It all started from a real practical need on set: I needed a professional smart slate that was easy to reconfigure on the fly, but commercial models cost thousands of euros and were limited by outdated rigid LED matrices. This sparked the creation of SmartSlate, pairing the tactile feedback of a traditional clapperboard with an iPad and integrating the MarkerOnSet live logging system for complete on-set metadata control.

The enclosure was custom-modeled in CAD and 3D-printed: featuring a shock-absorbing mount for the tablet and magnetic clapper sticks. The screen handles high-contrast display of timecode, scene, take, and roll, wirelessly synced to the Timecode Master.

During interviews and shoots, the interface allows one-tap live marking of key moments (questions, key answers, pauses, audio issues, mistakes). At the end of the day, it exports metadata and an EDL/Resolve script that automatically places each marker on the exact frame inside DaVinci Resolve, perfectly aligned with dual-system sound.

The outcome is an all-in-one independent set tool: zero licensing fees, standard charging, and complete hardware and software synergy between set and post.