term terminology ◆ established
Timecode
also: SMPTE timecode · TC · time code · LTC · VITC
standardized numerical addressing system (HH:MM:SS:FF) that assigns a unique identifier to every frame of video, enabling frame-accurate editing, synchronization, and communication between production and post-production departments. Defined by the SMPTE (Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers), timecode is the fundamental language that allows editors, colorists, sound designers, and VFX artists to reference the exact same frame across different systems and workflows.
in short
A frame-accurate addressing system (HH:MM:SS:FF) that uniquely identifies every frame of video for editing and synchronization.
usage
Timecode runs at the frame rate of the footage: 24fps for film, 25fps for PAL, 29.97fps (drop-frame) for NTSC broadcast, 30fps for non-broadcast. The distinction between drop-frame (;) and non-drop-frame (:) timecode is critical for broadcast delivery — drop-frame compensates for the 0.03fps discrepancy in NTSC to keep timecode aligned with real-world clock time. Timecode can be recorded as LTC (Longitudinal Time Code, on an audio track) or VITC (Vertical Interval Time Code, in the video signal).
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