MusicianCV · TR

SMPTE time division

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Timing and files

At 25 frames per second and 40 ticks per frame, one tick is 1 ms. The PPQ formula does not apply.

SMPTE time division · 25 fps × 40 → 1000 ticks/s

File meta events, event positions and live transport messages serve different functions. Inspect this example in its proper context using an SMF reader or MIDI monitor.

Example

Code or time base / interpretation · 25 fps × 40 / 1000 ticks/s

Code or time base / interpretation

25 fps × 40 1000 ticks/s

Try it

What unit is being used for timing?

AnswerCheck the file’s PPQ or SMPTE division. MIDI Clock on the wire uses 24 pulses per quarter independently of SMF tick resolution.

Related topics

Ticks, PPQ and tempo maps

References

MIDI specifications and reference tables

Subject-expert review pending.