TC4000 SMPTE Reader/Writer

The Pangolin TC4000 SMPTE Timecode Reader/Writer is a USB-connected SMPTE-to-MIDI timecode converter for synchronizing Pangolin laser shows with external media such as audio, video, and pyrotechnics.

From the Manufacturer

For installations that require synchronization with other media — like audio, video, pyrotechnics, and more — the TC4000 is a great solution. This device connects to Pangolin BEYOND software as a MIDI device, allowing for flexible control with the ability to both read and write timecode at many different frame rates, including 24, 25, and 30 fps, all over Linear (Audio) Timecode (LTC).

The TC4000 converts analog SMPTE timecode to MIDI Timecode (MTC) via USB, enabling simultaneous input and output of LTC. Because it operates over MIDI, no additional drivers are required — it works with standard Windows MIDI drivers right out of the box. An RGB LED on the unit provides a clear visual confirmation of incoming timecode status.

Within Pangolin BEYOND, the TC4000 is used via the MIDI MTC input/output mode, which supports both receiving and sending timecode. This makes it equally suited for use as a timecode follower (slave) or as a timecode generator (master), giving show operators full flexibility to either follow an external source or drive other systems from BEYOND's timeline.

Features

• Converts SMPTE Linear Timecode (LTC) to MIDI Timecode (MTC) and vice versa via USB
• Simultaneous timecode input and output — use as timecode master or slave
• Supports frame rates of 24, 25, and 30 fps over LTC
• Connects to Pangolin BEYOND as a standard MIDI device — no additional drivers required, works with native Windows MIDI drivers
• RGB LED provides real-time visual status indication of incoming timecode (turns red when timecode is detected)
• Compatible with Pangolin BEYOND's timeline show system — enables shows to follow or output timecode on a per-timeline basis
• Timecode output configurable per timeline show in BEYOND, allowing precise synchronization of laser content with external media
• Supports BEYOND's time smooth filter for fluid timecode following when exact frame accuracy is not required
• Recommended use: Live events, concert touring, theatrical productions, multi-media installations, pyrotechnic synchronization, audio/video sync

Specifications

Timecode

• Input Format: SMPTE Linear Timecode (LTC) / analog audio timecode
• Output Format: MIDI Timecode (MTC)
• Supported Frame Rates: 24, 25, 30 fps
• Operation Modes: Timecode input (slave), timecode output (master)

Connectivity

• Interface: USB (class-compliant MIDI device)
• Driver Requirements: None — uses native Windows MIDI drivers
• Software Compatibility: Pangolin BEYOND (MIDI MTC Input/Output mode)