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AusChristmasLighting_101_Manual_Rev2d

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1. a 0 ig A A a H 4 2 A A Cat5 6 network cable LOR AC Controller This is used for the control of AC lighting that is connected to your mains These can be run on either 110v or 240v by jumper selection Perfect for use with mains voltage strings and rope lights Prices range depending on the model and options that are selected LOR PC 16 Range of AC controllers US 104 95 US 259 95 Pro Series Range of AC controllers US 329 95 C lighting that is connected to with LEDs and RGB lighting Cat5 6 network cable The total length of network cable can be up to 1 2km 69 n a kr xi Basic Layout Examples The DMX512 Network The DMX512 system is based on industry standards and is physically similar to the LOR layout The DMX network is 512 channels per universe for each universe you require another USB communications interface dongle Controllers are setup in a network by setting the start channel on each controller instead of using controller numbers which LOR uses A DMX network opens up a whole new world of choices as you can use many of the different types of DMX controllers and devices that are C available in the market place LOR controllers can also be used within a E Ted DMX network 7 Transmitter __ FM l and antenna y DMX USB Communication Interface here are 2 types of DMX dongles available the open DMX model uses the CPU
2. gt E gt 3 Y gt gt eb Oe da 4 y E E gt g SEE AD A Low Voltage DC computer controlled lights A po 2 a W il pina WZ Ann we me I 110 240 volt mains ll gece ano EKREM T eeeeeeseeeeery 422 2290 N Y N Y A kh I Gi A AK A AN Z EA DC Controller gt DC Switch mode power supply 4A E SMPS drops the mains voltage down toa Low Voltage DC o safe low voltage DC output This is the only Output real difference physically between running an AC controller and a DC controller Low Voltage DC is relatively safe to use and work with and is an ideal voltage for our hobby The difference in the wiring of a DC controller to an AC controller is just the names of the terminals as in both cases you must ensure you have the correct wires connected to the correct terminals or else permanent damage may occur to the controller So to sum it up in very basic terms Mains Active Line A in the DC world is equivalent to Positive Line Mains Neutral Line N in the DC world is equivalent to Negative Line Remember that DC controllers will only work with a low voltage DC power supply and AC controllers will only work with an AC supply mains voltage or a lower value via a transformer Never mix the two Further information on connecting to DC controllers can be found at http auschristmaslighting com wiki index php Controller Setups and Settings 55 Low Volt
3. The total length of network cable can be up to 1 2km 70 Cat5 6 network Anti RAUETETITT gt ae UAT Connect to DC power Supply Cat5 6 network cable The E1 31 Network The El 31 network is the same as a normal TCP IP network the computer uses IP addresses to tell the controllers what to do Distribution is done through a standard computer network switch using standard Cat5 6 cable to connect to each controller and is not daisy chained like DMX or LOR El 31 networks are preferred for using FM with RGB pixel lights as these lights use 3 channels per light and the Transmitter mm and antenna _ o e number of channels and universes used goes up very quickly The el 31 Y network is the newest of the networks and is now gaining very strong support due to its great flexibility high channel counts low ownership per channel and performance u use a standard computer network and its best to ensure that your ge eg Controller 1 10 10 10 5 JISYS ECG E1 31 Pixel Controllers JISYS sell a range of El 31 controllers with different features ECG PIXADS 8 Universe 4096 channels 8 Fused outputs US 135 00 ECG P12kR 12 Universes 6144 channels 12 Fused outputs US 150 00 ECG P2 8 Universe 4096 channels 8 Fused outputs US 75 00 85 00 Advatek Lights Pixel Controller Pixlite 16 32 Universe 16320 channels 16 Fused outputs US 229 95 Pixlite 4 16 Universe 8160 channels
4. E1 31 protocol connected to the D M X network card going Standard Cat 5 through a cable E 1 3 1 E distribution switch E1 31 protocol can be directly connected to E1 31 controllers or the ECG DR 4 ECG DR 4 if only using one E1 31 controller ECG DR 4 device Power supply DMX Universe 1 512 channels E DMX Universe 2 512 Channels LJ Standard Cat 5 cable E1 31 Out Standard Cat 5 cable E A IA AA A IE A EE A IE PE E e E Standard Cat 5 cable Use IP eo to set controller Eg 10 1 1 15 100 250VAC 100 250VAC 100 250VAC 50 60 Hz 50 60 Hz 50 60 Hz Supply Supply Supply DC Supply DC Supply 5Vdo to 24Vde m a 24vde svae to 24Vde m ee Dery HQ as Gene J1SYS ECG PR12 J1SYS ECG PIXAD8 SanDevices E681 E1 31 In 12 Fused Outputs 12 Universes c131m 8 Fused Outputs 8 Universes ear im 18 Fused Output 4 Universe Total 2048 Channels 680 Pixels separate svoc Total 6144 Channels 2040 Pixels Total 4096 Channels 1360 Pixels Supports 6803 D705 2801 180x 3001 3005 ee aay 880x 9813 and GE strings nly 12vde i se IP address to Supports 2801 6803 D705 180x Use IP Supports 2801 6803 D705 180x ssp address g anea set controller address to to set controller Eg 10 1 1 5 set Eg 10 1 1 3 controller Eg 10 1 1 9 DC Supply DC Supply 5Vdc to 24Vdc a a 5Vdc to 12Vdc Oo o ae o I Digital Pixel Digital Pixel Digital Pixel based RGB based RGB d based RGB strip string
5. 110 240 volt mains Stoll i SY shi TE Le ree eee T EIE 7 SS SS SS gt Ss J tix _J BA KE DC Switch mode power supply DC Controller Low Voltage DC computer controlled lights Low Voltage DC Output Low voltage LED light strings fairy lights have the controllers removed and are directly connected to the outputs of the DC controller Colour changing effects can be achieved by using different coloured light strings tied together as the lights generally can be obtained in many colours as shown on the previous page Mains Voltage LED Light Control When using mains voltage LED rope lights or strings that have a multifunction controller it may be required to bridge out the controller The controller actually contains the circuitry that convert the mains 110 240VAC supply to a 110 240VDC supply so the LEDs will function correctly LEDs only conduct current in one direction and if used without the DC rectifier that is inside the controller then the LEDs will flicker with the electrical supply frequency as the current flows in a pulsating manner potentially significantly less than 50 of the time This is why LEDs are better used with DC power 110 240 volt controller N pa ie 7 EVA a abe 2 pm a aria A i L DPE 110 240 volt mains AM NE ASS powersupply 44 gt NS 110 240 volt computer qe controlled lights Multi function Controller bridged out for mains vol
6. y called a pixe HA Sl LL WAY A A AAA IO AA AA AA MA Intelligent RGB Lights Individual control all the lights are separately controlled Each light section is 3 channels The whole length shown here is 18 channels 2 Intelligent RGB Light IC Types There are several different types of data protocols used to communicate between the pixel controller and the IC chips that control the intelligent lights sections pixels which have different features e Bit level The higher the control bits the more colour and smoother fading that can be produced 4 bit 16 steps per colour 16x16x16 4096 colours 5 bit 32 steps per colour 32x32x32 32768 colours 8 bit 256 steps per colour 256x256x256 16777216 colours 12 bit 4096 steps per colour 4096x4096x4096 68719476736 colours Note DMX only supports 8 bit output so a 12 bit chip will only run 256 steps per colour but will allow for dimming curves IC chip e Constant Current Ensures that the correct current is maintained LEDs are current devices and are better controlled with constant current As long as there is sufficient voltage for the current regulation to occur every pixel on a string will be the same brightness e Constant Voltage Modulates the full voltage that is on the pixels Variations in the voltage along a pixel strings will affect the brightness e 12VDC or 5VDC power The lower the voltage the higher the possibility of voltage drop af
7. L Available Effects Chase Pulse Setlevel Spin Twinkle MinitreesAll LJ MiniTLeft E1 31 Output E1 31 Output 1 31 Output L E1 31 Output SA E 1 31 Output E1 31 Output E1 31 Output 1 31 Output SS Se ee ee S S eee eee ees Phebe b deb bed bb ab bed 1 31 Output Petpet tet tt SS Sa aa a 1 HARE ERA HEHH E 1 31 output ppd thn hh hn o nn e dnt nai Lg MiniTRight HHHH m O E3 ouput AA a E131 Outpt eee AAN 1 31 Output E 1 31 Output E1 31 Output E1 31 Output E1 31 Output aa Vixen 3 Software if 31 Output E1 31 Output Sequencing Screen Current Position 0 05 600 Sequence Length 100 000 De Viens RUTA Gani gt Malmi T poe area ds fir Fr her Filet Trek Mirra Hep Y Se hala AZ Se ewer OOOOOS J J edt OO de n Ote IE u RR eS Ak Vixen Plus Bo finns Fun sue 80 Comish u de Falie t 00000200 kiya IA O tye Charm i Software Sequencing Screen Website http vixenplus com Cost Free Hardware Support DMX 512 E1 31 Renard Vixen Plus is an alternative to Vixen 2 and Vixen 3 Tutorial http www youtube com watch v sEyW7S ge7g oye re Lig ht gt gt Iiii Lightorama S3 software is primarily designed to work with Lightorama controllers It also supports DMX 512 El 31 and X10 with the Advanced version F
8. Open DMX or DMX Pro da_dmx main screen da_dmx settings screen Allows the 1 and last channel that the faders and chasers control to be set When a dongle has been detected simply connect to the dongle with Open Port Settings Channel Idle Repeat USB Adapter 1 Start v Enabled f DMX Open C DMX Pro Dongle List 20 S Delay ms DONGLE y Display Format Misc 2 Rescan 4 Decimal 2 0 Start Code Hex r Percent Limit Frame Length gt Defaults ja FIFI Test Source da e131 controls an Ethernet based E1 31 based network da_e131 settings screen Allows the 1 and last channel that the faders and chasers control to be set the universe or universes that are going to be controlled and the IP of the interface that you are going to control Universe Channel Idle Repeat Misc 2 Estat po stat Iv Enabled Sticoe With both pieces of software you can use the R G B Beene fo Bend fo Deyme 50 Priority faders to fade up every 3 channel or the single fader to Display Format IP Host Port fade up all channels in the channel range white fade Decimal Multicast 2 Unicast qe ha ajo E fo 10 E g Defauits The fader colours may not match the output as that is i oo El dependent on the channel range and the configuration of the DMX dimmer or interface On the chaser tab the desired intensity delay between a da_E131 Test Source E Ele view Hep steps and
9. Renard is another communication interface and the controllers seavecvesececery ieee rongerd that is currently not within the scope of this manual For further 1 ES 81 43 2833 http doityourselfchristmas com wiki index php title Renard Protocol Light O Rama Light O Rama LOR is a commercial offering that provides a good out of the box experience and is often used by people new to the hobby because of this experience The LOR hardware can be bought pre built making it easier for people not wishing to do DIY The LOR communication will only support LOR hardware and controllers The great thing about LOR controllers is that they can also be used with DMX which allows you to later take on a DIY approach while still incorporating your LOR controllers and has been a natural progression for many members Connection is by a USB dongle The LOR network is connected to the computer through the USB port which uses controller numbers for seeing the controllers within a network There is also no general limitations to how many controllers are connected within the same network bandwidth limitations will apply The LOR communication has features like Hardware shimmer and twinkle as well as macros for use in the Colour Cosmic Ribbon CCR series which can t be used with any other non LOR hardware Light O Rama Layout No limit to number of connected _ y o controllers except for bandwidth f Cat5 6 cable j Wa limitatioas R 7
10. l SBSE HE i a nm O x 3 t 2e Tri y USB Jz 0 4 Y buy gt lt m i rn 3 LED Section LOR 53 or similar Network interface LOR supporting USB to RS485 LOR LOR ID Controller 1 LOR ID Controller 2 LOR ID Controller 3 software dongle 16 channels 16 channels 158 channels More information on the LOR protocol connections topology and technical data can be found at http auschristmaslighting com wiki Category Light O Rama 27 2 Communications Interfaces DMX512 The DMX protocol is based on entertainment lighting industry standards this means that you can use any of the devices that are DMX supported within your network like laser machines snow and bubble machines moving light heads etc There is a huge choice of lighting controllers and machines that can be used with the DMX standard The DMX protocol is divided into 512 channels that make up a universe one dongle controls one universe of 512 channels Controllers are identified within the DMX512 universe by the start channel address unlike LOR which uses controller ID s Only DMX enabled controllers will work with the DMX512 interface and it is recommended that the last DMX device has the DMX signal terminated There are 2 types of USB DMX interfaces used Open DMX and DMX pro the pro version does the conversion on the dongle thus requiring less CPU overhead LOR S3 does not support the DMX pro
11. E E ce scatter ance geet cadens denice PeMaee Ses 78 Supplement A O a da 79 Maria A a 81 TN 81 Definitions Below is a list of common words used within the hobby and their basic meaning within the hobby These definitions may have a different meaning outside of this hobby VOLTS Volts V is the International System SI unit of electric potential and electromotive force equal to the difference of electric potential between two points on a conducting wire carrying a constant current of one ampere when the power dissipated between the points is one watt LOW VOLTAGE Low voltage within this hobby is considered as any AC or DC voltage under 50V This is not the official IEC definition of Low Voltage But the term is used loosely within the hobby The official IEC Voltage definitions are High voltage supply system HV gt 1000 Vs gt 1500V electricalarcing CURRENT Electrical current is a flow of electric charge through a medium This charge is typically carried by moving electrons in a conductor such as wire The International System SI unit of measure for the rate of flow of electric charge is the Ampere Amp A Current amps ALTERNATING CURRENT AC Alternating Current is the movement of electric charge that moves in a sine wave which reverses its direction of flow pulsating direct DIRECT CURRENT DC Direct current is the unidirectional flow of electric charge A pulsating c
12. a switch mode power supply SMPS The power supply must match the rated voltage of the controller and lights that you are using A lt 0 80 lt gt e ee S gt i Z gt IO RL A Low Voltage DC computer controlled lights e N l 110 240 volt mains Ug DC Switch mode power SupPIY Low Voltage DC Output Further information on power supplies can be found at http auschristmaslighting com wiki index php Power Supplies 43 Power Supplies Selecting the Correct Sized Power Supply It is important to ensure that you select the correct voltage and output wattage of the power supply to run your lights Switch mode power supplies SMPS should only be loaded to 85 of the power supplies rating to ensure the power supply is not overloaded Most power supplies can be adjusted 5 of the rated voltage The correct power supply can be found by adding the total wattage rating of any lights that will be connected to the power supply ensuring the total does not exceed 85 of the power supplies total wattage rating Ensure that the heat from your power supply can get out of your enclosure Fan forced cooling is often required when you have several hundred Watts of power supplies Power Supply Required Watts Total Light Load Watts 0 85 If you do not know the rating of your lights then you can use an amp meter to check the current that your lights are drawing and add up the total curr
13. are a few general rules that must be followed when using a transmitter Transmissions over the radio bandwidth generally fall under regulations that are managed by legal governing bodies for radio transmissions which vary from country to country If the below general rules are followed then you should expect to have no issues e Do not use a transmitter with a high wattage unit as this will contravene most countries regulations on FM transmission generally a 10mw transmitter will do the job There is no need to transmit into the next suburb e Ensure you transmit only on a clear frequency it may be worth while driving around your area to ensure that the radio frequency is clear e Do not transmit any advertising material e Do not run the transmitter 24 hours a day e Do not transmit any vulgar or offensive material e Ensure you are not causing any interference Further information regarding the use of a transmitter can be found at O http auschristmaslighting com wiki index php FM_Transmitters is A SY FM Radio Transmitters FM Radio Antennas The antenna can make a very big difference in the distance and sound quality of the transmission As a signal gets weaker the FM radio receiver will start to only pick up a mono signal and the stereo separation will be absent reducing the quality of sound to the receiving radio Most FM receivers also come with either a small antennal or a piece of wire for the antenna generally these do
14. available for AU 63 2811DC30 30 channel available for AU 60 Note these controllers are connected as 5 10 pixels Note these controllers are connected as 5 10 pixels in a 2801 pixel network in a 2811 pixel network O Refer to Hanson Electronics for more information 2562 Light O Rama DC Controllers LOR CMB 16D QC US 99 95 16 channel 2 x 8 channel banks 8 amps per channel 20 amps total per bank Dual DC input 12V 60V or 5V RJ45 Isolated DMX LOR input spade terminals Q Advatek Lights DC Controller Vortex RGB Control US 149 95 48 channel dual supply 2 amp per channel 4A per 3ch 30 amp bank Single DC input 5V 30VDC RGB DMX input screw terminals Australian made LOR CMD 16D US 119 95 16 channel 2 x 8 channel banks 8 amps per channel 20 amps total per bank Dual DC input 12V 60V or 5V RJ45 Isolated DMX LOR input screw terminals Refer to the LOR CMB16D manual for more information at http www lightorama com PDF CMB16D Man Web pdf 57 US 44 21 27 channel single supply 1 amp per channel 15 amps total Single DC input 7 V 24VDC XLR DMX input screw terminals a se e 3 channel DMX LED Controller US 8 95 3 channel single supply 2 amp per channel 6 amps total Single DC input 12V 24VDC Screw terminal DMX input screw terminals Renard DMX LED Controller US 83 16 24 channel single supply 1 amps per channel 24 amps total Single DC in
15. data can be found at http auschristmaslighting com wiki DMX512 38 E1 31 E1 31 is the newest form of communications interface used in the hobby mainly designed for high channel count controllers 1000s of channels The great thing with this is that it works from your RJ45 network output from your computer and connects either through a standard network switch for distribution to multiple controllers or if only using 1 controller will connect directly saving the cost on having a physical interface between the computer and the controller The E1 31 system is based on the DMX standard but instead of using USB dongles to connect up to the computer for each group of 512 channels universe it instead uses Ethernet so it connects up to the RJ45 network output of your computer E1 31 is DMX that has been packaged to run over a TCP IP network and is primarily used for RGB pixel lights and E1 31 to DMX bridges E1 31 can allow 200 controllers hooked up into the same network using IP addresses and standard network switches to distribute E1 31 allows multiple DMX based universes to transmit over one communications interface 4 DMX universe E1 31 to DMX Protocol Bridge SS E1 31 Considerations When using E1 31 there are a few things to take into consideration Use a separate network for E1 31 to reduce any bandwidth sharing with your home network internet You can still use E1 31 shared with your home network internet but you ma
16. have permission by the owner before using This manual is for registered auschristmaslighting members only and may only be downloaded from ACL It must NOT be uploaded for download to any other site without the written permission of the owner Important Notice It is the sole responsibility of the reader to ensure that all safety precautions are taken the author of this document and or any involved parties relinquishes any responsibility and liabilities for any content within this manual that may cause the reader any injury or loss of property By reading this manual you take sole responsibility for all actions taken This manual is a guide only and is to be used to help understand the fundamentals of creating a computer controlled display It is by no means an instruction user manual for any of the equipment used 81
17. is dependent on the voltage and the current drawn as was shown in the previous examples It is best practice when using mains voltage to use double insulated cables and extension leads as we must remember the last thing we want is to electrocute anyone With low voltage applications the risk is minimal so cable choice can vary more 4 core 14 020 security cable is commonly used with low voltage DC RGB lights because it is cheap and will carry approx 4 5 amps A standard 5 metre 30LED metre RGB strip will draw 1 amp per colour per core That means that the common return wire will be carrying 3 amps 14 020 4 core security cable 14 020 6 core security cable AU 42 00 100 metre roll AU 62 00 100 metre roll 4 5 amps approx 0 5mm2 4 5 amps approx 0 5mm2 Not for 240 110V use Not for 240 110V use Australian supplier link T Australian supplier link Plug Choices Plugs are used to connect up lights for ease of connecting and disconnecting For mains voltage plugs ensure that safety precautions are taken and the lights are connected through an RCD or GFCI For low voltage usage there is a selection of plugs that can be used 4 core extension cable 0 75mm 2 pin male female plug White male female plug 1 metre long US 57 89 23 16 2 pin US 30 53 2 metre long US 157 89 Black 3 pin US 62 11 3 metre long US 273 68 50 pairs 5 pin US 96 84 Black Per 100 pairs 50 sets 4 pin 37 89 Per 50 pairs Plugs and leads can also be bought in custom
18. not achieve a far range but if the FM radio transmission is suitable for your needs then there is no need to add or modify the antenna The location and height of the antenna are the first things to look at when trying to increase reception range The higher the transmitting antenna and the fewer obstacles between the transmitting antenna and the receiving radio the further the range and clearer the reception will be Another option is to make a simple external antenna this generally dramatically increases the range and quality in most cases Further information on how to build a simple antenna can be found at http auschristmaslighting com wiki images a a7 How to make a dipole antenna pdf Setting Up Audio Some people choose to not have a FM radio transmitter and prefer to just use speakers set up in the yard instead Most will use both an FM transmitter and speakers in the yard as this is the best option as it allows both cars and pedestrians to both hear the music because without the music it is just a bunch of flashing lights Setting up the audio for your display can be done in 2 ways either just connect your speakers or amplifier directly to your computer and play the audio that way or the method prefer which is tuning your stereo radio to the frequency and using that to run the displays speakers This way it allows you to monitor your transmission because if the speakers stops playing the music then there could be an issue with the tra
19. oEN Eie Binit blo Elfe11 Effext2 Combined Effect Rep New Gracetal Step Laghts OFF v Output to Lights rec Buzerthy Z wm spes None ea Uedazz Grid y Ta Sep Tet Convert Prewew Nutcracker Shensie 2013 Main Show Close E Solos fairbow gt W806 to 2300 2013 Mam Show Pepen tence i RATITO E E EA Medes B5 Piei Style y tE ma 2200 to 23 99 Video reparto 7 fase Schacht as w a 2200 to 232 Close At AS 12616 4 Chear Effect Presets Pelee ikg Chucks Saturday December 21 2013 Save Schedule Men Bus artmas neq l a EN 12 00 to 23 00 2013 Main Sheer repent Erit once an gheire an 8 y 3 ap tes emy prices y 0 igas J L 2300 to 23412 Close a her 12 28 13 PRI J Ta l Sumir December 2 2013 Playing A Socal Lights seq VADO to IDOJ 01 Main Show pepent nt once Update Sete ted Herts At 02 28 13 2S2 2200 to 220 Clone Playing Rudolph The fed Nosed Rendeermeqg Monday December 23 2013 wiete Selecta mes la 12 20 13 923823 MO da 33 2 gt Meprrz Chntma Yacebor seg Schedule tab of Xlights Nutcrack AS aire Oto 2342 Close P j Pirang Hobday Road eo chedule tab o Ig ts utcracker rs Pano Het Ron HEDO to Th 2014 Mem Shoe repent rt once emer Playeng A Miudes 2206 te 22 Close Set ta 12213 19449 Wedrerdey December 25 2013 tnt wou da derrera meg ESOO 10 2300 2013 Main ow pepent Gra once Play Howse On Chisamas Street ciey 21300 to 2442 Close At 2 28 13 5102 Theruday December 26 2013 P
20. the strip on lengths of conduit with cable ties This way it makes it easy to get nice straight lines for roof lines and windows This also helps with speeding up installation and removal times Ensure you always support the centre of the conduit when carrying it around as too sharp of a bend of the conduit could stretch and damage the strip 25mm electrical conduit is best to use as it has a lot more strength than 20mm electrical conduit RGB Modules e RGB modules are somewhat like a light string but use multiple LEDs per module in different types of housings e RGB modules come in many configurations e The square and rectangle versions are the most commonly found and used e They are generally 12vdc and come in strings of 20 e Can be used for many things like borders outlines matrices fillers etc e Strong and durable in construction e Easy to work with and mount e Modules are directional meaning they only shine light in one direction and give very little wash back light e Generally IP67 19 RGB Light Control RGB lights are made up of 3 channels to control the red green and blue Changing the ratios of these colours will change the colour shown RGB lights can either be individually controlled or controlled as a single length RGB lights can be put into 2 basic control types e Dumb RGB control single colour control e Intelligent RGB control individually controlled The difference between dumb 3 channe
21. to process the data whereas the DMX pro uses the onboard DMX chip to process thus An LOR dongle o ES can also be used as E an open DMX ms pce galas Cats 6 network Paving lower over heads e O adaptor io work cable AVD USB485RJ ISO Isolated Open DMX Dongle Au 89 00 with DMX devices Hanson Electronics Open DMX Dongle Au 22 00 Entec Pro DMX Dongle Au 180 00 DOS ra MR Sh wrt Rit II trollers boards both have signal isolation en gt ec 2 5i POE 5 a Sy i ii jii UNO Gea Gea tee SOSCSCSCOSSEOSESE 42 22 gt Connect to DC power Supply ERAS EN A peo ms Be shen REP DOR DRA DRS Vee IA ats DMX Controllers and Devices US 229 95 48 channel Isolated Ray Wu Budget Controllers a These DMX controllers are low cost nd 27 Channel DMX US 44 21 Isolated 3 Channel DMX US 8 95 Not isolated LOR Controllers Running in DMX LOR controllers can be connected into a DMX universe by using a LOR to DMX to LOR adaptor cable Refer here for more information LOR Online Store US 99 95 US 329 95 network cable itrollers and Devices o connect a range of different DMX enabled equipment like There is a very large selection of available DMX enabled 1 Online store DMX Termination on the last DMX device Further information regarding DMX512 can be found at O http auschristmaslighting com wiki index php Category DMX Refer to the comparison chart for more DMX enabled controllers
22. to help understand the fundamentals of creating a computer controlled display It is by no means an instruction user manual for any of the equipment shown Table of Contents Prerace o o aaa 2 Mall Wes M COMMIS a r ecco ers eee eee ee cece cerns ore ee eae tee ee om seat yeaa eetemermeere tts 3 DA tt te rrr tt mre Ter cr i te Te a rr eee 6 Typical System Components Required ssssssssssseececcccccccceseeseeeessssssseeeeeeeceeeeeeeaaaas 9 WENES A pa 10 GEST a Lent A a a da A E aaah OEE ea a 10 RAR AIM SORA ES toe seha satis eran nat enna notarial ae moa icetat 2a aes cnet A Nahant yas ee an 11 Chinstmas Hent Types aso asian iaa tor avian laca Es 12 Incandescent Lights a see ar ce cera ree 12 FEDIK e a A eae a E gta nannies uae ate enn Ghat nares ate 13 RR GIBAL O O E aah AEN OR al GAA O 15 RG BWE DAYRE S tn e o 15 RGB TED PACKAGES ol nono E E 16 RGB Flood lieht Sus POL sata ee ia crete te ere ar ere ee 16 RGB Cie Nt S ISTE See eee hrc sre rt the toca areata one E conten nai Anan eM oa ci a A 17 ROB tient O re a E nous Re OO end GTP e 17 ROBSON 18 RGB StripolignitiIWOeS a Io a aterm eens eo ios Es 18 RGB Strip Light Mounting a ar user ae ee 19 ROBMOdUlES traan Arcana crt cthte toca E A E conten na AN ane oa cian ce numes nnn 19 RGAE Sint CO MUO lan cere a a a a Ne 20 DUMERGB Licht Sle add EA E E A A a E E A orem errr 21 inteligent RGB LENECONtKOI amacrine cre
23. to time DIYC have group buys on the circuit board and components Further information on Renard controllers can be found at http doityourselfchristmas com wiki index php title Renard Main Page Warning 110 240 volt mains supply can cause serious injury or death Refer to Understanding Electrical Safety before working with mains electricity More info on AC and DC controllers can be found at http auschristmaslighting com wiki Controllers 54 IC Lignt rollers Low Voltage DC Controllers These controllers use low voltage Direct Current DC and use electronics mosfets that are designed to switch the DC supply These cannot be used to control anything else other than a low voltage DC supply Low voltage DC Controllers are used for things like Low Voltage DC LED rope lights string lights and RGB LED lighting This is due to the fact that LED lights only conduct electricity in one direction and are Direct Current DC devices so this makes using DC controllers the obvious choice when controlling low voltage LED strings ropes and RGB LED lighting The main difference between an AC mains controller and low voltage DC controllers is the addition of a DC Switch Mode Power Supply SMPS which drops the main AC voltage down to a low voltage DC supply to be used with the appropriately rated controller and lights G eo 908 6 E Y A W A 3 a S a 3 QA 506 305 gt gt FA pN JON aK ys pen pN
24. universes 16 Fused outputs SanDevices E681 Pixel Controller US 200 00 assembled US 120 00 Kit 4 Universes 2048 channels 680 Pixels 16 Fused outputs 8 x 2 banks 2801 6801 880x 180x 3001 3005 9813 GE Colour effects and wire native DMX pixel support 2 x DC input 7V 24VDC 5VDC RJ45 E1 31 input Screw terminal plug Outputs Command based hardware setup available as a vendor group buy from time to time at reduced costs from http www doityourselfchristmas com Falcon 16 Pixelnet Controller US 105 Available in fully assembled or kit form Jl Sys ECG P2 US 75 85 w case 2 Unfused outputs 2801 2811 6801 180x pixel support 4 universes per output 1360 pixels SanDevices E680 Pixel Controller US N A assembled US N A Kit 4 Universes 2048 channels 680 Pixels 16 non fused outputs 8 x 2 banks 2801 6801 880x 180x 3001 3005 9813 GE Colour effects and 1 wire native DMX pixel support 2 x DC input 7V 24VDC 5VDC RJ45 E1 31 input Molex plug outputs Command based hardware setup available as a vendor group buy from time to time at reduced costs from http www doityourselfchristmas com NOTE The IC of the intelligent RGB lights used must be supported by the pixel controller Protocols are being added to controllers regularly 64 Sequence Playback Device FPP Player Falcon Pi Player David Pitts in combination with a few other people developed an application for the Ras
25. used to highlight elements and by focusing light onto an object e Floods have a wide angle beam Spots have a narrow angle beam e There are many types of floods and spots available ranging from DIY to DMX packaged units e The LEDs used in floods and spots vary greatly with different intensities and light dispersion angles e Strips and modules can also be used as floods if needed 16 RGB Light Strings RGB strings are somewhat similar to traditional Christmas string lights but these have a much higher light output than traditional LED string lights They are available in 5vdc or 12vdc 5vdc being the best voltage for these lights as 12vdc requires a high voltage drop to drive the LED thus making it less efficient The quality can vary greatly especially with the level of weather protection and UV resistance Cheaper strings may need additional work to be completely weather resistant as their primary design was for use in billboards and signage e The strings generally come in lengths of 50 or 100 if ordered from China If it is critical to ensure that the distance between each light is equal for building things like mega trees then you should clearly specify the required distance between each light e Strings can be used for almost any purpose like outlines mega trees matrices etc e Strings will create wash back onto walls and will be brighter when looking directly at the top of the LED e Strings are the most versati
26. 1 Sys Controllers clap supplies yagoonalights com SanDevices Controllers My T Brite Christmas Creations Mysolarled Australian Based Online Christmas light community forum Auschristmaslighting Wiki information page The home of Renard controllers and Vixen DIY focussed forum US based home of FPP Pi player and pixel controllers Commercial controller and software vendor Software sequencing software vendor Free sequencing software Home of Vixen 2 and Vixen 3 Free sequencing software Home of VixenPlus Free sequencing software More info at here Free sequencing test effect generation software More info here Home of da_dmx and da_e131 test software Australian based designer and supplier of custom DMX controllers Aust based designer and supplier of lighting controllers Aust based designer and supplier of lighting controllers and pixels US based designer and supplier of E1 31 controllers Australian distributor of J1 Sys Controllers US based designer and supplier of E1 31 controllers Aust based distributor of high quality LED strings including 240V Aust based manufacturer of Christmas wireframes Chinese manufacturer of LED light strings www zazzle com au auschristmaslighting ACL coffee mugs etc Ray Wu Aliexpress Shop Paul Zhang Aliexpress Shop Chinese RGB light and DMX controller vendor Chinese RGB light and DMX controller vendor MINLEON Australia and New Zealand Aust importer and distributor of Minleon lights and
27. 3 1 Metres to Foot Conversion x 4 4 0 04 21 1 metre 3 28084 feet Divide the maximum resistance 49 0 039 per metre by 3 28084 to get resistance per foot 0 019 3 0 0 014 Note The nominal current r we intended es guidelines for low power electronics comerurica tions comtrol appications onb Wire cross sectionional area calculator thanks to David_AVD Cable voltage drop calculator thanks to David_AVD auschristmaslighting com wiki Wire Sizes 46 Cables a 4 ars gt ps E e Q papers TT lal sa Y T a rd aa Lota atta i g 0 qe 0 Finding the potential voltage drop is a matter of using Ohms law and using the table on the previous page Using an under rated cable will cause the lights not to function correctly and in some cases can be a fire hazard Example A 10 metre run of cable is 14 020 diameter approx 0 44mm2 or 21 gauge with a 4 amp load Let s first work out the total resistance of the cable this value must be doubled because you also have to take into account the return cable as this is the complete circuit V 0 metres x 2 cm GND 10 metres x 0 043 Ohms 0 430 Ohms for 10 metres single way 0 430 Ohms x 2 0 860 Ohms total return circuit resistance Now let s look how this affects the end result of different voltages with a 4 amp load V I Current Amps x R Resistance Ohms As you can see by these examples shown the lower the voltage gets the higher Vd
28. 4 Fused outputs US 129 95 x E1 31 Pixel Controllers yer Of versions of the E68x controllers in both kit form and annels 16 non fused outputs annels 16 Fused outputs J1ISYS E1 31 to DMX BRIDGE JISYS also supply an E1 31 to DMX Bridge which converts the E1 31 data stream into 4 separate DMX Universe Outputs This allows you to also use DMX devices and controllers within an E1 31 network ECG DR4 4 DMX Universe Outputs fully assembled Pkg 2 US 145 00 ECG D4 4 DMX Universe Outputs fully assembled US 105 00 ECG DMXRen8 8 DMX Universe Outputs in Kit form Pkg 8 US 215 00 Further information regarding E1 31 can be found reading Understanding E1 31 Presentation The maximum length of network cable between any 2 devices is 100m Sys EN FM Radio Transmitters FM Radio Transmitters A FM radio transmitter is used to broadcast the music from your sequence software on your computer to the audience s car radios FM Radio transmitters can vary greatly in price sound quality and output power The FM radio transmitter is connected to the audio out of your computer and tuned to an open frequency for the cars to tune into the FM frequency you have chosen to transmit on You can either use the antenna that comes with the transmitter or else you can build your own antenna Speakers and Amplifier Computer audio did m ansmitter Car tunes into jack out with clear FM Antenna FM frequency for frequency music There
29. 5 00 PKGS Kit only This protocol bridge converts the E1 31 communications protocol to DMX512 or Renard protocol see link above for more detail on availability E1 31 to 8 DMX universe outputs 4096 channels 512 x 8 E1 31 to 8 Renard outputs SVDC Supply JISYS E1 31 to DMX Bridge ECG DR4 US 145 00 PKG2 Complete unit PSU This protocol bridge converts the E1 31 communications protocol to DMX512 or Renard protocol The DR4 is fully assembled E1 31 to 4DMX universe outputs 2048 channels 512 x 4 E1 31 to 4 Renard outputs SVDC Supply supplied Also http www jlsys com ecg d4 http www jlsys com ecg d2 G72 gt a o A of m b P r e e mr ees s Sen d Pe eee E TO TT ATEO AEREA AAA A y ee Lee ee A RA ri PELA DMX Controller receives DMX data and doesn t know the data originated from E1 31 SanDevices LOR to E1 31 Bridge US 95 00 kit 125 Assembled Converts LOR protocol to E1 31 output 2048 channels 4 universe and one output of DMX512 This is not an official LOR supported device LOR to E1 31 output 4 Universes LOR to DMX 1 universe 6 24VDC power supply 1 Amp 5VDC output Servo Controllers Servo controllers are used to control small DC motors and servos for the use with animatronics the y control physical movement for use in different motion props Servo positions are programmed Servo controller converts data to Servo for creating int
30. 50 watt 14 amps 24vdc US 21 05 350 watt 10 amps 27vdc US23 16 350 watt 10 5amps O 33vdc US 23 16 350 watt 9 5 amps O 36vdc US 23 16 350 watt 7 amps 48vdc US 23 16 Other wattages are also available The enclosed style of power supply shown above usually has a screwdriver adjustable potentiometer that will allow an adjustment range of plus or minus 10 of the default voltage A voltage selector switch is on the side of most of these style power supplies and must be set on the correct setting 110V or 220V before connecting to the mains A number of Aliexpress vendors supply power supplies as do ebay vendors Extreme caution should be used with regards to quality especially if a vendor lists their power supplies as being Meanwell ones as clones are very common 45 Cable Characteristics The selection of cables can be a very important especially with low voltage DC lighting This is because the wire within a cable has a rated resistance value this resistance affects the voltage over a distance and the lower the voltage the higher of voltage loss that is seen over a given distance The below chart gives a general reference of different sized cables and their resistance Nominal Nominal Maximum Number Conductor Rating Resistance Nearest amp Size of Area metre Equivalent Strands sq mm ram ohms 35 C AWG B amp S PETRA 7x 0 16 0 14 1 4 0 13 26 14 x 0 14 0 22 3 0 088 24 1x0 6 0 28 2 8 0 067 2
31. Created lbyisastealaly 4 This manual by no means shows all options available but instead shows the most common systems used at auschristmaslighting com This document is current as of the date of the revision release and newer options may become available over time AusChristmasLighting ACL is an Australian community based lighting forum that caters for anyone around the world wanting to learn how to put on a computer controlled synchronised display It is a non profit community providing free information and help to anyone who needs any information regarding computer controlled display setups The forum has a wealth of information and friendly knowledgeable members always willing to help There is also a Chat room where members can be social and can help each other in real time So feel free to pop into the chat room at ACL and say hello The Australian Christmas light community have annual get togethers called minis where people get to meet and learn from each other with hands on control of sequencers and lights They are usually held mid year around May June July This is a highly rated and recommended get together for anyone new to this hobby and you will definitely not leave without seeing and learning lots of great things For information on dates and times of each states mini please go to the Australian mini wiki information page Members within the US also can attend their regional minis which are also held Posts on upcoming events app
32. E made UN El l ET E a Ne A 1 Mepis Len Gms WAS E IS R R 2 K A OD ES MOS Q WwW MW SM os DE EN A 2 3 E l TREE HO Fs Bi D gt gt rere rY aTa FIFE TT tT x Ca a la i s Y G6 X 4 gt YA fice ES N y A R Ra Es ne Y La I MENE WAY WW Wl Uy My Y alo Y af e Ta AS WSE ES ERS el LINES UN A ae IZA DI ZAA DIFA MV IM Controlled gt Controlled Computer controlled lights power out Power in power out Computer controlled lights A Basic Example of the main connections of a standard controller e Datain e Power in e Controlled power out A controller must talk the same language as the data that it is receiving or else the controller will do nothing The correct pin and plugs arrangement must also be used The controller will also be rated to run at a certain voltage range and the lights used will determine what controller is used It is very important that when connecting power to any controller that you have the correct wires connected or else this can cause severe damage to your controller Controllers can be separated into five main categories 1 AC Controllers 2 Low Voltage DC Controllers 3 Pixel Controllers 4 Protocol Bridges 5 Servo controllers 57 These controllers use alternating current AC to operate and use electronics Triacs that are designed to switch t
33. IC f located on the intelligent RGB lights Pixel Controller CHANNEL A channel is a term used in sequencers to indicate a single light or string of lights that all come on at the same time This could be a single RED LED inside a pixel or 200 multicoloured LEDs as part of a string of fairy lights UNIVERSE A universe is a term used as part of the DMX specification that applies to 512 channels Channels in a DMX universe are referred to as Universe 1 Channel 1 Channel 2 etc through to Channel 512 then on to Universe 2 Channel 1 etc Pixel controllers typically only use 510 channels in a Universe 170 pixels times 3 colours Typical System Components Required This manual is set out in a logical way of setting up a display Before we can choose what system we want we need to first look at the lights we will use and based from this we can then follow each section to help design an appropriate system There are 6 main components that go into making a display which are Lights Software Interfaces Power supplies cabling Controllers and FM transmitters LIGHTS SEQUENCING SOFTWARE COMMUNICATIONS INTERFACES POWER SUPPLIES amp CABLING CONTROLLERS RADIO TRANSMITTERS Christmas Lights The lights are the face of any great display and will determine what types of controllers and power supplies we use There are several types of lights available to use and each has its benefits and disadvanta
34. IE strip strings D M X LOR pin 6 DMX pin 7 and or q i There is no need to have a modules amp se ai i converter cable between LOR Y Q o Q controllers f strings strips Only required between LOR Maximum of 512 channels per DMX universe ad modules t i l The controller T 1 controllers and native DMX which can be a combination of any DMX E el de de set 0 devices h compatible controllers DMX controllers are wit 2 SO tware AC Controller for located in the network by channel start E E when adding LOR controlling strings DO Supply numbers which are set on the controllers 9 controllers to a DMX opeliahte Aand oiher by a DC board will universe Refer to PpS Onie Mo one Ini b j require 3 channels for LOR users manual for Ame OPS nject power between strings Copyright 2012 Red Green and Blue DMX start addr Total usable channel strips and modules Ensure the th iS output 16 ao e constr E1 31 amp DMX Layout attachment Version 1 5 19 March 2012 RGB CCR Total usable between separate power supplies Fasteddy www AusChristmasLighting com Sila a Esta chanel oe 79 Forums auschristmaslighting com auschristmaslighting com wiki doityourselfchristmas com www falconchristmas com forum Software www lightorama com www lightshowpro com www vixenlights com vixenplus com joehinkle com HLS xlights nutcracker www da share com software Hardware Audio Visual Devices AVD Hanson Electronics Advatek Lights J
35. IT UTD ajs h oes setting is used for the TP det EUT a supply voltage used to A gt o power the controllers electronics 2 A Left Bank Channels 1 to 8 i Right Bank Channels 9 to 16 Can be used for other AC Supplies power to controller voltages if required electronics The left side controls channels 1 to 8 which can then be used to either control another voltage like 24 volts AC as this is separate from the right side Or else you can just supply 110 240v to both the left and the right side so you have 16 channels of mains AC lighting control 53 AC Controller Choices AC controller choice is somewhat limited especially for the assembled versions there are more choices when dealing with AC boards as a kit Light O Rama LOR PC 16 Range of AC controllers US 99 95 USS249 95 These controllers come with a range of options including kit form These are the most commonly used AC board from LOR 16 channels 2 x 8 channel banks 8 amps per channel 15 amps per bank Spade terminals Light O Rama LOR Pro Series Range of AC controllers US 329 95 These controllers come fully assembled with a steel enclosure 16 channels 2 x 8 channel banks 8 amps per channel 20 amps per bank Screw terminals There are a few AC controller kits available in the Renard range that can be purchased through Do It Yourself Christmas DIYC forums These boards can also be used with DMX if programmed with the DMX firmware From time
36. RGB LEDs Strip can be obtained in 5vdc to 24vdc Can only be easily bent in one axis as the strip is flat and made from flexible printed circuit board The strip can be easily damaged if twisted or bent too much Comes in varying numbers of LEDs per metre the most common are 30 and 60 LEDs per metre Great to use for outlines borders arches matrices etc It can be cut down to 50mm or 100mm sections depending on the LED count per metre RGB Strip Light Types There are a few types of coatings used with strip with advantages and disadvantages No coating e Not to be used in outdoor applications e Very delicate and easily damaged if bent or handled incorrectly e No light diffusion at all e Easy to work with and cut Silicone tube e Generally IP65 e Delicate and easily damaged if bent or handled incorrectly e Moderate light diffusion e Easy to work with and cut Resin e Strong and durable generally IP65 e Good light dispersion e Easy to moderate to work with and easy to cut Solid Silicone e Strong and durable generally IP68 e Good light dispersion e Easy to moderate to work with and easy to cut e Combination of silicone tube and resin or solid silicone e Has the benefits of both materials 18 RGB Strip Light Mounting Due to the RGB strip being somewhat fragile to twist and sharp bends it is always good practice to mount your strip on something solid that gives support An easy and cheap method is to attach
37. Used for cutting and stripping wires Also used for cutting cable ties in oe Pliers Standard bull nose and long nose pliers are sufficient aa We Fe a Bull nose Long nose Crimping Tool Used for crimping wires and terminals together Wire Strippers Used for stripping bare ends on wires Screw Drivers Both slotted and Phillips head screw drivers Slotted Phillips ih ih i i T Cutting Knife Box cutting knife Do not use household kitchen knifes Silicone Caulking Gun Used with a silicone tube to administer silicone for sealing 7G Equipment Multimeter Used for testing voltage and continuity of circuits and wires A very NS Used for soldering wires plugs and electronics together _ Standard Temperature Controlled important piece of test equipment to have Soldering Iron Heat Gun Al Used for shrinking heat shrink Hair dryer Hot air gun Magnifying Lamp Used for fine work and identification Head Mounted lamp Used for working hands free at night and in dark areas Hands Free Parts Holder Used for holding parts and electronic boards for soldering and working on Bootlace Ferrules and Crimper Used to provide secure ends to wires and better cable clamping Reduces the chances of wires shorting to adjacent channels connections Available in single and dual cable style J e Disposables Cable Ties Used for attaching wires and
38. VDC 6803 2801 Bare wire DMX input screw terminals Single DC input 12V 24VDC 3001 Bare wire output Dip switch DMX addressing XLR DMX input Non addressable Current overload protection screw terminals These units strip off the DMX channels used and then P DMX bled f pass the remaining DMX channels on 4 x 128 channel eee Dip switch DMX addressing controllers can have the DMX stream connected up in Australian made series to make up a universe These are a cheaply built budget range pixel controller NOTE The IC of the intelligent RGB lights used must be supported by the pixel controller LOR Pixel Controller Choices Light O Rama Cosmic Color Ribbon CCR US 250 00 The CCR is a complete product it has the pixel controller the CCR strip and the power supply as a complete plug and play package The controller is designed to run one CCR five metre strip 150 Channels 50 Pixels CCR 6801 support only Single 12vdc supply DMX and LOR protocol enabled Standalone operation 1 x Input 62 3 LED Section Hagia gt Jes E E ren jstans 2 A actory Reset e J f ara wrixLite 4 V11 4 me ll ADVATEK KN E e Advatek Pixlite 16 US 229 95 Advatek Pixlite 4 US 129 95 US 449 95 16 Fused outputs 32 universes 5440 4 Fused outputs 16 universes 2720 A Pixlite 16 controller in an enclosure pixels pixels with 320W power supply splash proof TLS3001 SM16716 LPD6803 TLS3001 SM16716 LPD6803 venting and
39. age DC Controller Choices Low voltage DC controllers come in the widest range of all the controller types used this is mainly due to the explosion of low voltage LED strip module and string lights coming out of China There are also DC controllers available in kit form through the community All the DC controllers are constructed as negative switching so the LEDs used with these controllers must be common anode Hansen ee ie cable 218 t NADANDO MOD we ieo al i iT ae ri ne ee ta ae el AA wee E e io Ix a y pu Dii ET aes A aaa Df rare a4 int A qe 24 90 dl 4 sojer oannames o ba foo AAHmega60 AU 250 00 60 channel 4 x 15 channel banks DMX36 AU 129 00 2 amps per channel 30 amps total per bank 36 channel 4 x 9 channel banks Quad DC input 5V 40V 3 amps per channel 30 amps total per bank RJ45 Isolated DMX input Screw terminals Quad DC input 5V 35V Dipswitch selectable start address and test mode RJ45 Isolated DMX input screw terminals Output voltage other than power supply can be selected Dipswitch selectable test mode Australian made Australian made 2801DC15 AU 43 00 2811DC15 AU 40 00 15 channel 1 x 15 channel banks 15 channel 1 x 15 channel banks 2 amps per channel 30 amps total per bank 2 amps per channel 30 amps total per bank DC input 5V 35V DC input S5V 35V Isolated pixel input Screw terminals Isolated pixel input Screw terminals Australian made Australian made 2801DC30 30 channel
40. at Tr Effect Mark At On Stop Retum Beginning Level Rampur RampDN Custom UnDo Last Display Preview Ask To ack Active On Stop Return Mark Disengage Audio Display an HLS Software Sequencing Screen Work Group First_Tree 2 100 Audio Sample Per Pixel Ramp UP U AT Preview Sequence El C Beat Track Active 60 Audio Samples Per Pixel Disengage Audio Di Stop J Play From Mark 25 Audio Samples Per Pixel Ramp Down D Save Output Sequence HLS Software Visualiser Preview Screen Website download http jochinkle com HLS Website information http hinkles lighting sequencer wikia com wiki Hinkle 27s_Lighting Sequencer_Wiki Cost Free Hardware Support DMX 512 E1 31 Tutorials http hinkles lightine sequencer wikia com wiki Joe Hinkles Video Tutorials 34 Xlights Nutcracker xLights is a scheduling program xLights has usb and E1 31 drivers You can create playlists schedule them test your hardware convert between different sequencers xLights also now has Nutcracker version 3 included as a tab rias O ee eee ee Help 2 EE Nutcracker tab of Xlights Nutcracker Setup Tes Conver Sreview Nutcracker Schezule RGE Sequence Pay Limpley lemez s gt m Me Epart 25KPixcls reste Random Hects Start Time Label el 0 202 2 3000 Hare hinne y Mighta Muteracker Ver 32 7
41. ata is transferred using 2 wires a data and clock wire or with some types this can be a single wire transmission with only the data line which has an embedded clock signal The data flows from one data controlled section to the next data controlled section each section strips off the 3 channels that it is using and then passes the remainder to the next section and so on A DC supply is also needed to supply the lights with power In simple terms think of a pixel controller as having the outputs that actually switch the lights at the lights themselves and the data comes out of the controller to then trigger these output switches at the lights DC power o i f supply out Channel Channel Channel 1 2 3 45 6 gt O bet ia section a be ica A i ma m ea Data amp clock E IC Chip turns signal out Data flows one section to the next IC Chip Integrated circuit on light Data in from DC power supply in computer from power supply AMENA This data is then received by The data is then processed 1xel Controller sends out bo 100110001 the first chipped section which 100110001 through the chip IC to then ae rs e then removes its 3 channels it switch the supplied DC power ee eee ee gt has used before passing the gt to control the 3 outputs for the Sa remaining data to the next chip _4_ f colours of the RGB LED and so on Data i
42. controllers 80 Here is a list of people who need mention for their ongoing assistance to AusCristmasLighting and also for helping with the information within this manual Phil AussiePhil Owner of auschristmaslighting com without his vision and hard work ACL would never have existed Credit goes to him for part creating the front cover and cable resistance chart David David_AVD Who has created a wealth of knowledge within the ACL wiki and who has also provided some great designs for use within the hobby Ryan marquisite A forum administrator that has worked hard behind the scenes to help make ACL the forum it is Steve Superman ACL moderator who has worked hard to help those needing it and is credited with the front page concept Alan AAH Dedicated member who went through with great detail to correct any mistakes within the manual would also like to thank all those that have made auschristmaslighting com such a friendly and helpful place and those that have contributed to community you all know who you all are The manual has been written with the utmost care to ensure accuracy but if there are any errors changes or comments then please send them to feedback rgbchristmaslighting com AusChristmasLighting 101 2 Revision 15 06 2014 Copyright 2012 2014 Auschristmaslighting com This document is owned by Fasteddy and any use of the information and drawings within this manual must
43. ear on the forum with details on the wiki from about April Videos of past ACL minis from throughout Australia are hosted at http www youtube com user AusChristmasLightin The manual has been written with the utmost care to ensure accuracy but if there are any errors changes or comments then please send them to feedback rgbchristmaslighting com Prices listed within the manual change on a regular basis and individual items are upgraded or made redundant by their vendors This manual contains 100s of hyperlinks that can be used to direct you to the referenced webpages AusChristmasLighting 101 2 Revision 15 06 2014 Copyright 2012 2014 auschristmaslighting com This document is owned by Fasteddy Edward Vassallo and any use of the information and drawings within this manual must have permission by the owner before using This manual is for registered Auschristmaslighting members only and may only be downloaded from ACL It must NOT be uploaded for download to any other site without the written permission of the owner Important Notice It is the sole responsibility of the reader to ensure that all safety precautions are taken the author of this document and or any involved parties relinquishes any responsibility and liabilities for any content within this manual that may cause the reader any injury or loss of property By reading this manual you take sole responsibility for all actions taken This manual is a guide only and is to be used
44. ec tose a lol eee eerie erates ess 22 Intelligent RGBilightslC Types eta seta ocr ae tee eee a stra ee 23 ROBMERECNOICE S Arana es amr reat er Pern Metter Setar nt Serene Oe Se see ee ee eer 24 DUME RGB LEMACO I E E a tne ener A eee mene TE E ode 24 3 Channel Dumb RGB Strip lights adios 24 gt ChanneliDumbiRGB Strings iio ol aio E 25 3 ChannelDumb RGB Modules Aen wi me eee ae 25 FCG MIE EES sete Ses ete Are tnt rence E straits Gan E co Rd E Nunta nines 26 intelligent RGB Lights With a a A a ness a E ode 26 CICERO e e Nea cate as ee en 27 RGB Flood ang spot Lightsear vnunet a ns Cee ree eran ne ess 29 SEQUE E aa 30 A O e 31 A O 32 A ame 33 E AMA sequencer a n an cco orn cent any a areca ne Seen 34 A a AEE E ene er ee 35 Tes Sotware O eee et ee eee ee eee 36 Powersupplies ooer rte a 41 A ARGU Ean Seis wuss te ten ee terse nace Seater Sten a eee 41 Eleccion canos 42 NA ee te eer ee eerie eee aaa eeee ee 43 Low Voltage DCO ROWE A a E a teen tune wean conan ere tute nn a demu mamer at cercee 43 Selecting the Correct Sized Power Supply ccccccccccncccnncccnnnnnancccccnonnnccnnnnnnnnocononnnnos 44 DO Power Supp Choices oo oleo rete tense ce tesa eee eee 45 Cables Term e assets en a ve anc E arta haste we Pte Meh Moule edad cies idan ave Meni A eE 46 Cable Characteristics nl dad 46 Selecting the CORMECL Sized Cablen a cre merece a nant
45. electricity in the rain 8 Ensure electrical cables and extension cords are regularly inspected during the season to ensure there is no damage or exposed conductors and that they are safely used as to not cause damage 9 Do not overload circuits or use multiple piggy back adaptors 10 Never work on live equipment or cables Isolate the supply power before commencing work 11 Test for any voltages before you touch any electrical wiring or equipment 12 Do not use aluminium ladders or metal based ladders when working with electricity 13 Wear rubber soled shoes to increase your resistance to earth in the event of an electric shock Power Supplies The power supply is needed to power up the controllers and lights The type of power supply used is determined by the lights you are controlling which then determines what controller you will use There are 3 types of power that we use which can be separated into e AC mains power e Low Voltage AC power e Low Voltage DC power AC Mains Power Supplies AC Mains power is generally used for rope lights and strings especially in the US where most of the light strings are mains voltage AC mains power is used by connecting mains power to the controller that then supplies computer controlled power to the lights 110 240 volt controller 110 240 volt mains power supply eos controlled lights Warning 110 240 volt mains supply can cause serious injury or death 42 Low Voltage AC P
46. ent and then convert this into watts using Ohms Law Power watts Voltage Volts x Current Amps If you don t have an amp meter then act on the side of caution LEDs generally use about 1 8 to 1 10 of the power of incandescent lights Further information on LED string testing can be found at The total current drawn by the low voltage lights is much less when measured at mains voltage input of the power supply This can be shown by using Ohms law to work out the total current drawn by a 350 watt power supply running at 85 load 350 watts x 0 85 297 5 watts Current Amps Power watts Voltage Volts 297 5 watts 12 Volts 297 5 watts 240 Volts Current drawn 24 79 amps Current drawn 1 24 amps 297 5 watts 110 Volts 297 5 watts 5 Volts Current drawn 2 70 amps Current drawn 59 5 amps 350 watt 5VDC power supplies are generally limited to 50 amps Calculating pixel power usage Pixel wattage can be roughly worked out using the following Pixels will typically draw about 60mA per pixel when on 100 white The power is Volts times Amps so for 5V pixels they will use about 0 3W pixel 12V pixels will use about 0 72W Refer to supplier data for better info but remember the info isn t always correct and sometimes a single colour is specified 44 iA amana Y y DC Power Supply Choices Common DC Switch Mode Power Supplies generally come in sizes 350 watts 29amps 12VDC amp SO0am
47. es 47 PixelPowerinjection Calle mies sere ea a a a a a aes 50 Mit PE 0 A meseacime scam 52 Controllers ete ee a scent ere ete ee e enn eee nonheme rere tense aie 52 AO Ah eel E e e RS e a a A 53 AR a aa a 54 low VoltageDC CORO aaa does cio 55 Low Voltage DC Controlled e tesina 56 Prerkiphr Controler eel rane ences cea 59 PICMG onttrollers o ono nate meeanne omen a Nanette 59 Pixel Controller Connections and Layout e cerren ereenn orcos ius 60 Pixel Types and Configurations accio o oaas iaa cisco 60 As en oa 62 NAAA A A aan woteaen cre tee 62 ARA o A a etnaentnes 63 Sequence PI DAD e an a a a osas cocnacos tet niet neseseneeeeets 65 EPP Player Ealeon Pi RlaVel sexton aon cis 65 Seno Controler ce ate A crear ae tomar a E ee cae ten ce atan moe 68 Servo Controllers a 68 Servo Controler Choices aa aa o te atc ence rece eee gots aeons creme aes 68 FM Radio TranSmitter ccccscsccsccscoscoscetesccscescusenccecesseceecscessesescesceteeseecassetensences 72 FM Radio ANTENNAS eee ee eae an nee Oe ae evr ee ee Cetra eer eee 73 Seting O aos 73 FM Radio Transmitter Choices cccccceccsccscccceccsccscececcucescscesescescusessesceseusensancaees 74 Ordering A A nena eMart tem enaaianency 75 EA A A T E E oe eeenoeaeer en 76 General Tools amp Equipment Used ea e a E coEo 76 A E sectarian E E E E E 77 Disposable sa a o E a
48. es used 5050 RGB LED This is a surface mounted LED that shines light in one direction normally at an angle of 120 to 140 degrees It has great light intensity and great colour mixing properties The name refers to the dimension of 5 0 x 5 0 millimetres 8mm RGB LED This LED is more closely based on the traditional LED lt has Great light intensity and colour mixing properties The name refers to the size of the LED 5mm Single Colour LED This LED is used in groups of 3 with individual LED colours of Red Green and Blue The light intensity is slightly lower with a poor colour mixing if viewed close up But modules fitted with these are generally much cheaper than using 5050 LEDs e A B Lights r RGB LED PACKAGES RGB LEDs can come in several different types of packages that can be used to create different effects within your display There are 4 main types are e Floods amp Spot Lights e Strings e Strip e Modules There are also many other types of RGB lighting arrangements available to suit your requirements RGB Light Strings RGB Strip Light RGB Modules RGB Flood Spot Lights RGB Flood Lights amp Spot Lights Spot Lights e RGB flood Lights are used to wash colour onto a wall These work well when using directional lighting like strips or modules that don t give light wash back Floods allow you to control the amount and colour of Flood Lights light wash on surfaces e RGB Spot Lights are
49. even allow you to connect up and control your display using the Wii guitar and drums A OO 2 oe fs Cost Basic 512 channel version US 99 00 Advanced 8192 channel version US 249 00 Professional 32767 channel version US 399 00 Ultimate edition 300000 channel version POA Hardware Support LOR DMX 512 E1 31 PixelNet D Light Enhanced Active Home Renard X10 Tutorials http lightshowpro com centralized training videos LightShow Pro V2 Software Sequencing Screen 31 Vixen is a free community based sequencing software package RGB support varies Website www vixenlights com depending on the version Vixen3 is currently Cost Free going through an upgrade to make sequencing of RGB much easier and move away from the Hardware Support traditional sequencing grid DMX 512 E1 31 Renard NA Versions Currently there are 3 main versions used To aa a V2 1 V2 5 and V3 Attached Plugins P K gt 1 a e 2 Pi Fy Pd E a a 4 8 E 00M el BN anaana a 23 A Execubon point 0400 urent drena at 255 Cell ertenmty A E o O mers n Tutorials www vixenlights com vixen 3 documentation video tutorials p aaa ES 18 oe ee ee er res ee ee SS O ee ne aep apa ga 19 20 2 IAN ul PIPPI EEE ETE ia N AAA uuuh IEIIIITILETIEII Vixen 2 1 2 5 Software Channel House kicki 1 Chanel 10 House kicie 2 Channel 11 hacha 3 Sequence Edt View Tools H gt an Wid
50. fecting the lights 1 volt drop is a much higher percentage of 5 VDC than it is with 12vdc Depending on pixel style the current requirements are the same regardless of voltage e 1or2 wire communication Generally this should not have an effect on performance o 4 wire 3 wire e There are 7 main types of SPI communications and ICs that are used within the community GE Colour Effects 4 Bit 3 Wire constant current control Available in the US only e LPD6803 IC 5 Bit 4 wire constant current control e WS2801 IC 8 bit 4 wire constant current control e WS2811 IC 8 bit 3 wire constant current control e WS2812 IC 8 bit 3 wire constant current control IC embedded in LED e TM1804 IC 8 bit 3 wire constant voltage control e TLS3001 IC 12 bit 3 wire constant current control e INK1003 IC 8 bit 3 wire constant voltage control IC embedded in LED 12V to 5V regulator typically installed on LED strips e Each is available in different packages and voltages There are also many other types of ICs available but support for these is either minimal or non existent e New protocols are regularly being released Me e RGB Light Choices There are several different types RGB lights available and listed below is just some of the more commonly used ones These choices are only based on the vendor Ray Wu on Aliexpress and there are many more types available then what is listed from many differe
51. federal authorities regarding any possible import duties or taxes that may be payable before purchasing Paying by means of money gram or Western Union or any other direct deposit method of payment may be risky if you are unsure about the dealer as these methods offer no protection So only pay by this method if it s a trusted dealer One thing that must be taken into consideration is that the quality control is not as high as if these were bought from a reputable commercial dealer but the price is much lower so it is always wise to factor ina 5 10 failure rate this way you won t be disappointed but you will still save by buying directly from China Do not buy 240V lights from China Aliexpress or via ebay as the quality and insulation is typically absolutely terrible and you will be putting yourself and others at risk if you use them The quality is nowhere near the standard that meets Australian Standards If you are buying icicle fairy or rope lights there are low voltage alternatives 12V 24V etc 75 General Tools Equipment Used There is a list of general tools equipment and disposables that are generally used with in the hobby for construction testing and implementation of lighting controllers and equipment The list below is a general list of some of the more commonly used tools and disposables Tools and disposables needed with vary between person to person and individual budgets General Tools Cable Cutters
52. ges Lights can vary greatly in cost and quality and it s usually a good idea to talk to other members about their different experiences with different types of lights SA as a oy At y 10 IP Rating of Lights Lights are used outside in the weather and come in many forms of construction The IP rating of the lights can play an important role the IP rating is based on the 2 numbers below and determines the level of weather protection with IP68 being the highest grade of protection Contact Protection IPOX IP1X 8 No Protection Protected against penetration of solid objects larger than 50mm Protected against penetration of solid objects larger than 12mm Protected against penetration of solid objects larger than 2 5mm Protected against penetration of solid objects larger than Imm Protected against dust IPX5 deposits Protected against ingress of dust 1 digit 2 digit Contact Protection Water Protection Water Protection IPX0 IPX1 No Protection Protected against direct dripping water Protected against indirect dripping water IPX2 Protected against spraying water IPX3 Protected against splashing water IPX4 Protected against water jets Protected against heavy seas flooding IPX 6 Protected against immersion under defined conditions of pressure and time IPX7 Protected against continuous submersion under defined condition
53. he AC supply These cannot be used to control anything else other than an AC supply AC Controllers are used for things like mains voltage rope lights and strings There is not a large selection of assembled AC controllers in the market place and there has been a shift away from AC controllers to using low voltage DC controllers instead as this is much safer Most people start with using a couple of AC controllers to control their current lights before slowly replacing them with low voltage DC controllers Light O Rama LOR AC controllers are usually the best option for an assembled AC board as they have the flexibility to work with either the LOR protocol or the DMX protocol and allow the purchaser to gain confidence by buying from a well known and established supplier that has solid warranty and support Further information regarding LOR Controllers can be found at http auschristmaslighting com wiki index php Category Light O Rama Light O Rama LOR AC boards come mainly in 16 channel format with 2 x 8 separate powered sides The Right side controls channels 9 to 16 and this side also provides power the electronics that power the controllers electronics This must be either 110 volts or 240 volts depending on the position of the jumper z AR ba e The most common LOR controller used by members is it the LOR CTB16PC which is depicted here Light C Rama fa its ot sase py y OMe TA od cc Ensure the correct jumper p i EEIE ET
54. he design of the pixel driver chip regardless of whether the pixel is 5V or 12V they will use approximately 55mA for most common styles when the pixel is lit up to 100 white Pixel strip in 5V will typically have 1 LED per IC with the IC sometimes embedded upon the LED as is the case with 2812 and a few other pixel styles 12V pixel strip will usually have 3 LEDs for each IC This means that there is 3 times the light output but 1 3 of the resolution The exception to this rule at this time is the INK1003 pixels which are 5V pixels and as such are 1 pixel per IC but they are powered via a stepdown 12V to 5V regulator Pixel nodes that are 5V will always have 1 LED per IC Each pixel will use 55mA 0 275W Pixel nodes that are 12V will be either 1 LED per IC like in bullet nodes or most individual LED string type pixels or they will be 3 LEDs per pixel for modules Some modules may actually have 9 5mm LEDs as the red green and blue LEDs are not in the same device like in a 5050 LED All of the 12V pixels will also use 55mA 0 66W with the single LED devices using the extra 0 375W purely as heat The triple led modules etc will also use 55mA but will be putting out 3 times the light lt i RGB Pixel Light Strip Sv 3 channels per pixel segment aE En gt emi aa fas o cn o O O Digital RGB Pixel Light Strip 12v 3 channels per pixel segment l f i Strip may be longer lo j longer Pixel Segment 1 Pixel Seg
55. irang Deck The Hadi Marhewn Stearrrotie neg SED to 1 90 2013 Mein Show repeat Sint once by 02 28 13 09533 2259 to 25 02 Clone 3 Friday December 27 2013 TRIO ho 22 39 2013 Maio Show pepent fast once At NAS MESA 21400 to 731412 Close Saturday December 26 2013 B20 to 22 2013 Mein Show repast Sint onca ta 12 2013 200143 2256 to 2302 Clese Sunday December 29 2013 At 12 28 13 20 ENO to J209 201 Main Dos pepent tr once Playung We Me Santas Peet oneq 1200 to 222 Close At 12 281 Monday December 30 2013 200 to 2200 2013 Men Show repeat Gt once 2200 be 22402 Close At 12 20 13 Tuesday December 31 2013 Pirang Rockin Around the Christmas Treeren EDO to 2100 201 Main Show repent rt once da 2 20 13 AZ 2340 to 32 Cees Mayang TSO Nutrocioor xueq Wedrerdey January 01 2014 ESOO to 2200 2013 Men Show Gepest Let once Piaying playtet 3011 Man Show Dow will end st 12 56 Xlights Nutcracker can be used as a sequencer a scheduler a test utility and a conversion utility which converts between LSP LOR Vixen 2 Falcon Pi Player and other formats It can also be used as an effects generator for importing effects into LOR LSP etc 35 David Duffy David_AVD of audiovisualdevices AVD has written 2 pieces of software for the testing of Christmas light controllers interfaces These 2 pieces of software are da_dmx and da_e131 da_dmx controls a dmx network connected via a usb dongle Either
56. ixel layout diagram 60 The E1 31 pixel controllers can process multiple DMX universes to control multiple different types of pixel IC types through multiple outputs These controllers come with 2 banks so different voltages can be used as shown Data sent from The output types are set through the controllers software a Y network interface to pixel controller Output configured in pixel controller to send 2801 data out on output and the tis ont c bank OL itput is on th le a Ma Add a single pixel light or use the ECG PPX to extend pixel range if Output data signal becomes contro DN weak 5vdc 2801 pixels string configured in pixel sto send 6803 tput and the 12vdc bank Svde in data out on 0 output is on the 12vdc 6803 pixels string Mains power supplied to A wm gt y Y gt N L2vdc power D A lt lt p y C power supplies 5vdc power x supply supply Dual voltage dual pixel layout diagram 6803 12vdc and 2801 Svdc Pixel Types and Configurations Pixels come in 2 basic types Strips or non strips I ll use nodes often found as strings not to indicate the bullet type nodes in particular but as an indication that the pixel is not part of a continuous strip This could be bullet nodes modules or any of the other varieties that aren t a strip As a further subdivision of pixel types they are usually 5V or 12V Due to t
57. l RGB lights and intelligent RGB light is that there is a little black IC integrated circuit on each controllable light section as shown This allows RGB control of each light section without having additional wires going to each light The intelligent RGB light is turned on by receiving the appropriate data that then controls the level of red green and blue light How to identify the physical differences between a Dumb RGB light and an intelligent RGB light Intelligent RGB Dumb RGB IC Chip 8 Missing IC Chip IC Chip Missing IC Chip IC Chip Missing IC Chip Note 2812 based pixels have the chip as part of the LED They will have 3 wires and markings like ve ve data Ink1003 based pixel strips may have an external 12V to 5V regulator on the rear of the strip and will have 4 markings 12V 5V OV and Di Do on output end 20 The diagram below shows the control difference between the two dumb RGB light is controlled all together as one and uses only 3 channels for the whole length The intelligent RGB light is controlled as individual lights sections 300885 Dumb RGB Lights Single control all the lights do the same thing The whole length shown here is 3 channels Intelligent RGB Lights Individual control all the lights are separately controlled The whole length is 18 channels Dumb RGB Light Control Dumb RGB lighting is controlled through a low voltage DC controller It is important to note
58. le of all RGB lights as they can be easily positioned in any direction or orientation e The majority of strings are made using a 8mm RGB LED there are some that use a 5050 LED but their viewing angle is limited RGB Light String Types There are 2 main types of RGB light packages that are used with RGB light strings that both have advantages and disadvantages This is the traditional construction of an RGB Light string as these were originally designed for the signage industry Some water ingress issues can happen with the lower IP rated strings if tension is placed on the string as this pulls apart the wires to create a gap The resin filled IP68 are the best ones to get of these Known as a bullet node due to the shape 17 This is a newer design but doesn t show the light as well from behind as the traditional string The advantage to this is that the orientation of the light can be better managed There are 2 types one is a resin filled IP68 with the wires coming out the back and the other is silicone covered IP65 with the wires coming out from the sides The resin type is much better for water protection but is generally constructed with the wires coming out the back RGB Strip Light RGB strip is somewhat similar to rope light but it is flat and directional meaning they only shine light in one direction They create little wash back light The strip generally comes in 5 metre lengths and uses 5050
59. ligent RGB modules available Intelligent RGB Module Light Intelligent RGB Module Light Intelligent RGB Module Light US 19 47 US 14 00 US 12 00 IC Type LPD6803 4 wire IC Type WS2801 4 wire IC Type WS2811 4 wire LED Count 20 modules 60 5050 LEDs LED Count 20 modules 60 5050 LEDs LED Count 20 modules 60 5050 LEDs Coating IP67 Coating IP67 Coating IP68 Voltage 12VDC Voltage 12VDC Voltage 12VDC Power 0 72 watts per module Power 0 72 watts per module Power 0 72 watts per module Length may vary Length may vary Length may vary Cost per LED 0 324 Cost per LED 0 231 Cost per LED 0 200 Intelligent RGB Module Light Intelligent RGB Module Light Intelligent RGB Module Light US 17 00 24 21 US 40 00 US 69 47 IC Type WS2801 4 wire IC Type LPD6903 4 wire IC Type LPD6803 4 wire LED Count 20 modules 80 5050 LEDs LED Count 20 modules LED Count 10 modules Coating IP67 Coating IP66 Coating IP65 Voltage 12VDC Voltage 12VDC Voltage 24VDC Power 0 96 watts per module Power 0 72 watts per module Power 5 watts per module Length may vary Length may vary Length may vary Cost per LED 0 213 Cost per LED 2 00 per module Cost per LED 6 95 per module This is just a small sample of the modules available Most modules are available in other chipsets Modules are also available from other vendors 28 RGB Flood and Spot Lights A small sample of the different types of RGB flood and spot light
60. lighting LY Note that white clear and many coloured ties aren t UV stabilised and Coloured Clear may break down in sunlight within months of exposure Electrical Tape Used for many purposes for sealing and insulating Heat Shrink Used for many purposes for sealing and insulating Comes in Many colours sizes and shrink diameters Silicone Tube Used for sealing use only non corrosive neutral cure silicone Acetic cure the sort that shouldn t be used smells like vinegar Solder Used for soldering wires and electronics Use 60 40 SnPb 60 Tin and 40 lead or use 63 37 The quality of the flux varies but it mainly affects wires pads etc that are oxidised or aren t clean Cable Crimps Used for connecting wires various sizes and shapes are available 78 E1 31 and DMX Typical Layout Main Show Computer running sequencing software that The below layout show the differences between E1 31 and DMX and how they are connected into the supports Ba nel E1 31 network The below layout is by no means a complete list of equipment or configurations that could be used and is utpu intended as giving guidance examples only FM Transmitter 93 3FM Transmitter lt a Audio Cables connected to audio Power supply output on computer Set com port ma Out for DMX dongle Eg Com 3 USB cable Antenna S PID 50 Ohm Coax Q cable iere 510 channel Standard Cat 5 cable
61. ment 2 Pixel Segment 3 gt Pixel Seg 1 Pixel Seg 2 Pixel Seg 3 Pixel Seg Boa Lis dt mel Sn SA SA o A ls Gl Pixel Controller Choices Pixel controllers come in DMX LOR and E1 31 data inputs E1 31 is the preferred method due to its ability to process multiple universes and channels of data with one data line from the computer or network switch This is advantageous as pixel lights use up channels very quickly and for DMX512 you would only get 170 RGB Pixel lights per DMX512 universe DMX512 may be a better option if you only have a few elements in your display that are pixel based or if you need to distribute only a few pixel lights in different areas of your display as they are generally cheaper Note Most pixel controllers with fused outputs are incapable of supplying all the current that the attached pixel string requires If there is more the 50 pixels attached then separately fused power injection is required DMX Pixel Controller Choices AVD APC718 P DMX LT DMX 2801 US 38 42 DD 100 6803 DMX US 15 26 Pixel Servo Controller LT DMX 6803 US 38 95 DD 100 2801 DMX US 17 89 AU 33 00 LT DMX 3001 US 38 42 512 256 or 128 Channel 75 channel 25 Pixels 512 channel 170 Pixels 6803 2801 2801 6801 pixel support 2801 2803 6803 3001 3002 Pixel support depends on version Single DC input 12V 35VDC Pixel support depends on version Single DC input 8V 24VDC RJ45 DMX input Single DC input 5V 24
62. n which Red Green amp Blue light is added together in various ways to reproduce a broad array of colours INTEGRATED CIRCUIT An integrated circuit can be referred to as an IC chip or microchip It is an electronic circuit which is made up of layers of a thin substrate of semiconductor material DUMB RGB Dumb RGB lighting is defined as being a form of lighting that only receives power there is no on board control of the lights Power only The lights have the integrated circuit external to the light package INTELLIGENT RGB Intelligent RGB lighting is defined as being a form of lighting that receives both power and data The actual light control is on board Power and data The lights have the integrated circuit internal with the light package This definition is similar to Pixel NODE A node is a term that has been used within the hobby to describe Q Q an individual light within a string of lights A node can either be intelligent or dumb PIXEL A Pixel is an individual RGB light section that receives both power and data to determine its colour and level This definition is different to the official definition of a Pixel but due to some controllers Power and called pixel controllers this definition will save some confusion data PIXEL CONTROLLER A pixel controller controls Intelligent RGB lighting pixels it sends g the data and also in many cases the power to the Integrated circuit
63. nsmitter Car and home Stereo radio FM Transmitter for garden speakers Computer audio with clear FM Antenna receives the FM frequency jack out frequency for music 73 MB FM Radio Transmitter FM Radio Transmitter Choices There are a few different types of FM Radio Transmitters available that vary in output and sound quality generally output wattage is not the only thing to consider the sound quality and FM separation are also important factors especially these days with most standard cars equipped with a high quality stereo EDM FM Transmitters www edmdesign com EDM is located in South Africa and have designed high quality FM transmitters for several years many people swear by these as having the best sound quality of the bunch The FM transmitters come in a very simple kit that just requires soldering of the power wires to the socket Standard Model High Quality Model 7 e We ECO E EDM LCD CS EP US 151 00 EDM TX LCD EP US 199 00 10 100mW Adjustable RF output 10 100mW Adjustable RF output 1 10mW and 2 100mW 1 10mW and 2 100mW Ramsey FM Transmitters http www ramseyelectronics com hk Ramsey Electronics supply a range of FM Transmitters Some people swear by these Standard Model High Quality Model FM30 B US 199 00 FM35BWT US 299 00 0 25mW Adjustable RF output Kit form 0 1W Adjustable RF output Assembled Hily FM Transmitters http www hllyfmtransmitter com Hlly are a Chinese manufact
64. nt vendors and it is always recommended to do your own research Dumb RGB Lights no IC 3 Channel Dumb RGB Strip Lights RGB 5050 Dumb Strip Light USS 14 00 LED Count 30 Led metre Coating Silicone tube IP65 Voltage 12VDC Power 7 2 Watts metre total Length 5 metres Cost per LED 0 093 RGB 5050 Dumb Strip Light US 30 00 LED Count 72 Led metre Coating Solid Silicone 1P65 Voltage 12VDC Power 17 2 Watts metre total Length 5 metres Used for wall washing Cost per LED 0 082 RGB 5050 Dumb Strip Light US 19 00 LED Count 30 Led metre Coating Solid Silicone Silicone tube IP68 Voltage 12VDC Power 7 2 Watts metre total Length 5 metres Cost per LED 0 108 Ae Se TE RGB 5050 Dumb Strip Light US 60 00 LED Count 144 Led metre Coating Solid Silicone IP65 Voltage 12VDC Power 34 5 Watts metre total Length 5 metres Used for wall washing Cost per LED 0 083 24 RGB 5050 Dumb Strip Light US 24 00 LED Count 60 Led metre Coating Solid Silicone Silicone tube IP68 Voltage 12VDC Power 14 4 Watts metre total Length 5 metres Cost per LED 0 080 RGB 5050 Dumb Strip Light US 19 00 LED Count 60 Led metre Coating silicone tube IP65 Voltage 24VDC Power 14 4 Watts metre total Length 5 metres Cost per LED 0 063 8mm RGB Dumb String 8mm RGB Dumb String Light Light US 9 00 US 20 00 LED Count 50 LED Coun
65. numbers and custom lengths by request The plug style shown here are available from a number of Aliexpress vendors and are available in black and white with 13 5mm and 15mm diameters and with 0 5mm and 0 75mm wires 49 Pixel Power Injection Cable This guide for selecting the right cable to use for pixel injection is by no means comprehensive and should only be used as a guide As a general guide power should be injected into a pixel string at approximately every 50 pixels If you discount that the pixel string strip itself will provide a path for the power and use the following basic formula for working out how to inject power you should generally have good results The following generalisations are made 1 each pixel will draw 50mA 16 5mA per colour per pixel Different types and styles of pixels have different currents but for the sake of this guide 50mA should provide a good starting point 2 cable losses are 5 at maximum load This equates to a drop from 5V to 4 75V or 12V to 11 4V A voltage drop of up to double that is probably acceptable at 12V and may be okay at 5V If the distance from the power supply or fused pixel controller is 2 metres then there will be 4 metres of cable The 50 pixels that you will be powering before the next injection point will draw 2 5A Based on the formula and table above calculate V IxR V 0 25V I 2 5A so R needs to be 0 1 ohms or less For 4 metres you would need a cable size that equates to less
66. o the sequencing software an output to control the servo movement on props Servo Controller Choices LOR ServoDog8 _ US 95 95 BOC 16 Channel Servo Controller 8 channel servo control US 90 00 Board only 6 digital inputs US 190 00 Complete with power Can be configured with 2 channels of suppl pulse width modulation PWM PPly 16 channel servo control 8 or 16bit output DMX in DMX in LOR in 4 d y 5 A idas E gt gt ae oh enol O AVD APC718 P DMX Pixel Servo Controller AU 33 00 Single DC input 12V 35VDC Five servo outputs 1 5A max load RJ45 DMX input screw terminals Dip switch DMX addressing Current overload protection P DMX enabled Australian made 68 _ Basic Layout Examples 1E The Light O Rama Network The LOR system is a commercial product that provides strong warranty and support but is more expensive than the DIY options The LOR system can also run a DMX universe by either purchasing m Li ht O Ra m a the advanced version of LOR S3 software or by purchasing an iDMX1000 DMX interface 259 00 There are no limitations to how many controllers are connected to a LOR network but bandwidth restrictions may reduce this to around FM a 1000 channels Transmitter 0 LOR controllers will also run in a native DMX universe and antenna Refer to Running LOR Controllers in DMX presentation for further A info on running LOR controllers in a DMX universe
67. onization between multiple Pi s for supporting higher channel counts Memory mapped channel overlays to allow external scripts to overlay data onto the channel data being output Channel Test Mode allowing the user to toggle channels on or off to test lights cables etc Raspberry Pi Model B 512mb Yes 4gb for OS Yes 8 32gb for music sequences movies Yes OGG MP3 MP4 files Yes Yes Summer 2014 Yes Yes Yes at least 64 universes 32768 channels with fpd 6144 channels with fpd Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes O Light O Rama and Minleon both also produce sequence playback devices 66 Protocol Bridges A protocol bridge is a device that converts the data signal from one type to another it isn t actually a light controller but instead it changes the communications data from one protocol to another This is mainly seen with E1 31 to DMX where the data is converted from an E1 31 protocol to the DMX512 protocol This then allows you to run DMX512 devices from an E1 31 network and allows multiple DMX universe outputs without having to use a separate DMX512 USB interface dongle for each DMX512 universe E1 31 is sent out fro the computer RJ45 network interface Protocol Bridge receives the E1 31 data and then converts this data to DMX512 E1 31 to DMX Protocol Bridge Example Protocol Bridge Choices JISYS E1 31 to DMX Bridge ECG DMXRen8 US 21
68. or extra features like pixel animation tools and auto sequencing you will require the super star add to be purchased LOR has also mentioned official support for E1 31 devices to be released A number of free LOR sequencing configuration and effects programs have been developed by users I Rama SF Website www lightorama com Cost Basic 2 controller support 32 channels Basic plus 4 controller support 64 channels Standard 8 controller support 128 channels Advanced Unlimited controller support US 49 95 US 69 95 US 99 95 US 139 95 Superstar add on software for easy sequencing of the Cosmic Color Ribbon CCR and position based sequencing 2 CCR 300 channels 4 CCR 600 channels 8 CCR 1200 channels 24 CCR 3600 channels Hardware Support LOR DMX 512 E1 31 X10 Tutorials www1 lightorama com tutorials Light O Rama LOR S3 Software Sequencing Screen 2290 2 US 45 95 US 79 95 US 149 00 US 199 95 HLS Hinkle s Lighting Sequencer HLS sequencer developed by Joe Hinkle is a free sequencer that is designed for pixel displays and combines sequencing grid and position based http joehinkle com HLS amp HLS File Audio File Time Resolution Manage Channels Pixel Plane Defaults Effects KeyBoard Commands Library OutPut PreView Animation Play Speed Ful Speed SngleStepPreview Play Speed Full Speed Mark At Be
69. ower Low Voltage AC power under 50 volts is Mains supplied power that is transformed to a lower safer voltage This is mainly done in Australia due to the danger that 240 volts poses It is not good practice to connect low voltage transformers into a mains voltage controller as fading twinkle shimmer and any quick on off on can cause damage to the transformer and the outputs of the controller Controlling low voltage AC lights requires a bit more work compared to mains power to connect A transformer is used to step down the power to a low AC voltage which is connected to the secondary non powered side of an LOR AC controller as the LOR AC controller must have a 110 240 volt supply to run on the primary bank to supply power to the controller CPU a i E 110 240 volt mains supply to transformer i Light Rama e ATL Low voltage AC supply to left A t side of the LOR controller O LOR AC 110 240 volt mains supply to Controller right side of the LOR controller Low Voltage DC Power Low voltage DC under 50 volts is fast becoming the power of choice there are several reason why this is the case Low voltage DC is safe to work with LED lights function better with DC volts as they conduct electricity only in one direction running LEDs with AC causes them to flicker Most new RGB lights also use low voltage DC To use DC power we need to convert the power from a mains AC voltage to a low DC voltage by using
70. pberry Pi single board computer that allows sequences to be played back and control Christmas lights via E1 31 and also USB dongles Features of the software Outputs at least 128 Universes of E131 Plays music files and outputs audio on 3 5mm jack Embedded web page configuration Setup playlists schedules upload sequence and music files Setup optional RDS feature Uses a user defined NTP server to keep accurate time FTP Server Optional Can be used to transfer files to player FTP transfers of 64 MB sequence files are averaging 10 seconds Optional Server and Client operation by using inexpensive USB wireless interface in each Using USB wireless card in both server and clients will allow E131 data to be transmitted on hard wired interface and have all sync information sent on wireless interface Allowing for a small amount of data on the wireless sync network USB network interfaces are about 10 00 Optional RTC clock board if internet based NTP is not available for scheduling of shows Optional RDS ASCII output Play video on 1080p HDMI output Client and slave will be same software just a configuration change Output up to 32768 channel for Pixelnet 6144 channels of DMX 12 RS 485 circuits Optional Falcon Pixelnet DMX board FPD needed xlights nutcracker is used to convert sequence data to FPP file format The Rasberry Pi is available from a number of places with and without the plastic protective case The
71. plastic case is optional but an SD card 5V power supply and micro USB lead is required A USB thumbdrive is used to store sequences etc Australia Element 14 Bare Model B Pi AUS38 USA Amazon com Bare Model B USS37 49 USA Amazon com Ultimate Includes Essential Accessories US62 95 A wifi dongle will allow wireless connection to the Pi and also allows the onboard clock to update if the wifi is connected to the internet If the Pi is going to be used for scheduled programs then either a wireless connection or a real time clock module should be used There are a few clock varieties available including this 1 65 Information Tutorials Computer SD card needed USB Flash Needed Outputs Music thru 3 5mm jack Uses a user defined NTP server to keep accurate time Optional RTC clock board Optional RDS ASCII output Play composite NTSC PAL video output Play video on 1080p HDMI output Video playback synchronized with sequence data Output E1 31 Output Pixelnet Output DMX Output Lynx Pixelnet USB dongle Output DMX Pro compatible USB dongles Output DMX Open compatible USB dongles Output Renard Output Output Pixelnet Open It allows you to send one Universe of Pixelnet out via a USB to RS485 adapter Output single strand of WS2801 pixels directly attached to the SPI port on the Pi Channel remapping Remap one or more channels during output to avoid re sequencing at the last minute Master Slave synchr
72. ps 5VDC and below Higher wattages are available but the cost per watt dramatically increases Power supplies are generally not designed to be paralleled together unless they are specifically designed for this which makes them very expensive Computer switch mode power supplies can be used but these are generally not the best choice as they are designed for less load fluctuations and also designed to draw power from the 5v and 3 3v side The advantage to using a computer power supply is that there are no mains power leads to connect as the power supply already has a supply lead The price of switched mode DC power supplies varies greatly and so does the quality There are cheap Chinese brands that do the job but it s recommended to keep a spare just in case as we have witnessed these power supplies blowing up A high quality power supply brand is Meanwell The construction filtering and circuitry is far superior to the cheap Chinese brand but that comes at an increased price Meanwell Power supplies are high quality and robust and come in a range of voltages and output wattages S 275 watt 55 amps O 3vde E 300 watt 25 amps 12vde 312 watt 13 amps 24vdc 240 watt 8 amps O 30vdc Lower wattages are also available Search for a local dealer Prices around AU 120 are typical Ray Wu sells a range of cheap power supplies ranging in different voltages and output wattages 350 watt 50 amps 5vdc US 20 00 350 watt 29 amps 12vdc US 20 00 3
73. ption level Slight tingling sensation Still dangerous under certain conditions Slight shock felt not painful but disturbing Average individual can let go me However strong involuntary reactions to shocks in this range may lead to injuries Painful shock begin to lose muscular control Commonly referred to as the 6mA 16mA i 2 z z i freezing current or let go range 17mA 99m Extreme pain respiratory arrest severe muscular contractions Individual cannot let go Death is possible Ventricular fibrillation uneven uncoordinated pumping of the heart Muscular contraction and nerve damage begins to occur Death is likely gt 2 000mA Cardiac arrest internal organ damage and severe burns Death is probable 100mA 2000mA 41 Electrical Safety Tips 1 Leave all 110 240v mains voltage electrical connections and repairs to skilled maintenance personnel and licensed electricians 2 Only use plugs that correctly fit the outlet socket 3 Ensure that all terminals are tight 4 Ensure that a Residual Current Device RCD are fitted to all 110 240v power circuits Also known as a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter GFCI 5 All cables must be rated large enough to carry the load with the correct rated circuit protection CB Fuse or this can generate heat and cause a fire 6 All Steel aluminium covers enclosures or equipment that is not double insulated must have an earth wire securely connected 7 Do not work with
74. put 8 V 24VDC Screw terminal DMX input screw terminals DMX512 3 Channel Module US 62 11 for 10 3 channel single supply 4 amp per channel 12 amps total Single DC input 5V or 12V or 24VDC Bare wire DMX input bare wire output Start address programmed by programmer or dedicated software There are a few DC controller kits available in the Renard range that can be purchased through Do It Yourself Christmas DIYC forums These boards can also be used with DMX if programmed with the DMX firmware From time to time DIYC have group buys on the circuit board and components O Further information on Renard controllers can be found at http doityourselfchristmas com wiki index php title Renard Main Page Many of the Chinese DC controllers are available from a number of Aliexpress vendors and some are available from HolidayCoro in the USA 58 13 1749555 q j y i r se N a mm j rc ll A gt h N L y Pixel Controllers Pixel controllers are a new breed of controllers used in our hobby which will only work with low voltage DC RGB Chip controlled pixel lights these do not work with standard lights The controller sends out data that communicates to a chip that is embedded into each section so you have control this allows for great control of lighting without the hassles of having individual wires to control each section One data circuit can control up to 680 individual lights The d
75. rop 240v 3 44 236 56V the percentage of the volts Vdrop 12v 3 44v 8 56v that are lost This is the Vdrop 1 4 drop reason electricity is sent Vdrop 28 7 drop long distances at very high voltages The same sized cable is unusable for the load when using low voltage but is acceptable for use with mains voltage l Vdrop 110v 3 44v 106 56V Vdrop 5v 3 44v 1 56v Vdrop 3 1 drop Vdrop 68 8 drop 47 Cables Overcoming Voltage Drop To overcome this issue with low voltage DC power and voltage drop you can e Use athicker cable which has lower resistance 0 C e Raise the voltage of the power supply to compensate for the voltage drop i i on Extreme caution must be taken when 12V lag 13V voltage doing this to ensure you do not over power aa add your lights and reduce their life Most 5V pixels will be damaged over 5 5V e Shorten the distance between the power supply and the lights controller _ TX OO e Reduce the current load drawn ree e Double up the conductors From i From same contro er power outputs of A supply controller power supply e Inject additional power along the length of the lights From controller power supply From same e 3 gt s c z a o outputs of S 8 A g A 2 8 TON 8 A A O D controller power A s g ai br A va h A m S A supply r 48 Cable Choices Cable choice
76. s Coating IP65 Silicone Tube Voltage 12VDC Power 7 2 watts per metre total Length 5 metres Cost per LED 0 273 Light Intelligent RGB Strip Light US 46 00 IC Type LPD6803 4 wire LED Count 50 sections 100mm 150 5050 LEDs Coating IP68 Solid Silicone Silicone Tube Voltage 12VDC Power 7 2 watts per metre total Length 5 metres Cost per LED 0 307 Intelligent RGB Strip Light US 50 00 IC Type WS2801 4 wire LED Count 60 sections 83 3mm 180 5050 LEDs Coating IP65 Solid Silicone or Silicone Tube Voltage 12VDC Power 10 watts per metre total Length 5 metres Cost per LED 0 277 Intelligent RGB Strip Light US 51 00 IC Type WS2801 4 wire LED Count 160 sections 31 25mm 160 5050 LEDs Coating IP65 Silicone Tube Voltage SVDC Power 10 watts per metre total Length 5 metres Cost per LED 0 319 Intelligent RGB Strip Light US 19 00 IC Type WS2811 3wire LED Count 160 sections 31 25mm 300 5050 LEDs Coating IP65 Silicone Tube Voltage 12VDC Power 14 4 watts per metre total Length 5 metres Cost per LED 0 063 Intelligent RGB Strip Light US 68 00 IC Type TLS3001 3 wire LED Count 160 sections 31 25mm 160 5050 LEDs Coating IP65 Silicone Coating or Silicone Tube Voltage SVDC Power 10 watts per metre total Length 5 metres Cost per LED 0 425 This is just a small sample of the strips available Most strips are available in different chip
77. s Data power is sent converted into to the first LED outputs controlled section A pixel controller will support different types of IC chips within the pixel lights it is essential that you use the correct IC pixel lights with the correct controller or else the controller will not be able to communicate to the IC for the pixel lights IC pixel types are covered in the pixel light section If a Pixel Controller is Then the IC chip on the configured to send 2801 pixel light must be a 2801 data to the IC pixel lights type for the lights to work 59 Pixel Controller Connections and Layout There is nothing really confusing about connecting up a pixel controller it is different is some ways from the connection of AC and DC controllers but the reality is the fundamentals are the same A pixel controller requires power and data like an AC and DC controller to operate The output of a pixel controller is different because it has the added data connections Power still comes out of the controller but this power is for supplying power to all the LED sections it s the data that does the actual switching of the LED sections via the IC chip on the LED pixel The distance the controller is away from the first pixel light is important and generally only 3 to 4 metres in distance can be achieved before the data signal is degraded and causes issues The signal is regenerated between pixels so by adding an extra pixel in between
78. s available 3 x 1 watt RGB Spot light 36 x 1 watt RGB Flood Light US 17 89 US 100 00 DMX512 DMX512 LED Count 1xR 1xG 1XB 1 LED Count 12xR 12xG 12XB 1 watt LED watt LED IP Rating IP68 Voltage 12VDC Power 3 watts IP Rating IP65 Voltage 220VAC or 24VDC Power 36 watts RGB 5050 Dumb Strip RGB 5050 Dumb Strip Light Light US 30 00 US 60 00 LED Count 72 Led metre LED Count 144 Led metre Coating Solid Silicone 1P65 Coating Solid Silicone IP65 Voltage 12VDC Voltage 12VDC Power 17 2 Watts metre total Power 34 5 Watts metre total Length 5 metres Used for wall washing Length 5 metres Used for wall washing 36 x 1 watt RGB Flood Bar Light US 116 84 DMX512 LED Count 12xR 12xG 12XB 1 watt LED IP Rating IP64 Voltage 220VAC or 24 VDC Power 36 watts Rainbow RGB Flood Light Kit US 25 75 LED Count 18xR 18xG 18XB superflux LEDs IP Rating N A Voltage 12VDC Power 26 watts This is in DIY form This is just a small sample of the flood and spot lights available These are also available from other vendors Flood lights can also come in DIY Kits from other various vendors and forum group buys 29 Sequencing Software Used Sequencing software is used to control the lights by communicating between the PC and the controllers The software is what allows you to create different effects like on off fade twinkle shimmer etc and synchronise this to the music The
79. s has many safety advantages as shown in the below calculations LEDS also only conduct electricity in one direction so direct current DC is the ideal safe choice We can see how the voltage and resistance affects the hazard posed by working with different common voltages use in the hobby Current volts resistance An average human body resistance from extremity to extremity when dry i e hand to hand hand to foot can be approx 1500 ohms this varies from person to person So below shows how the voltage directly effects the current flowing through the human body 240 Volt supply 12 Volt supply current 240volts 15000hms 0 16amps 160ma current 12volts 1500ohms 0 008amps 8ma current 240volts 100ohms 2 4amps 2400ma current 12volts 100ohms 0 12amps 120ma current 240volt 0 10hms 2400 amps current 12volts 0 1ohms 120 amps 110 Volt supply 5 Volt supply current 110volts 1500ohms 0 073amps 73ma current 5volts 1500ohms 0 003 amps 3ma current 110volts 100ohms 1 1amps 1100ma current 5volts 100ohms 0 05amps 50ma current 110volt 0 lohms 1100 amps current 5volt 0 lohms 50 amps So its resistance and voltage that determine the current flow it doesn t matter if you have a 40 amp circuit it will only draw as much current as the resistance and voltage will allow A Warning 110 240 volt mains supply can cause serious injury or death Current level Probable Effect on Human Body 1 mA Perce
80. s of pressure and time IPXS In addition to IP rating the lights and or light coatings and wires should be selected so that they are UV stable as no one want to throw away their lights after a few weeks in the sun Yellowing of clear coverings is very common and can occur within weeks 11 Christmas Light Types Lights used in the hobby generally fall into 3 categories e Incandescent e LED e RGBLED Incandescent Lights Incandescent lights are the original type of Christmas lighting these lights come in many types and forms with many names but they are starting to get harder to obtain as LED lights start taking over Incandescent lights are not energy efficient and produce a lot of heat energy for the total wattage used They are constructed with a filament within the globe this filament slowly burns away over time until the light fails and generally the life of a filament globe is no longer than a few thousand hours total Switching on and off filaments shortens the life of this sort of light particularly when it is switched on from cold Incandescent lights are mainly seen in light strings and rope light and can work with either an AC or DC power source Rope Lights C9 Lights 12 LED Lights Led lights have nearly completely taken over from incandescent lights and offer low energy use with vibrant colours LED lights can vary greatly and come in different forms LED Rope Light Fairy Lights Net Ligh
81. s strip strings strip strings and or and or and or modules modules modules Inject power between DC Supply L strings strips and 5Vdc to 24Vdo E nodule piata Pe I strip strings and or modules o 0 I 0 O O o o O O Controllers do not need to be physically located in channel order o mL 9 DMX Universe 2 512 Channels o DMX Universe 2 512 Channels DMX start o E L DMX Universe 1 512 channels DMX Out DMX LOR Terminator converter cable Wireless DMX In DC Supply DMX Out Terminator LOR 12VDC DMX LOR Power Supply converter cable 3 channel flood light DC Supply F DC Supply D MX Supply DMX Start address 17 150 Channels AC Output DMX Out DMX_Qut NS n DMX Out DMX In LOR A 220 240VAC CCR AUS i 100 120VAC Using E US Mains Output DMX Out QQ DMX In DMX light laser smoke To allow LOR controllers to work in a DMX universe you need to Standard Non digital 100 250VAC based RGB machine ect 100 250VAC 50 60 Hz sio striae make a converter cable SWW IE upply 2 9 by cutting the network Supply DC Supply DO Supply and or aces See oe Q ecules cable and rejoining the D Q 0 o wires Digital Pixel DC Supply ae RGB o P Y Y DMX pint LOR pin 4 A strip strings T o I db Q DMX pin 2 LOR pin 5 a i gt d L d DMX pin 7 LOR pin 6 D igi i modules o LOR pin 4 DMX pin 1 Diara pe d E P
82. sets Strips are also available from other vendors a Intelligent RGB Strings A small sample of the different types of intelligent RGB strings available Intelligent RGB String Light Intelligent RGB String Light Intelligent RGB String Light US 18 00 US 46 00 US 22 50 IC Type WS2801 4wire IC Type 1803 3wire IC Type TLS3001 3wire LED Count 50 LED Count 128 LED Count 50 Coating IP67 Coating IP68 Coating IP68 Voltage SVDC Voltage 12VDC Voltage 5 VDC Power 0 3 watts per light Power 0 3 watts per light Power 0 3 watts per light Length may vary Length may vary Length may vary Cost per LED 0 360 Cost per LED 0 360 Cost per LED 0 450 b x Intelligent RGB String Light Intelligent RGB String Light Intelligent RGB String Light US 23 16 US 18 00 US 23 00 IC Type LPD6803 4 wire IC Type WS2801 4 wire IC Type TLS3001 3 wire LED Count 50 LED Count 50 LED Count 50 Coating IP66 Coating IP68 Coating IP68 Voltage 5VDC Voltage 5VDC Voltage 5VDC Power 0 3 watts per light Power 0 3 watts per light Power 0 3 watts per light Length may vary Length may vary Length may vary Cost per LED 0 463 Cost per LED 0 360 Cost per LED 0 460 This is just a small sample of the strings available Most strings are available in other chipsets Strings are also available from other vendors 27 y e is D Lights Intelligent RGB Modules A small sample of the different types of intel
83. software will also schedule and run your show Sequencing can be a time consuming process but the software is becoming more advanced to help make this an easier task You basically upload the song you want to use and then setup the controllers and channels within the software and then you upload a picture of your house or premises so you can then draw your display items from your display over this picture Once you have done this you can start sequencing and watch the simulation of your display on your computer screen So you can have your whole display planned and sequenced before actually using any hardware Sequence Visualizer in LightShow Pro V2 There are 5 main software packages used by auschristmaslighting members these have different features and hardware support All software can be downloaded as a demo to see what will best suit The 5 software suites that are used by the majority of members are e LightShow Pro V2 LSP V2 e Vixen Light O Rama S3 LOR S3 HLS Hinkle Lighting Software e Xlights nutcracker i Lights Ramas _ ALS Q Further information on software can be found at http auschristmaslighting com wiki index php Software 30 LightShow Pro Lightshow Pro has the most features and support of the 55 software packages It has many inbuilt tools like a matrix tool transitions and layers and is the current choice when sequencing large RGB channel sequences LSP can
84. t 100 Coating IP68 Resin Filled Coating IP68 Resin Filled Voltage 5VDC Voltage 12VDC Power 0 3 watts per light Power 0 3 watts per light Length may vary Length may vary Cost per LED 0 18 Cost per LED 0 20 Less efficient design than 5vde 3 Channel Dumb RGB Modules RGB Dumb Module RGB Dumb Module RGB Dumb Module Light Light Light Rectangle US 5 00 Square US 13 68 Piranha LED US 88 00 LED Count 20 modules LED Count 20 modules LED Count 100 modules 60 5050 LEDs 60 5050 LEDs 8 Piranha LEDs per module Coating IP66 Resin coated Coating IP67 Resin coated Coating IP68 Resin coated Voltage 12VDC Voltage 12VDC Voltage 12VDC Power 0 72 watts per module Power 0 72 watts per module Power 0 64 watts per module Length may vary Length may vary Length may vary Cost per LED 0 083 Cost per LED 0 228 Cost per LED 0 147 Piranha LEDs RGB Dumb Module Light Square US 5 58 LED Count 20 modules 20 5050 LEDs Coating IP67 Resin coated Voltage 12VDC Power 0 6 watts per module Length may vary Cost per LED 0 279 This is just a small sample of the dumb RGB lights available Dumb RGB lights are also available from other vendors 95 RGB Lights Intelligent RGB Lights with IC Intelligent RGB Strip A small sample of the different types of Intelligent RGB strip lights available Intelligent RGB Stri US 41 00 IC Type LPD6803 4 wire LED Count 50 sections 100mm 150 5050 LED
85. tage AC LED light strings and rope lights O For further information regarding the bypassing of multi function controllers refer to http auschristmaslighting com wiki index php Bypassing Multi Function Controllers Warning 110 240 volt mains supply can cause serious injury or death 14 RGB Lights RGB Lights are fast becoming the most popular lights to use within the hobby RGB allows a whole new effect which is colour and control RGB allows you to use whatever colour you desire as the lights contain a red green and blue LED light within the same package and special RGB lights that contain a chip to control the RGB light also allow individual lighting control RGB stands for R Red G Green and B Blue RGB lighting is used to create any colour by mixing these colours together RGB lighting uses 3 channels for control by mixing varying percentages of intensities of each colour which enable us to produce many thousands to millions of colours RGB lighting comes in many different forms and packages which are used for lighting up our Christmas displays Light is produced in wavelengths for each individual colour q t w e _ 475 510 570 650 Ves anat Ary Wave engin nm Wave ength nm Wave engin if n RGB LED TYPES There are a few different types of LEDs used in the construction of RGB Lights The ones shown below are the most commonly used in the construction of various RGB light packag
86. than 0 lohms 4 metres This leads to a cable size of 0 75mm or 18AWG Distance from power to injection point Required cable size 5 loss Required cable size 10 loss O o Ideally power injection should be added at the end of a pixel string as well This is more critical with 5V pixels Doubling up conductors will allow the use of smaller cable sizes higher AWG numbers If 6 core security cable is used for power as well as data then 3 conductors should be used for OV 2 for 5V 12V and 1 for data If the pixel type requires data and clock then 2 conductors would be used for OV Security cable would only really be suitable for short cable runs like at the base of a mega tree For long cable runs like along rooflines etc heavy duty figure 8 speaker cable is recommended 50 Injecting Power Due to voltage drop it is important when connecting strips strings and modules together that you also inject power between them to overcome the voltage drop This is especially important when dealing with 5VDC and 12VDC Single Power Supply Single power supply injection is the most common and easiest way to inject power as this ensures all the lights connected share the same potential KEEN o ha S Wiring colours and W gt 7 A AN orientation may vary b ZA z a y VE DA Y e o MN Ms Dala P Pixel Controller Multiple Power Supplies You may use multiple power supplies when connecting up m
87. that only common anode will work with the majority of DC controllers Common anode is the positive shared return wire with the ground GND being switched this saves on construction costs Common cathode is not generally used and requires a controller that switches the positive line The diagram below shows how typical dumb RGB lights are connected up This is very similar to connecting tradition AC lights but these have 3 wires with a common anode return DC Volts Common Return common anode Note that this wire is but is coloured black in most cases due to being the common return wire DC Switch Mode Power a a gt Supply SMPS DC Volts Red Channel 1 To D upply D O een hanne v D Volts Blue Channel 3 ty N N A A A A x Ng Mains supply power oo oe a a Pe cio oO 6 gt E De O ae a e iO r2 sieg 235 ZRA TE eee 84 i q n O R T T ELY sa pveceenevcce LEL lt a DARN wet ees iL ga A Data in i Ca AE le te HE a p 3 GE at sn mi ATEI es aL Ganon A nA cH B ie 00 3 5 u ME 14 DC Volts DC Volts e e PITARRA lI RARS EAE S A y Y TT y O N DO _ O yN yu yz ARI YA Dumb RGB Lights Single control all the lights do the same thing The whole length shown here is 3 channels 0 a Intelligent RGB Light Control Intelligent RGB lights have several different names that are used with Pixels being one of the most commonl
88. the number of outputs that turn on in a group RGB Single Chaser Faders Intensity Delay ms SEG can be set pss f2 Wh e cH Reset Back Seq 170 NirCmd is a small command line utility that allows you to do some useful tasks without displaying any user interface It can be used for varying volume throughout your show and has various other features that may prove useful sA CN View is a Windows utility for viewing and controlling Streaming ACN levels on a network It allows Streaming ACN data to be viewed in real time in a variety of ways including whole universe views individual channel displays and oscilloscope and logging views 386 li gt MW i p A s CA i YA aa a _ a p i E p q 4 A n E LM pr 6 As Pe h j i L i N A MA h n g N N N in d Communication Interfaces Used The communication interface is the way the computer talks to the controllers there are different types of communications interfaces used and a decision must be made to decide what communication interface will best suit your needs A controller must support the correct communication interface type or else it will not work You can also set up multiple types of communication interfaces There are 3 main communication interface systems used by members of auschristmaslighting com which are e Light O Rama e DMX512 e 1 31 ay The network Interface is th link between the computer
89. ts Icicles LED Types LED lights can come in various sizes with different names generally the larger the number the larger light The first letter denotes the shape For example a C6 light would mean that it is candle shaped and 6 8 of an inch in size C7 Many of the lights that are bought in Australia use a step down transformer and a multifunction controller that converts the mains voltage to low voltage DC control for the LED lights This means that we can remove the controller and use an appropriately rated power supply to then control these lights directly through a DC controller This is commonly done by ACL members using Kmart Target and Big W strings bought in Australia It is not recommended to buy cheap e bay or Chinese mains voltage lights as these can be dangerous and may not meet state codes as the insulation quality can be an issue These lights tend to not use step down transformers but instead have 240V on the leds 13 Low Voltage LED Light Control To control low voltage string lights fairy lights it is a matter of removing the controller and connecting the lights through a DC controller with an appropriately rated DC switch mode power supply SMPS gt ai a TS 41 2 gt n p x 2 gS gt ITET TH 6 E NN KF 5 q E rt es os S aK O PON naa aa D Arce Se ef Multifunction lt gs E O 3 5 25 Ny des A ik A A controller has been UO A a EE gt cl removed t Lee
90. ultiple intelligent lights together or over long distances This is OK to do as long as you connect the ground GND wire together between the power supplies and controllers You must ensure you do not connect the positive wire between different power supplies unless they are designed for this most are not This is required to ensure the lights and IC integrated circuits has the same potential between each intelligent strip string and or module gt i Ir mT x 3 FEN gt N 1 S E x K gt Sa Co 7 Mu See gt i o E 4 ni TE SE We e ees atti 4 N Ri 4 A ce eo et A x E oat eel a A 7 E E Wiring colours and a Ts 7 lt Ih AY orientation may vary Ne 9 a ae my Clock Fey Data Pixel Controller u Controllers Controllers are what take the data sent from the computer and converts that into actual light control or movement control There are several types of controllers available with varying features abilities and functions Data is sent from the computer using the same communications protocol that the controller supports Either LOR DMX512 or El 31 So the controller and data from the computer must be the same for them to communicate Light Controller Pata in p ber i e MES 7 ed AN gt UY ae xs RE Bed D A Ss A ha yr E ST Ye ve ve VE Maa d
91. ured FM transmitter with many different models available The sound quality isn t as good as an EDM or Ramsey but the entry price is a lot cheaper These can be usually be bought through EBay Budget Model Standard Model e F 25mw US 45 00 Hily 0 5w US 85 00 25mW output 500mw output Board Only Assembled 74 Ordering From China Many members order their lights directly from China as this can save considerable cost and allow for a wider selection Ordering from China can be a very easy and trouble free task if some precautions are taken One of the preferred Chinese dealers that are used by many ACL members is Ray Wu this dealer runs an Aliexpress online shop that has been used by members for the last 4 years The benefits of using Aliexpress is the payment protection that is offered which is a 3 party called Escrow Escrow holds the money until the goods are received and signed off without any disputes There is a rating system like Ebay for buyers to leave feedback and a dispute claim can be lodged if there are any issues The aliexpress shop also offers a chat room to talk to the vendor so you can ask questions in real time and when ordering multiple items it is best to ask for a pro forma invoice with combined shipping as this can save a considerable amount For Australian residents the total value of your order must be below AUS1000 or else you will incur import duties It is recommended that you check with your state or
92. urrent can be defines as having ripples in the DC signal due to rectification from the AC supply alternating RESISTANCE Electrical resistance of an electrical element is the opposition to the passage of an electric current through that element The International System SI unit of measure for resistance is the Ohm Q WATT Watts W is the International System SI unit of measure for the rate of energy conversion For us in this hobby the watt refers to the conversion of electrical energy to light and heat energy A watt is defined as one joule per second OHMS LAW Ohm s Law states that current through a conductor between 2 points is directly proportional to the potential difference across the two points V Ohms Law can be mathematically defined as iS R Where Current V Volts amp R Resistance J1 RN y i F Ohms Law can be used to mathematically work out gt or V IR or LED Light Emitting Diode is a semiconductor light source LEDs are widely used in our hobby for lighting LEDs are current devices meaning that the current drawn by a LED is critical LEDs only conduct electricity one way this means that AC voltage is not ideal for use with LEDs unless it has been rectified to DC Volts LEDs have an anode and a cathode which can be explained as Anode is the inflow of electric current Cathode is the outflow of electric current RGB RGB stands for Red Green amp Blue and is an additive colour model i
93. version dongle It can be cheaper to actually use an E1 31 to DMX Protocol Bridge like the J1 Sys ECG D4 which gives you 4 DMX512 universe outputs if you plan to have more than one DMX universe ngle Processing is done on the CPU and then sent out through the open DMX Pro Dongle Processing is done on the interface dongle itself thus reducing CPU load DMX interface AVD USB485RJ ISO Isolated Open E O AUS 1930 00 E1 31 interface using the ECG DR4 is a much better DMX Dongle AU 89 00 valued option This dongle gives you 2 shared DMX512 outputs and provides electrical isolation DMX512 Layout Terminate the DMX signal on the last DMX Controller numbers are set on the controllers and the controller will paw device if available recognise the DMX signal for that channel range starting from the first 7 ert T Seseecacaceatens Pi db dt e y HA Are CH NS as a sty BO g 8 sy DA SOSSSOOSSEOSS OEY 421 29 4 A Cat5 6 cable Software must support open Controller start Controller s DMX for the open DMX channel 120 channel 510 dongle to work or support Network interface Controllers 75 channels 3 channels DMX pro for the enttec pro USB to DMX51 channel 1 25 pixels to work dongle 48 channels Hardware does not need to be physically connected in sequential order Maximum of 512 channels per universe More information on the DMX protocol connections topology and technical
94. waterproof cable glands for WS2801 WS2811 WS2812 WS2801 WS2811 WS2812 all mains and data connections WS2812B TM180x MBI6020 WS2812B TM180x MBI6020 16 Fused outputs 32 universes 5440 INK1003 INK1003 pixels 4 DMX outputs TLS3001 SM16716 LPD6803 WS2801 WS2811 WS2812 WS2812B TM180x MBI6020 INK1003 wim 1SYS ECG PIXADS l J1SYS ECG P12S US 225 00 OE JISYS ECG PPX Pixel 12 Universes 2040 Pixels Uni 4096 ch j Extender US 9 00 25 00 12 Fused outputs 6 x 2 banks br Ra The ECG PPX is a pixel extender with a driver and receiver board The PPX will allow the pixel controller to be over 50 metres away from the pixel lights thus allowing many more installation options There are a few pixel extender driver and receiver boards to choose varying in power outputs 2801 6801 180x INK1003 pixel support 2 DMX outputs 2 x DC input 5V 24VDC 5VDC RJ45 E1 31 input Screw terminal plug Outputs HTML Page hardware setup Supports Unicast 8 Fused outputs 4 x 2 banks 2801 6801 180x pixel support 2 x DC input SV 24VDC 5VDC RJ45 E1 31 input Screw terminal plug Outputs HTML Page hardware setup Supports Unicast A number of J1 Sys Controllers are stocked in Australia at clap supplies yagoonalights com 63 San Devices E6804 The E6804 keeps the full E682 feature set but in a lower cost and more compact 4 output package Unicast E1 31 and Art Net up to 12 universes and expands Multicast E1 31 to 7
95. y see performance issues If sharing your connection with your home network internet then the using a separate subnet address range is recommended Use 100 Mb s or faster switches and network interface controllers NIC 10Mb s can be used but the number of universes used may need to be considered Wireless connections can be used but data packets may be dropped or not arrive in the correct order When using many universes it may be advantageous to use unicast to limit data swamping the E1 31 controllers More information on the E1 31 protocol connections topology and technical data can be found 39 Single E1 31 Device network 12 Universes 2048 pixels IP No 10 10 10 3 Software that Cat5 6 cable supports E1 31 Multi E1 31 Device network 4 Universes 2048 channels IP No 10 10 10 5 supports E1 31 a Cat5 6 cable Each E1 31 device is identified in the network by being allocated an IP address 12 Universes 2048 pixels IP No 10 10 10 6 Network Switch used for distribution Cat5 6 cable 4 Universes 680 pixels IP No 10 10 10 12 40 S DT D AVVA u de Y pi E a P a ra W w A A WD w A e a e Ml Electrical Safety Without power we can t run our lights so it s very important to understand the safety fundamentals with working with certain voltages There has been a strong trend towards using Low Voltage DC LED lights thi
96. y used e The individual lights sections are controlled by an IC that processes the data coming in and then converts the data to light control the data is then passed on to the next light section e The data used for most applications is called SPI data which stands for Serial Peripheral Interface Bus which is a synchronous serial data link standard created by Motorola e Data is sent along the line the first light light section accepts the first piece of data then removes that data and then regenerates the data signal before passing on the remaining data to the second light and so forth e The lights do not need to be physically individually addressed as they instead cascade the command data to the next IC so that means you can replace a light section without worrying about addressing the new light section e Intelligent RGB lighting has either 3 or 4 wires 2 wires are used to supply power to the lighting IC and LEDs the other 2 are for data and clock some do not use the clock wire DC Switch Mode Power Supply SMPS Data in gt y E E e J Lay DC Volts ap Mains supply power ee ies oo Pri 41 m m y o DC Volts Go DC Volts Light supply a Data line DAT Note Wire positions amp colours may vary with different roller RGB li S T jock Line CLIO Fod types of controllers and intelligent RGB lights GND DC Volts supply Passes data to the next 1 controllable light section is is lled l light section
97. you can extend your supply range or use the J1SYS ECG PPX V out e V in Pixel light Input Pixel Controller Output _ Supply cable connects to 1 with power out and data DAT DAT in pixel input the data then out note some Pixel ICs ME CLK in controls the power for each support l wire data and do section and the data is then not have the CLK line GND a GND in passed from section to section 4 core cable connects from pixel controller to pixel lights and must be DAT Data no longer than 3 to 4 metres CLK Clock Note Wire colours and connection order may vary The physical layout for a pixel controller isn t very different from the physical layouts Data sent from of AC and DC systems except the distance network interface away your controller is from your lights can to pixel controller be when running pixels Data sent from the pixel controller to the pixel lights must be no longer than 3 to 4 metres apart or else use a dummy si a ae e pixel to extend the range gt A D ant Gil E A MN Low voltag eD e eo C A power supplied to ion pixel controller from voltage DC power the DC power set el eis gt supply LE p e o The main components are similar to an AC or DC circuit e Computer e Power supply e Controller e Lights fe A e Y i A a 3 350 es a a ad me X T ul at HORA ains power supplied to DC power supply Simple p

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