5. Adding, Patching and Managing Fixtures 123
5.6 Patching Fixtures
Once fixtures have been added to a show they must be patched so that the console knows
where to send control data for the fixtures (the address) and what type of data to send to the
fixtures (the protocol). Many fixtures, such as moving lights, are assigned a DMX address
and utilize the DMX-512 protocol for remote control of their various parameters whereas other
devices such as video switchers are assigned an IP address and utilize IP protocols for
remote control of their device parameters. The following sub-chapters provide instructions on
how to patch fixtures using these protocols.
5.6.1 Patching DMX Protocol Fixtures
The vast majority of moving lights and dimmers receive their control data using a control
protocol called DMX-512. Under this protocol, fixtures are controlled via DMX channels and
are assigned a DMX address (also known as the ‘start address’). The number of DMX
channels occupied by a fixture beyond its start address varies by fixture and by mode so it is
important to ensure the fixture type scheduled in the show matches the fixture that is hung
the lighting rig.
Important: When the "show details" button is enabled in the fixture window the DMX patch
points for a compound fixture's individual parts are displayed, however these internal patch
points are fixed and cannot be modified. To identify the true patch point of a compound
fixture turn off the "show details" button.
To patch a fixture using the DMX protocol:
1. Setu p → Patch : this opens the Fixture window.
2. Select a fixture by entering its user number on the command line. Press the Patch @
button to open the Fixture Patch window.
3. Select a universe from the Fixture Patch window. To patch to a universe that isn't
listed, press the Add Universe(s) button.
4. Click or press on a DMX universe. The usage column provides a basic graphical view of
which addresses are already occupied.
5. Use the keypad to type in a number for the fixture's DMX start address on the command
line. If an address is not supplied on the command line the next free DMX address of
the selected universe will be used.
6. Click on O K or press En ter.
To Next Page
Loading...
