How to use DropFrame

DropFrame generates verified SMPTE LTC and Broadcast Wave (BWF) timecode files, and streams real-time LTC locked to a public global timecode — all free, in your browser, with nothing uploaded. Here's how to drive it.

1 · Pick a mode

The buttons across the top of the generator switch between four modes. Pick the one that matches what you need:

Global Time of Day real-time

Streams live LTC locked to the global timecode — feed it to a camera, recorder, or console as an internet-synced reference so everyone stays aligned. Choose the Time base (Global · UTC so every device worldwide reads identical frames, or Local for your timezone's wall clock), set the frame rate, and press Start. On Chrome/Edge you can pick an output device to route it to an interface; on Safari/Firefox it follows your Mac's system output. Output latency is measured and compensated automatically.

Single File one file

Renders one LTC/BWF file beginning at a Start timecode you set, with optional preroll (lead-in before the downbeat) and postroll. Good for a slate or a fixed reference clip.

Batch Files one per cue

Generates one file per downbeat across a Start → End timecode span, at an interval you choose (e.g. every 15 minutes). Ideal for show cues or scheduled segments. The schedule table previews every file; the download manager saves each one individually into your Downloads folder (no zip to unpack).

Continuous File one long file

One free-running file for the whole Duration. It automatically uses RF64/BW64 once it passes 4 GB, so long runs aren't a problem.

2 · Set the frame rate

Choose the Frame rate and Drop frame. DropFrame renders the exact rate you pick — it never rounds (so 29.97 stays 29.97). Drop-frame is available where it applies (29.97).

3 · Configure the Broadcast Wave file

• Sample rate / bit depth — 44.1–192 kHz, 16/24-bit PCM or 32-bit float.
• Output level — the LTC amplitude (e.g. −12 dBFS), so it sits right for the device reading it.
• BWF description — free text stored in the file. The bext chunk's TimeReference is set to your start timecode, so the file's internal timestamp is correct.

4 · Download

Hit the download button for your mode. Files are generated locally in your browser and land in your Downloads folder — nothing is uploaded. In Batch mode the download manager lists every file so you can grab them one at a time or all at once.