USING THE COM PORT (RS-232)

The RS-232 port can be used to connect the SD3 to a personal computer to do memory backups, software updates and to load fixture profiles. You will need to get a 9 pin null modem cable. Use this cable to connect the RS-232 port on the Show Designer 3 to the COM port on your PC. If you don’t have a COM port on your PC, you will have to get a USB to COM port conversion cable. Follow the instructions that come with the cable to set it up as COM 1 or 2.

CONFIGURING YOUR COMPUTER

Elation offers a program that can be downloaded from www.elationlighting.com called “SD Backup” that is designed to handle communication between a PC and the Show Designer lighting controllers. You will have to determine which COM port you are connected to on your PC. The SD Backup program supports COM 1 or COM 2. After you have installed the SD Backup program, follow the directions on the help file included with the program.

MEMORY BACKUP USING THE COMPUTER PORT

In the SD Backup help file, follow the instructions for “Receive File. It will explain how to name the memory backup file and how to get the program ready to receive. Next, go to the menu on the Show Designer 3 “Save memory file to COM port” and press the enter switch. An encoded copy of the entire memory will be transmitted to your PC. This will take several minutes to complete.

MEMORY RESTORE USING THE COMPUTER PORT

To copy a memory file from your PC back to the Show Designer 3, first go to the menu in Show Designer 3 “Load memory file from COM port”. Press “enter” and the display will read, “Waiting for file from COM port”. Show Designer 3 is now ready to receive the file from your PC. If you decide to abort the process, the only way to exit this screen is to turn off the SD3.

Follow the “Send File” instructions in the SD Backup help file. When you start the transmission, the SD3 display will show the message “receiving file”. After the file has been sent, the SD3 will reboot. If any errors have been detected you will be prompted to retry. It can take several minutes to complete the transfer.

UPDATING THE SD3 FIRMWARE

To copy new firmware from your PC to your SD3 using the COM port, go to the SD3 menu “update software”. Press “enter” and the SD3 display will read, “Download new software or insert card”. The SD3 is now ready to receive the file from your PC. As an alternative you can access this menu by holding down the menu and erase switch while powering up the SD3.

Follow the “Send File” instructions in the SD Backup help file. Find the drive and folder where the new firmware file is located, select the file and click “Open”. The SD3 display will read, “receiving new program”. After the file has been sent, The SD3 will reboot. If any errors have been detected you will be prompted to retry. It will take several minutes to transfer the file.

LOAD FIXTURE PROFILE

Go to the SD3 menu item “Load fixture profile from CF”. The message “Ready to receive fixture profile, press enter to cancel” will appear on the display. Use the “Send File” function on the SD Backup program to send a fixture profile to the SD3. The SD3 will wait until you send the file or until you press the enter switch to cancel.

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Elation Professional 1.15 Using the COM Port RS-232, Memory Restore Using the Computer Port, Updating the SD3 Firmware

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.