Saramonic TC-NEO Wireless Timecode Generator User Manual

The TC-NEO is a high-precision, reliable timecode generator designed for professional audio and video production. It supports wireless sync via Bluetooth, RF wireless sync, and wired sync, ensuring seamless timecode synchronization across multiple devices. With three operational modes—Master Run mode, Auto Jam mode, and Jam Once and Lock mode, the TC-NEO allows users to set a user-defined starting timecode for maximum flexibility. It supports multiple frame rates, including 23.98, 24, 25, 29.97, 29.97DF, 30, 50, and 60, meeting diverse production needs.

The TC-NEO offers intuitive control via its knob or the Saramonic System app, allowing for easy configuration, real-time monitoring, and firmware updates. The device connects effortlessly to cameras, audio recorders, and other equipment through Line Input (L-IN), Line Output (L-OUT), or Audio Output (A-OUT). In Master Run mode, it transmits timecode to other devices, while in Auto Jam mode or Jam Once and Lock mode, it accepts and syncs with an external source. Supporting up to 48 synchronized units, the TC-NEO delivers precise, efficient, and scalable timecode management for professional productions.

Features

1.1″ OLED display, clear & flicker-free
TCXO precision, < 1 frame drift / 48 h

Wired, wireless, and app sync
3-pack charging kit for multi-cam sync

Shockproof case enhances durability
24-hour battery for all-day use

In the Box

Saramonic TC–NEO

Timecode Generator × 1

SR-TRS-C01 Locking 3.5 mm to 3.5 mm Audio Cable x 1
SR-USB-C01 USB-C to USB-C Charging Cable x 1

USB-C to USB-A Adapter x 1
Female Hook-N-Loop x 2

Rotary 1/4″-20 Thread Cold Shoe x 1
Thumb Screw 1/4″-20 Thread Cold Shoe x 1

QR Code Card for Instructions x 1
QR Code Card for APP Installation x 1

Semi-Transparent Protective Case (Orange) x 1
Carrying Pouch x 1

Saramonic TC-NEO Kit

Timecode Generator x 3

Charging Case x 1
SR-TRS-C01 Locking 3.5 mm to 3.5 mm Audio Cable x 1

SR-TRS-C06 Locking 3.5 mm to BNC Cable x 1
SR-TRS-C03 Locking 3.5 mm to Right-Angle 5-Pin Cable x 1

SR-USB-C01 USB-C to USB-C Charging Cable x 1
USB-C to USB-A Adapter x 1

Female Hook-N-Loop x 6
Rotary 1/4″-20 Thread Cold Shoe x 3

Thumb Screw 1/4″-20 Thread Cold Shoe x 3
QR Code Card for Instructions x 1
QR Code Card for APP Installation x 1
Semi-Transparent Protective Case (Orange, Blue, and Yellow) x 3
Carrying Pouch x 1

Sold Separately

SONY FX3/30-TCH Timecode Holder / Bracket
SR-TRS-C04 Locking 3.5 mm to 5-Pin LEMO Cable ( Sraight)
SR-TRS-C05 Locking 3.5 mm to 5-Pin LEMO Cable (Bent Angle)
SR-TRS-C06 Locking 3.5 mm to BNC Cable
SR-TRS-C07 Locking 3.5 mm to 4-Pin Cable ( Straight)
SR-TRS-C08 Locking 3.5 mm to 9-Pin Cable
SR-TRS-C09 Locking 3.5 mm to 9-Pin Cable (Straight, for Canon Cameras)
SR-TRS-C10 Locking 3.5 mm to Sony Multi-Port Cable

Product Structure

Timecode Generator (Saramonic TC-NEO)

USB-C Port
Use the included USB-C to USB-C charging cable for charging the TC-NEO, upgrading the firmware.

3.5 mm TRS Locking Port
TC-NEO can accept timecode signals from external devices or output the timecode signals to other timecode generators using the included or an optional compatible cable.
In-built Microphone
When the camera input is set to “MIC level” and the TC-NEO is in A-OUT mode, connect it using the included or an optional compatible cable. The timecode signal will be recorded on the left channel, while the reference audio signal will be recorded on the right channel.
Power Indicator

Sync Indicator

Status	The indicator of TC-NEO in Master run mode	The indicator of other timecode generator
Syncing	Blinks red quickly	Blinks red quickly
Sync successfully	Blinks blue slowly	Blinks blue slowly

Bluetooth Indicator

Device Setting Status Indicator

Bluetooth On Connecting to the App Blinks blue

Bluetooth On Successfully connected Solid blue

Bluetooth Off — Blue light off

The Bluetooth of TC-NEO is off by default. After manually turning it on, the TC-NEO is immediately recognized and can connect to the app.

OLED Display Screen
Display real-time timecode, battery level, device name, operating mode, and other status information.
Knob
- When the display screen is on the home screen, press and hold the knob for 2 seconds to enter the home appearance setting page.
- When the display screen is on the home screen, press the knob twice to enter the device menu page.
- When the display screen is on the home appearance setting page or the menu page, rotate the knob up and down to select an item, and press once to enter the item or save the settings.
Power Button / Back Button
- Press and hold for 2 seconds to power on or off.
- When the display screen is on the home screen, press this button three times to lock or unlock the screen. After the screen is locked, all buttons are ineffective except for pressing this button twice to wake up the screen.
- When the display screen is on other pages, press this button once to return to the previous page.

Male Hook-N-Loop
The TC-NEO can be connected to a camera cold shoe, tripod, or other recording devices using the included rotary 1/4″-20 thread cold shoe or thumb screw 1/4″-20 thread cold shoe.
Charging Contacts
Charging will begin when the charging contacts of the TC-NEO connect to the charging pins of the charging case.

Charging Case (Saramonic TC-CC)

Charging Pins
The TC-NEO will begin to charge when its charging contacts connect to the charging pins in the charging case.
Charging Case Switch

Battery Level Indicator
The definition of indicator in the Table:
is blinking is solid is off
- When the charging case is not connected to power (not in charging mode), opening the case or placing the TC-NEO into it for charging, this indicator will display the case’s current battery level.The battery level indicator will be solid white for 7 seconds and then automatically off when displaying the remaining charge of the charging case.
- When the charging case is connected to power, this indicator will display the case’s charging status.

Battery Level or Time Display Toggle Button
- Press the button once, and the battery level indicator will display the remaining charge of the charging case.
- Press and hold the button for 1.5 seconds. When all three TC-NEO are inside the charging case, the display screens of the three TC-NEO will show the time in “hours: minutes: seconds” format in real-time.
  Please pair the TC-NEO with the Saramonic System app first to ensure accurate local time.

USB-C Charging Port
For charging the charging case via the included USB-C to USB-C charging cable.

Operation Guide

TC-NEO Menu Introduction
The TC-NEO screen provides a quick access to status information. The screen view may differ slightly from the illustrations in this User Manual due to the ongoing product updates. Please refer to the actual device for accuracy.

Buttons for navigating Menu
Use the following buttons to navigate through the TC-NEO menu.

Knob:

Press and hold for 1.5 seconds to navigate from the home screen to home appearance settings page.
Press the knob twice to enter the menu page from the home screen. Rotate the knob up and down to select menu options. Press once to enter the menu option or save settings.

Power Button / Back Button:
Changes to the previous page.

Home screen

The device information of TC-NEO

Shortcut menu
When the TC-NEO display screen is on the home screen, press and hold the knob for 1.5 seconds to quickly access the home appearance settings. Rotate the knob to select between Concise, Specific, and User Bit.

Specific Mode
Concise Mode

User Bit Mode

Operating Menu
When the display screen is on the home screen, press the knob twice to navigate from the home screen to the menu page. Rotate the knob up or down to select a menu option. Then press the knob once to access the menu option or save settings.

TC Mode

Based on your needs, you can rotate or press the knob to select the TC Mode, including Master Run, Auto Jam, and Jam Once and Lock.

Master Run: In this mode, TC-NEO can wirelessly output timecode to other Saramonic devices that support timecode. The devices that accept the timecode signal must be set to Auto Jam mode or Jam Once and Lock mode. The TC-NEO and other devices should be assigned to the same channel or group. Additionally, synchronization can also be achieved via included or optional compatible cables when connecting to external devices.
Auto Jam: In this mode, TC-NEO waits for an external timecode signal input to synchronize. The default setting of TC-NEO is Master Run mode.
Jam Once and Lock: In this mode, TC-NEO automatically synchronizes the timecode once and then locks it; it will not sync again until the mode is switched.

Frame Rate

Enter this menu option to set the frame rate for TC-NEO as 23.98, 24, 25, 29.97, 29.97DF, 30, 50, and 60, making it suitable for various regions and shooting requirements. Users can select the appropriate frame rate to ensure stable synchronization and maintain consistency between video and audio.

Frame Rate Introduction:

23.98 FPS: Commonly used in digital filmmaking and compatible with the NTSC standard.
24 FPS: The traditional film standard, widely used in cinematic productions.

25 FPS: Standard for PAL video systems (e.g., China and Europe), commonly used in television and video production.
29.97 FPS: NTSC standard, primarily used in television broadcasting in North America, Japan, and other NTSC regions.
29.97 DF (Drop Frame): A timecode mode within the NTSC system that ensures timecode remains synchronized with real-time, making it ideal for live broadcasts and long-duration recordings.

30 FPS: The traditional NTSC black-and-white television standard, applicable to certain digital video productions.
50 FPS: A high-frame-rate mode used in PAL systems, ideal for sports, action scenes, and other applications requiring smooth motion.
60 FPS: A high-frame-rate mode for NTSC systems, suited for high-dynamic-range shooting and slow-motion processing.

PAL and NTSC are two different television video standards used in different regions. When selecting a timecode frame rate, ensure compatibility with the shooting environment and equipment standards (PAL: 25 fps / 50 fps, NTSC: 29.97 fps / 59.94 fps) to maintain synchronization and video consistency across devices.
To ensure precise synchronization, all recording and filming equipment should be set to the same timecode frame rate.

Out Type Setting

Line Input (L-IN): Accepts an external timecode signal via a timecode cable. Suitable for scenarios where TC-NEO needs to synchronize with an external timecode source.
Line Output (L-OUT): Outputs the timecode signal generated by TC-NEO via a timecode cable to other devices. Suitable for situations where TC-NEO serves as the master timecode device, transmitting timecode signals to other equipment.

Audio Output (A-OUT): Outputs Mic level timecode to external devices, recording it as a reference audio signal on an audio track to facilitate post-production synchronization and alignment. Ideal for cameras that do not have a dedicated timecode input but support audio input.

TC Setting

When TC-NEO is set to Master Run mode, there are three timecode setting options:

SYNC: Transmits timecode signals to other devices for synchronization.
External: Detects and accepts external timecode signals via the 3.5 mm port for synchronization.

Reset: Starts timecode from 00:00:00:00 or any user-defined starting timecode.

Channel Setting

TC-NEO supports channel management, allowing devices to be assigned to channels A-H. Once TC-NEO devices are set to the same channel, timecode synchronization within the channel can be achieved through wireless synchronization technology. The default channel is Channel A. If TC-NEO needs to synchronize timecode with other Saramonic devices that support timecode, the other devices must also be set to the same channel or group to enable synchronization. Channels and groups have the same meaning.

Auto-Lock Setting

Enter the Auto-Lock option, you can choose the device’s screen lock time from the following options: Never, 15 s, 30 s, and 60 s. The default screen lock time is set to 15 seconds. Once set, the TC-NEO will automatically save and apply the previous screen lock settings.

Bluetooth Setting

Turn On/Off: After turning on Bluetooth, you can use the Saramonic System app for wireless control, device management, and firmware upgrades. Turning off Bluetooth reduces power consumption but disables remote control via the app.
Reset: This function forgets the current Bluetooth pairing information and restores Bluetooth to its default setting. It is applicable to troubleshooting Bluetooth connection issues or when re-pairing is required. After resetting, the screen will display a “Succeeded” message.

Device Name

Enter the “Device name” option to customize the TC-NEO device name as needed, making it easier to differentiate and identify different devices.

Language Setting

Enter the “Language” option, where you can rotate the knob to choose the TC-NEO display language as either Chinese or English.

System Reset

Enter the “System reset” option, where you can rotate the knob to reset the device system and restore the default settings.

Firmware Version

Enter the “ Firmware Version” option, where you can rotate the knob to view the firmware upgrade, current firmware version, and MAC address.

Timecode Synchronization
TC-NEO supports three synchronization methods: Blue synchronization (via app wireless connection), wireless synchronization, and wired synchronization (through input or output of timecode with external devices)

Wireless Sync via Saramonic System
TC-NEO supports wireless timecode synchronization for multiple devices through the Saramonic System app, allowing synchronization of up to 48 TC-NEO devices. This app enables timecode synchronization between TC-NEO devices, device status monitoring, firmware updates, and changes to basic device settings (including timecode, frame rate, device name, out type setting, customized timecode, User Bit, etc.).

The Wireless Sync Steps for Saramonic System

Launch the Saramonic System app on your mobile device, add all TC-NEO devices to the device list, and click “Confirm.”

Click “Sync All” to synchronize the timecode of all TC-NEO devices with the master timecode or user-defined timecode.
Tap the “SYNC” button on each TC-NEO device individually to synchronize it with the master timecode or user-defined timecode.
- The User Bit of the TC-NEO device can only be set through the Saramonic System app. It can be customized based on time information or camera model to distinguish different TC-NEO devices.
- Before syncing wirelessly via the app, ensure that both the mobile device and TC-NEO have Bluetooth turned on.
- If the TC-NEO that needs to be added is not found in the Saramonic System app’s “Add Device” section, reset the Bluetooth on the TC-NEO device and try again.

Wireless Sync
TC-NEO can wirelessly synchronize with other TC-NEO devices or Saramonic devices with timecode function without using the app.

Wireless Sync Steps for the Devices：

Set one TC-NEO device to Master Run mode, and set the other TC-NEO devices or other Saramonic devices with timecode function to Auto Jam mode or Jam Once and Lock mode.
Before wirelessly synchronizing the TC-NEO timecode, ensure all devices are set to the same channel / group (e.g., Channel / Group A).

Select and confirm the “SYNC” option on the TC-NEO in Master Run mode. Devices accepting the timecode signal will synchronize with the master device’s current timecode within a few seconds.
Select and confirm the timecode information on the TC-NEO in Master Run mode. You can customize the start timecode, click “SET,” and then click “SYNC.” Devices accepting this timecode signal will start from the user-defined start timecode or 00:00:00:00.

Wired Sync via a Timecode Cable
TC-NEO supports timecode synchronization with external devices via the included or optional compatible timecode cables.

Operation steps for TC-NEO in Auto Jam mode or Jam Once and Lock mode:

Set the TC-NEO timecode mode to “Auto Jam” or “Jam Once and Lock”.

Set the out type setting to “L-IN”.
Connect the external device via a compatible timecode cable.

Once connected, the TC-NEO will automatically detect the external device’s timecode signal and synchronize with it.

Operation steps for TC-NEO in Master Run mode:

Set the TC-NEO timecode mode to “Master Run”.
Set the out type setting to either “L-OUT” or “A-OUT” based on the connected device type.
Use the compatible timecode cable to connect the external device.

Once connected, the TC-NEO will automatically output the current timecode signal to the external device.

Connect the External Devices
Install the Cold Shoe Mount

Secure the TC-NEO or other accessories onto the camera’s cold shoe mount using the included rotary 1/4″-20 thread cold shoe.
Install the TC-NEO or other accessories onto a tripod, bracket, or camera’s cold shoe mount using the included thumb screw 1/4″-20 thread cold shoe.

Connect the appropriate cables
Use the suitable cables to connect the TC-NEO to the external device for optimal compatibility and performance. Refer to the following common cable overview to choose the appropriate cables.

Cable	Name	Description
	SR-TRS-C01 Locking 3.5 mm to 3.5 mm Audio Cable	When the device does not have a dedicated TC / SYNC input port, this cable can be used to connect any camera or audio devices with a3.5 mm TRS input port, such as the Deity D2RX, Saramonic UwMic9, VmicLink5 wireless kit, Sennheiser XSW-D receiver, Sennheiser G4EW100, EW500, Sennheiser MKE 200, MKE 400, and Sony URX- P41D
	SR-TRS-C03 Locking 3.5 mm to Right-Angle 5-Pin Cable	This cable is used to output timecode signals from recording devices with a built-in timecode generator to the TC-NEO device via the LEMO TC OUT port. The right-angle design allows for the installation of a camera battery while using this cable, making it compatible with devices such as the Arri Alexa Mini

	SR-TRS-C04 Locking3.5 mm to 5-Pin LEMO Cable (Straight)	This cable allows the timecode signal from the TC-NEO device to be transmitted to field recording device with a LEMO Port
	SR-TRS-C05 Locking3.5 mm to 5-Pin LEMO Cable (Bent Angle)	This cable allows field recording device with a built-in timecode generator to transmit the timecode signal to the TC-NEO device via the LEMO TC OUT port
	SR-TRS-C06 Locking 3.5 mm to BNC Cable	The TC-NEO can be connected to devices with a standard BNC input/ output port. The BNC connector supports bidirectional transmission, allowing the TC-NEO to outputits timecode signal to external devices or receive timecode signals from external sources for accurate synchronization. This is ideal for professional video equipment with a built-in timecode generator, such as certain models of cameras and audio devices from Sony, Panasonic, and Blackmagic Design.
	SR-TRS-C07 Locking3.5 mm to 4-Pin Cable (Straight)	The TC-NEO can output its timecode signal to field recording devices with a LEMO port, such as the Tascam DR series and Zoom H series devices.
	SR-TRS-C08 Locking 3.5 mm to 9-Pin Cable	The TC-NEO can output its timecode signal to recording devices with a LEMO port, such as camera devices like the Red Komodo and V-Raptor.

SR-TRS-C09 Locking 3.5 mm to 9-Pin (Straight , for Canon Cameras)

The TC-NEO can be connected to the Canon R5 C camera via this cable, which allows the timecode signal from the TC-NEO to be synced and output to the Canon R5 C camera.

Saramonic-TC-NEO-Wireless-Timecode-Generator- (38)

SR-TRS-C10 Locking 3.5 mm to Sony Multi-Port Cable

The TC-NEO can be connected to Sony cameras via this cable， which allows the TC-NEO’s timecode signal to be synced and transmitted to the camera, streamlining the timecode workflow and ensuring precise synchronization. It is compatible with select Sony camera models, including the Sony FX30, FX3, a1, and a7S III.

Connect Compatible Devices
The TC-NEO is compatible with nearly all types of recording or video devices, including cameras, camcorders, audio recorders, smart slate boards, and more. As long as the device has a timecode input port or supports audio input, timecode synchronization can be achieved.

Devices With Timecode Input
For professional devices equipped with timecode input (such as certain camcorders and audio recorders), the TC-NEO can be directly connected to the external device using the included or optional timecode cables.
- If the TC-NEO needs to sync with an external device’s timecode signal, set the TC-NEO’s timecode mode to “Auto Jam” or “Jam Once and Lock,” and set the out type setting to “L-IN.”
- If the TC-NEO need to output its timecode signal to other external devices, set the TC-NEO’s timecode mode to “Master Run” and set the out type setting to “L-OUT”. This will allow the TC-NEO to output the timecode signal to the external device, ensuring precise synchronization.
Devices That Only Supporting Audio Input
For devices that lack a dedicated timecode input (such as DSLR cameras or small audio recorders), you can use the included or optional compatible timecode cable to output the timecode as an audio signal through the TC-NEO in “A-OUT” mode. The timecode will be embedded in the audio track for recording. This method is suitable for post-production editing, where the timecode can be extracted from the audio track to ensure audio-video synchronization. Be sure the audio input type is properly configured to avoid distortion or recording failure due to excessive signal levels.
- It is recommended to confirm that the frame rate of TC-NEO matches the recording device before connecting to avoid synchronization issues.
- When TC-NEO is in “A-OUT” mode, it is advisable to set the camera or recorder’s input level to “MIC” to ensure the timecode audio signal is compatible with the input device, preventing signal distortion or recording failure.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter problems when using the unit, please refer to the following checklist first. If the problem cannot be solved, please contact the dealer’s after-sales service department.

Unable to synchronize timecode with external devices

Ensure that the frame rate of TC-NEO matches the external device.
Check if the timecode cable is properly connected and that there are no loose or faulty connections.
Verify whether the TC-NEO is connected to the Saramonic System app. If connected, disconnect it from the app before syncing timecode with the external device.

TC-NEO can not turn on or charge

If the device has not been used for an extended period, the battery may be completely drained. Charge the device.
Try using a different charger or USB-C cable to ensure proper power input.

Unable to connect to the App via Bluetooth

Make sure that both the TC-NEO and the mobile device is turning on Bluetooth.
If the device does not appear in the app, reset the TC-NEO’s Bluetooth and retry.
Ensure the Saramonic System app is installed and updated to the latest version.

TC-NEO can not sync with other devices

Ensure that one TC-NEO is set to “Master Run” mode while other TC-NEO devices are set to either “Auto Jam” or “Jam Once and Lock” mode. Also, confirm that all devices are using the same frame rate and channel.
If using wireless synchronization, check that the Bluetooth connection between devices is stable and free from interference.
When using the “A-OUT” mode, make sure the external device’s input level is set correctly to prevent signal loss or distortion.

Specifications

Timecode Generator (Saramonic TC-NEO)

Timecode Format	SMPTE 12M，highly compatible，supports Audio TC and LTC timecode output
Accuracy	Less than 1 frame out in 48 hours (-30°C to +85°C)
Battery Life	24 h
Synchronization Methods	Wired / 2.4 G RF / APP Bluetooth

Display Type	1.1-inch OLED
Battery Type	Built-in lithium polymer battery
Battery Capacity	1150 mAh
Charging Time	TC-NEO: 2 h TC-NEO Kit: 4.33 h
Power Supply	USB-C
Polar Pattern for in-built microphone	Omnidirectional
TC-NEO Net Weight	42.5 g
TC-NEO Dimensions	49 × 37 × 19 mm (L x W x H)
Operating Temperature	-20°C to 55°C

Charging Case（Saramonic TC-CC）

Battery Type	Built-in Li-ion battery
Battery Capacity	6000 mAh
Power Supply	USB-C port
Charging Time	5 hours (5 V 2 A)
Charging Cycles	More than 1.4 times (3*TC-NEO)
Weight	265 g
Dimensions	182.7 × 65 × 41.5 mm (L × W × H)
Operating Temperature	0°C to 50°C
Storage Temperature	-20°C to 50°C

For better recording experience, the application Saramonic System is recommended.
Scan the QR code and follow us!

A16 Building, Intelligent Terminal Industrial Park of Silicon Valley Power, Guanlan, Longhua District, Shenzhen, China

Statement

Please read this manual carefully before using, and strictly operate and store it in accordance with the instructions. Please save the manual for future reference. If you need further assistance than the user manual, please consult your retailer for help or email us at: support@saramonic.com

Cautions

Non-professionals are strictly prohibited from disassembling this unit on their own.
Please keep it away from heat sources such as radiators or spotlights.
Do not remove the battery without professionals’ help.
Please clean the unit with only a soft, dry cloth.
When using and storing, please keep away from dust and moisture.
For the best pick-up pattern, do not hold your hand against the microphone capsule cover.

FAQs

Can I disassemble the unit myself?

Non-professionals are strictly prohibited from disassembling the unit on their own.

How do I clean the unit?

Clean the unit with only a soft, dry cloth to maintain its condition.

How do I know when the device is fully charged?

The Power Indicator will display a static blue light when the device is fully charged.

Can I connect the TC-NEO to a camera for recording audio signals?

Yes, when in A-OUT mode, connect it using the included or an optional compatible cable for recording audio signals.

Documents / Resources

	Saramonic TC-NEO Wireless Timecode Generator [pdf] User Manual TC-NEO, TC-NEO Wireless Timecode Generator, Wireless Timecode Generator, Timecode Generator, Generator
	Saramonic TC-NEO Wireless Timecode Generator [pdf] User Manual 41801TC, 2ARN3-41801TC, 2ARN341801TC, TC-NEO Wireless Timecode Generator, TC-NEO, Wireless Timecode Generator, Timecode Generator, Generator
	Saramonic TC-NEO Wireless Timecode Generator [pdf] User Manual TC-NEO, TC-NEO Wireless Timecode Generator, Wireless Timecode Generator, Timecode Generator

References

User Manual

Saramonic TC-NEO Wireless Timecode Generator

General Introduction