All too often I need to precisely convert between timecode and frames. Or I’ll want a rough time estimate of a render job on the farm. Yet I needed a utility that could allow for intuitive interactivity, GUI creation, and be instantly editable. So I’m using a simple open source solution: Pure Data

Pure Data (aka Pd) is a realtime graphical programming environment which is mainly used in live music performances. But its realtime aspect makes it ideal for my needs. So with some careful planning I applied the math nodes to create tools which automate the conversion process. Basically I’ve created a calculator tailored for animators and filmmakers.

DOWNLOAD
collection of Pd patches

Instructions
— Requires Pure Data to be installed. (supports: Windows, Mac, Linux)
— It’s easy to use. Just click and drag on the number boxes to input your timecode or frames.

Convert Timecode into Frames /// Convert Frames into Timecode
— Assumes you’re working at 30fps.

Calculate Shot Duration: Input as Timecode or Frames
— Especially useful when adjusting timings between two versions of the animatic and need to figure out the exact amount of time added or removed.
— Assumes you’re working at 30fps.

Estimate Job Render Time on a Farm
— Most useful for estimating the min/max time untill the render is complete. Which is especially important if you’re worried about bottlenecking your farm and need to prioritize for deadlines.

How Does it Work? Lets see the Breakdown
— All the source code is included (within subpatches) and can be edited. So if you’re instead working at 60fps, then you can alter it to your needs.