Welcome to the Deity Smart Slate TC-SL1. This guide covers what comes in the box, the parts of the slate, and how the TC-SL1 fits into the Deity timecode family. The TC-SL1 is a smart clapperboard with a built-in, high-accuracy timecode generator, a walnut clapper, a bright red dot matrix display, and a rear OLED control screen.
What's in the Box
The TC-SL1 ships in two regional versions. The only difference is the timecode cable connector.
Global Version
- TC-SL1 Smart Slate (1 pc)
- 3.5mm Locking TRS to 5P Timecode Cable (1 pc)
- USB-C Charging Cable (1 pc)
- Erasable Marker (1 pc)
- USB-C to USB-A Firmware Update Adapter (1 pc)
- FB-NP-F550-DT Rechargeable Battery (2 pcs)
- Soft Case (1 pc)
EU Version
The EU version is identical to the Global version except for the timecode cable, which is a 3.5mm Locking TRS to 6.35mm Timecode Cable (1 pc).
Get to Know Your TC-SL1
The front of the slate carries the clapper, the timecode display, and the writing surface.
- Function Control Wheel - rotate and press to move through the menu.
- On/Off Switch - powers the slate on and off.
- Walnut Clapper Sticks with Inlaid Chevrons - the physical clap bar.
- Red Dot Matrix Display - the large front timecode readout.
- Matte Slate Board - the writable scene and take surface.
Top and Rear
- A and B Power LEDs - one status light per battery bay.
- A and B Battery Compartment Sliders - release the two hot-swap NP-F battery bays.
- USB Type-C Charging Port - charges both installed batteries.
- Front Screen Flip Switch - rotates the display 180 degrees for a tail slate.
- 5P Timecode Input/Output - locking timecode jack.
- 6.35mm TRS Timecode Output - quarter-inch timecode output.
- Rear OLED Screen - the menu and settings display.
- Handle - carry grip.
5-PIN Connector Pin Assignment
| Pin | Function |
|---|---|
| 1 | GND |
| 2 | TC IN |
| 3 | No Signal |
| 4 | No Signal |
| 5 | TC OUT |
The Deity Timecode Family
The TC-1 and the TC-SL1 form a highly accurate Deity timecode system. Together they synchronize cameras and audio recorders in a one-click operation, so alignment of your captured material is fast and reliable. The TC-SL1 is the eye-catching centerpiece: it drives a shared timecode workflow for music video and narrative film, and it doubles as a backup visual reference on the clap. That lets you focus on the creative work in post-production instead of chasing sync.
To learn more about the timecode-only unit, see the [TC-1] Getting Started guide.
Next Steps
- [TC-SL1] Controls, Battery & Charging - power on, load batteries, and use the flip switch.
- [TC-SL1] Menu & OLED Display Reference - every icon and setting on the rear screen.
- [TC-SL1] How to Sync Timecode - jam your cameras and recorders.