BNC Wordclock Connector
Digital audio devices that exchange audio data must be synchronised to the same clock
reference. This clock reference signal can either be a ‘Word-Clock’ signal, transmitted
and received via dedicated coaxial connectors (BNC or RCA).
MX4 BNC Wordclock connector
Clocking synchronisation can also be achieved with embedded clock signals, transmitted "inside" digital audio connections
such as S/PDIF Clock, AES Clock, MADI Clock, etc.
The device that provides the clock reference signal for the whole system is called the clock master, and any device that locks to
this signal is called a clock slave. The SSL MX4 can operate either as clock master or clock slave:
•
When MX4 is used as a clock master, the BNC WordClock connector functions as an output, providing a reference signal for
external devices
•
In all other cases, the BNC WordClock connector functions as an input, with the MX4 locking to the incoming clock signal (or
to the MADI clock)
Use a 75 Ohm WordClock cable to connect the MX4’s BNC WordClock connector to the BNC WordClock input or output connector
of the Alpha-Link or iBox (or other device).
If you are using two Alpha-Links with an MX4, or a combination of several MX4s and external MADI devices, please make sure
that all the devices are locked to the same clock signal.
WordClock connections should always be ‘point to point’. When a signal is distributed to multiple devices, a distribution
amplifier must be used to guarantee reliable operation.
WARNING: Do not to turn up the monitoring level until Master Clock synchronization is established between the card and
interface unit, as it is possible to get high noise levels with un-synchronised A/D and D/A Converters.
!
Page 14