The PTG2 from Horita is a palm-sized SMPTE timecode generator/reader that is simple to setup and operate and features a large, 2-line OLED display readout for timecode, user bits, and setup information. It is an ideal generator for use with video recorders in multi-camera situations where it is necessary for each recording to have the same timecode for precise time and image matching during post production. These situations may include sporting events, games, concerts, automobile, aircraft, and boating events, parades, weddings, and more.

For these applications, individual timecode generators/readers are jammed (automatically preset and started) via an externally applied SMPTE timecode signal. The generator's time value is set to the input timecode time value and the timecode user bits are set to the date plus a unique ID number for each individual PTG2. Each recording will then have the same time and date but a different ID number so the recordings cannot get mixed up later. The PTG2 can also jam to the GPS time and date from an RS-232 serial data input from a GPS receiver for generation of precise worldwide UTC time of day and date timecode.

Reads and generates SMPTE timecode for frame rates of 23.976, 24, 25, 29.97 drop/non-drop frame, and 30 fps (frames-per-second), plus the HD frame rates for 50/720p, 50/1080i, 59.94/720p, and 59.94/1080i

Provides selection of LINE or MIC output level when generating timecode and includes various common MIC/ LINE adapter connectors

Timecode generator jam mode presets the generator to TC or GPS serial data input values for time and date

Prevents accidentally stopping the generator via unintended actuation of the "run/stop" switch

Low free-run drift rate of less than one frame per hour over temperature

Able to genlock to an externally applied SD NTSC RS-170A or a PAL 625/50 analog composite video reference signal (bi-level) or to a tri-level reference signal for the HD frame rates

Timecode reader mode displays timecode, user bits, and frame rate values when reading timecode or GPS time and date values when reading GPS data

All settings and presets are maintained in non-volatile memory, even when the battery is removed

Operates in display power save mode for over 17 hours on a single 9V alkaline battery

Related Questions and Answers

Q: 1. Can I use this with the Red Komodo and Tentacle Sync Recorder and Tentacle Sync to Red Komodo timecode cable?

A: The Denecke JB-1 Syncbox Timecode Generator (B&H# DEJB1) can use the Tentacle Sync Tentacle to BNC Cable (Straight, 16") (B&H# TEC06) to provide time code for jam-syncing the Tentacle Sync TRACK E Pocket Audio Recorder with Lavalier Mic and Timecode Support (B&H# TETRACKE). And one could indeed connect the Denecke JB-1 Syncbox Timecode Generator (B&H# DEJB1) with the RED DIGITAL CINEMA EXT-to-Timecode Cable (3') (B&H# REEXTTOTC3) to the RED DIGITAL CINEMA KOMODO 6K Digital Cinema Camera (Canon RF) (B&H# REKOMB).

Q: 2. Will this sync a VCR and DVD recorder when copying videotapes?

A: This product will not be able to do that.

Q: 3. Can this device be used to jam or accept timecode to and from a Tentacle Sync?

A: Yes, if the Tentacle Sync timecode is SMPTE LTC format, the VLR-100 will jam and/or accept timecode from a Tentacle Sync.

Q: 4. Is there a simple product that burns a timecode window into HD-SDI? How is it that composite versions are still being sold??

A: Google will have the best answers for both these questions. However, composite video equipment still finds limited use in legacy video systems and applications and in video monitoring applications such as in security and manufacturing systems..

Q: 5. Can you use this with a tentacle sync box so you can use this on a c70 and the tentacle sync on a bmpcc 4k?

A: For best results, it is recommended to use matching timecode generators for maximum compatibility, for Tentacle systems and for Denecke Dcode SB-4 Syncbox Timecode Generator systems. For use with a Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 4K and a Canon C70, we would recommend 2 of the Tentacle Sync units. Tentacle also uses a proprietary software for matching the jammed signals.

Q: 6. What's the highest FPS for this timecode generator? 30 FPS?

A: This unit offers frame rates of 23.97, 24, 25, 29.97 and 30fps.

Q: 7. Is this device able to accept a composite video signal with no time code and output a LTC signal slaved to the video?

A: Yes, this device accepts a Composite on BNC and RCA connectors input and has the ability to read VITC or LTC and generate LTC.

Q: 8. What happens with the timecode when I am recording at 60fps?

A: From the manufacturer; 60fps is the Video Frame Rate. The TC frame rate will be half of that. So, 60 fps Video = 30 fps TC. Please note, that many times the video frame rate is referred to as '60' when it is actually '59.94'. In this case, the timecode rate is 29.97fps. I have a strong hunch that this is the case here. 30\60 is very rarely used theses days.

Q: 9. Is there any software involved, like the Tentacle, so I don't have to make it an issue with an editor?

A: No. Software is not involved but the unit is updatable via micro-USB for both mac and windows.

Q: 10. Does the TC-3 slate have this device built into it?

A: The Deneke TS-3 Time Code Slate reads and displays SMPTE/EBU Time Code; it utilizes an internally mounted SB-2 Syncbox Time Code Generator.