Elation Professional 1.15 Using the Compact Flash, Memory Backup, Memory Restore, Firmware Update

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USING THE COMPACT FLASH

The Compact flash uses CF cards that are formatted using the Windows FAT16 file system. Cards formatted using FAT32 will not work. You will get the error message “format error” if you try to use the wrong type. When reformatting a card with your PC select “FAT” rather than “FAT32” for the file system. This will format the card with FAT16. Card sizes up to 2G are supported.

Not all manufacturers’ CF cards have been tested on the SD3. We recommend using San Disk cards. They have been tested and work well. You don’t need a very large capacity card, the SD3 files are not large. Long filenames (longer than 8 characters) and folders are not supported on the card’s directory. All files must reside in the root directory to be accessible.

Since the cards are formatted using the Windows FAT16 file system they are also compatible with your PC allowing you to make copies and download software updates and fixture profiles from the Elation website.

All of the compact flash functions are run from the SD3 menu.

MEMORY BACKUP

Go to the menu function “Save memory file to CF”, the message “Press enter to save file to disk” will appear on the top line of the display when you press “enter”. The default file name will appear on the bottom line. You can use the data wheel or an external keyboard to enter a new file name. Insert a CF card in the slot and press, “enter”. The message “File has been saved to disk” will appear when finished. The entire contents of the Show Designer 3 memory are backed up including all menu settings, fixture profiles, scenes, presets, chases and shows. The disk file is a binary file and will have the DOS file extension .sdm and is compatible with Windows as long as you adhere to Window’s file naming rules. The file name can use up to 8 characters. Show Designer 3 does not support long filenames (names with more than 8 characters).

NOTE: This file type is different than the text file type used to back up the memory using the COM port as described in the next chapter. The two file types are not interchangeable even though they are both used for the same purpose. You can’t take a memory file that you made with a COM port backup and load it in using the CF. You must use the COM port to reload that file.

MEMORY RESTORE

Insert the CF card with your memory backup file in the slot. Go to the menu “Load memory file from CF” and press “enter”. The message “Select memory file, then press enter” will appear on the top line of the display. The name of the first Show Designer 3 memory file on the CF card will appear on the bottom line of the display. Use the + or - switch or data wheel 1 to select the desired file if there is more than one memory file on the card. Press, “enter” to load the file. You will get a warning that this will replace the entire memory. If you press “yes” to continue, the entire memory will be overwritten. The Show Designer 3 will reboot after the file has been successfully loaded.

FIRMWARE UPDATE

To update the firmware inside the SD3, download the latest version from elationlighting.com. Copy the new firmware file to a CF card and then insert the CF card into the SD3. The file must have the name SD3Vnnn.txt (nnn is the version number, for example SD3V115.txt). Go to the

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Contents Show Designer Controlling Light Fixtures Iii Overview Rear Panel ConnectionsTOP Panel Menu and Setup Functions Choose FixturesPatch Fixtures Patch Conventional Dimmers Select Flex Fader Mode Copy FixtureLoad Fixture Profile from CF Load Fixture Profile from COM PortSelect Home Scene PAN and Tilt InvertModify Fixture Vii Multi Fixture View Memory SizeSave Memory File to CF Save Memory File to COM PortUpdate Software Load Memory File from CFLoad Memory File from COM Port SET Midi ChannelControlling Light Fixtures FixtureFixture Group Using the Data Wheels to Control Fixture Channels Using the Flex Faders to Control Fixture ChannelsJoystick Copy Fixture Settings FineSolo Dimmer Control Using a Keyboard Controlling Conventional DimmersWorking with Memories ScenesRecord Clear ALL ChannelsRecalling Scenes Recalling Scenes with Playback MastersTurn OFF Scene Erase ScenePresets Factory Programmed PresetsCreating and Recording Presets Recalling Presets Recalling Presets with Playback MastersErase Preset Editing PresetsCombining Presets ChasesRecording Chases Shape ChaseSimple Flash Chase Complex Flash Chase Complex Channel ChaseColor Chase Gobo Chase Color MIX ChaseEditing Chases That are Already Saved Erase ChaseRecalling Chases Recalling Chases with Playback MastersShows Recording ShowsErase Show Editing Existing ShowsPlaying Shows Xxvi Performance Controls PreviewBack StopBeat BlackoutGrand Master Fader Flex Master FaderUsing the Playbacks LTP Manual ModePlayback Masters Assigning a Memory to a PlaybackHTP Dimmer Mode Xxxi Midi Using the Compact Flash Memory BackupMemory Restore Firmware UpdateInstall Fixture Profiles Using the COM Port RS-232 Memory Restore Using the Computer PortUpdating the SD3 Firmware Load Fixture ProfileXxxvi Fixture Library Xxxviii Xxxix Firmware Revision History Rev .00 through 1.04 PrototypeXli

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.
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