Art-Net
Timecode and DMX over Ethernet — the professional lighting industry's standard for network-based show control.
What is Art-Net?
Art-Net is an open protocol that transports DMX512 lighting data and SMPTE timecode over standard Ethernet networks. Developed by Artistic Licence, it replaces dedicated DMX cables with standard network infrastructure — one Ethernet cable can carry hundreds of DMX universes.
Art-Net's timecode feature (ArtTimeCode) broadcasts SMPTE timecode to all devices on the network simultaneously, making it ideal for synchronizing multiple lighting consoles, media servers, and effects processors.
Art-Net Timecode
The ArtTimeCode packet broadcasts SMPTE timecode (HH:MM:SS:FF plus frame rate) as a UDP broadcast on port 6454. All Art-Net-capable devices on the network receive it simultaneously — no point-to-point configuration required.
This broadcast model is particularly useful for large installations where multiple consoles and media servers need to chase the same timecode source.
TimecodeLink Art-Net Output
TimecodeLink broadcasts ArtTimeCode packets on your local network. Any Art-Net-compatible device will see the timecode and can chase it for synchronized playback.
- No configuration needed on the receiving end — just enable Art-Net timecode input
- Works alongside DMX Art-Net traffic on the same network
- TimecodeLink outputs at 24, 25, and 30 fps
- Variable speed follows DJ pitch adjustments
Network Native
Uses standard Ethernet — no special cabling or interfaces. Works with any managed or unmanaged network switch.
Broadcast Delivery
One TimecodeLink instance can drive unlimited receivers simultaneously. Every device on the network gets timecode.
Industry Standard
Supported by MA Lighting, Resolume, Pangolin BEYOND, ChamSys, ETC, and virtually all professional lighting and media platforms.
Related
- Example Setups — sample multi-machine topology with IPs and ports
- SMPTE Timecode — the time format Art-Net carries
- MIDI Time Code — alternative timecode delivery over MIDI
- SMPTE LTC — timecode as an audio signal
Ready to Sync?
TimecodeLink bridges your DJ software with show control systems using professional timecode output.