Controlling Light Fixtures

The SD3 allows you to take direct control of moving light fixture channels at any time. There is no edit mode as with some lighting controllers. You are essentially always in edit mode and can instantly save the current stage settings as a scene. This is one reason the Show Designer is so quick and easy to program.

NUMBER SWITCHES 1-48 and FUNCTION SWITCHES

The switches in the upper right section numbered 1-48 are multi-purpose. The group of 6 switches just above these selects their function. Only one function is active at a time and the LED for the particular function will be lit when selected. These functions let you select light fixtures for programming and memories such as scenes, chases, etc. The following sections explain each function.

FIXTURE

With the fixture switch LED lit, the number switches 1-48 are used to select fixtures to work on. When a fixture is selected its channels can be directly controlled using the flex faders, the wheels or the joystick. If a fixture is not selected it will only be disconnected from these manual controls, the fixture is not turned off or disabled. A fixture does not need to be selected in order to be controlled by a scene or playback.

When a fixture is selected its name will appear in the display followed by the names of its first 4 channels and the current values of those channels. The four data wheels can then be used to adjust the levels of each channel. Pressing the fixture function switch at any time will enable the channel wheel display and the channel wheels. If a fixture profile is installed for this fixture the display will show the names of the channels as well as the current channel values as defined by the fixture profile. Use the left or right cursor buttons located just above the display to view the next group of four channels in the fixture.

If the Solo LED is lit when selecting a moving light fixture, it will move to center (pan and tilt at 128) with the dimmer and shutter set to full value.

FIXTURE GROUP

Fixture groups are selected by pressing “fixture group” then selecting the desired group number from 1-48. You can select a single group or any combination of groups. After a group has been selected, the display will show the channel values for the first member of the group. Adjusting the channel wheels will affect all members of the group as long as they are the same fixture type.

To create a fixture group press “record” then “fixture group”, both LEDs will flash. Next press “fixture” to select which fixtures will be included in the group. Use the number switches to turn the desired fixture LEDs on or off. Next press the fixture switch again to turn off its LED. If you want to name the group, use the cursor switches to place the underline cursor under the character of the name and use the data wheel to select characters or use an external keyboard. Finally select the group number by pressing one of the number switches from 1-48. If a number switch LED is already lit it means that a group is already recorded there. After you are finished recording, press “record” to exit.

To edit a fixture group that has already been recorded, first select the group then press “record” then proceed as described in the preceding paragraph. Make any changes to the group then

1.15 specifications

Elation Professional has unveiled its latest update, version 1.15, a significant enhancement that promises to elevate the user experience for lighting professionals and enthusiasts alike. This robust release showcases innovative features, cutting-edge technologies, and user-friendly characteristics that cater to a diverse range of applications, from live events to permanent installations.

One of the standout features of Elation Professional 1.15 is its improved fixture management system. This new system allows users to seamlessly integrate a broader range of lighting fixtures, ensuring compatibility with the latest hardware and software advancements. The intuitive interface guides users through the setup process, making it easier than ever to configure and control various fixtures without extensive technical knowledge.

The software also introduces advanced effects control. Users can now harness the power of dynamic effects pre-sets that provide unmatched creativity in programming. These pre-sets are designed to allow lighting designers to quickly implement eye-catching effects tailored to their specific needs, reducing setup time while maximizing artistic expression. Additionally, a suite of new built-in effects templates enables users to generate complex lighting designs with minimal effort.

In terms of technology, Elation Professional 1.15 is built on a strong foundation of real-time processing capabilities. The software is optimized to handle large numbers of channels and complex sequences, offering reliable performance even in high-demand environments. Its improved protocol support ensures compatibility with various DMX and Art-Net devices, broadening its utility across different theater and concert applications.

Another notable characteristic is the enhanced visualizer. This component allows users to preview their lighting cues in real-time before executing them on stage. The visualizer is instrumental in fine-tuning lighting designs, enabling users to foresee potential issues and adjust parameters on the fly, ensuring a flawless execution during critical moments.

Connectivity has also received an upgrade in version 1.15. The enhanced networking capabilities allow for easier integration with other control systems and devices, facilitating a more cohesive setup for complex installations. Whether you are working in a small venue or a large-scale production, the ability to connect multiple devices without compromising performance is a game-changer.

In summary, Elation Professional 1.15 stands at the forefront of lighting control solutions, boasting advanced fixture management, powerful effects control, optimized performance, an innovative visualizer, and enhanced connectivity. This version aims to empower users with the right tools and capabilities to bring their creative visions to life, further solidifying Elation Professional's reputation as a leader in the entertainment lighting industry.