Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page i Avolites Rolacue Sapphire and Pearl Operators Manual Software 96 release 1 rq96man 19/09/1996 18:30
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page ii Useful Avolites phone numbers:Avolites England sales and service* (+44) (0) 181 965 8522 service out of hours* (+44) (0) 831 17 88 88 fax (+44) (0) 181 965 0290 BBS modem (+44) (0) 181 961 4838 Email sapphire (at) avolitesdownload.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 1 1. Read Me!! 1.1 How to use this manual The manual is designed to achieve two objectives; firstly to get the new user of the Pearl or Sapphire up and running very quickly, and secondly to provide a fast reference book for the more experienced operator. If you are using one of the desks for the first time and are keen to get going, save yourself the embarrassment of blowing the board up by reading section 1.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 2 If you intend to use a Graphics Tablet in this session, you should also connect this up now to the Serial port on the back of the desk and switch it on (blue POWER switch in depressed position). As it receives its power from the desk it will not activate until the desk is on, but this helps it to boot up correctly.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 3 1.3 Overview of the desk 1.3.1 The Preset Area This is the upper half of the desk, and includes the LCD Brightness and LCD Contrast controls (see Section 1.2.2 Seeing the Screen), the Sound to Light control (Section 9.7 Sound to Light on the Pearl) and the Key. The key determines whether the desk is set to System, Program or Run.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 4 In Normal Run Mode the level to which Channels are output is controlled by the SWOP Master Fader and the ADD Master Fader. The Grand Master Fader always determines the output of the whole of the Playback and Preset Areas proportional to its level. 1.3.3 The Control Area This area is used to control all the programming features of the desk. The Sapphire has a single Wheel whilst the Pearl has two Wheels marked A and B.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 5 1.4 The Key Switch Positions 1.4.1 System mode Turning the Key to System mode, allows access to System Software, various diagnostic functions and the WIPEALL function (see Section 1.6.1 To do a WIPEALL). If you are upgrading your System Software or emptying a desk prior to programming a new show, you will use this section. It is not recommended to program in this mode, so do what you gotta do and get out! 1.4.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 6 ⇒ To avoid storing unwanted information when programming press the CLEAR button before starting to build any Memories or Chases. If a channel does not change in level when a Playback Fader is moved it is probably under the control of the Programmer. Release it by pressing CLEAR. See also Section 4.2 How HTP and LTP Channels behave in the Programmer. 1.5.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 7 1.7 Help and Hints Problem : I didn’t read the manual properly and I plugged the desk in with the wrong voltage selected. I think I’ve blown up my Power Supply. HELP! Solution : If you can find an Electronics shop like Tandy in the UK or Radio Shack in the US, they should be able to sell you the Power Supply called a Baby AT for an ordinary PC. If you cannot get this, another PC power supply may well do the job.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 8 This gives you the maximum number of Channels accessible in Two Preset Mode. That means that both sets of Preset Faders control each Dimmer Channel. If you want to run the desk in Wide mode, repeating the above directions on the SWOP buttons will 1 to 1 patch Channels 31 - 60 (61 - 120 on the Sapphire) onto the top set of Preset Faders, leaving the original 30 (60) Channels patched on the bottom Preset Faders. 2.2.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 9 • Raise and lower your Preset Faders. The channel will output to the level of the Preset Fader. 2.3.2 Typing in a level • Hold down the ADD or SWOP button of the Channel you wish to adjust. Channels in Preset Bank A are accessed using the ADD buttons, and Channels in Preset Bank B are accessed using the SWOP buttons. • Type in a percentage level on the Keypad. • Press ENTER. You are now ready to record your first Memory!! 2.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 10 • Press CLEAR to empty the Programmer. (See Section 1.5 The Programmer for more details.) • Make sure all the Master Faders are at full and all the Playback Faders are at zero. • Turn the Roller to the page you wish to record onto. • Select Roller Page one, two or three. On the Pearl, use the Roller Page Buttons located to the left of the Roller. On the Sapphire, use Softbutton G followed by typing 1,2 or 3 on the Keypad. There is no need to press ENTER.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 11 2.5.3 Stopping and Starting your Chase The STOP and GO buttons stop and start a Connected Chase. The STOP button steps through a Stopped Chase. 2.5.4 Changing the direction of a Chase You can change the direction of a Connected Chase by using the three Arrow Keys at the bottom of the Sequence Control area.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 12 • • Put the Personality Disk in the disk drive. Press the blue PATCH button on the Program Select bank. You are asked to choose DIMMER or DEVICE. If you have the colour Screen option this will now display which DMX addresses are in use, and which Fixture type is using them. • Press Softbutton B [CHOOSE AN INSTRUMENT FROM DISK]. The disk is now read and a list of available Personalities is presented on Softbuttons A to E.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 13 3.4 Controlling Intelligent Fixtures Now you have patched your Intelligent Fixtures, you will want to be able to control them. The various Attributes of each Fixture are accessed via the Preset Bank. You can then use either Wheels or Preset Faders to set the level of an Attribute. 3.4.1 Controlling Intelligent Fixtures using Wheels To do this you need to connect the Wheels to the desired Handles. There are two methods. 3.4.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 14 The fixtures will now respond to the Wheel(s), controlling the Attribute selected from the Preset Bank. If you change Preset Bank, the Wheel(s) remain connected to the original bank active when you made the connection. 3.4.5 How the Wheels control the Attribute On the Sapphire : The Sapphire has one Wheel, and Connection is moved between the Wheel and the two sets of Attributes using the Up and Down Cursor buttons.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 15 You can then change Preset Bank and access a different Attribute of the Fixtures. For example, here is how an eight channel Intellabeam Moving Mirror light is controlled. I have assumed that this is patched onto Handle 1 (Preset Faders 1/31).
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 16 3.4.9 Switching between controlling by Preset Faders and Wheels The Faders and Wheels work relative to the current state of an LTP Attribute. This means that Wheels can instantly move an Attribute in either direction to its limit, because they can spin continuously. Because the travel of the Fader is limited, it can get out of calibration with the Fixture. eg.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 17 • Select Roller Page one, two or three. On the Pearl, use the Roller Page Buttons located to the left of the Roller. On the Sapphire, use Softbutton G followed by typing 1,2 or 3 on the Keypad. There is no need to press ENTER. • Press the blue MEMORY button on the Program Select bank. Its LED will light up and you can see which Playback Faders are free because their SWOP button LED’s will flash.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 18 • Repeat the previous two directions for as many steps as you wish to record. There is no limit to the number of Chase steps provided that there is enough memory left in the desk • Press the CHASE button again. The Chase is now recorded. The LED on the Playback SWOP button will light to indicate it has something recorded on it and the LED on the CHASE button goes out. • Press CLEAR to release Channels from the Programmer.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 19 4. More about Intelligent Fixtures 4.1 What are HTP and LTP Channels? There are two basic types of Attribute - LTP, (Latest Takes Precedence or Last takes Precedence) and HTP, (Highest Takes Precedence). This terms refer to how different Attributes of a Fixture are recalled in the Playback area in a Memory or Chase. LTP Channels respond to and retain the last instruction they were given. Colour is an example of an LTP Channel.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 20 Records as seen on stage. HTP Only records Records output as Channels if they seen on stage. are present in (See Section 6.13 the Programmer. Using the RECORD Only records Channels if they are present in the Programmer. STAGE function) Records Channels present in the programmer. LTP See also Section 6.1 Record by Instrument / Record by Channel / Record all Channels. 4.4 INSTANT and FADING Channels Certain LTP Channels can be defined as Instant or Fading.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 21 • Press Softbutton E [SET/RESET INSTANT MODE]. Screen shows all DMX Channels for all Fixtures. Use Up and Down Cursor Keys to move up and down the Screen. The BANK number on the Screen refers to the Preset Bank number which accesses each DMX Channel. • Select the Preset Bank of the Attribute you wish to change. Its LED lights up. • Press a Preset SWOP or ADD buttons on the Handle of each Fixture you wish to change.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 22 Note that if you use this function with Tracking on, the Fixtures will all point at the same position on the stage rather than copying the absolute Pan and Tilt values. 4.5.3 Align Attributes This aligns Attributes from just the current Preset Bank. It copies the Attribute from the first selected Fixture to all the other selected Fixtures. See ALIGN FIXTURES above. • Turn the Key to Program. Puts you in Live Program Mode menu.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 23 • Press the PATCH button on the blue Program Select bank. Puts you in the PATCH DIMMER OR DEVICE menu. If you have the VGA option the colour Screen will automatically change to show which DMX addresses are in use. • Press Softbutton F [INVERT A CHANNEL]. Screen shows all DMX Channels for all Fixtures. Use Up and Down Cursor Keys to move up and down the Screen. The BANK number on the Screen refers to the Preset Bank number which accesses each DMX Channel.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 24 4.8.1 Controlling Slaved Channels Slaved Channels not connected to a Wheel will follow the Master Preset Fader level for that Attribute, or copy a level entered on the Keypad for the Master Channel. (See Section 3.4.7 Controlling Fixtures by typing in levels on the Keypad) You can Slave Channels together for as many Attributes as you like by repeating the procedure above. They will remain Slaved even when you change Preset Bank. 4.8.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 25 4.10 The OFF button This function allows individual Channels within a Fixture or all the Channels of a Fixture to be turned OFF. 4.10.1 Why we need an OFF function Because this is the only way to remove a Channel from a Chase or Memory once it has been recorded in it. If a Channel or Fixture is OFF, it is not output from a Memory or Chase it has been recorded into. Recording a Channel at zero is not the same as a Channel which is OFF.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 26 • Select the Fixtures to have the Attribute turned OFF. • Press and hold down the OFF button. On the Sapphire this button is above the Preset Master Fader, on the Pearl this is one of the fixed function buttons • Press Softbutton B [Switch OFF Upper FADERS] or Softbutton C [Switch OFF Lower FADERS]. The Screen displays OFF next to the Channel numbers of these Fixtures. • Press EXIT to leave the function. Puts you back in LIVE PROGRAM MODE menu. 4.10.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 27 5. Patching 5.1 Before Patching Before you can control a Fixture or a Dimmer you must patch it. The patch function connects a desk channel to an actual output channel. It is a good idea to do a WIPEALL before starting to patch the desk. See Section 1.6.1 To do a WIPEALL. The Rolacue gives you the option of either addressing your Dimmers and Fixtures and entering the addresses into the patch, or automatically generating addresses for Fixtures as you patch them.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 28 • Either type in the number 12 and ENTER. • Press EXIT to quit. 5.3 Patching terminology 5.3.1 Handles A Handle is a vertical set of two Preset Faders, an ADD button and a SWOP button used to control a Fixture. 5.4 Patching Conventional lights • Turn the Key to Program. Puts you in LIVE PROGRAM MODE. • Press the blue PATCH button on the Program Select bank. Puts you in the PATCH DIMMER OR DEVICE menu.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 29 • Check that the grey LAMPS button on the Preset Bank is selected. (Its LED should be lit - if it isn’t, press the LAMPS button.) • Put the Personality Disk in the disk drive. • Press the blue PATCH button on the Program Select bank. You are asked to choose DIMMER or DEVICE. If you have the colour Screen option this will now display which DMX addresses are in use, and which Fixture type is using them. • Press Softbutton B [CHOOSE AN INSTRUMENT FROM DISK].
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 30 • Press the blue PATCH button on the Program Select bank. Puts you in the PATCH DIMMER OR DEVICE menu. • If you have the VGA option the colour Screen will automatically change to show which DMX addresses are in use. • Press Softbutton C [GENERIC LTP] • Using the Numeric Keypad type the number of the lowest DMX channel you are going to use. The Screen suggests the lowest DMX channel number available but you can type over this.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 31 If you want to run the desk in Wide mode, repeating the above directions on the SWOP buttons will 1 to 1 patch Channels 31 - 60 (61 - 120 on the Sapphire) onto the top set of Preset Faders, leaving the original 30 (60) Channels patched on the bottom Preset Faders. If you need to patch more Dimmers or Fixtures than this allows, see Section 5.22 Advanced patching. 5.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 32 The programming associated with the Fixture is preserved, and you need to patch a new DMX address onto the Handle. If you are changing the DMX address of an Intelligent Fixture, you will be asked to press ENTER to confirm the repatch. ⇒ Remember that patching a Dimmer onto a Handle already occupied by another Dimmer simply adds the new Dimmer to the Handle. Do not delete anything or your programming may be lost!! 5.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 33 5.17 Illegal Addresses Some Fixtures can only be addressed at certain DMX addresses. You should check this out before patching by reading the Operators Manual for the Fixture, looking on the back of the Fixture for specific information or asking the manufacturer or dealer for that particular Fixture. See Appendix 4. Intelligent Fixture Manufacturers for contact numbers.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 34 • On the Keypad enter the DMX number you wish to reduce. This MUST be an HTP channel or the message REQUEST DENIED will be presented since an LTP channel cannot be reduced. • Select the Preset Bank you wish to put the Reduction Fader on. • Press a Preset SWOP or ADD button to create the Reduction Fader.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 35 Firstly you can run double the amount of Dimmers you control to 60 on the Pearl and 120 on the Sapphire by patching in the LAMPS bank onto both SWOP and ADD buttons, so you have a different Dimmer Channels on each bank of Preset Faders. The SWOP and ADD buttons will only act as Flash buttons for Channels 1 - 30 on the Pearl and 1 - 60 on the Sapphire and you will no longer be able to run in Two Preset Mode satisfactorily.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 36 For example a par can with a colour changer will only use 2 Channels (Intensity and Colour.) You can create a special Personality file that will allow you to assign Intensity and Colour to Preset Bank 3, where you would normally control Pan and Tilt of a moving Fixture. This would enable you to patch double the normal amount of colour changers. See the Personality File Programmers Manual for details. 5.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 37 6.1 Recording Modes These are different recording modes set in the USER SETTINGS menu. Which ever mode is active when you Record or Edit a Memory or Chase is the mode in which the Edits will be stored. 6.1.1 Record by Instrument In this Mode, if you access any of the LTP Channels of a Fixture, all of the LTP Channels of that Fixture will be put into the Programmer and stored into any Memories or Chases programmed. HTP Channels record as seen. 6.1.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 38 • Press the SWOP button of the Playback Channel you want to record the Memory onto. The Memory is now recorded. The LED on the Playback Channel will light to indicate it has something recorded on it and the LED on the MEMORY button goes out. • Press CLEAR to clear the Programmer. ⇒ If the Playback Fader is raised, you must lower it before you raise it again to recall the Memory. It is very important to get into the habit of pressing CLEAR.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 39 Softbutton A [WAIT IN] Softbutton B [WAIT OUT] Softbutton C [FADE IN] Softbutton D [FADE OUT] Softbutton E [LTP FADE] Softbutton F [LTP WAIT] Softbutton G [MODE = (X)] Under each Softbutton label on the Screen is the time for that Timer. The time can range from tenths of a second to 12 hours. • Set each time by entering the time on the Keypad and pressing the appropriate Softbutton. Use the decimal point to separate hours, minutes, seconds and fractions.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 40 6.4.2 Memory Mode 1 This Mode allows Fade times as programmed in the EDIT TIMES menu. (See Section 6.3 Using the TIMES menu.) Entering Memory Times to a Memory automatically sets the Memory Mode to 1. HTP Channels fade up using the Fade In time when the Playback Fader is moved in the up direction or a Playback SWOP or ADD button is pressed.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 41 6.6 How Playback Faders run timed Memories In all Memory Modes that use a time (Memory Modes 1 and 2), the Playback Fader level controls the percentage of the fade time that will run. For example if a Playback Fader with a 10 second fade time is stopped at 30%, the timer will perform a 3 second fade to 30% of its level and then stop. If the Fader is moved to Full, the Memory will continue to fade in over 7 seconds.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 42 It means that the original Memory is replicated, but it also means that all the replicas and the original are linked, and changing ANY of the linked Memories changes ALL of them. Deleting a Copy does not affect the other replicas. To Copy a Memory : • Press and hold down the grey ADD button of the Memory you wish to Copy. You are asked to press a Playback SWOP button. • Press the SWOP button of the Playback Channel you wish the Copy to occupy.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 43 6.12 Using INCLUDE to program a Memory As discussed in Section 4.3, How HTP and LTP Channels are recorded LTP Channels output from the Playback area will not record in a new Memory (or Chase Step) because they are not in the Programmer. To put all the Channels from a Memory or Chase Step into the Programmer to record elsewhere, you can use Include. • Turn the Key to Program. Puts you in LIVE PROGRAM MODE menu.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 44 Typically this can be used to reduce the level of all the HTP Channels in a particular Memory. The Playback Fader for that Memory is put up at the correct level, and the output recorded back into the Memory itself at the new level. Another use is for this function is to incorporate one Memory into another existing Memory, at the level that is being output. • Turn the Key to Program. Puts you in LIVE PROGRAM MODE menu.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 45 7. Programming Chases This section assumes that you have devices patched on your Rolacue, and that you are comfortable controlling them. 7.1 Recording Modes These are different recording modes set in the USER SETTINGS menu. Which ever mode is active when you Record or Edit a Memory or Chase is the mode in which the Edits will be stored. 7.1.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 46 • Create the scene you wish to record by going into each Preset Bank to access the Attributes you require. Use Wheels or Preset Faders or any combination of these to get the look on stage that you want to record. Alternatively use a Preset Focus to create a look. See Chapter 8 Preset Focuses. • Press the flashing SWOP button of your Playback Channel to record the step. The prompt line on the Screen tells you your next step number.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 47 ⇒ User Setting 13 selects the display to show Beats Per Minute or time in Seconds. See Section 11.13 Setting 13. SPEED IN SECONDS / BPM. A 0% crossfade means the steps will snap and FF% means the steps will Crossfade, such that at the end of the fade the next step will immediately start. 7.5 Stopping and Starting your Chase The STOP and GO buttons stop and start a Connected Chase. 7.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 48 Global Times can either be entered by using the Wheels as described in Section 7.4 Adjusting the Speed and Crossfade of your Chase, or using the EDIT TIMES menu from the Live Program menu. When the EDIT TIMES menu is used in this way, it is called the Global Times menu. See Section 7.10 The EDIT TIMES menu. 7.9.2 Individual Step Times Chases Individual Step Times set Fade and Wait parameters which are applied to individual Chase steps.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 49 7.10.6 LTP Wait time This is the amount of time that elapses when a Step starts before an LTP Fade starts. 7.10.7 Link ON or OFF Linked Chase steps automatically run on one from the next. If you Unlink any steps, the Chase will stop at the Unlinked Step, and you have to press the Playback ADD button or the GO button to restart the Chase. You must have the Chase Connected to restart it using the GO button. 7.10.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 50 7.12.2 Changing Global Chase times using the EDIT TIMES menu Wheels • Record the Chase you want as a normal Chase using the method in Section 7.2 Programming a Chase above. • Press Softbutton C [EDIT TIMES]. Either press the SWOP button of the Playback Fader of the Chase you wish to add Timing to, or type in the Playback Fader number and press ENTER. Enter times into the EDIT TIMES menu as detailed in Section 7.10 The EDIT TIMES menu above. 7.12.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 51 • Enter Fade and Wait times for the Step being edited. (see Section 7.10 The EDIT TIMES menu.) • Press ENTER for these changes to be effected. 7.13.2 LINKING an Individual Chase Step menu Pressing Softbutton G in the Individual Step Times menu toggles the setting of the Link for the Chase Step. 7.13.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 52 To store the changes : • Press Softbutton A [RECORD]. The Screen asks you to press a SWOP button. • Press the SWOP button of the Chase Step you wish to record the changes onto. 7.14.4 EDIT TIMES Use the EDIT TIMES menu here in the same way as using the Individual Step Times menu on a Chase Step in EDIT mode. Screen 14 is automatically displayed.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 53 • You may then wish to Renumber following the procedure in Section 7.14.6 above. ⇒ You cannot use the blue DELETE button on the Program Select bank for this function. 7.14.8 PREVIOUS 15 (20) STEPS As the Pearl only has 15 Playback Faders (and the Sapphire 20) you cannot fit more than 15 (20) Chase Steps onto the Playback Faders at a time. Pressing this button puts the previous 15 steps of a long Chase onto the Playback Faders for editing.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 54 It means that the original Chase is replicated, but it also means that all the replicas and the original are linked, and changing ANY of the linked Chases changes ALL of them. Deleting a Copy does not affect the other replicas. To Copy a Chase : • Press and hold down the grey ADD button of the Chase you wish to Copy. You are asked to press a Playback SWOP button. • Press the SWOP button of the Playback Channel you wish the Copy to occupy.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 55 • Press the Playback SWOP button of the Memory or Chase step you wish to Include. The Memory or Chase Step is put into the Programmer, and the Included scene is added to the output. • Make any further changes required for the Chase Step, then record it in the normal way. 7.20 To jump to any Chase step You can go to any Chase Step in a Connected Chase whether it is stopped or running. If it is running, it will jump to the Chase Step and continue to run.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 56 • Bring up a Playback Fader to run a Chase. • Connect the Chase. • Tap Softbutton G twice to set Chase time. The Chase will now play at the rate set by the taps. Save the Speed using the Save Speed function in the Chase Parameters menu. See Section 7.29.1 Softbutton A - SAVE SPEED. 7.25 Deleting a Chase • • Turn the Key to Program. Puts you in LIVE PROGRAM MODE menu. Press the blue DELETE button on the Program Select bank. Its LED will light up.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 57 • Turn the Key to Program. Puts you in LIVE PROGRAM MODE menu. • Connect the Chase. • Press the blue INSERT button on the Program Select bank. Its LED will light up. • Press Softbutton A [RENUMBER]. Screen asks you if you are sure you want to renumber Chase. • Press Softbutton F [YES] to confirm the renumbering or Softbutton A [NO] to stop it. • See also Section 7.14.6 Renumbering the UNFOLDED Chase. 7.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 58 FADER STOPS, GO TO START does not start the Chase until the GO button is pressed after the Playback Fader is moved up. 7.29.6 Softbutton B - WAIT AND FADE ALL STEPS / SKIP FIRST WAIT TIME / SKIP FIRST WAIT AND FADE TIME These options control how the first step of the Chase is run. WAIT AND FADE ALL STEPS uses the times exactly as programmed. SKIP FIRST WAIT TIME removes the first Wait time so starts the Fade as soon as the Playback Fader is moved up.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 59 ⇒ You can jump to any Chase step by selecting the step on the keypad and pressing the CONNECT button. 7.32 Recording and recalling Chase Steps on the Graphics Tablet and Stage Remote Chase Steps can be recorded directly from the Graphics Tablet. See Section 14.9.4 Record Step in the Graphics Tablet Chapter. Chase Steps can replayed directly from the Stage Remote. See Section 15.5 Using the Remote to recall and step through a Chase in the Stage Remote Chapter. 7.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 60 The next rate down is that on every other DMX cycle a new step is output, and the next speed down from this is that on every third cycle a step is output. This is how BPM’s of 2400, 1200, 800, 600 etc. are computed. It also follows that at 2400 there can be no fade time (not that this could be seen anyway) and any fade at 1200 will only have one step in it.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 61 A clever use of Preset Focuses is to align colours on analogue colour changers. Different changers may require different levels to go to the same colour. You can make up Colour Preset Focuses to compensate for this. If you have to change out a colour changer simply correct the Preset Focuses with the new unit and the Memories will be correct. Preset Focuses can contain more than one Attribute.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 62 8.4.2 Using the Focus Mask when recalling a Preset Focus You can use Preset Focuses in Program mode or Take Over Run mode. See Section 12.1 Run Modes. The Focus Mask settings also determine which Attributes are recalled when you use a Preset Focus in any given Preset Bank. You can if necessary change the Focus Mask to recall different Attributes from the Preset Focus, provided that these Attributes have been stored.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 63 8.4.4 Setting the Focus Mask • Turn the Key to Program or Run in Take Over Run mode. See Section 12.1 Run Modes. • Select the relevant Preset Bank. • Either press and hold down a grey Preset Focus button or press the STORE FOCUS button. • Press the Preset Bank buttons to select or deselect Attributes on the Focus Mask. Lit LED’s in the Preset Bank buttons indicate selected banks. Turn banks on and off by pressing the Preset Bank Buttons.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 64 • Release the Preset Focus button. 8.6.2 The DIAGONAL COPY method • Turn the Key to Program or Run in Take Over Run mode. See Section 12.1 Running your show. • Select the Preset Bank of the Attribute you wish to use. • Press and hold down a previously recorded Preset Focus button. • Check the Focus Mask is correctly set. Lit LED’s in the Preset Bank buttons indicate selected banks. Turn banks on and off by pressing the Preset Bank Buttons.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 65 This Preset focus information is customisable by editing the Personality File. Details on how to do this are contained in the Personality File Technical Manual. Normally the automatically loaded Preset Focuses are as follows. Preset Focus buttons 1 to 10 Preset Focus buttons 11 to 21 Preset Focus buttons 21 to 29 Colours. Gobos. Positions (see below).
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 66 You can get in a real mess trying to recall Attributes that have never been stored, or have been stored in some Preset Focuses but not others in the same Preset Bank. Worse still, you can end up editing and resaving a Preset Focus with some of the original Attributes missing. This results in some of the Attributes updating and some not, with chaotic results.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 67 9.2.1 Screen 1 - CHANNEL OUTPUT AS A PERCENTAGE This is the normal Channel Output Screen. It shows the output of each channel in the current Preset Bank as a percentage. Select different Preset Banks to examine the Outputs for different Attributes. 9.2.2 Screen 2 - CHANNEL OUTPUT, FULL RESOLUTION This shows the output of each channel in the range 0 to 255.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 68 9.2.10 Screen 10 - PAGE PLAYBACK STATUS This displays the status of each Playback Channel. This is useful if you are using times on Memories or Chases since you can see them fading in and out. It is also useful if you are using Script Files. See the Section 16 The Script File System. 9.2.11 Screen 11 - SCRIPT FILE See Section 16 The Script File System for further details.9.2.12 Screen 12 - VIEW PATCH BY HANDLE This Screen is split into two sections.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 69 • Turn the Key to Program. Puts you in Live Program Mode menu. • Press Softbutton H [ML MENU]. Puts you in the Moving Light menu. • Select the Fixtures to be Grouped. Their LED’s will light up. • Press Softbutton D [RECORD GROUP]. • Enter a group Number between 1 and 60 on the Keypad. • Press ENTER. The Group is recorded. The order in which you selected Fixtures is recorded in the group.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 70 9.6 Programming in BLIND mode 9.6.1 Entering Blind Mode • • Turn the Key to Program. Puts you in LIVE PROGRAM MODE menu. Press Softbutton F [PRESS FOR BLIND MODE]. Puts you in BLIND PROGRAM MODE menu. When in Blind Mode the Programmer and the Preset Faders are disconnected from the output so you can build or edit Memories and Chases without your programming being seen on stage.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 71 9.7 Sound to Light on the Pearl This section applies to Pearl users only. Connect either a microphone or a line level signal into the sound to light input. Inside the desk there is a link allowing you to configure the desk for Microphone or Line. 9.7.1 Setting the sound to light input level link You can select one of three input settings for the sound to light. These are Normal Microphone, Low Level Line and Line level.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 72 10. Tracking Moving Lights 10.1 Using the Moving Light tracking system The Moving Light tracking system allows you use a number of Moving Lights in ‘follow spot’ mode. When the Tracking is active, the desk computes the Pan and Tilt positions for each Selected Fixture so that they all point to the same point on the stage at all times. 10.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 73 ⇒ Important notes regarding training:The PAN value must be different for each of the corners, as must be the TILT value. The difference need only be 1 count. If you are using moving head Fixtures you should make sure they are trained the same way up. Do this by ensuring the tilt value is kept below 50%. 10.3 Using Tracking without a Graphics Tablet Once you have trained the desk, you can Track the Fixtures.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 74 Problem : The Colour Mix area has little or no effect on the colour output from a Fixture Solution : Check that the Graphics Tablet is working correctly by clicking on CLEAR then re-selecting the Fixtures with the Tablet. Watch the Preset SWOP LED’s on the desk to ensure that it is mirroring the Tablet (assuming you are set to Fixtures not Mimics). If this is working properly, set the Luminosity bar to 50% and try again.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 75 11.5.1 Record by INSTRUMENT 11.5.2 Record by CHANNEL 11.5.3 Record ALL CHANNELS All these Modes are fully discussed in Chapter 6.1 Recording Modes. 11.6 Setting 6. AUTOCOPY When Autocopy is enabled, Slaved Fixtures automatically receive all three colour Mix Channels when only one of them has been Slaved. Unfortunately it does not put all the Colour Mix Channels into the Programmer when only one of them has been edited and you are in Record by Channel mode.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 76 Two different types of Screen have been used at various times on the Sapphire. Normally the Screen type is automatically detected, but this option allows you to force the choice. 11.13 Setting 13. SPEED IN SECONDS / BPM This allows you to decide whether the Chase speeds are displayed in Seconds or Beats Per Minute. 11.14 Setting 14.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 77 11.18.2 Softbutton B - VALID RANGE See Chapter 16 The Script File System. Pressing this Softbutton allows you to set a range a values for valid incoming Timecode. Timecode is not within the values will be rejected and the system will use the Internal Timer to maintain a seamless flow of Timecode until the incoming Timecode falls back within the valid range. To enter the range of values : • Enter the lowest value on the Keypad.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 78 Each Preset Bank can control up to 60 HTP Channels on the Preset Faders (120 on the Sapphire). The level at which they are output is controlled by Preset Master A. Channels 1 - 30 (1 - 60 on the Sapphire) also each have a Preset SWOP and a Preset ADD button associated with them. The Preset SWOP function works to Solo a Preset Fader, killing all other Channels. The Preset ADD button adds the Channel to the output of the desk.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 79 This mode still has access to HTP Channels however. In this mode you have access to Channels 1 to 30 on the Pearl and 1 to 60 on the Sapphire on both sets of Preset Faders. Preset Bank A is controlled by the Preset Master Fader A. Preset Bank B is controlled by the Memory Master Fader B. There is therefore no Memory Master when running in Two Preset mode. Each Preset Channel has an ADD and a SWOP button associated with it.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 80 button in Run modes Takeover Run Two Preset As in Program mode, allowing selection of Preset Focuses etc. As in Program mode allowing selection of instruments. As normal run, but the response time of these buttons will be slower. Disabled As normal run As normal run As normal run As normal run 12.3.1 Changing Run Modes You can change Run Modes two different ways. Either : • Turn the Key to Program. • Press [USER SETTINGS].
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 81 13.1.1 Accessing the Disk System The Disk System is accessed as follows : • Turn the Key to Program. Puts you in LIVE PROGRAM MODE menu. • Press the blue DISK button on the Program Select bank. Its LED lights up. Puts you in the DISK OPTIONS menu.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 82 ⇒ If you do not get this message, you may have a damaged disk. Try Saving to another disk. Whenever you Save the show everything is saved. There is no need to save or load the Patch separately. 13.1.4 Verifying a disk If you wish to make absolutely sure a disk can be reloaded into the desk you can Verify the disk by running Verify Disk. • Place the previously recorded Show Disk to be checked into the disk drive. • Turn the Key to Program.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 83 There is a Personality file available for almost every DMX Fixture currently on the market. Avolites constantly produce new and updated Personality to keep up with new DMX devices and changes to old ones. 13.2.1 Personality Files Personality files contain all the information the desk requires to patch and configure an Instrument including which Preset bank will control which Attribute.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 84 13.4.1 Fitting the WIPEALL link on the SAPPHIRE • Turn Key to Program. Puts you in Live Program Mode. • Save your Show on a blank disk. See Section 13.1.3 Saving your show to disk. • Switch off the desk and unplug it. To avoid damage to desk or technician. • Undo the three Dzus fasteners at the back of the desk which secure the card frame door and open this giving access to the various circuit boards. • Locate the MAP circuit board.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 85 • Close the desk and refasten the Dzus fasteners. • Plug in and power up the desk. • Reload your Show in the usual way. See Section 13.1.5 Loading a show from disk. 13.5 System Software All System Software procedures take place with the Key turned to System. BEFORE DOING ANYTHING TO THE SYSTEM, SAVE YOUR SHOW!! The System Software is the software which runs the desk.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 86 • Turn Key to Program. Puts you in Live Program Mode. • Save your Show on a blank disk. Label it ! See Section 13.1.3 Saving your show to disk. • Turn the Key to System. Puts you in System Mode. • Press Softbutton A [SERVICE]. Puts you in the Service menu. • Press Softbutton A [RUN AVOS 2]. • Type in the Password 68340 and press ENTER. Puts you in the AVOS menu. • Press Softbutton E [SAVE PROGRAM] and insert a blank disk.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 87 • Press Softbutton A [RUN AVOS 2]. • Type in the Password 68340 and press ENTER. Puts you in the AVOS menu. • Insert the disk containing the new version of AVOS. • Press Softbutton F and follow the onscreen prompts. • Press Softbutton A [Start the System] and follow the on Screen prompts until the System menu is presented. Desk starts up. • After running AVOS you must do a WIPEALL. See Section 1.6.1 To do a WIPEALL.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 88 • • Make link 1. Plug in and power up the desk. The LCD Screen should now display the AVOS II menu. • Press Softbutton A [Start The System]. Do NOT select any other option. • Power down the desk and unplug it. • Remove the all the links. Replace these as found. • Close the desk and refasten the Dzus fasteners. • Plug in and power up the desk. • Reload your Show in the usual way. See Section 13.1.5 Loading a show from disk. 13.7.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 89 This revolutionary, graphic Tablet interface, provides : A Tracking System for controlling Moving Lights in ‘follow spot’ or ‘relative’ mode. The Colour Palette for easy and rapid creation of individual colours, with store and instant recall facilities. Select buttons for Fixtures, Groups, Preset Focuses etc. 14.2 An overview of the Tablet The Tablet is divided into several sections. See Appendix 3. Diagram of the Graphics Tablet. 14.2.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 90 14.2.5 The Function button A selection of buttons for controlling the Programmer, LED mimic modes and other miscellaneous operations. Some buttons are not yet defined and these will be used for future options. 14.2.6 The Mouse pad and Screen selects These are for future enhancements. 14.3 Connecting up the Tablet • Turn the desk off. • Connect the Graphics Tablet with the cable provided to the serial port on the desk and the back of the Tablet.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 91 As the Tablet mimics the desk, the desk should behave as if you were performing the functions in the usual way, changing Preset banks, lighting LED’s etc. You may find it easier to do some functions partly on the desk and partly on the Tablet. The effect should be the same. The only exception to this is the Instant Access features listed above, which provide quick access to Attributes and put them in the Programmer, but do not change the Preset Bank. 14.4.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 92 14.5.4 Using Attribute buttons to change the Focus Mask The Attribute Select buttons are also used to change the Focus Mask when storing and recalling Preset Focuses. • Either Hold down a Preset Focus button on the desk or click the Store Focus button on the Graphics pad or desk to see the Focus Mask. • Touch the Attribute Select button with the stylus to toggle its setting in the Preset Mask.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 93 14.6.3 The Stage Area The Stage Area provides Instant Access to the Pan and Tilt Attributes of the Fixture. If the desk has been Trained, the stage area will provide a fairly accurate scale representation of your real stage. 14.6.4 Using Absolute and Nudge in the Stage area Assuming you have the Fixture in about the correct position it is easier to select Nudge, then drag the stylus within the Stage area.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 94 14.7 Preset Focuses on the Tablet Preset Focuses can be stored and recalled from the Tablet. 14.7.1 Storing Preset Focuses on the Tablet ⇒ Care should be taken to ensure that you store the correct information into the correct focus as the Focus Mask is not displayed on the Tablet. To store a Preset Focus : • Turn the Key to Program. Puts you in LIVE PROGRAM MODE. • Set up the Preset Focus on your Fixtures. • Click on the Store Focus button.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 95 • You can now move all the Fixtures together, or step through each Fixture allowing easy adjustment of each one using the Step to Next and Step to Last buttons. Move them by sliding the stylus around the Stage area of the Tablet. To change just Pan or Tilt, touch the appropriate Attribute Select button (3 for Pan, 18 for Tilt), and slide the stylus. Fixtures can also be selected by using the Group and Fixture Select buttons.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 96 • Select the Attribute you wish to turn OFF. • Click on OFF. 14.9 Other functions on the Tablet 14.9.1 Programming a GROUP on the Tablet • Select the required Fixtures. When using tracking with GROUPS the first Fixture selected prior to recording the group becomes the leader. • Click on Record Group in the ML function area. • Click on a Group button to store the group on this button. 14.9.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 97 By default ABSOLUTE mode is selected. In this mode the Tablet stage area represents the stage with the centre of the rectangle being centre of the Tablet stage. • When more than one Fixture is selected, the first Fixture selected is the leader, which other Fixtures will follow. • You can record Preset Focuses, Memories or Chase Steps while the Tablet is in this Mode. • To quit Tracking mode, press the Track OFF. 14.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 98 14.14 Using the Puck The Puck is an alternative input device to the Stylus. Use whichever you prefer. Hold down the big button to Click the puck. 14.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 99 • In the User settings menu, set Option 10 to REMOTE CONTROL. The remote control will not function correctly unless this is done. • • Connect up the Stage Remote as described above. Press the blank white key on the bottom left hand corner of the Remote. The LED’s on the remote will flash. • On the remote press EXIT followed by 111. The LED’s on the remote will flash again to show the Remote is enabled. From the remote you may now call up DMX Channels.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 100 On the Sapphire : This is arrived at by multiplying the Page number by 20 (the number of Playback Channels on a page) and adding it to the Memory number on the page. Page number of page A = 0, page B = 1 etc. A Memory on Playback Fader 12 of Page G will be number 132 ([6x20] + 12). Only Roller Page 1 can be accessed.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 101 SMPTE / EBU Timecode Provided desk is fitted with Timecode reader. Avolites Part number 1201 - 0413 MIDI (From first quarter of 1997). See Section 23.3 MIDI Time Code. 16.1 Building a Script File The steps required to build a Script File are listed below : • Program the required Memories and Chases. • Turn the Key to System. Puts you in System Mode. • Press Softbutton D [SCRIPT FILE PROGRAMMING]. Puts you in the Script File menu.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 102 • Press Softbutton C [SELECT A SCRIPT FILE]. • Enter the Script File number you want to replay onto the Keypad. • Press ENTER. 16.3 Checking your Script File You may wish to select the Internal Clock to check your files as it is probably easier than rerunning your external Timecode source. The asterisk always indicates the next step to be run, and the live step is always indicated on the prompt line.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 103 • Either press Softbutton A [LOAD] to emulate raising a particular Playback Channel to full. Press the Softbutton, then press the SWOP button of the Playback Channel you wish use in the step. • or press Softbutton B [RAMP DOWN] to emulate lowering a particular Playback Channel to zero. Press the Softbutton, then press the SWOP button of the Playback Channel you wish use in the step.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 104 16.4.4 Assigning Timecode to a Group of steps You can now assign Timecode to different Groups of steps or to the whole Script File : The Timecode digits are HH/MM/SS.FF standing for hours, minutes, seconds and frames. • From the Script File menu press Softbutton D [EDIT A SCRIPT FILE]. You will see an arrow pointing at one of the steps of the Script File. • Press Softbutton E [ASSIGN TIMECODE].
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 105 16.7 Explanation of other Script File commands 16.7.1 Reset Timer This is only available when Internal or Manual timers are being used and it resets the timer to the last entered time from the select timer menu. 16.7.2 Clear Masters This releases Playback Faders which are under the control of Timecode. When pressed the output on stage may be blacked out! Beware!! 16.8 Recalling your Script File • Turn the Key to Run. • Press Softbutton D [RUN SCRIPT FILE].
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 106 The step is immediately output. You can then connect the Timer or step through the Script File as above. 16.8.4 To quit running Script Files To quit running Script Files : • Press Softbutton E [DISCONNECT TIMER]. Softbutton now changes to [CONNECT TIMER] and the [NEXT STEP] Softbutton reappears. • Press Softbutton H [CLEAR MASTERS] to release any Playback Faders held in the Script File System.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 107 ALIGN A means of copying Attribute characteristics from the first Fixture selected to other selected Fixtures. ATTRIBUTE One Channel of an Intelligent Fixture. AVOS The most basic Operating mode in the desk. AVOS allows loading of the System Software. BACKUPS Copies of a show stored to disk for safety. BPM Beats Per Minute. CHASE A sequence of one or more pre recorded steps programmed using the CHASE button.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 108 DMX DMX512(1990) a specification for communication between control desks and Fixtures, Originally for Dimmers it has been adopted as a control protocol for most Intelligent Fixtures. It can carry 512 different Channels of data. DMX TRANSMISSION RATE The rate at which DMX data is broadcast from the desk to the Fixtures. DUPLICATE This is called PHOTOCOPY on the Pearl. A method of replicating Memories and Chases which are completely independent of each other.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 109 INCLUDE A means of transferring the contents of a Memory or Chase Step into the Programmer. INDIVIDUAL STEP TIMES Times programmed into one individual Chase Step from the TIMES menu. These steps are called COMPLEX STEPS. See GLOBAL CHASE TIMES, SIMPLE STEP, COMPLEX STEP. INSTANT CHANNEL A channel which does not use fades generated by the desk and moves in discrete jumps from one state to another. See FADING CHANNEL.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 110 MEMORY MODE A playback format programmed into a Memory. There are Memory Modes 0, 1 and 2. MIDI Stands for Musical Instrument Digital Interface. It is the established hardware and software specification enabling the exchange of data between digital musical instruments (such as keyboards) and other devices such as computers, sequencers and sound and lighting desks. ML MENU Stands for Moving Light Menu.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 111 PRESET FOCUS A term used to describe a referenced pre-defined state for an Attribute that can be recalled whenever required during programming. Each Fixture may be different in the Preset Focus, and the levels can be edited. This is how it differs from a TABLE. On Avolites desks each Preset Focus can be named, and recalled with a single button press. PROGRAM Desk mode in which programming functions are enabled, but System Software is protected.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 112 TABLE List of pre-defined levels allowing recalling of a channel by name. Each Fixture uses the same value, and the Table is not editable. This is where it differs from a PRESET FOCUS. TRACKING A mode in which Moving Lights can move around an area all pointing at the same spot. TRAINING The process of recording points on a stage so that the desk can work out the TRACKING for Moving Lights.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 113 18. Appendix 1.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 114 19. Appendix 2.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 115 20. Appendix 3.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 116 21. Appendix 4. Intelligent Fixture Manufacturers Moving Light Mfr.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 117 22. Appendix 5. Functions of the ADD button in Run modes 22.1 This table applies to Normal Run mode, Takeover Run mode and Two Preset mode. 22.1.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 118 22.1.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 119 23. Appendix 6. MIDI implementation details This implementation of MIDI will be available on the Sapphire in the last quarter of 1996. Contact Avolites UK for further details. It is fully implemented on the Pearl, however a small modification on the mother board is required for desks below serial number PRL330. . Details of how to do this can be downloaded from the Avolites BBS service or obtained by contacting the service department at Avolites UK.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 120 On the Sapphire : Page 1 contains Facets 1 - 20 Page 2 contains Facets 21 - 40 Page 3 contains Facet 41 - 60. On the Pearl : Page 1 contains Facets 1 - 15 Page 2 contains Facets 16 - 30 Page 3 contains Facet 31 - 45 $Cn = page number (range 1 to 127) example $Cn $04 Desk changes to page 1 facet D. 23.2.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 121 • Turn the key to System. • Press Softbutton A [TEST]. • Press Softbutton D [ENABLE DEBUG BUTTONS]. • Turn the key back to the required position • Pressing the unmarked top right Sequence Control button will toggle the MIDI terminal screen which is displayed on the VDU. • Pressing the same button again disables the MIDI terminal screen. The operation of this button is inhibited by selecting Softbutton F from the TESTS menu or resetting the desk. 23.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 122 C:\AA\APPENDIX.DOC 24. Credits and Acknowledgements Original ideas and design by Richard Salzedo with much appreciated help from Steve Warren (and many lighting designers). Ric’s hardware was brought to life by Shahid Anwar who designed and implemented the Software, recently assisted by David BujanTome.
Avolites Rolacue Operators Manual - page 123 C:\AA\INDEXIN1.
