High End Systems Roadster Orbital Head System DMX Programming Terminology, DMX Parameters

Chapter 4:

DMX Programming

DMX Programming Terminology

A Parameter (construct) is a fixture attribute that can be controlled to modify the light beam in terms of color, beam quality and pattern, intensity, or focus (position). To program fixtures, DMX values are assigned to each of the fixture’s parameters according to that fixture’s DMX protocol.

A cue (sometimes referred to as a scene or look depending on the controller used) is one set of attribute options. Combining cues into sequences, assigning times and synchronizing fixtures on a link are the basics of show creation. Using a DMX controller, a designer can control all the fixtures on a link programming an unlimited number of sequences and their associated timing.

DMX Parameters

Roadster Orbital Head Positioning

The Mirror1 and Mirror 2 parameters each use two channels for for 16-bit control of the Orbital Head’s movement direction and speed. The Orbital Head positions the projected image by independently moving the inner and outer mirrors on the Mirror Head. The inner mirror (Mirror 1) maps to Pan on DMX control consoles and can move from 0°–270°. The outer mirror (Mirror 2) maps to Tilt on DMX controllers and has a range of 0°–360°.

Focus

The Focus parameter uses two DMX channels to control the projector focus with 16-bit accuracy.

Zoom

The Zoom parameter uses two DMX channels to control the motion of the projector’s zoom lens with 16-bit accuracy.

Shutter

The Shutter parameter uses one DMX channel to control the projector shutter. A DMX value < 24 closes the shutter. A DMX value > 231 opens the shutter.