Avid Technology Pro Tools SYNC X User manual

PRO TOOLS SYNC X
|
ID
2448k 1080p
PRO TOOLS |SYNCXGuide

Legal Notices
© 2021 Avid Technology, Inc., (“Avid”), all rights reserved. This guide may not be duplicated in whole or in part without the written consent of Avid.
For a current and complete list of Avid trademarks visit: www.avid.com/legal/trademarks-and-other-notices.
Bonjour, the Bonjour logo, and the Bonjour symbol are trademarks of Apple Computer, Inc.
Thunderbolt and the Thunderbolt logo are trademarks of Intel Corporation in the U.S. and/or other countries.
This product may be protected by one or more U.S. and non-U.S. patents. Details are available at www.avid.com/patents.
Product features, specifications, system requirements, and availability are subject to change without notice.
This product incorporates JetPLL™ clocking technologies, used under license from Sonopsis. JetPLL™ designs are covered by Sonopsis copyright and/or multiple
patents. The JetPLL™ word and logo are trademarks of Sonopsis. More information can be found at the JetPLL.info website: http://JetPLL.info.
Guide Part Number 9329-66128-00 REV A 03/21

Pro Tools | Sync X Guide iii
Safety Instructions
Read and Keep these Instructions
Model Name: SYNC X Regulatory Model #: 9100-74080
Product Safety Warning
Important Safety Instructions
1Read these instructions.
2Keep these instructions.
3Heed all warnings.
4Follow all instructions.
5Do not use this equipment near water.
6Clean only with dry cloth.
7Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
8Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other equipment (including amplifiers) that produce
heat.
9Protect power cords from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit
from the equipment.
10 Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
11 For products that are not rack-mountable: Use only with a cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table specified by the manufacturer, or sold
with the equipment. When a cart is used, use caution when moving the cart/equipment combination to avoid injury from tip-over.
12 Unplug this equipment during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
13 Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the equipment has been damaged in any way, such as
power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the equipment, the equipment has been ex-
posed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.
14 For products that are a Mains powered device:
The equipment shall not be exposed to dripping or splashing and no objects filled with liquids (such as vases) shall be placed on the
equipment.
WARNING! To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this equipment to rain or moisture.
AVERTISSEMENT! Pour réduire le risque d’incendie ou de choc électrique, n’exposez pas cet équipement à la pluie ou à l’humidité.

Pro Tools | Sync X Guide iv
Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other.
A grounding type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third prong are provided for your safety. If
the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.
15 For products containing a lithium battery:
CAUTION! Danger of explosion if battery is incorrectly replaced. Replace only with the same or equivalent type.
ATTENTION! Danger d’explosion si la batterie est mal remplacée. Remplacer uniquement par le même type ou le même type.
16 For products with a power switch: It should remain accessible after installation.
17 The equipment shall be used at a maximum ambient temperature of 40° C.
18 This unit is provided with a power supply cord set suitable for 120V AC input only (for U.S.A. and Canada). For other than U.S.A.
and Canada, a qualified person must provide for use with this unit, an appropriate, approved power supply cord set which is in com-
pliance with the end use country requirements and has a minimum cross-sectional area of 1.0mm2.
19 For products with more than one power cord:
CAUTION: This unit has more than one power supply cord. Disconnect two power supply cords before servicing to avoid electrical
shock.
ATTENTION: Cet appareil comporte plus d’un cordon d’alimentation. Afin de prévenir les chocs électriques, débrancher les deux cor-
dons d’alimentation avant de faire le dépannage.
20 For products with an operator-accessible fuse:
CAUTION: For continued protection against risk of fire, replace only with same type and rating of fuse.
ATTENTION: Pour ne pas compromettre la protection contre les risques d’incendie, remplacer par un fusible de même type et de même
caractéristiques nominales.
Rack-Mount Safety Instructions
1Elevated Operating Ambient—If installed in a closed or multi-unit rack assembly, the operating ambient temperature of the rack en-
vironment might be greater than room ambient. Therefore, consider installing the equipment in an environment compatible with the
maximum ambient temperature (Tma) specified by the manufacturer.
2Reduced Air Flow—Installation of the equipment in a rack should be such that the amount of air flow required for safe operation of
the equipment is not compromised. Make allowances for cooling air to be available to the front panel surface and no restrictions at
the rear.
3Mechanical Loading—Mounting of the equipment in the rack should be such that a hazardous condition is not achieved due to un-
even mechanical loading.
4Circuit Overloading—Consideration should be given to the connection of the equipment to the supply circuit and the effect that over-
loading of the circuits might have on over-current protection and supply wiring. Appropriate consideration of equipment nameplate
ratings should be used when addressing this concern.
5Reliable Earthing—Reliable Earthing of rack-mounted equipment should be maintained. Particular attention should be given to sup-
ply connections other than direct connections to the branch circuit (for example, use of power strips).
LED Safety Notices
Avid hardware might contain LED or Laser devices for communication use. These devices are compliant with the requirements for
Class 1 LED and Laser Products and are safe in the intended use. In normal operation the output of these laser devices does not exceed
the exposure limit of the eye and cannot cause harm.

Pro Tools | Sync X Guide v
Environmental Compliance
Proposition 65 Warning
Warning This product can expose you to chemicals including Pb and Pb compounds, which is known to the State of California
to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
Perchlorate Notice
This product may contain a lithium coin battery. The State of California requires the following disclosure statement: “Perchlorate Ma-
terial—special handling may apply, see www.dtsc.ca.gov/hazardous waste/perchlorate.”
Recycling Notice
Disposal of Waste Equipment by Users in the European Union
This symbol on the product or its packaging indicates that this product must not be disposed of with other waste. Instead, it is your re-
sponsibility to dispose of your waste equipment by handing it over to a designated collection point for the recycling of waste electrical
and electronic equipment. The separate collection and recycling of your waste equipment at the time of disposal will help conserve nat-
ural resources and ensure that it is recycled in a manner that protects human health and the environment. For more information about
where you can drop off your waste equipment for recycling, please contact your local city recycling office or the dealer from whom you
purchased the product.
EMC (Electromagnetic Compliance)
Avid declares that this product complies with the following standards:
• FCC Part 15 Class A (USA EMI)
• ICES-003 Class A (Canada EMI)
• EN 55032 Class A (EU EMI)
• AS/NZS CISPR 32 Class A (Australia/New Zealand EMI)
• CISPR32 Class A (international EMI)
• RRA NO 2017 19, Dec 28,2017 (Korea EMI & EMS)
• RRA NO 2018-99, Oct 12, 2018 (Korea EMI & EMS)
• EN 61000-3-2 (EU EMI)
• EN 61000-3-3 (EU EMI)
• EN 55035 (EU EMS)
• EN 55103-2, Environment E2, E3, E4 (EU EMS)


Pro Tools | Sync X Guide vi
FCC Notice: Class A Equipment
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC rules.
These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial
environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with
the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to
cause harmful interference, in which case the user will be required to correct the interference at personal expense.
Cables
Connections to Avid hardware must be made with shielded cables with metallic RFI/EMI connector hoods in order to maintain com-
pliance with FCC Rules and Regulations.
Any modifications to the unit, unless expressly approved by Avid, could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.
Canadian ICES-003 Class A Notice
This Class A digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.
Cet appareil numérique de la classe A est conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada.
Australian Compliance
Korean EMC Compliance
Safety Compliance
This equipment has been tested to comply with USA, Canadian, EU and International safety certification standards: UL 60065:2015,
CAN/CSA C22.2 No. 60065:16, IEC/EN 60065:2014 (8th Edition) (International/EU), UL 62368-1:2014, CAN/CSA 62368-1-14, and
IEC/EN 62368-1:2014 (2nd Edition) (International/EU).
Avid Technology Inc., has been authorized to apply the appropriate NRTL mark on its compliant equipment.
This equipment has been tested to comply with EN 60950-1:2006 + A11:2009 + A1:2010 + A12:2011 +A2:2013
Power Safety Input Rating
Regulatory Model Number (RMN) 9100-74080: AC~100-240V, 50-60Hz, 0.5A
CE Compliance
(EMC, Safety and RoHS)
Avid is authorized to apply the CE (Conformite Europenne) mark on this compliant equipment thereby declaring conformity to EMC
Directive 2014/30/EU, Low Voltage Directive 2014/35/EU and RoHS Recast Directive 2011/65/EC.

Pro Tools | Sync X Guide vii
Chapter 1. Introduction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Pro Tools | Sync X . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
System Requirements and Compatibility Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Conventions Used in Pro Tools Documentation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Resources. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Chapter 2. Pro Tools | Sync X Front Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Pro Tools | Sync X Front Panel Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Settings Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Chapter 3. Pro Tools | Sync X Back Panel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Pro Tools | Sync X Back Panel Connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Chapter 4. Installing Pro Tools | Sync X . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Unpacking Pro Tools | Sync X . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Register Pro Tools | Sync X. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Rack Mounting Pro Tools | Sync X . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Connecting Cables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
AC Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Host Serial Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Clock for Pro Tools Audio Interfaces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
MachineControl Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Synchronization and Timecode Connections to Machines, Decks, and Other Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Launch Pro Tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Updating Pro Tools | Sync X Firmware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Enable Pro Tools | Sync X in Pro Tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Chapter 5. Configuring Pro Tools | Sync X . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Pro Tools | Sync X Setup in the Peripherals Dialog . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Pro Tools | Sync X in the Session Setup Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Transport Window and Edit Window Toolbar Synchronization View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Chapter 6. Using Pro Tools | Sync X. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Clock References . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Video Reference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Positional Reference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Generating and Regenerating Timecode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
External Offsets and Timecode Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Using Fader Start . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Example System Configurations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Pro Tools | Sync X Routing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Contents

Pro Tools | Sync X Guide
viii
Appendix A. Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Back Panel Connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Clock Specifications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Power Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Mechanical Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Environmental Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Appendix B. Additional Synchronization Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Video Reference Signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
LTC Signals. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Digital Clock Signal Types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Bi-Phase/Tach. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Pilot Tone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
MTC (MIDI Time Code) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Appendix C. Wiring Diagrams and Pin Assignments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
LTC IN and OUT XLR Ports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
GPIO, BI-PHASE/TACH IN, PILOT IN DB-25 Port. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Bi-Phase/Tach/GPI/Pilot Port Interfacing Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
AES3 I/O DB-25 Port . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
9-Pin (RS422) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
MIDI I/O Port . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Host Serial Pin Assignments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Appendix D. Troubleshooting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Hardware Settings Reset . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Factory Reset . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

Chapter 1: Introduction 1
Chapter 1: Introduction
Pro Tools | Sync X
Pro Tools | Sync X from Avid®is a versatile master synchronization and clock peripheral for use with Pro Tools | Ultimate™
software on Pro Tools | HD™Native and Pro Tools | HDX™systems.
Pro Tools | Sync X Features
Pro Tools | Sync X supports sample rates of 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4, and 192 kHz.
Pro Tools | Sync X provides the following:
• Clock Reference Sources:
• Internal
• Video Reference
• Word Clock
• Loop Sync
• 10 MHz
•AES3
•AES3-id
• LTC (Linear Time Code)
• Bi-phase/Tach
•PilotTone
• Video Reference Sources:
• Internal
• External
• Positional Reference Sources:
• LTC (Linear Time Code)
• Serial Time Code
• Bi-phase/Tach
• Internal Time Code Generator
Pro Tools | Sync X

Chapter 1: Introduction
2
• Output and Generation:
• Video Reference Generator (four outputs)
• Video Reference Out (two outputs)
• Loop Sync (base rate of 44.1 kHz or 48 kHz)
• Word Clock (six outputs)
•AES3
• AES3id
• LTC (Linear Time Code)
• MTC (MIDI Time Code)
• 9-Pin MachineControl™
• Other Features:
• Large front panel OLED displays for timecode, device settings, and reference status
• Integrated control of Sync X from Pro Tools
• 9-pin Sony P-2 protocol port, for Deck Control with MachineControl-enabled systems
• GPIO for play, stop, record, and fader start commands
System Requirements and Compatibility Information
Avid can only assure compatibility and provide support for hardware and software it has tested and approved.
For complete system requirements and a list of qualified computers, operating systems, storage solutions, peripherals, and third-party
devices, visit www.avid.com/compatibility.
For Pro Tools | Sync X–specific system requirements, FAQ, and video, visit avid.com/syncx-support.
Pro Tools | Sync X with Pro Tools | Ultimate
To use Pro Tools | Sync X with Pro Tools | Ultimate, the following is required:
• An Avid-qualified Pro Tools | HDX or HD Native system
• An 8-pin to 8-pin serial cable (included) to connect the Sync X Host serial port to the primary HDX card or HD Native device serial
port
Conventions Used in Pro Tools Documentation
Pro Tools documentation uses the following conventions to indicate menu choices, keyboard commands, and mouse commands:
:
The names of Commands, Options, and Settings that appear on-screen are in a different font.
The names of physical switches on Pro Tools | Carbon are in displayed in bold text.
Convention Action
File > Save Choose Save from the File menu
Control+N Hold down the Control key and press the N key
Control-click Hold down the Control key and click the mouse button
Right-click Click with the right mouse button

Chapter 1: Introduction
3
The following symbols are used to highlight important information:
Resources
The Avid website (www.avid.com) is your best online source for information to help you get the most out of your Avid system.
Account Activation and Product Registration
Activate your product to access downloads in your Avid account (or quickly create an account if you do not have one). Register your
purchase online, download software, updates, documentation, and other resources.
www.avid.com/account
Support and Downloads
Contact Avid Customer Success (technical support), download software updates and the latest online manuals, browse the Compatibil-
ity documents for system requirements, search the online Knowledge Base or join the worldwide Avid user community on the User Con-
ference.
www.avid.com/support
Training and Education
Study on your own using courses available online, find out how you can learn in a classroom setting at an Avid-certified training center,
or view video tutorials and webinars.
www.avid.com/education
Video Tutorials
The Get Started Fast with Pro Tools series of online videos provide tutorials to help if you are new to Pro Tools. They also provide
videos for the experienced user that introduce new features found in the latest versions of Pro Tools.
www.avidblogs.com/get-started-fast-with-pro-tools/
Products and Developers
Learn about Avid products, download demo software, or learn about our Development Partners and their plug-ins, applications, and
hardware.
www.avid.com/products
User Tips are helpful hints for getting the most from your Pro Tools system.
Important Notices include information that could affect your Pro Tools session data or the performance of your Pro Tools system.
Shortcuts show you useful keyboard or mouse shortcuts.
Cross References point to related sections in this guide and other Avid documentation.

Chapter 2: Pro Tools | Sync X Front Panel 4
Chapter 2: Pro Tools | Sync X Front Panel
Pro Tools | Sync X is controlled by Pro Tools | Ultimate software on your computer. The front panel of the unit provides displays,
indicators, and controls.
Pro Tools | Sync X Front Panel Features
1Power button: Press the Power button to power on the unit. Press and hold the Power button for two seconds to power off the
unit.
2ID button: Press the ID button to flash the ID button and ID LED on back panel. This lets you easily identify the unit from the
back when it is installed in a rack. This button can also be used to reset the unit to its original firmware and factory settings (see
Factory Reset).
3No functionality at this time.
4No functionality at this time.
5No functionality at this time.
6Timecode display: The current positional reference (internal or external), is displayed in hours:minutes:seconds:frames.
Non-Drop Frame Timecode is indicated by a colon between seconds and frames. Drop Frame Timecode is indicated by a semi-
colon between seconds and frames. The Timecode Display only shows running timecode when generating timecode (GEN LTC
engaged) or when chasing running timecode from an external source.
7Settings display: Provides four separate page views that show the current settings of Sync X, see Settings Display.
8Settings Down button: When illuminated, press to display the next page in the Settings display. When not illuminated, the last
page (4) is shown in the Settings display.
9Settings Up button: When illuminated, press to display the previous page in the Settings display. When not illuminated, the first
page (1) is shown in the Settings display.
10 Settings Select button: Can be used to reset Sync X to the default hardware settings, see Hardware Settings Reset.
Pro Tools | Sync X front panel
1 5 7
986
10 13
11 12
3 4
2

Chapter 2: Pro Tools | Sync X Front Panel
5
11 CLOCK REF LED: Indicates the status of the Clock Reference source. Mirrors the Clock Ref Status indicator in the Pro Tools Ses-
sion Setup window, and also in Synchronization view in the Transport window and the Edit Window toolbar.
* expected rate = session sample rate +/– any pull up/down factor
12 VIDEO REF LED: Indicates the status of the Video Reference source. Mirrors the Video Ref Status indicator in the Pro Tools Ses-
sion Setup window, and also in Synchronization view in the Transport window and the Edit Window toolbar.
13 No functionality at this time.
Settings Display
The Settings Display provides four separate page views that show the current settings of Sync X. These pages are navigated by the Set-
tings Up and Down buttons to the right of the display. When either button is lit, it indicates that it can be pressed to move to the next or
previous page respectively. On the right of the display are four boxes, one for each page (1–4 from top to bottom).
Settings Display Page 1
Session Sample Rate Displays the Session Sample Rate.
Video Reference Format Displays the selected Video Reference Format.
Up Arrow Shown above the Sample Rate display when there is an active Pull Up.
Down Arrow Shown below the Sample Rate display when there is an active Pull Down.
VSO “Shown below the Sample Rate display when VSO is enabled.
Settings Display Page 2
Session Sample Rate Displays the Session Sample Rate.
Clock Reference Source Displays the current Clock Reference Source.
Output Sample Rate Displays the precise sample rate distributed to all clock outputs. This mirrors the Output Sample Rate display in
the Session Setup window.
VSO If VSO is enabled, displays the VSO setting in semitones and cents (0.00).
Clock Ref LED indications
Sync X Clock Ref LED Session Setup/Front Panel Clock Reference
Solid Green Locked/Generating 0.0%–0.025% faster/slower than the expected rate*
Flashing Fast Yellow Locked >0.025%–4% faster than the expected rate*
Flashing Slow Yellow Locked >0.025%–4% slower than the expected rate*
Flashing Fast Orange Locked >4%-8% faster than the expected rate*
Flashing Slow Orange Locked >4%-8% slower than the expected rate*
Flashing Fast Red Locked >8% faster than the expected rate*
Flashing Slow Red Locked >8% slower than the expected rate*
Unlit Not Locked not locked or signal missing
Video Ref LED indications
Sync X Video Ref LED Session Setup/Front Panel Video Reference
Solid Green Locked/Generating Video Reference signal is present and matches
Flashing Fast Red Not Locked Video Reference signal is present, but does not match
Unlit Not Present Video Reference signal is missing

Chapter 2: Pro Tools | Sync X Front Panel
6
Settings Display Page 3
Video Reference Source Displays the current Video Reference Source.
Format Displays the current Video Reference Format.
Detected Input Format Displays the Detected Input Format of the incoming video reference signal (if any).
Settings Display Page 4
Positional Reference Displays the Positional Reference Format.
Audio Rate Pull Displays the Audio Rate Pull Up/Down setting (if any).
Firmware Displays the version of the Firmware on the unit.
Factory Reset Indicates how to Reset the unit to its factory firmware and default settings: Hold ID on power up (see Factory Reset).

Chapter 3: Pro Tools | Sync X Back Panel 7
Chapter 3: Pro Tools | Sync X Back Panel
Pro Tools | Sync X Back Panel Connectors
1HOST SERIAL: The Host Serial port is a bidirectional (in/out) port to connect Sync X to the Serial Port on HD Native or on the
primary HDX card in your system.
2RESET button (see Factory Reset).
3ID LED: Flashes when the ID button is engaged on the front panel. This lets you easily identify the unit when it is installed in a
rack.
4MIDI I/O: The MIDI I/O port is a 9-pin connection for the included MIDI I/O breakout cable. Sync X outputs MTC (MIDI Time
Code), only. No other MIDI data appears at this output. MTC output is regenerated while Sync X is locked to any supported po-
sitional reference and clock reference, or internally generated in Generate mode, in which case MTC output follows generator
run/stop. This port is intended to supply MTC from Sync X to external sequencers or other MIDI devices. Sync X does not re-
spond to incoming MTC at this time.
59-PIN: For Machine Control-enabled systems, this port connects directly to external 9-pin transports. Use a Colin Broad 422
USB serial adapter to connect to a USB port computer.
6GPIO, BI-PHASE/TACH IN, PILOT IN: This DB-25 port is an accessory port for Bi-Phase, Tach, and Pilot signals (specific ca-
bles are required for different applications). This connector is also used for GPI input, output (including Fader Start), and thru
signals.
7AES3 I/O: This DB-25 port provides AES3 clock reference input and outputs. The AES3 audio signal is silent (all bits OFF) and
its sample rate exactly matches the Sync X sample clock.
8LTC IN: This XLR port receives a LTC (Linear Time Code) source, balanced or unbalanced analog, for positional and/or clock
reference. This port is often used to receive LTC from an audio track on an external deck or the address track of a VTR.
9LTC OUT: This XLR port outputs LTC (Linear Time Code), in balanced or unbalanced analog audio format. LTC output level
is adjustable using the Synchronization page of the Peripherals dialog in Pro Tools.
Pro Tools | Sync X back panel
For more information, see the Machine Control chapter of the Pro Tools Reference Guide.
For wiring information and other specifications for this port, see Wiring Diagrams and Pin Assignments.
For wiring details, see Wiring Diagrams and Pin Assignments.
7
5
4
16
813
10
29
311 12 18
1714 15 16 19

Chapter 3: Pro Tools | Sync X Back Panel 8
10 WC IN: This BNC port receives Word Clock, for clock reference purposes only. Word Clock is often used with external master
clocks, digital consoles, and audio interfaces (such as Pro Tools | MTRX™).
11 10 MHz/AES3id IN: This BNC port receives either 10 MHz or AES3id signal depending on which is selected as the Clock Ref-
erence Source in the Session Setup window.
12 LOOP IN: This BNC port receives Loop Sync from any HD audio interface or MTRX Studio.
13 VIDEO REF IN: This BNC port receives tri-level or black burst video reference signal, which can be used for frame edge align-
ment and/or clock reference. This connector is internally terminated at 75 ohms.
14 VIDEO REF OUT 1 and 2: These BNC ports output a buffered copy of the signal at the VIDEO REF IN port.
15 WORD CLOCK OUT 1–6: These BNC ports output Word Clock.
16 VIDEO REF GEN 1–4: These BNC ports output Video Reference signal generated by Sync X. This signal is muted when Video
Ref Source is set to External in the Session Setup window (see Video Ref (Frame Edge Lock)). Note that the VIDEO REF GEN
ports are not aligned with (genlocked to) the VIDEO REF IN port.
17 LOOP OUT: This BNC port outputs Loop Sync. This port connects to the Loop In port of the primary Pro Tools audio interface.
18 AES3id OUT: This BNC port outputs AES3id clock signal.
19 IEC Power connector.

Chapter 4: Installing Pro Tools | Sync X 9
Chapter 4: Installing Pro Tools | Sync X
Installing and setting up Pro Tools | Sync X involves the following:
1Unpacking Pro Tools | Sync X from the box.
2Registering Pro Tools | Sync X.
3Rack mounting Pro Tools | Sync X (optional).
4Connecting cables.
5Launching Pro Tools and enabling Pro Tools | Sync X.
Unpacking Pro Tools | Sync X
Before you get started installing Pro Tools | Sync X, unpack the box, which contains the following:
• Pro Tools | Sync X
• Power cable
• Serial cable
• BNC cable (x2)
• MIDI I/O Breakout cable
• Rack mount and desktop accessory kit
• Registration card with redemption code, QR code, and serial number
• Warranty Claims Information card
• Avid Health and Safety Guide
• Safety and Regulatory Information Sheet
Keep the Registration card on hand to register Pro Tools | Sync X and access documentation downloads. Set the cables aside until
you are ready to start making cable connections. Remove Pro Tools | Sync X from the box and packaging, and place it on a hard,
dry surface.
Registration card: front and back

Chapter 4: Installing Pro Tools | Sync X
10
Register Pro Tools | Sync X
Pro Tools | Sync X includes a Registration card with a redemption code and a QR code that lets you register the unit. Registering your
Sync X lets you put it under Hardware Contract, access support, and access PDF documentation through your online Avid Master Ac-
count.
To register your Pro Tools | Sync X unit and access related downloads through your Avid Master Account:
1Locate the Registration card.
2Do one of the following:
• With your mobile device, scan the QR code on the Registration card. Follow the on-screen instructions and then continue with the
next step.
•Visithttps://www.avid.com/register and continue with the next step.
3Log in to your Avid Master Account. If you do not already have an Avid Master Account, create a new one and log in.
4Enter the redemption code on the Registration card and click Register. If you scanned the QR code, your redemption code is entered
automatically.
5Follow the on-screen instructions.
You are directed to the My Products page for your Avid Master Account.
Download and Review PDF Documentation
Download and review PDF documentation for Pro Tools | Sync X and Pro Tools software from your Avid Master Account. Be sure to
consult any Read Me documentation for the latest known issues.
Rack Mounting Pro Tools | Sync X
If you install Pro Tools | Sync X into a 19-inch rack, use the included rack mount screws and washers. Pro Tools | Sync X, as with all
Avid peripherals, needs room at the front and back of the unit to maintain proper air flow for cooling. Do not block the front or back of
the unit. If the unit is rack mounted in a case, remove the case lids or doors before operating the system. Failure to do so can result in
the unit overheating, which can permanently damage sensitive components.
If you decide to not install Pro Tools | Sync X in a rack, you can affix the included adhesive rubber pads to the bottom of the unit to pro-
tect whatever surface you decide to set it on (for example, if you decide to use it as a desktop unit).
Connecting Cables
Once you have installed Pro Tools | Sync X in a rack (optional), you are ready to start connecting cables.
The following are the primary hardware connections on Pro Tools | Sync X:
• AC Power (power cable included)
• Sync X Host Serial port to the serial port on the Pro Tools system’s HD Native device or primary HDX card (serial cable included)
• Clock to Pro Tools audio interfaces using Loop Sync and/or Word Clock (2 BNC cables included)
• 9-pin to an external machine for MachineControl (cable not included)
• Synchronization, including positional and clock references to and from remote machines using various connection formats
(cables not included)
In order to meet EMC requirements and in order to obtain the highest performance of Pro Tools | Sync X, use high-quality, properly
shielded cables for all external connections.
To familiarize yourself with Pro Tools | Sync X front panel displays and controls, see Pro Tools | Sync X Front Panel. For information
about back panel connections, see Pro Tools | Sync X Back Panel.

Chapter 4: Installing Pro Tools | Sync X
11
AC Power
The Pro Tools | Sync X AC connector accepts a standard AC Power Cable (included). Sync X is auto power-selecting (100V to 240V)
and will automatically work with a standard modular cable to connect to AC power receptacles in any country.
Host Serial Connection
Serial Cable Connection to the HD Native Device or Primary HDX Card
Both Pro Tools | HD Native (PCIe card or Thunderbolt) and Pro Tools | HDX support Pro Tools | Sync X. Pro Tools systems require a
serial cable connection between Pro Tools | Sync X and the HD Native device or the primary HDX card in your system.
To make the serial connection between Sync X and HD Native or HDX:
1Make sure all equipment is powered off.
2Connect one end of the included serial cable to the Pro Tools | Sync X HOST SERIAL port.
3Connect the other end to the serial port on HD Native or the primary HDX card.
Clock for Pro Tools Audio Interfaces
Pro Tools | Sync X must be connected to all Pro Tools audio interfaces in the Loop Sync chain using shielded BNC cables.
Connecting Loop Sync for Pro Tools Audio Interfaces
Pro Tools | Sync X supports Loop Sync and can serve as the Loop Sync Master. Loop Sync is a dedicated clock loop for synchronizing
multiple Pro Tools audio interfaces. Loop Sync is used to connect multiple Pro Tools audio interfaces (such as HD I/O, HD OMNI,
HD MADI, or Pro Tools | MTRX Studio™).
Do not substitute a standard off-the-shelf miniDIN8 cable. It will not work. Use the included serial cable, or build a custom cable
wired according to the pin-out information provided in Appendix C, “Wiring Diagrams and Pin Assignments.”
Making serial connections (HDX card shown)
If Pro Tools | MTRX is also included in your system, make Loop Sync connections between Sync X and all Pro Tools audio inter-
faces in your system except MTRX, and make Word Clock connections between Sync X and MTRX (see Connecting Word Clock for
Pro Tools | MTRX).

Chapter 4: Installing Pro Tools | Sync X
12
To connect Loop Sync between Pro Tools | Sync X and Pro Tools audio interfaces:
1Using a shielded BNC cable, connect the LOOP OUT port of Sync X to the Loop Sync In of your Pro Tools audio interface.
2Connect the LOOP IN port of Sync X to the Loop Sync Out of your Pro Tools audio interface.
3When using more than one Pro Tools audio interface, make Sync X the first and last unit in the Loop Sync chain.
Connecting Word Clock for Pro Tools | MTRX
Since Pro Tools | MTRX does not support Loop Sync, use Word Clock for clock reference between Sync X and MTRX.
To connect Word Clock between Pro Tools | Sync X and Pro Tools | MTRX:.
1Using a shielded BNC cable, connect any WORD CLOCK OUT port of Sync X (there are 6 separate Word Clock Out connections)
to the Word Clock In of your Pro Tools | MTRX.
2In DADman software, set Word Clock as the Sync source for Pro Tools | MTRX.
Making Loop Sync connections, Sync X and MTRX Studio shown
Making Loop Sync connections, Sync X, MTRX Studio, and HD MADI are shown
Making Word Clock connections, Sync X and Pro Tools | MTRX
AES/EBU I/O 5-8
AES/EBU I/O 1-4 MADI
in
out
in
out
100-240VAC, 50/60 Hz
Max 90 VA
Fuse T1AH/250VAC
WC/VBB
PHD I/O
Primary 1 Pr 2/Exp
AES11 in
Net 1 Net 2
Optical I/O
875 1
1
2684