Which term is a basic timing device used for synchronization across equipment, often mentioned alongside Tri-level sync?

• A. Blackburst
• B. Tri-level sync
• C. Backgrounds
• D. B-Roll

Answer: (A)

In video systems, everything must run from a single timing reference so all devices stay in sync and frames line up when routing or switching. Blackburst is the basic timing signal used to genlock multiple pieces of equipment to a common clock. It provides a stable timing reference embedded in a black field, which devices lock onto so they stay synchronized. Tri-level sync is the modern digital timing reference you’ll often hear about, but blackburst is the foundational, legacy timing signal that’s still commonly referenced alongside it. The other terms—backgrounds and B-roll—are just types of footage, not timing references, so they don’t serve this synchronization role.