Which device provides a timecode and scene/take information at the start of a take?

Which device provides a timecode and scene/take information at the start of a take?

• A. Clapper slate
• B. Boom mic
• C. Light meter
• D. Tripod

Answer: (A)

The clapper slate is used at the start of a take to provide both scene/take information and a time reference. It displays the current scene and take numbers (and often the roll or date) so editors know exactly which shot they’re looking at. When the slate is snapped shut, the sharp clap creates a clear audio spike that lets the audio and video be synced precisely in post. Many slates also carry or align with a timecode, giving a clock reference that helps synchronize footage from multiple cameras and audio tracks. In contrast, a boom mic only captures sound, a light meter helps set exposure, and a tripod just supports the camera—none of these supply shot identification or timecode at the start of a take.

The clapper slate is used at the start of a take to provide both scene/take information and a time reference. It displays the current scene and take numbers (and often the roll or date) so editors know exactly which shot they’re looking at. When the slate is snapped shut, the sharp clap creates a clear audio spike that lets the audio and video be synced precisely in post. Many slates also carry or align with a timecode, giving a clock reference that helps synchronize footage from multiple cameras and audio tracks. In contrast, a boom mic only captures sound, a light meter helps set exposure, and a tripod just supports the camera—none of these supply shot identification or timecode at the start of a take.