This guide will walk you through the process of creating a fixture profile for a 7-channel RGB Par Can using our Fixture Manager Tool. This profile will enable you to control the lighting fixture through DMX. We'll use the "Chauvet - SlimPAR 56" as an example. Let's get started!
Step 1: Gather Fixture Information
Begin by obtaining the fixture's manual. You'll need it as a reference to create the fixture profile. Locate the section in the manual that provides the necessary DMX information for the fixture. Here's an example we'll be using, the "Chauvet - SlimPAR 56."
Step 2: Create a New Fixture Entry
1. Open the software and navigate to the Menu Bar.
2. Click on "File" and select "New Fixture." This action will generate a new, empty entry in the Workspace, where you can build your fixture profile.
Step 3: Enter Manufacturer and Model
1. In the new entry, select the "Manufacturer" from the dropdown list. For our example, choose "Chauvet."
2. In the "Model" field, enter the complete model name of your fixture. In this instance, input "SlimPAR 56."
Step 4: Add a Mode
1. Click on the "Add Mode" option. This step allows you to define a specific operating mode for your fixture.
2. Enter the number of channels associated with this mode. For our example, we're creating a profile for the 7-channel mode. Enter the value "7" in the designated field.
Note: You can add multiple modes if your fixture supports them. Some fixtures may have various operating modes, each requiring a different number of channels. Refer to the fixture's manual for this information.
Step 5: Create Necessary Cell
1. Choose the "Add Cell" option. This action generates the required control cell for the fixture.
Note: Since this fixture only has a single control cell, you only need to create one cell for it.
Step 6: Enter DMX Data
1. Input the fixture's DMX data into the provided table.
2. Begin by entering the RGB values. Since each function uses just one channel, put "1" in the "Num Channels" column.
3. Fill in the "Coarse" column with the channel value for each RGB function.
4. When encountering functions like the Color Macro on CH 4, which SoundSwitch doesn't directly control, add it as an Attribute. In the description field for the first attribute, input "Color Macros" as shown in the screenshot. (Please use a descriptive name when creating Attributes as this name will be used in the Attribute Cues menu in our SoundSwitch). Include the required "Number of Channels" and "Coarse" value.
5. Continue completing the rest of the profile by filling in the necessary fields for each function.
6. Remove any default functions that aren't used or have "0" in the "Num Channels" column.
7. Refer to the provided screenshot for a finished profile.
Step 7: Verify the Fixture and Save or Upload
After you've finished creating your fixture profile, you have two options: you can either save it locally on your computer or upload it to a public server for other SoundSwitch users to access.
Local Save:
1. When your fixture profile is complete, go to "Menu Bar > Fixtures > Check Fixture."
2. In the bottom left corner of the Fixture Manager Window, you'll see a message telling you whether the fixture passes a test to ensure it's correct.
3. If the fixture passes the test, you can save the profile to your own workspace.
4. To do this, go to "Menu Bar > File > Save Workspace."
Upload to Public Server:
1. Once the fixture profile is fully completed, go to "Menu Bar > Fixtures > Check Fixture."
2. In the bottom left corner of the Fixture Manager Window, you'll see an output confirming whether the fixture passes the integrity test.
3. Once the integrity check is successful, you can upload the profile to the Public Server for use.
4. When ready to upload to the Public Cloud navigate to ""Menu Bar > Fixtures > Transfer to Public Cloud"
By following these steps, you'll be able to create and validate a fixture profile effectively. Remember to consult the fixture manual for accurate DMX data input. If you encounter any issues, refer to our support documentation or contact our support team for assistance.
Access the complete Fixture Manager manual below: