PRG DMX Reference Guide 5.4 - Manual (Page 22)

14 DMX512 REFERENCE GUIDE
Patching Channel-Based Consoles
Channel-based consoles force an operator to patch fixture parameters one channel at a time. As above, once the
numbering system has been determined for the fixtures, patching the console can begin. However, the fixture number
will now be a "group" number. You will need to make a group of channels for each fixture and store it as the fixture
number. Remember, when patching a VL5 or VL5B wash luminaire, to patch dimmer channel to the intensity control
channel for the fixture. Most channel based consoles will operate only in an 8-bit environment; you should be
prepared to patch at least seven channels per luminaire plus the intensity channel if using Mode 1, or up to 11
channels per luminaire if using Mode 2.
Note: The VL6B, VL6C/VL6C+, VL7 and VL7B luminaires do not have a mode for 8-bit control. While they can still be
controlled by an 8-bit console, the smoothing function of the second pan and tilt channel is lost.
With a channel-based console, using Groups to control the positioning, color, gobo and beam shaping functions will
make the job of programming your show easier.
Using the Console to Make Programming Easier
Though different console manufacturers use different syntax, they can all achieve the same goal: store often-used
data that can be recalled at a keystroke in a manner that makes it easy to access. Libraries, focus points, groups and
palettes are different manufacturers’ terms, but all refer to memory locations that can be assigned to specific
parameters. Color, gobo and beam parameters (edge, diffusion, beam size) can all be stored in these groups and
recalled with a few keystrokes. On consoles where this is applicable, groups can be stored in ranges, making it easier
to recall information. For example, Color Groups can be stored in Groups 50 to 70, Gobo Groups in 80 to 95, and so
on. The same can be said for certain other groups like libraries.
Note: Some consoles define groups globally, others require the programmer to create a hard value for each fixture for
the particular parameter being stored in the group. A global group is stored for a whole fixture type from only one
fixture, making storing a simpler task.
Many fixture-library based consoles also provide an added feature: updatable preset focus or focus points. These are
special groups reserved for focus (pan/tilt) positions; however, they can be used for anything that might be changed
throughout the entire cue list of a show. Any and all cues built and stored from an updatable preset focus group can
be adjusted by refocusing and restoring the group. The cues then reference this group for positioning or other
information as recorded.