Ambient ACN-CL

Ambient Lockit ACN-CL

The Ambient Lockit ACN-CL (A80546) combines a timecode generator with genlock and wordclock outputs for synchronising cameras and audio recorders. It exchanges synchronisation data wirelessly with other Lockit devices through the Ambient Communication Network (ACN). Buttons and an OLED display provide direct access to settings.

Timecode and synchronisation

Timecode gives recordings a shared time reference. Genlock synchronises cameras, while wordclock synchronises digital audio equipment. The connections required depend on the inputs and settings of the connected equipment. Two LEMO-compatible 5-pin ports provide TC & Sync and TC & ACN connections.

ACN and C-Jam

ACN operates on a proprietary 2.4GHz network with fifteen selectable channels. It exchanges information including timecode, frame rate and user bits. Single Jam provides a one-time synchronisation. C-Jam continuously synchronises device clocks, which Ambient describes as Zero Drift. The ACN-CL can operate as a C-Jam master.

External master clock and adjustable offset

TX mode allows an external timecode source to drive the ACN network, such as an audio recorder's LTC output or MIDI timecode from a computer. The Lockit follows the source and distributes timecode and synchronisation through ACN.

An individual timecode and sync offset can compensate for a known processing delay in connected equipment. The offset affects the cabled outputs; the Lockit itself remains synchronised with the ACN network.

Power and operation

The replaceable NP-50 lithium-ion battery provides approximately 17 hours of operation with a 750mAh battery, according to Ambient. USB-C supports external power and charging during use, as well as MIDI timecode and connection to LockitToolbox. The ACN-CL does not offer Bluetooth remote control; that feature is available on the separate LockitBT model.

Specifications

Included and cable selection

• Lockit ACN-CL
• NP-50-compatible lithium-ion battery
• USB-C to USB-A cable
• Two pieces of Dual Lock mounting tape

Select timecode and sync cables for the exact camera or recorder model. Check its connections against the official Ambient Timecode Cable Guide.