MA lighting grandMA3 - User Manual

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1. Screens 1-3
2. Letterbox screens 8-10
3. Command screens 6+7
4. Power key
5. Level wheel
6. Command area
7. Xkeys section
8. Master area
9. Right executor area with 3 executor sections
10. Custom area
11. Left executor area with 3 executor sections
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Quick Start

Summary

Console Overview

Front Panel Components

Identifies key areas and sections on the front of the grandMA3 console, including screens, command areas, and executor sections.

Rear Panel Connectors

Rear Panel Connector Identification

Lists and describes the various connectors found on the rear panel of the grandMA3 full-size CRV, including power, video, USB, and network ports.

Console Power Management

Turning On the Console

Provides step-by-step instructions for powering on the grandMA3 console, including connecting power and selecting the operating mode.

Turning Off the Console

Details the procedure for safely shutting down the grandMA3 console, including confirming the shutdown and switching off the power.

Software Update Procedure

Updating the grandMA3 Software

Explains how to download, prepare a USB drive, and install the latest software version for the grandMA3 device via the Boot Manager.

Overview

1. Function Description
2. Usage Features
3. Maintenance Features

The grandMA3 console is a sophisticated lighting control device designed for professional use in various entertainment and stage settings. It offers a comprehensive suite of features for controlling lighting fixtures, media servers, and other stage equipment, providing users with precise and flexible control over their productions.

Function Description

The grandMA3 console serves as the central hub for managing and executing lighting cues and effects. It integrates hardware and software components to facilitate the creation, programming, and playback of complex lighting designs. The console features multiple screens, including main screens (1-3), letterbox screens (8-10), and command screens (6+7), which provide a versatile visual interface for monitoring and interacting with the system. The command area (6) and Xkeys section (7) offer dedicated controls for quick access to frequently used functions and custom commands.

The console is equipped with various executor areas, including left (11) and right (9) executor areas, each with three executor sections. These areas are crucial for organizing and triggering cues, sequences, and presets, allowing for dynamic and responsive control during live performances. The master area (8) provides overall control, while the custom area (10) allows users to tailor the interface to their specific workflow. A level wheel (5) offers tactile control for adjusting parameters with precision. The power key (4) is used for turning the device on and off.

The rear panel of the grandMA3 console (grandMA3 full-size CRV rear panel) features a comprehensive array of connectors for integration with other devices. These include:

• Desk light (1): For illuminating the console's surface in low-light environments.
• powerCON TRUE1 (2): The main power input for the console.
• Power switch (3): For controlling the main power supply to the device.
• DMX A-G (4): Multiple DMX outputs for connecting to lighting fixtures.
• DisplayPort 1-5 (5): Outputs for connecting external monitors, expanding the visual workspace.
• LTC (6): Linear Timecode input for synchronization with external timecode sources.
• USB 3.0 (7) and USB 2.0 (12): High-speed USB ports for connecting external storage devices, keyboards, and other peripherals.
• Audio Remote In (8): Input for remote audio control.
• DC Remote Control (9): Input for DC remote control signals.
• Ethernet 1-3 (10): Multiple Ethernet ports for network connectivity, allowing the console to communicate with other grandMA3 devices, media servers, and network-based control systems.
• S/PDIF In+Out (11): Digital audio input and output for high-quality audio integration.
• MIDI In+Out (13): MIDI ports for synchronization and control with MIDI-compatible devices.

Usage Features

Starting the grandMA3 console involves a straightforward process:

1. Unpacking and Placement: After unpacking and removing all cushioning material, the device should be placed indoors on a stable surface.
2. External Monitors: Connect external monitors using native DisplayPort connectors to enhance the visual workspace.
3. Power Connection: Insert the powerCON TRUE1 into its jack, connect the main power plug, and turn on the power switch to position I. The power switch will light up in red.
4. Boot Sequence: Press the power key on the front panel. The device will begin booting, and the "Mode Selection" dialog will appear, prompting the user to select an operating mode. Tapping to select a mode will initiate the grandMA3 system.

The console also supports software updates to ensure it runs the latest features and improvements. This process involves:

1. Downloading Software: Obtain the latest software version from the manufacturer's website (www.malighting.com). The installer is typically named "grandMA3 Software x.x.x.x."
2. Preparing USB Drive: Extract the downloaded zip file ("grandMA3_stick_v.x.x.x.x.zip") and copy the EFI, ma folders, and the update.scr file to the root directory of a USB flash drive.
3. Inserting USB Drive: Insert the prepared USB flash drive into a USB port on the console.
4. Initiating Update: Turn off the grandMA3 device. For consoles without an integrated keyboard, an external USB keyboard must be connected. Turn the device back on and repeatedly press the 8/F8 key on the internal or external keyboard to open the Boot Manager.
5. Selecting USB Device: Use the arrow keys to scroll down to "EFI USB Device" and press Enter on the keyboard. The console will then boot from the USB drive, and the onscreen instructions will guide the user through the update process.

To shut down the grandMA3 console:

1. Power Key: Press the power key on the front panel. A warning pop-up will appear asking, "Do you really want to shut down?"
2. Confirmation: Tap "OK" to confirm. The console will power down.
3. Power Switch: Set the power switch to position 0.

Maintenance Features

The grandMA3 console is designed for robust performance in demanding environments. While specific maintenance details are not extensively covered in the provided excerpts, the emphasis on software updates highlights a key aspect of maintaining the device's functionality and security. Regular software updates ensure that the console benefits from the latest bug fixes, performance enhancements, and new features, extending its operational lifespan and capabilities.

The ability to display rear panel connectors on the letterbox screens by typing "Menu "Connectorview"" in the MA command line is a useful diagnostic and setup feature. This allows users to quickly verify connections and troubleshoot any issues without physically inspecting the rear of the console, which can be particularly helpful in complex installations.

For more in-depth configuration, updates, or downdates of installed software, users are advised to consult the grandMA3 User Manual. This manual provides comprehensive information on topics such as "Control other MA Devices" and "Update the Software via Network Update," indicating that the console supports advanced network-based management and maintenance procedures. This suggests a design that facilitates remote administration and integration into larger networked systems, simplifying maintenance tasks in multi-device setups.

Overall, the grandMA3 console is a powerful and versatile tool for lighting professionals, offering intuitive control, extensive connectivity, and robust features designed to meet the demands of modern stage productions. Its modular design and comprehensive software support ensure long-term usability and adaptability to evolving technological landscapes.

MA lighting grandMA3 Specifications

General

Model	grandMA3
Category	Lighting Console
Touchscreen	Yes
External display port	Yes
USB	Yes
s/pdif in/out	No
Internal SSD	Yes
Power Supply	Internal
DMX output connectors	5-pin XLR
DMX input connectors	5-pin XLR
Ethernet Protocols	Art-Net, sACN
Ethernet connectors	RJ45
Operating Voltage/ Supply Voltage	100-240V AC
Operating Temperature	0°C to 40°C