BROOKING INDUSTRIES BLINKCAST

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Summary

Chapter 1: BlinkCast Programmer Overview

1-1. Introduction

Explains the BlinkCast Programmer's software and programming modes, covering Express and Save & Burn functionalities.

1-2. Wiring

Details the wiring instructions for both the Express/PC mode and the Save & Burn mode for programming.

Chapter 2: Software Installation & Main User Interface

2-1. Software Installation

Guides through the process of downloading and installing the BlinkCast software on a computer.

2-2. Overview: Main User Interface

Introduces the main components and layout of the BlinkCast Programmer configuration utility.

2-3. File Center

Details functions for creating, opening, saving, and updating configuration files (.bc) and software.

Chapter 3: Setting Item Pool

3-1. Overview: Setting Item Pool

Explains how to manage, sort, and create individual setting items within the software interface.

Chapter 4: Setting Page

4-1. Overview: Setting Page

Describes the Setting Page, connection status indicators, and configuration options for lightheads.

4-2. Express

Details the 'Express' mode for direct lighthead programming from a PC, including preview options.

Chapter 5: Programmer Page

Demo; Preview Your Setting of Each Function Wire

Explains how to preview settings for each function wire on the lighthead itself.

5-1. Overview: Programmer Page

Introduces the Programmer Page interface, covering import/export, memory buttons, and connection status.

5-2. Export Settings to Programmer

Guides on exporting created settings from the software to the BlinkCast Programmer module.

5-3. Import Settings from Programmer

Explains how to import saved settings from the BlinkCast Programmer back to the PC for modification.

Chapter 6: Examples; Scenarios

6-1. Scenario 1: How to Save a Setting Item to My BlinkCast Programmer?

Step-by-step guide on saving a created setting item to the BlinkCast Programmer module.

6-2. Scenario 2: How to Configure Lightheads with My PC Directly (Express)?

Detailed steps for configuring lightheads directly via PC using the 'Express' mode without exporting to the programmer.

6-3. Scenario 3: How to Configure Lightheads by BlinkCast Programmer without a Host PC? (mobile; portable mode)

Instructions for configuring lightheads using the BlinkCast Programmer as a standalone device (Save & Burn mode).

Chapter 7: Trouble Shooting

7-1. FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions and their solutions for common issues encountered with the programmer and software.

The Brooking Industries BlinkCast Programmer is a sophisticated tool designed for efficient and precise configuration of M-series lightheads, significantly reducing installation time and complexity. It streamlines the process of setting flash patterns, color modes, and groups/phases, eliminating the need for tedious wire tapping methods associated with older models. This leads to improved installer efficiency, saving both time and money.

Function Description:

The BlinkCast Programmer offers two primary programming modes: "Express Mode" and "Save & Burn Mode."

Express Mode: This mode allows users to configure lightheads directly from a host PC. The BlinkCast User Interface (UI) software, residing on the PC, is used to burn user-defined settings directly into the lightheads. This is ideal for immediate programming and testing.
Save & Burn Mode: This mode enables users to export user-defined settings to the BlinkCast Programmer module itself, facilitating mobile or "on-the-fly" programming without the continuous need for a host PC. Once settings are saved to the module, they can be uploaded to lightheads independently.

The device's software, the "BlinkCast Programmer Configuration Utility," provides a comprehensive interface for managing settings. Key features of the software include:

Setting Item Pool: This section allows users to sort, create, and delete setting items. Users can search for specific settings by keywords such as product model, dual color, or specific color codes (RB, AW). It displays all settings created during an active session and supports shortcuts like "Control + A" to select all items.
Setting Page: This page is where users define the core parameters for their lightheads. It allows for the selection of the lighthead's product model and LED color. Users can name their settings (e.g., "product name + installation position + dept. / customer") and configure wire functions, including flash patterns, groups (phases), and colors. The software supports up to 8 phases, enabling complex arrow patterns. A "Play Button" is available for a visual preview of created settings directly on the lighthead, provided it is connected to the programmer and a common 12V power source.
Programmer Page: This section is dedicated to importing and exporting setting items to and from the BlinkCast Programmer module. It features five memory/save buttons on a rendering of the module, where users can drag and drop setting files. The status of these buttons (Disconnect, Saved Setting, Unsaved Setting) indicates whether they are available for new settings, already contain saved settings, or hold imported settings that are yet to be saved. Wire Play Buttons are also present on this page, allowing users to preview settings for individual wires (#1: Red wire, #2: White wire, #1 + #2: Red & White combined, #3: Reserved for future use for tri-color). An "Undo Button" is available to revert the last action.

Important Technical Specifications:

Power Source: The BlinkCast Programmer and lightheads require a common 12-24Vdc power source for operation. Any 12Vdc power source can be used.
Connectivity: The programmer connects to a host PC via a USB-C cable. Crucially, this USB-C cable must be capable of data transfer, not just charging, for the software to function correctly.
Software Compatibility: The BlinkCast Programmer Configuration Utility is designed for Windows operating systems (e.g., Windows 10).
File Format: Setting files created by the software are saved with a .bc extension.

Usage Features:

Software Installation: The software is downloaded via a provided link and installed using a "Setup.exe" file. Users are advised to temporarily disable security/anti-virus programs if they block .exe file downloads, or use a .bat file provided by Brooking Industries to manage security settings during installation.
Connection Status Indicator: The UI provides a clear connection status indicator: a green linked chain signifies that the programmer is connected and ready, while a broken chain indicates a connection issue.
Direct Configuration (Express Mode): To configure lightheads directly from a PC, users connect the lighthead, programmer, and a 12V power source. After creating and defining settings in the software, clicking the "burn" icon transfers the settings. The lighthead will display a quick flash to confirm successful programming.
Mobile Configuration (Save & Burn Mode): For mobile use, settings are first created on a PC and then exported to the BlinkCast Programmer module. This involves dragging and dropping setting items from the "Setting Item Pool" to the desired memory buttons on the "Programmer Page." Once exported, the module can be disconnected from the PC and used with a 12V power source to program lightheads by pressing the corresponding memory button.
Setting Preview: The "Play Button" on the "Setting Page" allows for a visual preview of configured flash patterns and colors directly on the connected lighthead. This feature is enabled only after using Express Mode to configure the lighthead.
Import/Export Settings: Users can import previously saved settings from the programmer module to the PC for modification or export new settings from the PC to the module. Button statuses (orange for new settings, green for saved/exported settings) provide visual feedback.
Language Selection: The software supports language selection for the UI.

Maintenance Features:

Software Updates: The "About/Info" section in the "File Center" allows users to check the current software and firmware versions and provides an option to "Update Software" to ensure the latest version is being used. A link to download the "User Manual" is also available here.
Troubleshooting Guide: The manual includes a comprehensive FAQ section for troubleshooting common issues, such as:
- Failed to get started: Addresses problems related to lacking/inadequate power supply, wrong connections, and outdated software.
- Connection failure: Guides users to check USB-C cable functionality (must support data transfer) and update software if necessary.
- Failed to import/export: Advises checking if demo (play) buttons are turned off and updating software.
- Unexpected result: Suggests verifying that the correct product model is selected in the software.

The BlinkCast Programmer is designed to be a user-friendly and efficient solution for managing and programming Brooking Industries' M-series lightheads, offering flexibility for both PC-connected and mobile programming scenarios.