SMPTE Timecode

What is SMPTE Timecode?

SMPTE timecode is a standardized time-addressing system developed by the Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers. It assigns every moment a unique address in the format HH:MM:SS:FF — hours, minutes, seconds, and frames.

Originally created for film and television editing in the 1960s, SMPTE timecode has become the backbone of all synchronized production — from recording studios to live concert tours, broadcast facilities, and DJ-driven light shows.

Frame Rates

The frame rate determines how many frames exist per second. Common SMPTE frame rates include:

• 24 fps — Film standard, used in cinema production
• 25 fps — PAL television standard, common in Europe and live events
• 29.97 fps (drop-frame) — NTSC broadcast standard in North America
• 30 fps — Common for music and show control applications

For DJ show control, 30fps is the most common choice — it provides smooth resolution while maintaining simple math (no drop-frame compensation).

How TimecodeLink Uses SMPTE Timecode

TimecodeLink maps each track in a DJ set to a unique timecode start position. When the DJ plays "Track A" starting at 01:00:00:00, the current playhead position is added to produce a running absolute timecode.

This means lighting designers and VJs can program shows to specific timecode addresses — when the DJ plays a particular track, the visual show automatically syncs to the correct position in the timeline.

Variable-Speed Timecode

DJs adjust pitch faders to beatmatch tracks — speeding up or slowing down playback by a few percent. TimecodeLink follows these pitch changes, running the output timecode at the same adjusted speed.

If a DJ plays a track at +3% pitch, the timecode runs 3% faster than real-time. This keeps programmed visual cues musically aligned with beats even when tempo changes.