13.11.2006
New shorter clip (fountain) has been added. See Clips.

26.10.2006
Minor changes to Firmware, software and scheme of RS232 connection (kindly contributed by Vasily Ezhov). See Hardware, Software and Firmware. Some additional data about fuse bits is shown on this page as well (see below).

8.03.2006
Added Gerber, drill hole files, etc. See Hardware.

16.02.2006
Pcad files have been added. See Hardware.

Description

3D LANC Master is a device which keeps in synchronisation some of Sony camcorders by using LANC (CONTROL-L, ACC) protocol.

The purpose

The purpose of this page is to reveal the results of the project of building LANC controller for camcorders and still cameras. Why? Simply to enable amateur stereo photographer or videographer to build this or similar device by herself/himself and to generate and share new ideas or solutions (HW & SW). The ultimate goal is to increase the number of people interested in stereoscopy.

Hardware schemes and layouts, firmware and software is free (under GPL licence).

Is it possible to buy 3DLM?

We cannot aford mass production of 3D LANC Master, and only can make few additional prototypes (ask for the info). 

Another option is to contact IN3D (they have already made several prototypes).

Raymond Wong from Hong Kong is planning to produce 3D Lanc Master as well.

Vasily Ezhov has mad a prototype of 3DLM. Here is his page in russian:

http://3dstereo.ru/3dlanc_r.htm

More information

Here is the paper about 3D LANC Master (the paper in pdf format - 4.2MB). 

Here is the preliminary manual V0.11 in pdf form (880kB). Note that this is not a user manual (it is in preparation).  

Some more information about LANC protocol for camcorders? 

How does LANC protocol work for still cameras? (the page will be re-written soon).

Supported camcorders

Here is the most recent list of camcorders which support frame-rate adjustment. If you have service manual for your camcorder (which is not listed here) on disposal, let me know in order to check if your camcorder is supported. Note that the firmware doesn't have to be modified in any way when new camcorder is added to the list. 

If your camcorder doesn't support modification of internal frequency, you can still use other 3D LANC Master's features (e.g. power-up pulse delay) by which you could substantially improve initial synchronisation of some still cameras/camcorders.