---
title: timeMode()
framework: quartz
role: symbol
role_heading: Type Method
path: quartz/qcplugin/timemode()
---

# timeMode()

Returns the time mode for the custom patch.

## Declaration

```swift
class func timeMode() -> QCPlugInTimeMode
```

## Return Value

Return Value The time mode of the custom patch. See QCPlugInTimeMode for the constants you can return.

## Discussion

Discussion You must implement this method to define whether you custom patch depends on time, doesn’t depend on time, or needs time to idle.

## See Also

### Defining the Characteristics of a Custom Patch

- [executionMode()](quartz/qcplugin/executionmode().md)