A series of Lockit timecode and sync devices from Ambient. Often utilised on set, these devices have been designed for those shooting with multiple cameras or recording sound externally. The user is able to connect one Lockit device to each of the cameras and sound recorders on set to feed them all with the same timecode and sync signal - saving time in post-production.
Timecode is the time stamp that the first frame of a clip receives. From then on, however, the cameras run on their internal clocks. Only a sync signal (genlock) can keep the cameras constantly synchronized to the exact line. In short, timecode is perfect for synchronising clips in the edit whilst genlock (sync) is normally required for longer takes.
The Lockit series of devices cover a range of features including C-Jam (continuous jam) mode to eliminate drift by using ACN radio network, wireless timecode and sync, one button syncing for intuitive operation, MIDI timecode for DAW connection, timecode and sync offset, logging, and Bluetooth remote control via the free to download LockitRemote app for iOS and Android. Visit Ambient's LockitRemote for more LockitRemote information and download links.
A range of compatible timecode input, output, and bi-directional cables are also available to order, see AMBIENT TIMECODE AND SYNC CABLES
Lockit (ACN-CL) Timecode and Sync Generator
Lockit is a professional, portable timecode and sync generator used in film and television production to synchronize multiple cameras and audio recorders. Described as being 'highly-accurate', Lockit has features including continuous jam via ACN to allow zero drift, one-button syncing, MIDI timecode, and supports 1080P and 1080i genlock for project rates 23.976 to 60FPS while audio recorders are covered with wordclock up to 192KHz.
The front facing side of the device has an OLED screen for display and navigation, RGB status light, and three action buttons including power, and red and green multifunction buttons. The left side of the unit features ACN antenna, which should remain attached to the device, and both timecode/ACN connector via 5-pin Lemo, and timecode/sync connection also via -pin Lemo. The right side of the device houses the NP-50 battery compartment along with USB-C port for MIDI timecode connectivity.
Delivery includes Lockit device, 1x NP-50 battery, 1x USB-C to USB-A cable, 2x double lock.
Optional accessories: LockitMount camera mount.
Timecode: 23.976, 24, 25, 29.97, 29,97Drop, 30 FPS. SMPTE: 12 M, 3V TTL, adjustable down to mic level. Sync: 1080i/PsF and 1080p tri level from 23.976 to 60 FPS. Connectors: Timecode and sync socket, timecode and ACN socket (compatible with Lemo FGG.0B.305 push-pull plugs), USB-C 2.0 for powering, charging, data connection and MIDI timecode, and 2.4GHz SMA-RP antenna. Display: 256 x 32 OLED. Power: Li-Ion, NP-50 type; USB (BC 2.1 compliant LPS source) 350mA maximum; CR2016 Lithium cell to keep course date and time of day. Dimensions (HxWxD): 65.6 x 44 x 20mm. Weight: 80g, without batteries.
LockitBT (ACN-LB) Timecode and Sync Generator with Bluetooth Interface
LockitBT shares the features and functionality of Lockit, however as it has inbuilt Bluetooth connectivity the device can be used directly with Ambient's LockitRemote app. ACN-LB can also be employed as a bridge to connect the app to older non-Bluetooth ACN devices. The battery life is slightly reduced to 14hours, in comparison to the 17hours battery life for Lockit.
Delivery includes LockitBT device, 1x NP-50 battery, 1x USB-C to USB-A cable, 2x double lock.
Optional accessories: LockitMount camera mount.
Timecode: 23.976, 24, 25, 29.97, 29,97Drop, 30 FPS. SMPTE: 12 M, 3V TTL, adjustable down to mic level. Sync: 1080i/PsF and 1080p tri level from 23.976 to 60 FPS. Connectors: Timecode and sync socket, timecode and ACN socket (compatible with Lemo FGG.0B.305 push-pull plugs), USB-C 2.0 for powering, charging, data connection and MIDI timecode, and 2.4GHz SMA-RP antenna. Display: 256 x 32 OLED. Power: Li-Ion, NP-50 type; USB (BC 2.1 compliant LPS source) 350mA maximum; CR2016 Lithium cell to keep course date and time of day. Dimensions (HxWxD): 65.6 x 44 x 20mm. Weight: 80g, without batteries.
Lockit+ (ACN-LP-26) Timecode and Sync Generator with Metadata Interface
Lockit+ has the same basic functionality as Lockit (ACN-CL), however in addition includes a built-in server for local WiFi access, the ability to record lens data on the internal web server or connected (not included) USB memory device for recording, extraction of technical metadata from compatible cameras, and flexible powering - whereby Lockit+ can be powered by 6-24VDC via a 4-pin Hirose connector or via the USB-C socket. Lockit+ also additional connectors giving a total of 2x blue timecode and ACN connectors, 1x yellow timecode and sync connector, USB-A connector for frequency scanning antenna, USB-C connector for camera metadata or powering, USB-C connector for MIDI timecode, and Hirose for powering.
A separately available ACN-RF antenna can be inserted into a USB port of Lockit+ to pwerform a full frequency scan. A web interface then offers suggestions to available frequencies between 100MHz and 1500MHz for audio transmitters and receivers to operate on. ACN-LP-26-S version includes the ACN-RF antenna required for RF frequency scanning function.
Two BX1 battery cells are included with Lockit+. Ambient advise that the user replaces independently to retain the timecode when turned on and real-time clock when switched off.
Dimensions (HxWxD): 35 x 80 x 150mm. Weight: 325g, including BX1 battery; 410g, including standard extension unit with 2x BX1 battery cells.
NanoLockit is the smallest member of the Lockit family has been designed to fit into any camera rig. With an approximate run time of 25hours ACN-NL-L is an 'easy-to-use' device with all important functions controlled via the buttons. NanoLockit can either start directly with the built-in real-time clock or be fed with external timecode via the LEMO-compatible plug-in connection. The slim form factor enables compatibility with DSLR setups, and as DSLR cameras don't have a dedicated timecode input, the timecode is recorded to an audio track via an optional TC-IO-35 cable. As this requires the use of the DSLR's audio input, the optional LTC-OUT35/35F cable allows for parallel connection.
Delivery includes NanoLockit, lanyard, USB-A to Micro-USB B cable, 2x reclosing fasteners.
Optional accessories: NanoLockit Bracket, TC-IO-35 cable, LTC-OUT35/35F cable.
Dimensions (HxWxD): 65.5 x 36.5 x 21mm. Weight: 72g.
LockitSlate Take 2 is an accurate smart-slate system that features a clapper-board design with large timecode LED display. LockitSlate offers a variable timecode offset to compensate for processing delays of digital cameras. When connected to a computer, LockitSlate transforms into an accurate MIDI timecode interface with LTC/MIDI timecode conversion.
A modular construction includes the electronic section of the LockitSlate - which can also serve as a fully functional, compact standalone display for documentary or desktop use; and the main body of the clapper board - which is a machined, pearl-blasted and anodized aluminum construction designed for 'the roughest production conditions'. Powered by four AA battery cells and optimized for chargeable NiMH chemistry, the timecode slate allows for a run time of over 24hours when used at default brightness. External powering is possible over USB-C.
Lockits are based on a highly accurate temperature-compensated crystal oscillator. Once set, Lockit boxes drift less than 1 frame apart within a 24hour period. With active C-Jam (continuous jam) mode via ACN, any drift is 'completely removed'. 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 particularly relevant if the user wants the audio recorder to be the master clock on set, in playback situations or in virtual production setups. When connected to a PC/Mac via USB, the LockitSlate will show up as midi timecode Interface - ready for use in any digital audio workstation
(DAW). Doing this allows the user to broadcast playback timecode through ACN to other Lockits.
Delivery includes ACN-LD LED display module, ACN-LB polycarbonate board, ACN-LCP, ANT-2.4-SMA-M90 antenna, board marker, LS-HG1 handle, and ACN-LSB Lockit Slate Bag.
Dimensions (HxWxD): 215 x 280 x 30mm. Weight: 1.1kg