Doepfer Dark Time Sequencer - Manual (Page 19)

Functions Dark time DOEPFER
19
Start/Stop and Reset sockets:
Each time Dark Time is started, the St/St Out socket puts out a +5V voltage (default setting). When Dark
Time is stopped, this voltage goes down to zero level (0V).
Each time a reset function is performed, Dark Time’s Reset Out socket will send out a short volateg pulse
of +5V.
Changing the gate output voltage from +5V (default) to +12V by changing an internal jumper (see page 21),
will also generate start/stop- and reset signals of +12V.
There are many uses for these signals, especially in combination with a modular
synthesizer system, e.g. the Doepfer A-100. You can trigger envelope generators in
time when Dark Time starts, stops or resets (e.g. the Doepfer modules A-140, A-141,
A-142), synchronize suitable LFOs (e.g. Doepfer A-145) or start/stop additional
sequencers, e.g. another Dark Time. The clock signal described above will ensure
the same rate for all units connected, the start/stop/reset-triggers will make sure that
both units will perform these actions at exactly the same time.
Running two Dark Times the way we have just mentioned suggests that the slave device can be started,
stopped and resetted by means of external signals. You have guessed it again – this exactly is the job of
the St/St In and Reset In sockets. Once the Reset In socket receives a positive voltage (switching from 0V
to +5V). Dark Time performs a reset function.
The same goes for the ST/ST In socket: As soon as a positive voltage is received (+5V), Dark Time starts
running resp. keeps on running as long as this voltage is received. As soon as this voltage goes down to
zero (0V), the sequencer stops.
You are not limited to use start/stop or reset signals of another Dark Time or a drum
machine when you use these sockets. You may use every kind of device that is
capable of putting out a +5V voltage. This can be a suitable footswitch or – again
– specific modules of the Doepfer A-100 modular system (just in case we haven’t
mentioned this one yet).
3.2.4. Dark Time as a simple MIDI-Clock-to-Sync interface
You may use Dark Time as a simple MIDI-Clock-to-Sync interface. When running as a slave, synced to an
external MIDI-clock (master), Dark Time will send out a clock signal from its Clk-Out socket according to
its clock divider setting (please refer to section 3.1.4, page 13). You may route this signal to another, non-
MIDIed device (e.g. suitably equipped vintage drum machine or sequencer) in order to synchronize it with
the master MIDI device.
Start/stop and reset signals coming in through Dark Time’s analog interface sockets are also available as
MIDI signals at the MIDI-out socket and the USB-port respectively.
The start-/stop-/continue commands of incoming MIDI data are available as +5V (+12V) voltages from the
St/St Out and Reset-out sockets of Dark Time. Please refer to the illustration on the following page.
A successful synchronization is only possible when all devices have suitable and matching specifications.
Especially in the field of vintage instruments, there are several manufacturer-related characteristics that
may cause problems. Please accept our sincere apologies that we at Doepfer cannot provide you with any
support if some devices behave unpredictably when hooked up for syncing.