X Series: Timecode

X Series: Timecode

Applicable Models: X4, X4 Air, and X5

Using the Timecode feature in multi-camera set-ups helps editing software align multiple video tracks, saving you the tedious steps of manual synchronization and greatly improving editing efficiency.

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How to enable Timecode

X5 and X4 Air

Swipe down from the top of the camera screen to access the "Shortcut" menu > tap "Settings" (Gear icon ⚙) > "Timecode". You can choose to synchronize with the system time or manually align the time.

X4

Swipe down from the top of the camera screen to access the "Shortcut" menu > tap "TC" (the Timecode icon). You can choose to synchronize with the system time or manually align the time.

Please note: To synchronize system time, you need to connect the camera to the Insta360 app. After connecting, tap the refresh icon in the bottom right to synchronize. If you choose to set the time manually, adjust the hours, minutes, and seconds, tap the checkmark icon in the top right, and then tap "Start Timecode" to complete synchronization.

How to synchronize a timecode

Method 1: System time synchronization

1. On the Timecode page, select "Sync system time".
2. Connect the camera to the Insta360 app.
3. Tap the refresh icon in the bottom right, and the camera will automatically adjust and calibrate the time.

Please refer to: How to Connect Camera to the Insta360 App

Method 2: Multi-camera time synchronization

1. Enter the Timecode page, and select "Manually align time".
2. Set the timecode on each camera separately, then tap the checkmark icon in the top right corner.
3. Once the times are consistent across the cameras, tap "Start timecode".

Method 3: Using an external timecode generator

This method requires purchasing a third-party timecode generator and a Mic Adapter for your camera separately. Connect the timecode generator via the Mic Adapter, and the camera will automatically read and synchronize the high-precision time signal from the generator.

Please note:

• To enable the Timecode feature on X4 cameras, the firmware must be updated to v1.5.3 or later.
• If you need to add a time watermark with the Insta360 app / Insta360 Studio, the Insta360 app needs to be updated to v1.73.0 or later, and Insta360 Studio needs to be updated to v5.4.6 or later.

For a more intuitive operational demonstration, please refer to Ace Pro 2 Timecode Synchronization Tutorial.

FAQ

1. What is a timecode?

A timecode is stored in the Timecode Track of video and audio files, recorded in the "Hours:Minutes:Seconds:Frames" format. It is used to precisely mark the position of each frame in a video or audio. In multi-camera setups, using the Timecode feature can simplify the synchronization of multiple video tracks during editing in post-production.

2. What should I do if I can't find the Timecode option on the camera?

• Update the firmware: Ensure the camera firmware is updated to the latest version.
• Ensure the Timecode feature is enabled.
• Confirm the shooting mode: Currently, the Timecode feature is supported in Video, HDR Video, FreeFrame Video, and Loop Recording modes. Please ensure your camera is in one of these supported modes before trying to use the Timecode feature.

Please refer to: X Series: How to Check and Update Firmware Version

3. Why does the camera prompt "Synchronization failed, please keep the frame rates of the timecode generator and the camera consistent" when connected to a timecode generator?

This is caused by inconsistent frame rates between the camera and the timecode generator. Please ensure both the camera and the timecode generator are set to the same frame rate, for example, 30fps or 60fps. After setting both to the same frame rate, try the synchronization again.

4. Which timecode generators are compatible with the Timecode feature?

The Timecode feature of X Series cameras is compatible with most mainstream timecode generators. For optimal compatibility and performance, we recommend using devices from brands such as Easync, Tentacle Sync, and Atomos.