keep it safe from hard vibrations. Only use genuine accessories such as cables antennae etc. which have been included with the unit or supplied by an authorized dealer. Always observe integrity and the pertinent compatibility with all units connected to. Powering from external sources is exclusively limited to the use of LPS sources in compliance to part 2.5 of EN 60950-1 with correct polarity, voltage range, and current rating. Disregarding recommended power requirements may damage the product or even risk the explosion of the internal backup cell or inserted batteries. Do not perform software updates in situations in which the integrity of mains supply cannot be granted such as thunderstorms and remove connections from and to all devices directly or in directly connected to mains. When using the wireless connection, place it centrally and keep it distant from sources of possible interference such as microwaves or electrical devices with large metal surfaces. Only use the original external antenna directly and firmly attached to the socket. Extension or use of 3rd party accessories is not permissible. Never open the unit. Inappropriate and unauthorized access will void the warranty and imply possible risk of harm to the user. When disposing the unit, follow the legal requirements for recycling electronic equipment.

Warranty

Ambient Recording GmbH warrants this product against defects in materials and workmanship for ONE (1) year from the date of the original retail purchase. This is a non-transferable limited warranty that extends only to the original purchaser. Ambient Recording GmbH will repair or replace the product at its discretion after evaluation at no charge. Warranty claims due to severe service conditions will be addressed on an individual basis. THE WARRANTY AND REMEDIES SET FORTH ABOVE ARE EXCLUSIVE. AMBIENT RECORDING GMBH DISCLAIMS ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. AMBIENT RECORDING GMBH IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES ARISING FROM ANY BREACH OF WARRANTY OR UNDER ANY OTHER LEGAL THEORY. Because some jurisdictions do not permit the exclusion or limitations set forth above, they may not apply in all cases. For all services, including warranty repair, please send the prodcut, along with proof of purchase date to your retailer, or, if not applicable, to: Ambient Recording GmbH Schleissheimer Str. 181 C DE – 80797 Muenchen, Germany Please obtain a return authorization through the contact form on our website before sending in a unit. https://ambient.de/en/service

Approvals

CE Conformity Statement: Declaration of Conformity According to ISO/IEC Guide 22

Manufacturer’s Name:
Ambient Recording GmbH

Manufacturer’s Address:
Schleissheimer Str. 181 C, DE – 80797 Muenchen, Germany

declares that this product conforms with:

• EN 62368-1
• EN 300 328 V2.1.1
• EN 301 489-1 V1.9.2
• EN 301 489-3 V1.4.10 which is indicated and affirmed by the applied CE marking.

FCC Statement

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

FCC § 15.19
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interfer-ence that may cause undesired operation.

Canada CNR-Gen Section 7.1.3
This device complies with Industry Canada licence-exempt RSS standard(s). Operation is subject to the following two conditions:(1) this device may not cause interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.

FCC § 15.21
Any changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.

FCC § 15.105

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

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver.
• Connect the equipment to an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

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

References

• Downloads | Ambient
• ACN | Ambient
• Downloads | Ambient
• manuals.ambient.de/lockitplus
• manuals.ambient.de/lockitslate-board

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