High End Systems Technobeam - Manual (Page 101)

4-2 Programming Overview Technobeam
®
User Manual
Programming Overview
This chapter explains how to create and play back scenes using the
fixture’s onboard 16-scene memory, and has a step-by-step example.
More information about preset programming can be found on the
Technobeam Quick Reference Card (p/n 60600109, v1.0 or later).
What is a “Scene”?
A scene (which can also be called a page or look) is a combination of the
constructs you configure. A construct is a unique fixture feature—for
example, focus, color or rotating effects. Each scene consists of all of
the constructs you select; you can make each scene as simple or
complex as you want.
When you play back more than one scene in sequence, it becomes a
program (also called a show). A program or show that continuously
repeats is called a loop or a chase.
Technobeam fixtures always play back all contiguously-programmed
scenes in a continuous loop. The loop plays back until you either turn
the fixture off or stop scene playback. You must create the scenes
contiguously (in other words, scene 1, scene 2, scene 3, scene 4, and so
on without skipping a scene) because the fixture automatically repeats
when it encounters the first unprogrammed scene or when all available
scenes are programmed.
Stand-alone Operation vs. a Controller
You can use a controller or control device (such as DMX control
software), or onboard memory to create and play back scenes, but not
both at the same time.
In other words, you cannot create a scene using the fixture’s onboard
memory and play it back using a controller. You also cannot use a
controller at the same time onboard scenes are playing back.
You can create up to sixteen scenes using a controller and copy the
scenes to the fixture’ onboard memory. However, XFAD and DLAY
construct values cannot be copied this way, so you must manually
(using preset programming) enter values for these two constructs.
Macros
Each Technobeam fixture has 28 selectable macros. A macro is a
factory-programmed set of fixture constructs picked for their ability to
achieve a dramatic and exciting effect. Using a macro can help you
save time while programming your fixture.
Note You must select the full protocol for the fixture to use
macros.