This article is about Artnet Timecode input, output and how to set up those in PIXERA

Artnet Timecode in PIXERA

Artnet Timecode is a feature of the Ethernet-based Art-Net protocol that packages standard timing data - such as SMPTE or MTC - into network IP packets. It enables lighting consoles, media servers, and audio systems to synchronize complex cues down to the exact frame over a shared network connection.

Since Pixera version 26.3 Inter 46, it's not longer necessary to receive Artnet Timecode via a Control Module. Artnet Timecode was implemented natively in the SMPTE Timecode Settings.

Device Type [1]

In PIXERA, the Device Type setting defines the physical interface or network protocol - such as MIDI, Art-Net, Audio, or USB- used to receive incoming timecode.

Status [2]

Shows the incoming Timecode Signal.

Interface [3]

The Interface setting specifies the precise network adapter PIXERA listens on for Artnet Timecode

Port [4]

The Port setting defines the specific network communication port PIXERA monitors for incoming timecode data, which defaults to UDP Port 6454 for Art-Net Timecode.

Stream ID [5]

The Stream ID setting (ranging from 0 to 7) acts as a sub-channel selector within the Art-Net Timecode protocol, allowing PIXERA to differentiate and lock onto a specific timecode feed on a shared network.

Timecode Format [6]

The Timecode Format setting determines the framerate of the incoming signal, which defaults to From Packet for automatic detection directly from the Art-Net packet. It can also be set manually to lock the timeline to a specific framerate if required.

Timeout (Frames) [7]

The Timeout (Frames) setting defines how many missing frames PIXERA will automatically regenerate before pausing or stopping playback. This prevents playback interruptions and buffers against frame loss caused by temporary network congestion or packet drops.

Modules

Artnet Timecode is handled via Control in PIXERA, there are two Modules 

ArtnetTimecodeIn for incoming Timecode and ArtnetTimecodeOut for sending out Timecode. 

ArtnetTimecodeOut

Workflow after Module version 2.3

ArtnetTimecodeOut 

Follow these steps for set up:

• Import a new "ArtnetTimecodeOut" from the Control Library Modules 
• Set up your new Module in the Properties Window

Workflow before Module version 2.3

Follow these steps for set up:

• Select your sending timeline and activate “Send currentTime to Control”

• Import a new "ArtnetTimecodeOut" from the Control Library Modules 
• Set up your new Module in the Properties Window
• Connect the “CurrentTime” of your sending Timeline in the Pixera Module to the “currentTimeFromTimeline” action in your module.
   

• If your module is already connected (init) then you are ready for sending out Artnet Timecode. Play your connected Timeline to do so. 

ArtnetTimecodeIn 

Workflow before Module version 1.9

ArtnetTimecodeIn 

Follow these steps for set up:

• Navigate to Settings → SMPTE Timecode → Device Type and select “API”

• Import a new "ArtnetTimecodeIn" from the Control Library Modules 
• Set up your ArtnetTimecodeIn Module in the Properties Window
• Continue with assigning Timecode to the Timeline → Timecode PIXERA 

Workflow before Module version 1.9

Follow these steps for set up:

• Navigate to Settings → SMPTE Timecode → Device Type and select “API”

• Import a new "ArtnetTimecodeIn" from the Control Library Modules 

• Set up your new Module in the Properties Window

• Connect the “currentTimeFromTimeline” of your ArtnetTimecodeIn Module to the “setTimecodeInput” action in “Compound”.
   

• Continue with assigning Timecode to the Timeline → Timecode PIXERA 

Pixera 26.3 INTER 46 | 31. August 2026 | J.B. & S.H.