Timecode System Time

The Timecode System Time transport uses the machine’s Windows system clock as its timecode source.

How System Time Timecode Works

System Time timecode provides a simple, continuous time reference by reading the current time from the underlying Windows operating system.

Designer converts this real-time clock into a frame-based timecode stream that can be used to drive timeline playback.

AS the clock runs independently of the Designer timeline, this method does not offer frame-accurate synchronisation like LTC or MTC, but it can be useful in scenarios where a lightweight or approximate time reference is sufficient.

Adjust Offset

The Adjust (sec) property allows you to apply a positive or negative offset to the system time before it is interpreted as timecode.

• Positive values advance the timecode.
• Negative values delay the timecode.

This is helpful if you need to align system-time playback with other cues or scheduling logic.

When to Use System Time

System Time is a simple alternative to dedicated timecode protocols and is suitable when:

• You need a basic time reference without external hardware.
• You are driving lightweight scheduled playback.
• Precise or frame-accurate synchronisation is not required.

For more complex synchronisation (e.g., between machines or with show control systems), use LTC or MTC instead.