Frame Synchronizers - TBCs

Frame Synchronizers - TBCs

Frame Synchronizers and Time Base Correctors (TBCs) are essential tools in professional video facilities, assuring multiple video sources work in harmony. A frame synchronizer captures incoming video, re-clocks it to match the facility's reference signal, stores frames in a buffer, and outputs them in sync with the rest of the system. A TBC focuses specifically on correcting timing instabilities - called jitter and skew - that were historically common in tape-based playback but remain relevant with many live and file-based sources today.

Maintain Control Over Your Production's Timing
Without Frame Synchronizers and TBCs in place, mixing video sources in a production environment can lead to serious problems. Switching between an unsynchronized source and the rest of a video system causes glitches, picture rolls, or momentary signal loss - the kind of on-air errors that are unacceptable in broadcast or live event production. Frame syncs remove disruption by ensuring every source entering a switcher, router, or multiviewer is locked to a common house sync or reference signal. This enables clean, glitch-free source switching regardless of where the signal originated, providing operators with the reliability they need to cut between feeds instantly and seamlessly.

Build Your Production Backbone with Markertek
Markertek carries a lineup of professional frame synchronizers and TBCs from the most trusted names in AV Production including AJA Video, Cobalt Digital, Ross Video, LYNX Technik, and more. Many modern frame syncs offer additional features such as color correction, up/down/cross conversion, and audio delay, adding even more value to the signal chain. It can all be a bit puzzling, but we can help you piece together the system of your dreams!

Find the Right Frame Synchronizer for Your Production
When choosing the right Frame Synchronizer and TBC, key factors include the signal formats you're working with (SD, HD, 3G-SDI, or analog), whether you need embedded audio handling and proc amp controls, and how the unit integrates into your existing infrastructure. Whether you're building a new broadcast facility or upgrading an existing one, we can guide you from start to finish! Markertek's selection of Frame Synchronizers and TBCs are the tools you need to keep every source locked, stable, and ready to air. Markertek Sales Engineers have decades of experience in Frame Sync and Time Base Correction, and we're ready to help you get started!

FAQ

Do I need a frame synchronizer for every video source?
Any source that is not already locked to your facility's reference signal should pass through a frame synchronizer. This ensures clean switching and prevents glitches, rolls, or signal drops when mixing sources.

Are frame synchronizers still necessary in modern digital video production?
Yes. Even digital, file-based, or live IP sources can introduce timing variations. Frame synchronizers remain essential for maintaining stability and seamless switching in broadcast, live event, and professional production environments.