Denecke TS-C Backlit Compact Timecode Slate

For documentary work and anywhere a full-size slate is too cumbersome, the Denecke TS-C is a compact smart slate with a backlit face that reads, generates, and displays SMPTE/EBU timecode.

The TS-C is one third smaller than Denecke’s TS-3 and weighs under 2 lb with its batteries. It jams to all standard frame rates, 23.976 included, and sets its user bits when jammed. In auto set mode the slate matches the incoming frame rate, in manual mode it can cross jam to another rate, and a new jam needs no power-down.

As a reader, the TS-C shows ascending, descending, and off-speed timecode, such as the code used in music video playback. A +1 frame setting displays the timecode in real time rather than a frame late. Timecode comes in through a 1/4 in jack or a 5-pin LEMO, and the LEMO also carries Aaton serial communication (cable not included).

The electroluminescent backlight keeps the face readable on dark sets, and its brightness adjusts in 12 steps of half an f-stop each. A temperature compensated crystal oscillator (TCXO) keeps drift low. Six AA batteries load behind a sliding side door, and the slate also runs on 5.7 to 16 V DC with the batteries removed. The TS-C comes in a fitted carrying bag.

Features

• Compact slate, one third smaller than the TS-3
• Electroluminescent backlit face
• Brightness in 12 half-stop steps
• Jams to all standard frame rates, with cross jam
• Reads ascending, descending, and off-speed timecode
• +1 frame reader mode
• Aaton serial communication through 5-pin LEMO
• Battery voltage and low battery warning
• Sync error warning for differing frame rates