ChamSys Ltd www.chamsys.co.uk
MagicQ User Manual 21 Version 1.4.9.0
2 Console Concepts
A system diagram of the console is shown in the diagram below
* standard 18 universes except MQ50 and MQ100 Expert (6)
2.1 Show Storage
The console utilises a hard drive to store show data thus providing virtually unlimited show space – many
different shows can be stored on the console and recalled at the touch of a button. Favourite shows,
personalities and FX patterns can be utilised in building new shows thus simplifying and speeding up show
programming.
The console utilises USB memory sticks for transferring of show data to and from PCs and for back up
purposes. USB memory sticks are ideal for this function; small and easily portable they can fit on a key-ring or
lanyard, data for many different shows can be quickly and reliably transferred to them. USB memory sticks are
universally supported by PCs and other computers, unlike custom memory cards traditionally used in lighting
consoles.
Furthermore the Ethernet interface on the console can be utilised to access show files remotely over a network.
This, for example, enables lighting designers to connect their laptops directly to the console.
2.2 Output channels
The console supports up to eighteen DMX512 universes output over Ethernet. This allows up to 9216 channels
of lighting to be controlled. Interface boxes are utilised to convert from Ethernet to serial DMX512 as
appropriate.
Lighting consoles are often limited in the number of DMX channels or the number of intelligent heads they can
control independently – typically 24, 48 or 96 channels. These channels typically correspond to the number of
faders on the console. Some consoles offer a patching facility to allow multiple DMX channels to be patched
onto one fader – but these DMX channels can then not be controlled independently.
The MagicQ console allows control of all DMX channels individually, whilst utilising grouping and
programming functions to enable control of multiple heads or dimmers together.
The console provides a library of personalities – data for each of the different types of intelligent head
available. This data determines how the different attributes of an intelligent head are controlled by the console.
Personalities are provided for most intelligent heads. Where a personality is not available, one can easily be
written using the in built Head Editor. DMX configuration data is generally available from the manufacturer of
the intelligent head.
PROGRAMMER
PLAYBACKS
OUTPUT
ENGINE
PROGRAMING
WINDOWS
18 UNIVERSES*
SHOW
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