At NAB 2023, Tentacle Sync showed a prototype product they have been working on. The Tentacle Timebar has a bright large OLED screen that shows timecode, but it’s so much more than that.
The Tentacle Timebar has all the features of a Tentacle Sync E, so you can jam and receive timecode with all the cables already available from Tentacle Sync and use the app for configuring and syncing. It also can input a countdown clock so you can have a nice bright visual of when you are hitting your desired runtime run time. This is handy if you are shooting a presentation and want it to be an exact runtime
As you can see at the end of the video, my videographer, Scotty, found the perfect message to send me!
Tentacle Timebar Key features
- First Handheld OLED TC Display for Multipurpose Use On Set & in the Studio
- Unique Alphanumeric Static (non-mulitplexed) Display Design suitable for short Exposure Times Camera Movements
- Operating Time for the entire Shooting Day
- Multifunctionality
- Timecode Generator
- Timecode Display
- Timer Functionality
- Message Board
- Metadata Display
- Full Compatibility with Tentacle Workflow
- Dust & Splash-Proof
- Designed & Manufactured with Love in Germany
The battery has a very long runtime of 20 hours—plenty for practically any shoot.
The screen is OLED, which gives it great high contrast for sunlight viewing. The viewing angle is also very good and has a fast response time for less motion blur.
The Tentacle Timebar is a prototype, and Uli stated more features are coming that he can’t talk about just yet, so this is more of a first look.
Pricing and Availablity
Again it is a prototype, and pricing hasn’t been locked yet, but Uli stated they are looking at keeping it comparable to the current products at $229 – $399 price range. They are shooting for a November release.
