What is timecode?

What is timecode?

• A. A sequence of numeric codes generated at regular intervals by a timing synchronization system.
• B. A label for a lighting cue sheet.
• C. A radio frequency identifier for wireless mics.
• D. A method of color calibration.

Answer: (A)

Timecode is a sequence of numeric codes generated at regular intervals by a timing synchronization system. It records the exact hours, minutes, seconds, and frames for each moment in a media timeline, so audio and video can stay perfectly synced across devices and edits. In practice, this is usually SMPTE timecode, which tracks time at a chosen frame rate (like 24, 25, 29.97, or 30 fps). The codes update with every frame, letting you label and jump to the same exact moment across different takes, cameras, decks, or editing software. It’s not a label for a lighting cue sheet, not a radio frequency identifier for wireless mics, and not a method of color calibration, which is why those options don’t describe what timecode does.

Timecode is a sequence of numeric codes generated at regular intervals by a timing synchronization system. It records the exact hours, minutes, seconds, and frames for each moment in a media timeline, so audio and video can stay perfectly synced across devices and edits. In practice, this is usually SMPTE timecode, which tracks time at a chosen frame rate (like 24, 25, 29.97, or 30 fps). The codes update with every frame, letting you label and jump to the same exact moment across different takes, cameras, decks, or editing software. It’s not a label for a lighting cue sheet, not a radio frequency identifier for wireless mics, and not a method of color calibration, which is why those options don’t describe what timecode does.