Dmx Programming Overview; Full Speed Verses Mspeed Control; Dmx Programming Options; Programming With A Dmx Console - High End Systems Studio Command Series User Manual

CHAPTER 4
Fixture Programming

DMX Programming Overview

A Parameter (parameter) is a fixture attribute that can be controlled to modify the light beam in
terms of color, beam quality and pattern, intensity, or focus (position). DMX programming
assigns a DMX value to each of the fixture's parameters. A scene (sometimes referred to a look
or a cue) is one combination of parameter settings. These scenes are the building blocks for
show creation.

Full Speed verses MSpeed Control

Some parameters can be set to operate at full speed or MSpeed (motor speed). Full speed
operations are completed in the shortest length of time after the motor starts moving. With
MSpeed control, change occurs smoothly over the entire MSpeed time value selected. For
example, if you select an MSpeed time of 30 seconds, the motor will gradually change position
until it reaches its new destination at the end of 30 seconds.

DMX Programming Options

Studio Command fixtures can be programmed to create and play back scenes with either a
DMX-compatible controller or with Onboard Menu System Preset programming (for stand-alone
operation). However, you cannot use both a DMX compatible controller and the fixture's on-
board menu system at the same time. In other words, you cannot create a scene using the on-
board memory and play it back using a controller. You also cannot use a controller at the same
time on-board scenes are playing.
Using a DMX controller, you can program an unlimited number of sequences (combinations of
scenes) and retain direct control over the Studio Command fixture at all times. You may choose
to save time by programming your fixtures using a controller and then capturing the scene(s) to
the on-board memory of multiple Studio Command fixtures.
If you plan to operate your fixtures without a DMX controller, you can utilize one of the fixtures
on the link to synchronize preset playback among all fixtures of that type connected to the DMX
link.
Note: Because controllers cannot transmit crossfade or delay parameter
values, you must use preset programming in the onboard menu
system to manually set those parameter values at the fixture.

Programming with a DMX Console

®
The Wholehog III Lighting Console, and the Hog iPC console are available from High End
Systems to control Studio Command fixtures (see Related Products and Accessories on page 4).
For more information on whether your DMX controller supports Studio Command fixtures,
contact the controller's vendor. For more information on operating your fixture with a controller
(or control device such as DMX control software), consult the documentation provided with the
controller.
48 Studio Command Series User Manual