Ac service, Console types, Ac service console types – PRG DMX Reference Guide 5.4 User Manual
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DMX512 REFERENCE GUIDE
AC Service
Note: Refer to
for appropriate metric equivalents for cables.
Power for operation of VARI
❋
LITE Series 200/300 systems is provided by local house AC services or generators. The
system can operate on voltages ranging from 85-260 VAC either single or three phase, 50 or 60 Hz. In some
countries, a Bucking Transformer is required to step down (or up) voltages where voltage is too high, low, or unstable
for the system.
To connect the VARI
❋
LITE Series 200/300 system to the AC service, 2/0 or 8/5 mains power cables are used. These
cables (five wires) are connected to the service by a qualified electrician who is usually provided by the venue. There
are two types of cables available: 2/0 and 8/5 (depending on the type of equipment being used) power tails. Tails are
normally 10 feet in length. An AC line disconnect or mini-AC line disconnect (30A for 8/5, 200A for 2/0) is attached to
the other end of the tails to provide circuit breaker protection. Additional lengths of 2/0 or 8/5 feeder cable (20 or 80
feet) can be connected to the output of the line disconnect to provide extension of the service.
Console Types
DMX512 consoles can be broken down into two primary types: fixture-library based and channel based. Occasionally,
a VARI
❋
LITE Series 200/300 system will be controlled by an architectural lighting controller. Please consult with a
dealer or manufacturer for specific instructions for your architectural control device.
Note: This is a reference guide for the VARI
❋
LITE Series 200/300 portion of your system only. For specific storing
syntax, cue playback options, or other board commands, refer to the manual that came with your specific console.
Fixture-Library Consoles
Current state-of-the-art DMX512 consoles are software-based desks that control automated luminaires and
conventional fixtures, as well as any other DMX512 devices (fogger, strobe, color scroller, etc.) in a lighting system.
The advantage of a fixture-library console is that the manufacturer has "done the hard work" by creating libraries of
automated fixtures and devices that the console recognizes. The properties of each device are stored in a "library,"
and can be patched using the identification method of the console being used.
Consider using a 16-bit compatible console for very smooth movement. For even smoother response, be prepared to
use a software mode that provides timing channels, see
on page 9. This will cause
the luminaires to perform much as they do under Vari-Lite protocol. You will find complete information on timing
channels and how to use them in
Channel Based Consoles
Older DMX512 consoles were never specifically designed to control automated luminaires of any type. These
consoles typically operate in an 8-bit environment. If you are using one of these consoles, consider using the timing
channels offered in Modes 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10 in our DMX 5.2 software. You will find complete information on timing
channels and how to use them in