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Vari-Lite assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or inaccuracies that may appear in this manual. All information and graphics are property of Vari-Lite, a Philips group company, 10911 Petal Street Dallas, Texas 75238 USA. Version as of: 16 November 2010 Part number: 02.9683.0001 0...
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To obtain warranty service, please contact customer service at 1-877-VARI-LITE (1-877-827-4548), +1-214-647-7880, or entertainment.service@philips.com and request a Return Material Authorization (RMA) for warranty service. You will need to provide the model and serial number of the item being returned, a description of the problem or failure and the name of the registered user or organization. If available, you should have your sales invoice to establish the date of sale as the beginning of the warranty period.
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❋ VARI LITE - S 550 W ’ ERIES UMINAIRE ANUAL Compliance Notice This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device pursuant to Part 15 of FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when this equipment is operated in a commercial environment.
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FIRE, EXPOSURE TO EXCESSIVE UV RADIATION, AND INJURY TO PERSONS CAN BE FOUND BELOW. WARNING: INSTRUCTIONS FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST FIRE 1. VARI❋LITE luminaires have been designed for use with specific lamp types. The VL550 wash luminaire requires a certain type of lamp (see “Replacement Items/Accessories” on page 8 for all lamp types).
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❋ VARI LITE - S 550 W ’ ERIES UMINAIRE ANUAL WARNING: INSTRUCTIONS FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST EXCESSIVE EXPOSURE TO UV RADIATION 1. Many VARI❋LITE luminaires use a lamp that produces UV radiation. DO NOT look directly at lamp. 2. It is hazardous to operate luminaires without lens or shield. Shields, lenses, or ultraviolet screens shall be changed if they have become visibly damaged to such an extent that their effectiveness is impaired.
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OREWORD Sicherheitshinweise Es ist äußerst wichtig, ALLE Sicherheitsinformationen und -hinweise in diesem Handbuch und dem beiliegenden Informationsmaterial zu lesen, bevor Sie die hierin beschriebenen Produkte installieren bzw. bedienen. Halten Sie bei der Installation und dem Einsatz dieses Produkts alle Warnhinweise und Vorsichtsmaßnahmen ein.
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❋ VARI LITE - S 550 W ’ ERIES UMINAIRE ANUAL WARNUNG: HINWEISE ZUM SCHUTZ GEGEN ÜBERHÖHTE UV-STRAHLUNG 1. Viele VARI❋LITE-Scheinwerfer verwenden die Lampentyp, der UV-Strahlen abgibt. SCHAUEN SIE NICHT direkt in die Lampe. 2. Es ist gefährlich, Leuchten ohne Linsen oder Blenden zu bedienen. Blenden, Linsen oder Ultraviolettschirme müssen ausgetauscht werden, sofern deren Schutzwirkung durch sichtbare Beschädigung (z.
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OREWORD Notes de sécurité Avant de procéder à l’installation des produits décrits dans ce guide et de les mettre en marche, il est extrêmement important de lire TOUS les renseignements et TOUTES les directives de sécurité contenues dans ce guide ainsi que toute documentation jointe. Tenir compte de tous les avertissements et suivre toutes les précautions pendant l’installation et l’utilisation de cet appareil.
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❋ VARI LITE - S 550 W ’ ERIES UMINAIRE ANUAL AVERTISSEMENT: DIRECTIVES POUR SE PROTÉGER CONTRE UNE EXPOSITION EXCESSIVE AUX RAYONS UV 1. Plusieurs luminaires VARI❋LITE utilisent une lampe qui produit des rayons UV. NE PAS fixer son regard sur la lampe. 2.
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OREWORD Aviso sobre Seguridad Es muy importante leer TODA la información e instrucciones sobre seguridad que se indica en este manual así como en los documentos adjuntos antes de instalar y operar los productos descritos. Se debe prestar atención a todos los avisos y advertencias durante la instalación y uso de este producto. Los símbolos de seguridad usados en este manual son los siguientes: CUIDADO, indica posibles daños al producto.
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❋ VARI LITE - S 550 W ’ ERIES UMINAIRE ANUAL ADVERTENCIA: INSTRUCCIONES PARA PROTECCIÓN CONTINUA CONTRA LA EXPOSICIÓN EXCESIVA DE RADIACIÓN ULTRA VIOLETA 1. Muchas luminarias VARI❋LITE usan un tipo de lámpara que produce radiación UV. NO mire directamente a la lámpara. 2.
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OREWORD 02.96 83.000 1 0 16 No vemb er 2010...
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❋ VARI LITE - S 550 W ’ ERIES UMINAIRE ANUAL 16 No vemb er 2010 02 .9 683.00 01 0...
Pack Up Cue....................... 23 Chapter 3. Operation Color Control Crossfade Color Mixing..................... 26 DMX Operation VL550 Wash Channel Mapping................. 27 DMX Mapping CYM Crossfade Color Mixing and Dimming............28 Beam Control ......................28 02.96 83.000 1 0 16 No vemb er 2010...
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Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs) ................57 Routine Maintenance Lamp Replacement ....................58 Front Glass Replacement (VL550 / VL550D Models Only)........59 Zoom Array Assembly Removal and Lens Installation (VL550CD Models Only) .. 61 Cleaning Optical Lenses and Filters ................64 Appendix B.
This manual covers the following models: Color Mixing Luminaire Model Part Number Lamp Type Dimmer System Body Color 120V or 230V VL550 Wash Luminaire 20.9683.0001 Standard Black External - User Supplied Tungsten 120V or 230V VL550 Wash Luminaire 20.9683.0001.02 Standard...
❋ VARI LITE® - S 550 W ’ ERIES UMINAIRE ANUAL Additional Documentation Note: Performing maintenance procedures may void the product warranty. Refer to the Vari-Lite Limited Warranty card included in the product shipping package for more information. For more information regarding DMX512 systems, refer to the following document available from United States Institute for Theatre Technology, Inc.
Authorized Service Center or Contact the Vari-Lite Customer Service Department, 7am - 6pm CST Monday through Friday, at the following: phone: 1-877-VARI-LITE (1-877-827-4548) or +1-214-647-7880 e-mail: entertainment.service@philips.com Additional Resources For additional resources and documentation, please visit our website at www.vari-lite.com and follow the Support link.
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❋ VARI LITE® - S 550 W ’ ERIES UMINAIRE ANUAL Notes 16 No vemb er 2010 02 .9 683.00 01 0...
HAPTER Description This chapter contains descriptions of luminaire features and components, along with a list of accessories which are available. • Features • Components 02.96 83.000 1 0 1 6 No vemb er 201 0...
Replacement Items Accessories Notes: 1. For use with any model in this manual. 2. For use with VL550 and VL550D models only. For lens installation or replacement, refer to the procedure in “Front Glass Replacement (VL550 / VL550D Models Only)” on page 3.
HAPTER Installation This chapter contains instructions for installation of the luminaire. It includes connecting power and data, along with instructions for powering up the luminaire for the first time and addressing it within your system. • Power and Data Cabling Requirements •...
❋ VARI LITE - S 550 W ’ ERIES UMINAIRE ANUAL Power and Data Cabling Requirements Power The luminaire requires standard AC power distribution from 100-240 VAC, 50/60 Hz. Three amps to twelve amps will be required depending on the AC supply voltage and product model. Depending on the application, the luminaire’s AC input cable may require a different connector.
1.0A 4.2A WARNING: On VL550 Wash Luminaires (without an on-board dimmer, the lamp can be powered by a dimmer circuit. Do not use dimmer or non-dim modules to supply luminaire operational power. Table 2-3: VL550D Wash Luminaire - Current vs. Voltage (120V/1200W Lamp)
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❋ VARI LITE - S 550 W ’ ERIES UMINAIRE ANUAL Table 2-4: VL550D Wash Luminaire - Current vs. Voltage (230V Version) Total Luminaire Voltage @ 60Hz Current (Motor + Lamp Current) 180V 6.9A 190V 6.5A 200V 6.2A 210V 5.9A 220V 5.7A 230V...
NSTALLATION OWER AND ABLING EQUIREMENTS Data Cables The luminaire is equipped with two, 5-pin XLR connectors for DATA IN and DATA THRU (out) applications. DATA IN requires a 5-pin, female XLR connector and DATA THRU requires a 5-pin, male XLR connector. When purchasing or constructing data cables, it is important that not only the correct cable type be used, but also quality cable to ensure a reliable DMX512 system.
❋ VARI LITE - S 550 W ’ ERIES UMINAIRE ANUAL Recommended Cable Types/Manufacturers These are only a few of the suitable cable types. Any quality EIA485, twisted pair, 120 ohm, shielded cable will also work. ∗ Type Pairs Jacket Temp (F) ZΩ...
NSTALLATION OWER AND ABLING EQUIREMENTS Termination Connector A XLR termination connector is required at the last luminaire (or "far end of the line") to prevent signal reflections. Signal reflections may cancel out the signal at certain line lengths, resulting in errors. The terminator is also necessary for software downloads and running tests on multiple luminaires.
❋ VARI LITE - S 550 W ’ ERIES UMINAIRE ANUAL Installation Procedures Installing Lamp In the event the lamp was packed separately during shipment, it will be necessary to install in the luminaire before use. WARNING: Ensure that power is removed from luminaire when installing lamp. CAUTION: Wear cotton gloves or other covering while installing lamp.
Step 1. Install truss hooks directly to the luminaire base (foot) as required. Example Truss Hook Installation Mega Claw Truss Hook (Sold Separately) VL550 Base Truss Hook Hardware (Sold Separately) Note: Some components not shown for clarity Figure 2-2: Installing Truss Hooks Note: Various types of truss hooks can be used.
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❋ VARI LITE - S 550 W ’ ERIES UMINAIRE ANUAL Installing in Truss: Step 1. Using two people, lift luminaire into mounting position. Step 2. Secure in place with truss hook. Ensure truss hook Base hardware that locks hook in place (e.g. wing bolt) is (Foot) properly tightened and that luminaire is fully supported.
Figure 2-4: Hanging Dimensions and Clearances Floor Mounting the Luminaire VL550 wash luminaires are not designed nor sufficiently stable to sit directly on its base (foot) in a floor installation application without a suitable floor mount plate. When used in this type of application, attach a floor mounting plate to the base and make sure the mounting surface is flat and sturdy.
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❋ VARI LITE - S 550 W ’ ERIES UMINAIRE ANUAL Note: This maximum limit applies to the luminaire "daisy chain" only. Your system or console may require fewer luminaires on a single data link path. Consult your console documentation for more information.
NSTALLATION OWERING Powering Up Power-Up Procedure All Models When the luminaire is powered up for the first time, the default setting is enabled and the lamp will remain off. When AC power is applied, the luminaire will immediately begin a calibration sequence that steps it through full pan and tilt movements.
❋ VARI LITE - S 550 W ’ ERIES UMINAIRE ANUAL Addressing Program Starting Address The address setting for DMX console controlled systems is entered using the Menu Display (refer to “Menu Operation” on page 42). The luminaire retains the DMX address even if power is removed. Note: Refer to your console operating instructions for specific information regarding its addressing requirements.
When shipping or transporting a VL550 wash luminaire, certain settings should be used to minimize the possibility of damaging internal components. Because of the complexity and delicate nature of the 48 panes of dichroic glass filters used in the VL550 wash luminaire, extra care should be observed to minimize damage.
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❋ VARI LITE - S 550 W ’ ERIES UMINAIRE ANUAL Notes 16 No vemb er 2010 02 .9 683.00 01 0...
HAPTER Operation This chapter contains instructions for operating the luminaire using DMX control and for updating the internal software. • Color Control • DMX Operation • DMX Mapping • Luminaire Timing • Updating Software 02.96 83.000 1 0 1 6 No vemb er 201 0...
Color Control The VL550 Wash Luminaire’s color system is composed of the patented DICRO❋TUNE , color mixing mechanism. The following sections describe the various components of the VL550 wash luminaire. Crossfade Color Mixing The color mixing mechanism is made up of two individual color bulkheads. These color mixing bulkheads are comprised of 16-radially mounted dichroic glass elements to provide full-spectrum color crossfades from pastel to saturated colors.
VL550 Wash Channel Mapping These tables assume a DMX start address of 1. When a different starting address is used, this address becomes channel 1 function and other functions follow in sequence. Figure 3-2: VL550 Wash Luminaire Channel Mapping DMX Channels Extended...
❋ VARI LITE - S 550 W ’ ERIES UMINAIRE ANUAL DMX Mapping CYM Crossfade Color Mixing and Dimming CYM Crossfade Color Mixing Table 3-1: DMX Map For CYM Crossfade Color Mixing % Value DMX Value Action Open (White) Closed (Full Saturation) Dimming Table 3-2: DMX Map For Dimmer...
PERATION UMINAIRE IMING Luminaire Timing Luminaire Timing Channel Information Timing channel control improves the timed moves of certain groups of parameters. Three timing channels are provided, one for Pan and Tilt, one for color parameters and one for beam parameters. Timing channels support time values of up to six minutes.
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❋ VARI LITE - S 550 W ’ ERIES UMINAIRE ANUAL Table 3-5: Timing Channels Map % Value = Seconds Full Speed 16 No vemb er 2010 02 .9 683.00 01 0...
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PERATION UMINAIRE IMING Table 3-5: Timing Channels Map (Continued) % Value = Seconds 10.2 10.4 10.6 02.96 83.000 1 0 16 No vemb er 2010...
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❋ VARI LITE - S 550 W ’ ERIES UMINAIRE ANUAL Table 3-5: Timing Channels Map (Continued) % Value = Seconds 16 No vemb er 2010 02 .9 683.00 01 0...
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PERATION UMINAIRE IMING Table 3-5: Timing Channels Map (Continued) % Value = Seconds 02.96 83.000 1 0 16 No vemb er 2010...
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❋ VARI LITE - S 550 W ’ ERIES UMINAIRE ANUAL Table 3-5: Timing Channels Map (Continued) % Value = Seconds 16 No vemb er 2010 02 .9 683.00 01 0...
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PERATION UMINAIRE IMING Table 3-5: Timing Channels Map (Continued) % Value = Seconds 02.96 83.000 1 0 16 No vemb er 2010...
❋ VARI LITE - S 550 W ’ ERIES UMINAIRE ANUAL Table 3-5: Timing Channels Map (Continued) % Value = Seconds Follows Cue Data Control Channel Functions The following control actions must be accomplished with zero time transition or with timing disabled. Discrete values must be used and not manual controls such as faders or encoders.
PERATION PDATING OFTWARE Updating Software USB Download and Programming To download files with a PC equipped with a Universal Serial Bus (USB) port, you need the VARI❋LITE USB Luminaire Programming Kit (28.8500.0054). The USB Luminaire Programming Kit can be ordered directly from your Authorized VARI❋LITE Dealer. The VARI❋LITE USB Luminaire Programming Kit (28.8500.0054) includes: •...
❋ VARI LITE - S 550 W ’ ERIES UMINAIRE ANUAL Lists specific versions of downloaded software (on PC) Device Connection Status and USB Downloader Controls Click to download specific software version to connected luminaire(s) Click logo to go to Vari-Lite web site (internet connection required)
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PERATION PDATING OFTWARE A DMX termination connector is used in this process. Refer to page 15 for more information regarding the construction of this connector. Master luminaire containing Luminaire 1 Luminaire 2 software version to download requiring update requiring update Data Thru Data Thru DMX Termination Connector...
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❋ VARI LITE - S 550 W ’ ERIES UMINAIRE ANUAL Notes 16 No vemb er 2010 02 .9 683.00 01 0...
HAPTER Menu System This chapter contains instructions for operating the luminaire using the Menu Display feature. • Menu Operation • Self Tests 02.96 83.000 1 0 1 6 No vemb er 201 0...
❋ VARI LITE - S 550 W ’ ERIES UMINAIRE ANUAL Menu Operation What Is the Menu System? The menu system is controlled by four buttons. These buttons function as follows: Series 500 Menu Display LCD Display Menu Display Softkeys - The menu has four softkey buttons that change to accommodate menu selection.
YSTEM PERATION The menu system is a programmable set of commands used to configure, address, operate, and test the luminaire. The menu system is controlled at the Menu Display available at the enclosure input panel. The menu system has seven main functions which are referred to as “1st level.” Within these main functions, there can be up to four additional sub-functions (levels 2 thru 5), making five total levels.
❋ VARI LITE - S 550 W ’ ERIES UMINAIRE ANUAL Menu System Overview The following is a graphic representation of the entire menu system. Address value (1 thru 512) Setup Lamp Manual 575W* Lamp? CNFRM 575? value Type Tilt value 700W Lamp? Set Level...
YSTEM PERATION Menu System Functions Table 4-1: Menu System Chart 1st Level 2nd Level 3rd Level 4th Level 5thLevel Address XXX Address value DMX Address SetUp Lamp Type 575W* LAMP? / Normal Luminaire Set Up CNFIRM 575? Turbo Lamp Saver 700W LAMP? / Normal CNFIRM 700?
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❋ VARI LITE - S 550 W ’ ERIES UMINAIRE ANUAL Table 4-1: Menu System Chart (Continued) 1st Level 2nd Level 3rd Level 4th Level 5thLevel Configure Lamp Lamp Options Power * Lamp Power ON * (default) System (arc only) Configuration * These lamp options are inactive (disabled) if external dimmer is...
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YSTEM PERATION Table 4-1: Menu System Chart (Continued) 1st Level 2nd Level 3rd Level 4th Level 5thLevel Mode Extended Operates in DMX Data and extended 16 bit mode Pan/Tilt 16 Bit Operates in standard 16 bit mode 8 Bit Operates in 8 bit mode Data Chan XX DMX Channel XXXX Data...
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❋ VARI LITE - S 550 W ’ ERIES UMINAIRE ANUAL Table 4-1: Menu System Chart (Continued) 1st Level 2nd Level 3rd Level 4th Level 5thLevel Test ** ALL SEQ Sequence Through All RunTest Press [Menu] to stop tests System Test Tests Pan/Tilt Pan/Tilt RunTest...
YSTEM PERATION Function Definitions Each menu item is listed in the first column by its display abbreviation. The abbreviations appear in alphabetical order as opposed to their position in the menu display sequence for easy reference. Table 4-2: Menu Function Definitions Display Definition Purpose...
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❋ VARI LITE - S 550 W ’ ERIES UMINAIRE ANUAL Table 4-2: Menu Function Definitions (Continued) Display Definition Purpose FAIL Test Fail Indicates that sensor test has failed. Fixt Hrs Fixture Hours Displays total number of hours luminaire has been powered on. Fixture Fixture Access luminaire specification information such as software version, along with sta-...
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YSTEM PERATION Table 4-2: Menu Function Definitions (Continued) Display Definition Purpose Re-cal Recalibrate Recalibrates luminaire. Reset Def Reset Default Resets default system configuration values. Reset Hrs Reset Lamp Info Resets lamp hour counter. For use when new lamp is installed. RunTest Run Test Indicates that a system test is in progress.
Series 550 Wash Luminaires (of a different type) across the VL550 Wash platform. To alleviate this, when testing in groups, only test same Lamp Type luminaires (for example: VL550 wash [120V/1200W tungsten] wash with other VL550 wash [120V/1200W tungsten] lights, etc.). The issue, described above, does not pose any problems when operating Series 550 Wash Luminaires during normal operation under DMX control.
YSTEM ESTS Movement Disable The Movement option allows pan and tilt to be disabled so that the luminaire can be placed in any position for testing without movement occurring. In order to regain full control of the luminaire, Movement will need to be enabled after testing. Note: When using the Movement option, pan and tilt will be disabled for all the luminaires that are linked.
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❋ VARI LITE - S 550 W ’ ERIES UMINAIRE ANUAL Notes 16 No vemb er 2010 02 .9 683.00 01 0...
PPENDIX Maintenance This appendix provides instructions for performing routine maintenance which may be necessary during the life of the luminaire. • Equipment Handling • Routine Maintenance WARNING: All maintenance procedures are to be performed with power removed from the luminaire. Never remove covers or open front lens or backcap assemblies while lamp is in operation.
❋ VARI LITE - S 550 W ’ ERIES UMINAIRE ANUAL Equipment Handling Below are some basic tips and information on handling luminaires and their associated components. Locations/Use VARI❋LITE luminaires are designed for dry locations only. Exposure to rain or moisture (including, but not limited to, fog machines, misters, etc.,) may damage luminaire.
ROUBLESHOOTING AND AINTENANCE • For arc lamp luminaires, heads should be tilted horizontal before starting lamps. Lamps generate light by an electrical discharge arc, whereby the electrons from two electrodes excite the fill components to give off light. Because of the alternating current “position”, the electrons are alternately given off by the two electrodes.
❋ VARI LITE - S 550 W ’ ERIES UMINAIRE ANUAL Routine Maintenance Lamp Replacement To remove and replace lamp: Step 1. Remove power from luminaire. WARNING: Lamps will be extremely HOT after operation. Allow lamp to cool before replacing. Step 2.
ROUBLESHOOTING AND AINTENANCE Front Glass Replacement (VL550 / VL550D Models Only) WARNING: Remove power from luminaire before performing maintenance. Parts: as needed (note, all lenses are sold separately) GLASS, FRONT, CLEAR (Vari-Lite part: 42.9685.0201) GLASS, FRONT, STIPPLE (Vari-Lite part: 42.9685.0207) GLASS, FRONT, MED.
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ERIES UMINAIRE ANUAL WARNING: For VL550 and VL550D Wash luminaires, Clear and Stipple lenses may be installed curve in (concave) and all Lenticular (8-Row, 10-Row, and 12-Row) and Buxom lenses must be installed curve out (convex). Step 4. Position new glass in front ring assembly. Be sure glass is fully and properly seated into rubber ring.
ROUBLESHOOTING AND AINTENANCE Zoom Array Assembly Removal and Lens Installation (VL550CD Models Only) In the event you wish to remove the Zoom Array Assembly and install one of the six optional lenses (see "Parts:" list below), this procedure explains how to remove the entire zoom array assembly, install a required front ring assembly (to accommodate the lens) and the lens itself.
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❋ VARI LITE - S 550 W ’ ERIES UMINAIRE ANUAL WARNING: Do not cut motor cables or wiring harness in luminaire! Step 5. At front lens array hinge, using a flat screwdriver, carefully remove two pivot / hinge screws securing front lens array to luminaire head.
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ROUBLESHOOTING AND AINTENANCE Detail Note, bottom of pivot/hinge screw goes into top screw when installed in hinge. Head Assembly Front Ring Pivot / Hinge Screws Assembly (see detail) Figure A-5: VL550CD Front Lens Assembly Installation CAUTION: Wear thick, protective gloves or other protective covering while handling front lens. The lens is extremely fragile and can break if too much force is applied.
❋ VARI LITE - S 550 W ’ ERIES UMINAIRE ANUAL Cleaning Optical Lenses and Filters WARNING: Remove power from luminaire before performing maintenance. WARNING: Acetone is a harsh cleaning agent and solvent. Acetone is very flammable. Please handle acetone according to manufacturer’s safety instructions and precautions. The front lens, optics/color filters, and reflector may require cleaning after extended use.
VL550 wash. VL550CD Wash Intensity Control • VL550 and VL550D models offer an optional integral dimmer or may be dimmed with a customer supplied external dimmer. • VL550CD models are supplied with an internal mechanical douser. Beam Control •...
Precision glass reflector with dichroic cold mirror coating. Lens and Lens Options • VL550 and VL550D models: Factory lens is a stipple. Accepts standard Par 64 cover lenses (optional - Clear, 8-Row Lenticular, 10-Row Lenticular, 12-Row Lenticular, and Buxom). •...