Timecode

A timecode (alternatively, time code) is a sequence of numeric codes generated at regular intervals by a timing synchronization system.

Timecode is used in video production, show control and other applications which require temporal coordination or logging of recording or actions.

In video production and filmmaking, SMPTE timecode is used extensively for synchronization, and for logging and identifying material in recorded media.

During filmmaking or video production shoot, the camera assistant will typically log the start and end timecodes of shots, and the data generated will be sent on to the editorial department for use in referencing those shots.

This shot-logging process was traditionally done by hand using pen and paper, but is now typically done using shot-logging software running on a laptop computer that is connected to the timecode generator or the camera itself.