microVision FX Lighting control system Version 1.
Limited warranty Electronic Theatre Controls (ETC) warrants to the original owner or retail customer that for a period of one year from date of delivery of a portable system or energization of a permanently installed system (up to a maximum of 18 months from delivery) its products will be free from defects in materials and workmanship under normal use and service. Warranty is limited to 90 days for rental equipment.
table of contents Chapter 1 Introduction ............................................................................................... 1 - 1 MicroVision FX features ...................................................................... 1 - 2 Using this manual ............................................................................... 1 - 3 Text conventions ................................................................................ 1 - 4 Pile-on convention .........................................
iv MicroVision FX Chapter 3 Entering softpatch and system settings ..................................................................................... 3 - 1 Entering softpatch .............................................................................. 3 - 2 Entering numbers of channels and dimmers ................................ 3 - 3 Entering one-to-one softpatch ...................................................... 3 - 4 Creating custom softpatch ..................................................
Table of Contents v Lesson 3: Playing back cues ............................................................. 4 - 24 Selecting cues ............................................................................ 4 - 25 Timed fader pairs ....................................................................... 4 - 26 Playing back cues ....................................................................... 4 - 26 Go to a different cue ..................................................................
vi MicroVision FX Chapter 5 Using print and disk options ............................................... 5 - 1 Print functions .................................................................................... 5 - 2 Bold printing ................................................................................. 5 - 3 Cue sheet ..................................................................................... 5 - 4 Cues ...................................................................................
Table of Contents vii Chapter 7 Reference ....................................................................................................... 7 - 1 And ..................................................................................................... 7 - 2 At ........................................................................................................ 7 - 3 Back .................................................................................................... 7 - 4 Black out ..........
viii MicroVision FX Thru .................................................................................................. 7 - 48 Timed fader pairs .............................................................................. 7 - 49 Track ................................................................................................. 7 - 50 Appendix A Error messages ...................................................................................... A - 1 Appendix B Specifications ..................
chapter1 introduction MicroVision FX allows you to create a wide range of dramatic, on-stage effects using up-to-the-minute theatrical lighting technology. This chapter includes information to orient you to the console and the manual.
1-2 MicroVision FX MicroVision FX features MicroVision FX provides the following features: • Six manual faders that control programmed submasters • Five pages of submasters memories • 125 control channels • Proportional softpatch that accommodates up to 512 dimmers • 200 cue capacity per show • Disk drive that can store up to five shows per 3.
Chapter 1 Introduction 1-3 Using this manual This manual provides instructions for MicroVision FX’s features and optional accessories. The following chapters are included: Chapter 1 Introduction MicroVision FX capabilities, console and manual conventions, getting help, and customer support. Chapter 2 Installation Instructions for installing monitor and optional accessories.
1-4 MicroVision FX Text conventions In this manual, console keys are indicated by square brackets, such as, [Enter]. System messages are printed in boldface, such as, Select channel. References to other sections of the manual are printed in italics, such as, Chapter 1, Introduction. Pile-on convention MicroVision FX uses a pile-on convention rather than last-action convention to determine levels for channels.
Chapter 1 Introduction 1-5 Getting help Help screens are available for all MicroVision FX keys. To display help screens: 1. Press [Help]. 2. Press any key on the console. MicroVision FX displays a description of the key you pressed. Help screens are not available for menu options.
1-6 MicroVision FX Customer service If you have problems with your console, please refer to the manual for instructions. If you do not find the answer in the manual, call your local dealer or ETC Technical Services.
chapter 2 installation This chapter includes set up instructions that you need to perform when you install MicroVision FX and any optional accessories. Chapter 3, Entering softpatch and system settings includes instructions for entering the software settings that you will probably update before you begin a new show.
2-2 MicroVision FX MicroVision FX back panel Printer MIDI out Serial Port CRT DISPLAY RGB in monochrome Analog Interface Power in IR Bus IR Remote DMX 512 PUSH AMX 1-96 AMX 97-192 Audio Remote go
Chapter 2 Installation 2-3 Installing your console and monitor This section includes installation instructions for MicroVision FX, and connector and pinout specifications for the monitor. Follow these steps to install your MicroVision FX: 1. Place console on a hard, stable, flat surface with at least six inches of space behind it for ventilation and cable clearance. Console should be at least six feet away from dimmers and high-current AC lines.
2-4 MicroVision FX 8. Turn console and monitor power switches to their On positions. 9. Press [Setup]. 10. Select 7, System settings, press [Enter]. MicroVision FX displays System Settings Menu. 11. Select 9, Color/monochrome monitor, press [Enter]. MicroVision FX displays Color/Monochrome Monitor selection menu. 12. Select the proper setting for your monitor, either 1 for color, or 2 for TTL or composite monochrome monitor.
Chapter 2 Installation Monitor connectors and pinouts RGB color or TTL monochrome Console connector DB-9 male Pinout 1 Common (AC ground) 2 Common (AC ground) 3 Red 4 Green 5 Blue 6 Intensity (green) 7 Monochrome video 8 HSync 9 VSync(60Hz) Composite monochrome (coaxial cable) Console connector BNC female Pinout Center Video (60Hz) Shield Common 2-5
2-6 MicroVision FX Connecting dimmers To connect dimmers, first determine which of the following connectors are appropriate and insert dimmer cables in appropriate connectors. Then follow the instructions below to select the proper output protocol(s) from the System Settings Menu. If your console is appropriately configured, MicroVision FX can output digital, AMX192 and analog control signals simultaneously.
Chapter 2 Installation 2-7 Digital outputs (DMX512 and D192) Connector XLR 5-pin female 512 digital multiplex dimmers Pinout 1 Common 2 Data (-) (DMX512 and D192) 3 Data (+) (DMX512 and D192) 4 Not used 5 Not used AMX192, CD80 analog multiplex output (optional) Connector XLR 4-pin male (Either one connector for 192 outputs, or two connectors for 384 outputs; 192 outputs per connector) Pinout 1 Common (Earth ground) 2 Clock (+) 3 Analog data 4 Clock (-) Note: You can configure MicroVision FX for Strand CD
2-8 MicroVision FX Analog wire-per-dimmer input (optional)* Connector Centronics D-36 male Pinout Connector one Connector two Connector three Pins 1-32 = dimmers 1-32 Pins 1-32 = dimmers 33-64 Pins 1-32 = dimmers 65-96 All connectors Pins 33-36 = common (Earth ground) *See page 6 - 16 for more information on optional analog inputs.
Chapter 2 Installation 2-9 Installing printer MicroVision FX supports parallel printers. Serial printers are not supported. Printer functions are described in Chapter 5, Using print and disk options. Pinout and connector specifications are on the next page. Follow these steps to install your printer: 1. Insert parallel printer cable into connector labeled Printer on the back of the console. 2. Insert opposite end of printer cable into printer. 3.
2 - 10 MicroVision FX Installing Infrared Remote Focus Unit (IRFU) The Infrared Remote Focus Unit (IRFU) allows you to set channel levels and record or run cues from remote locations in your studio or theatre. The IRFU can be used as either a wireless or wired remote control unit. Used as a wireless remote control, the IRFU consists of two components; a transmitter and a receiver. The transmitter is a hand-held, battery-powered unit that sends infrared control signals to the receiving unit.
Chapter 2 Installation 2 - 11 To install the IRFU on a properly configured MicroVision FX console, follow these steps: 1. Verify that the receiver unit is properly connected to the console and that battery in transmitter is good. 2. Press [Set Up]. 3. Select 9, Options, and press [Enter]. 4. Select 1, Remote focus, and press [Enter]. 5. Enter 1 to enable, or 2 to disable, and press [Enter].
2 - 12 MicroVision FX IRFU receiver unit to console connector and pinout Receiver connector DIN 3-pin female Console connector DIN 5-pin female Pin 1 2 3 Pin 1 2 3 4 5 Signal Ground PPM data +12V Not used Not used IRFU transmitter to console connector and pinout Transmitter connector LEMO series DB 3-pin FGG.1B.304.
Chapter 2 Installation 2 - 13 Installing Remote Go A MicroVision FX console configured for an optional Remote Go provides a 25-pin connector on the back panel. The remote unit connects to the MicroVision FX console via a 24 AWG, aluminum-shielded, multi-conductor cable with one twisted pair designated for each switch (Belden 9507 S-R PCV Insulated or Alpha 5477 80 Deg. C 300 V PVC). The cable connector at the remote unit will vary depending on the unit itself.
2 - 14 MicroVision FX Installing audio input MicroVision FX allows you to create chases and control chase rate with audio input. See page 4 - 42 for more information on using audio inputs. Follow the steps below to connect an audio input: 1. Insert the audio input cable into the connector labeled Audio on the back panel of the console. 2. Check to be sure that the opposite end is properly terminated to the audio source. 3. Verify that power is on for both the MicroVision FX and the audio source. 4.
Chapter 3 Entering softpatch 3-1 chapter 3 entering softpatch and system settings Before you begin creating cues for a show you should first create your softpatch. The softpatch assigns individual dimmers to control channel numbers. You can use a default one-to-one softpatch setup, or you can assign groups of dimmers to channels. The softpatch display lets you proportionally patch dimmers to channels.
3-2 MicroVision FX Entering softpatch MicroVision FX accommodates up to 512 dimmers on 125 channels. Softpatch gives you complete flexibility in assigning dimmers to control channels. Softpatch also allows you to proportionally patch individual dimmers to channels to balance a wash or ensure that a specific lamp cannot be brought above a specific level. For instructions see page 3 - 8. If you are patching dimmers in a Strand CD80 dimmer rack, see page 3 - 11 for special instructions.
Chapter 3 Entering softpatch 3-3 Entering numbers of channels and dimmers Follow these steps to set the number of dimmers and channels in your system: 1. Press [Set Up]. 2. Select 7, System settings, and press [Enter]. 3. Select 1, Number of dimmers, and press [Enter]. 4. Enter the total number of available dimmers, up to 512, and press [Enter]. 5. Select 2, Number of channels, and press [Enter]. 6. Enter the total number of available channels, up to 125, and press [Enter].
3-4 MicroVision FX Entering one-to-one softpatch If you have the same number of dimmers and channels, you may want to use a one-to-one softpatch. A one-to-one patch assigns dimmer one to channel one, dimmer two to channel two, and so on. If you have more dimmers than channels, the default setting assigns the first extra dimmer to channel one, the second extra dimmer to channel two, and so on. To use MicroVision FX’s default softpatch setting follow these steps: 1. Press [Set Up]. 2.
Chapter 3 Entering softpatch 3-5 Creating custom softpatch The following sections include information about creating a custom softpatch. • • Using channel zero Patching dimmers to channels Hint: If you use the same softpatch for several shows, create the softpatch, and record it on a disk before you record any cues. Label the disk Standard patch. When you start your next show, read the Standard patch show into the console, then begin writing cues to avoid re-entering the patch.
3-6 MicroVision FX Patching dimmers to channels Each dimmer can only be patched into one channel at a time. Follow the steps below to create a custom softpatch. 1. Press [Patch]. MicroVision FX displays the following screen. 2. Select dimmers to assign to a single channel. To select a single dimmer: a) Enter the dimmer number. b) Press [Enter]. To select a range of consecutive dimmers: a) Enter beginning dimmer number. b) Press [Thru]. c) Enter the ending dimmer number. d) Press [Enter].
Chapter 3 Entering softpatch 3-7 Shortcut: Combine [And] and [Thru] commands to select any combination of dimmers. For example, press [1] [Thru] [5] [And] [1][0] [Thru] [2][0] to select 1 through 5 and 10 through 20. 3. Enter the channel number to which you want to assign selected dimmers; then press [Enter]. 4. To patch remaining dimmers, repeat steps two, three and four. 5.
3-8 MicroVision FX Additional patching features The following patching features are described below: • • • • Proportional patching Capturing channels in softpatch Unpatching individual dimmers Softpatching to Strand CD80 dimmer rack Proportional patching MicroVision FX lets you assign proportional levels to individual dimmers from the softpatch screen. You may want to inhibit an individual dimmer to balance the wash in a channel or to limit a particular lamp.
Chapter 3 Entering softpatch 3-9 Capturing channels in softpatch MicroVision FX lets you select and capture channels without returning to Stage mode so you can bring channels up on stage for a dimmer check or to view the proportional settings of dimmers assigned to a channel while you set them. To select channels from the softpatch screen, follow these steps: 1. Press [Chan]. 2. Enter channel number. 3. Press [Full] to set channel level at 100 percent, or press [At] and enter a level setting. 4.
3 - 10 MicroVision FX Unpatching individual dimmers MicroVision FX allows you to select a single dimmer and bring it up independent of other dimmers softpatched to the same channel. This is called unpatching a dimmer. If a channel has more than one dimmer softpatched to it, you may want to unpatch a single dimmer to check an individual fixture, to turn on a work light, or to focus a single dimmer. You must be in Stage mode to unpatch a dimmer. Follow these steps to unpatch a dimmer: 1. Press [Stage]. 2.
Chapter 3 Entering softpatch 3 - 11 Softpatching to a Strand CD80 dimmer rack Strand CD80 dimmer racks have 48 dimmer slots that accept AMX192 protocol. Each dimmer slot holds either two 2.4 kw dimmers or one 6 kw or 12 kw dimmer. When configuring a softpatch using a Strand CD80 rack, all 96 possible dimmer numbers per rack must be included. Refer to the charts below to determine dimmer numbers for each slot on each rack.
3 - 12 MicroVision FX Entering system settings These system settings are discussed on the following pages: • • Default full level Default up and down fade times To display the System Settings Menu, follow these steps: 1. Press [Set Up]. 2. Select 7, System settings, and press [Enter].
Chapter 3 Entering softpatch 3 - 13 Setting default full level The default full setting is the level MicroVision FX enters for selected channels when you press [Full]. The default setting for full is 100 percent, and is reset to 100 percent after a diagnostic system clear. When you set the default full level below 100 percent, you can still set channels above the [Full] setting by using [At], [+], [-], or the fader wheel. To set [Full] at a level other than 100 percent, follow these steps: 1.
3 - 14 MicroVision FX Setting default up and down fade times When you record cues, MicroVision FX automatically enters default up and down fade times unless you specify different fade times. The default fade time is five seconds. To customize default fade times, follow these steps: 1. Press [Set Up]. 2. Select 7, System settings, and press [Enter]. 3. Select 4, Default fade times, and press [Enter]. 4.
chapter 4 tutorial This chapter includes lessons on working with MicroVision FX’s basic features: cues, submasters and chases. Each lesson is described briefly below. • Lesson 1 describes display and channel modes and record functions. • Lesson 2 includes instructions for creating several cues. • Lesson 3 includes instructions for creating submasters. • Lesson 4 includes instructions for playing back cues and submasters. • Lesson 5 includes instructions on creating and running chases.
MicroVision FX 4-2 Lesson 1 Display, channel and operation modes This lesson describes display and channel modes and record functions available in MicroVision FX. Display modes show channel and level settings for cues, submasters and fader pairs. Channel modes indicate how channels respond when they are in different situations. Display modes You can work in either of two modes to create and modify cues and submasters: Stage or Blind. The two modes have very similar screens.
Chapter 4 Tutorial 4-3 Stage and Blind screens Stage and Blind screens look very similar. The Stage mode screen is illustrated below. Display mode screen description Grand Master setting The Grand Master setting displays the master intensity level. With it you can proportionally inhibit the level of all channels. The Grand Master affects all console output. Mode label This field displays the current mode, either Stage or Blind.
4-4 MicroVision FX Channel display The channel display lists system channels and their current levels. If you have a color monitor, MicroVision FX color codes level displays to provide additional information about channels. For example, in Blind mode tracked channels are green. See the section titled Channel modes on page 4 - 5 for further description. Fader windows Fader windows display information for loaded cues.
Chapter 4 Tutorial 4-5 Channel modes Channels may be in any of the following modes. Each mode responds differently to your commands. Captured channels Captured channels are channels that you have selected with the keypad and are live on stage. They remain live until you press [Rel] to release them. Captured channels override all other channel settings.
MicroVision FX 4-6 Recorded channels Recorded channels are channel levels that have been recorded in a cue or submaster. In Stage mode, recorded levels appear on the screen when they are in a fader pair or in an active submaster. On a color monitor in Stage mode, recorded levels are displayed in white. Recorded channels may be either moving or tracked in Blind mode (see below). Moving channels Moving channels are channel levels that change from one cue to the next.
Chapter 4 Tutorial 4-7 Record functions MicroVision FX has two record functions: Record and Track. Record saves all channels as they appear on the screen (what you see is what you get) in the cue or submaster you specify. When you use Record to record a cue, levels are recorded in only the cue you specify. Track is a record function that works only for cues. It allows you to build a new cue from the previous cue’s channel settings.
MicroVision FX 4-8 Lesson 2 Working with cues Now that you have an orientation to the channel display screens, you’re ready to create cues. If you are not sitting at the console but want to refer to the keyboard, see Appendix C for an illustration. A cue is the stored memory of a look you have created and can replay in a timed fader pair. After you select channels and set their intensity, you can store the look as a cue. You can save up to 200 cues per show in MicroVision FX.
Chapter 4 Tutorial 4-9 Creating cues Five cues are included in the following instructions. The first few are simple; the rest are created using more complicated features.
MicroVision FX 4 - 10 Cue 1: Creating a cue in Stage Once you are in Stage, you have live control of channels. Follow these steps to create a cue in Stage mode: 1. Press [Stage]. MicroVision FX displays the Stage mode screen and automatically prompts you to enter a channel number. 2. Enter channel number(s) with numeric keypad. 3. Set intensity level by pressing [At] and entering a two-digit level, moving the fader wheel, or pressing [+] or [-]. 4.
Chapter 4 Tutorial 4 - 11 Cue 1 keystrokes: Key Action [Stage] Displays Stage mode. [1] Selects channel 1. [At] Indicates next number entered will be an intensity level. [7][5] Enters intensity level of 75 percent. [Record] Indicates that you want to record cue. [1] Enters cue number. [Enter] Records cue. [Rel] Releases captured channels.
MicroVision FX 4 - 12 Cue 2: Creating a cue in Blind Follow these steps to create a cue in Blind mode, for a range of channels, using [Full]. MicroVision FX automatically enters 00 for channels you used in cue 1 to indicate that they will fade out in cue 2. 1. Press [Blind]. MicroVision FX displays Blind mode screen. You do not have live control of channels in Blind. MicroVision FX automatically prompts you to enter cue number. 2. Enter cue number you want to display or record. 3.
Chapter 4 Tutorial 4 - 13 Cue 2 keystrokes: Key Action [Blind] Displays Blind mode screen. [2] Selects cue 2. [Chan] Indicates that the next number entered will be a channel. [1] Selects channel 1. [Thru] Indicates you are going to enter a range. [1][5] Marks end of range. Channels 1 through 15 are selected. [Full] Enters full level intensity for selected channels. [Record] Indicates you want to record the cue. [Enter] Records cue.
MicroVision FX 4 - 14 Cue 3: Creating a cue with modified fade times When you create a cue, MicroVision FX assigns default fade times to the cue. If you prefer, you can modify the fade times using [Time]. Note: Default fade time is factory set at five seconds. For information on changing default fade times, see page 3 - 14. To create cue 3 with modified fade times, add channels to the channels remaining from cue 2. 1. Press [Blind] if the Blind mode screen is not already displayed. 2.
Chapter 4 Tutorial 4 - 15 Cue 3 keystrokes: Key Action [Chan] Indicates next number entered will be a channel. [2][6] Marks beginning of range. [Thru] Indicates that you are entering a range. [5][0] Marks end of range. [Full] Enters full intensity for selected channels. [Time] Indicates that you want to change fade times. [1][0] Enters ten second upfade time. [Enter] Enters upfade time and prompts you for downfade time. [Enter] Enters same fade time as for upfade.
MicroVision FX 4 - 16 Cue 4: Creating linked cues MicroVision FX lets you link cues to create a sequence that runs automatically. You can link a string of cues, or you can create a loop to produce a chase. 1. Create and record a cue using techniques described for cues 1 through 3. 2. Press [Link]. 3. Enter cue number to which you want to link current cue. You can enter either a cue number that exists already or one you are going to create. Press [Enter]. 4.
Chapter 4 Tutorial 4 - 17 Cue 4 keystrokes: Key Action [Blind] Displays Blind mode screen. [Chan] Indicates that your are going to enter channel numbers. [5][1] Selects channel 51. [Thru] Indicates that you want to enter a range of channels. [7][5] Marks end of range of channels. [Full] Sets captured channels at full intensity. [Record] Indicates you want to record the cue. [Cue][4] Enters cue number. [Enter] Records cue.
MicroVision FX 4 - 18 Cue 5: Creating a cue using Rem Dim Often you will create cues by adding to, subtracting from or modifying previously recorded cues. [Rem Dim] lets you select a subset of displayed channels and delete all others. Assuming you are still in Blind and have cue 4 displayed, follow these steps to create a cue using [Rem Dim]: 1. Press [Chan] to indicate that the next number entered will be a channel number. 2. Enter channel number to mark the beginning of the subset to select. 3.
Chapter 4 Tutorial 4 - 19 Cue 5 keystrokes: Key Action [Chan] Indicates that the next number entered will be a channel number. [6][0] Marks the beginning of the subset. [Thru] Indicates you are selecting a range of consecutive channels. [6][5] Marks the end of the range. [Rem Dim] Deletes all unselected channels. Fader wheel Sets desired level. [At], [+] and [-], or [At] and numeric keypad [Record] Indicates that you want to record the cue. [5] Enters cue number. [Enter] Records cue.
MicroVision FX 4 - 20 Inserting cues You may want to insert a cue between recorded cues. For example, you may want to modify cue 1 slightly and insert it between cues 1 and 2. You can number cues with a one-digit decimal. Therefore, you can insert up to nine cues between one and two (1.1, 1.2, etc.). To modify and insert a cue, follow these steps: 1. Press [Blind]. MicroVision FX automatically prompts you for a cue number. 2. Enter cue number you want to modify. 3. Make modifications. 4. Press [Record].
Chapter 4 Tutorial 4 - 21 Copying cues Once you have created a cue, you may copy it and give it a new number. This can be helpful if you want to create a cue based on one you have already recorded. You can copy cues in Stage or Blind mode. Follow these steps to copy a cue: 1. Press [Blind] or [Stage]. You can copy a cue in either mode. 2. If you are working in Blind mode, press [Cue], then enter the number of the cue you want to copy.
MicroVision FX 4 - 22 Deleting cues You must be in Blind to delete individual cues. To delete all cues, select Clear all cues from the Set Up Menu. To clear complete show, select Clear system from the Set Up Menu. To delete individual cues, follow these steps: 1. Press [Blind] and then [Cue]. 2. Enter cue number you want to delete. 3. Press [Clear]. 4. Press [Record] to delete the cue or [Record] then [Clear] to cancel the action. To delete all cues from console memory, follow these steps: 1.
Chapter 4 Tutorial 4 - 23 Viewing cues Once you have created a few cues, you may want to look at them. You can view stored cues in two ways, live in Stage mode, or on the screen in Blind mode. To view cues live, you must select the cue and play it back in a fader; see Lesson 3: Playing back cues for instructions. To view a cue on the screen only, select Blind mode and enter the cue number you want. To view a different cue, press [Cue] and the new cue number that you want to see.
MicroVision FX 4 - 24 Lesson 3: Playing back cues Now that you have some cues, you’re probably anxious to play them back. MicroVision FX has two sets of timed fader pairs that playback recorded cues. The left fader in each pair (faders A and C) controls upfades. The right fader in each pair (B and D) controls downfades. You can playback cues one at a time through a single fader pair, or you can playback a different cue in each of the fader pairs at once.
Chapter 4 Tutorial 4 - 25 Selecting cues There are three ways a cue can be selected to playback on stage: 1) when a cue is playing, MicroVision FX automatically selects the next cue; 2) you select cue manually; or 3) MicroVision FX automatically selects linked cues. You must be in Stage mode to select cues to playback. When one cue is playing, MicroVision FX assumes that you want the next consecutive cue to play next. To play the next cue, press either one of the [Go] switches (A/B or C/D).
MicroVision FX 4 - 26 Timed fader pairs When fader controls are set at 10, MicroVision FX plays fade times as you recorded them. For information on taking manual control of fades, see the section titled Controlling fades manually later in this lesson. Playing back cues To play back the cues you created in Lesson 2, follow these steps: 1. Press [Stage] to display stage mode. 2. Press [Cue] to indicate that you want to select a cue. 3. Enter the cue number you want to play back.
Chapter 4 Tutorial 4 - 27 Go to a different cue To play back a cue other than the selected (highlighted) cue on the cue sheet, follow these steps: 1. Press [Cue]. 2. Enter the cue number you want to play next. 3. Press [Go]. Hint: If you want to pull a cue up immediately, without waiting for the recorded fade times, when fade starts, pull faders down to zero, then push them to 10 (100 percent).
MicroVision FX 4 - 28 Controlling fades manually MicroVision FX allows you to take manual control of cues as they play. If your show slows down or speeds up, you can take manual control of fade rates to account for variances in performances. If faders are set at 10 (100 percent) when you start a cue, cues playback with recorded fade times. When you set the faders lower than 10, the cue runs until it reaches the fader level setting. Fades stop, and you have manual control of fade progress.
Chapter 4 Tutorial 4 - 29 Modifying cues on stage To modify and record a cue on stage, follow these steps: 1. Press [Stage]. 2. Press [Cue], and enter cue number. 3. Press [Go] to playback cue. 4. Push faders down and back up to override fade times. 5. Modify cue. 6. Press [Record]. 7. To rerecord as same cue, press [Enter]. Or, to record as a new cue, enter new cue number, and press [Enter]. 8. Press [Rel] to release captured channels.
MicroVision FX 4 - 30 Back key After you play a cue, pressing the Back key plays back the cue that precedes it on the cue sheet. For example, assume you have recorded cues one, two and three. If you play cue one and then cue two, pressing [Back] brings up cue one again. But, if you play cue one and then cue three, pressing [Back] will bring up cue two because it immediately precedes cue three on the cue sheet. Pressing [Back] after playing the first cue on the cue sheet fades all outputs to zero.
Chapter 4 Tutorial 4 - 31 Lesson 4 Working with submasters Submasters allow you to save looks that you use often. They can be used as building blocks when you create cues or other submasters. For example, you might create a different submaster for each cyclorama wash; another submaster might include practicals. Or you might choose to create a series of submasters for each area of your set. In addition, submasters are the basis for creating chases.
MicroVision FX 4 - 32 Submaster pages MicroVision FX has five pages of submasters. You can record six submasters in each page. In Stage mode, the Submaster/cue window indicates which submasters are recorded in the currently loaded page. It also indicates if active submasters originated from a different page. When you change submaster pages, any submasters set at a nonzero level remain loaded with the original look until you pull the submaster pot down to zero.
Chapter 4 Tutorial 4 - 33 Recording a submaster Creating a submaster is as easy as creating a cue. You can create submasters in Stage or Blind mode. To create a submaster, follow these steps: 1. Select channel and level settings as you did for cues. See Lesson 2, Creating cues if you need a review. You can use channel settings from other submasters or cues by bringing up a recorded look, then modifying it as you desire. 2. Press [Record] then [Sub]. 3.
MicroVision FX 4 - 34 Recording submaster on a different page You may record a submaster to a page other than the one currently loaded. For example, if you have page one loaded, you can create a look on stage, and record it to page two if you wish. To do so, follow these steps: 1. Create a look on the screen. 2. Press [Record]. 3. Press [Page]. 4. Enter the page number on which you want to record submaster. 5. Press the bump switch of the submaster in which you want to record the look.
Chapter 4 Tutorial 4 - 35 Copying submasters You may want to copy a submaster, or use submasters as building blocks for new submasters. To copy a look from one submaster to another in Stage, follow these steps: 1. Press [Stage]. 2. Set submaster pot(s) that you want to copy at desired level. 3. Make any additional adjustments you want, such as selecting channels to add, playing back cues through fader pairs or bringing up other submasters. 4. Press [Record]. 5.
MicroVision FX 4 - 36 Deleting submasters You must be in Blind to delete submasters. You can delete all submaster memories, or the entire show, from the Set Up Menu. To delete individual submasters, follow these steps: 1. Press [Blind] and then [Sub]. 2. Enter submaster number you want to delete. 3. Press [Clear] [Record] to delete the submaster. To clear all submasters and submaster pages, follow these steps: 1. Press [Set Up]. 2. Select 5, Clear all submasters and submaster pages, and press [Enter]. 3.
Chapter 4 Tutorial 4 - 37 Lesson 5 Creating and working with chases A chase is a lighting effect in which the currently loaded page of submasters are flashed in sequence to an output level you determine. If you load a new submaster page while a chase is running, the submasters from the new page automatically replace those from the previously loaded page. The chase continues to run, but with new submasters in place of the old ones.
MicroVision FX 4 - 38 Creating a chase Each chase step consists of a channel or group of channels recorded as a submaster. The first step in creating a chase is to record the submasters that you want to include in it. Note: You can create submasters in either Stage or Blind mode. Follow these steps to create a chase: 1. Press [Stage] and set the switch labeled Light/Dark/Off to Off. 2. Select channel and level settings to create a submaster. (See Lesson 4, Working with submasters if you need a review.
Chapter 4 Tutorial 4 - 39 8. Set the switch labeled Rate/Both/Audio to one of the following settings to indicate how you want to control the chase rate: Rate If you want to set the rate of the chase manually, set the switch to Rate, and set the Rate pot to the desired setting. The Rate pot is marked in increments from 0 to 10. At the 0 setting, the chase stops; at 10, the chase proceeds at a rate of approximately 15 steps per second.
MicroVision FX 4 - 40 Setting chase output levels When you record the submasters included in a chase, you assign an output level to the channels that make up the submaster. After you record the submasters, you can modify their output level by setting the level of the potentiometer labeled Effects. When the Effects pot is set at 10, all chase submasters playback at their recorded level.
Chapter 4 Tutorial 4 - 41 Setting number of submasters in a chase The rotary pot labeled Step allows you to select the number of submasters you want to include in a chase. This can be handy if you want to create a chase that does not require all six submasters, or if you need to reserve some submasters for other purposes. For example, to include only submasters one and two in a chase, set the Step pot to 2; to include submasters one, two, three, and four, set the pot to 4.
MicroVision FX 4 - 42 Controlling chases with audio input The Audio setting on MicroVision FX 's Rate pot allows you to use input from an audio source (tape, CD, LP, or live music) to control chase rate. The processor detects notes in certain low frequencies (usually the bass drum part) and uses them to set the chase rate. Follow these steps to use audio input to set chase rate: 1. Create the chase using the techniques described on pages 4 - 37 through 4 - 40. 2.
Chapter 4 Tutorial 4 - 43 Lesson 6 Saving your show on disk You should always make at least one back up copy of each show you are working on. Back up copies are stored on standard 3.5-inch computer disks. We suggest that you make back up copies of your work after every session during which you modify a show. Backups include system setting information, softpatch, cues, submasters, chases, and any other information that you have in the console at the time you record the show on disk.
MicroVision FX 4 - 44 Formatting disks You must format disks on a MicroVision FX console before you can record shows on them. MicroVision FX cannot record shows on unformatted disks or disks that are formatted on other types of ETC consoles or personal computers. Each MicroVision FX disk can hold five shows. Warning: Formatting a disk erases all information previously recorded on it. It does not affect the current show in console. To format disk, follow these steps: 1.
Chapter 4 Tutorial 4 - 45 Recording a show on disk To record a show from memory to a disk follow these steps: 1. Insert a formatted disk in disk drive. 2. Press [Set Up]. 3. Select 1, Write show to disk, and press [Enter]. If any of the five shows are currently recorded on disk, the screen displays the message, Recorded, or the date recorded if you have the Real Time Clock option. If no show is recorded on disk, MicroVision FX displays the message, Not recorded. 4.
MicroVision FX 4 - 46 Reading a show from disk When you read a show from a disk and load it into memory, the new show overwrites the current show in the board. Therefore, if you want to keep the current show, follow the instructions on the previous page to record current show before you read a new show from disk. Current submaster and cue output levels are not affected when you read a new show into the console from a disk. Live submasters remain on stage until you pull their pots to zero.
Chapter 4 Tutorial 4 - 47 Lesson 7 Track record function The Track record function helps you use MicroVision FX more efficiently and create more complex lighting effects. Track is a record function that allows you to modify recorded cues and designate new levels for the displayed cue only or to track them forward until a different level is encountered. A track is created by a channel whose level does not change through a series of consecutive cues.
MicroVision FX 4 - 48 Using record to create tracks In Stage mode, the following keystrokes create the five cues illustrated below. Each cue adds channels to the previous cue. The example uses Record to record the cues.
Chapter 4 Tutorial 4 - 49 Recording modified cues The difference between Record and Track is apparent when you modify a cue or insert a new cue between two existing cues. Record and Track produce different results. The following keys were pressed to release captured channels and play back cue 1. [Stage] [Rel] [Rel] [Cue] [1] [Go] [Chan] [1] [At] [5][0] Release captured channels. Play back cue 1. Modify channel 1 to 50 percent. With cue 1 in a fader pair, channel 1 is modified to 50 percent.
MicroVision FX 4 - 50 To track the level modification we just recorded in the example above use [Track] instead of [Record] to record channel one as on the previous page. Press [Track], enter cue number, and press [Enter]. If you use [Track] rather than [Record] to record the changes made to the cue illustrated in Figure 1, the results will be as illustrated in Figure 3 (versus the results from using [Record] illustrated in Figure 2).
Chapter 4 Tutorial 4 - 51 Inserting cues If you insert a cue into this sequence, Record and Track produce different results. Record saves changes only in the cue you insert; Track saves the changes you make and tracks them through the following cues. The following keys were pressed to release captured channels and play back cue 1. With cue 1 in a fader pair, channel 4 is added at 50 percent. The new look is inserted as cue 1.1. [Stage] [Rel] [Rel] [Cue] [1] [Go] [Chan] [4] [At] [5][0] [Record] [1][.
MicroVision FX 4 - 52 Pressing [Track] (rather than [Record] as in the previous example) then [1][.][1] [Enter] to insert and record the same cue 1.1 as above produces the results illustrated in Figure 5. Compare it to the results illustrated in Figure 4, in which the same cue was inserted using [Record] rather than [Track]. Cue 1 Cue 1.1 Cue 2 Cue 3 Cue 4 Cue 5 Channel 1 50 50 Channel 2 50 50 25 00 FF FF FF 00 FF FF 00 50 FF 00 Channel 3 Channel 4 50 50 Channel 5 Figure 5.
Chapter 4 Tutorial 4 - 53 Blackout cues and tracking Sometimes you may add a channel to a sequence of cues that has not used that channel yet. For example, you may want to add a channel to all cues in a scene. To do this, add the channel to the first cue in the sequence, and use Track to track the change through the remaining cues. To ensure that the newly-added channel does not track through another cue, it is often helpful to construct a blackout cue.
MicroVision FX 4 - 54 If cue 5 is a blackout cue, MicroVision FX records all unused channels in Cue 5 at 00 percent. In the example below, the blackout automatically enters 00 in channel 5, cue 5. When you track a channel through the sequence, the new channel will not track through the blackout cue. To create a blackout cue, enter these keystrokes: [Blind] [Cue] [5] [Rem dim] [Rem dim] [Record] [Enter] Selects all channels and sets at a level of 00. Records blackout cue.
chapter 5 using print and disk options This chapter includes instructions for using MicroVision FX’s print and disk options. Each of the following options is explained and illustrated on the following pages. • • • • • • • Bold printing Cue sheet Cues Patch Real time programs Stage display Submasters MicroVision FX is equipped with a 3.5-inch disk drive on the right front side panel of the console. It allows you to save backup copies of shows on disk.
5-2 MicroVision FX Print functions Before you begin printing, verify that your printer is installed correctly and that it is turned on. For instructions on installing printers, see Chapter 2, Installation, page 2 - 9. Fades in progress pause when reports are printing. All print options are located on the Print Functions Menu. To display the menu press [Set Up], and press 8, Print Functions. Then press [Enter]. MicroVision FX displays the Print Functions screen illustrated below. To print a report: 1.
Chapter 5 Using print and disk options 5-3 Bold printing The Bold printing option on the Print Functions Menu enables the Print cues option to print moving channels in bold as moving channels are displayed highlighted in Blind mode. To enable bold printing, follow these steps: 1. Press [Set Up]. 2. Select 8, Print functions, and press [Enter]. 3. Select 7, Bold printing, and press [Enter]. 4. Select 1 to enable bold printing, or 2 to disable bold printing. Then press [Enter].
5-4 MicroVision FX Cue sheet The cue sheet report lists all recorded cues. From the Print Functions Menu, select 5, and press [Enter]. Enter the first cue number you want to print, or press [Enter] if you want to print the entire cue sheet. Press [Enter]. If you are selecting a range of cues to print, MicroVision FX prompts you for the last cue number to print. Enter the last cue number you want, and press [Enter]. MicroVision FX sends the report to the printer.
Chapter 5 Using print and disk options 5-5 Cues The cue report prints each cue separately. From the Print Functions Menu, select 1, and press [Enter]. Enter the first cue number you want to print, or press [Enter] to print all recorded cues. If you are selecting a range of cues to print, MicroVision FX prompts you for the last cue number to print. Enter the last cue number you want, and press [Enter]. MicroVision FX sends the report to the printer.
5-6 MicroVision FX Patch The softpatch report lists current dimmer-to-channel patches. When you select the Patch option MicroVision FX sends the report to the printer immediately. No options are available for this report. From the Print Functions menu, select 3, and press [Enter]. To interupt the print operation, press [8], Print functions, then [8], Abort print.
Chapter 5 Using print and disk options 5-7 Real time programs From the Print Functions menu, select 6, and press [Enter]. MicroVision FX prints a report of all recorded real time programs on one sheet. To interupt the print operation, press [8], Print functions, then [8], Abort print.
5-8 MicroVision FX Stage display The Stage display report prints channel settings as they currently appear on stage. When you select Print stage display, MicroVision FX sends the report to the printer immediately. No options are available for this report. From the Print Functions Menu, select 4, and press [Enter] To interupt the print operation, press [8], Print functions, then [8], Abort print..
Chapter 5 Using print and disk options 5-9 Submasters The submaster report prints each submaster separately. From the Print Functions Menu, select 2 and press [Enter]. Enter the first submaster page number you want to print, or press [Enter] if you want to print all recorded submasters. If you are selecting a range of submasters to print, MicroVision FX prompts you for the last submaster page number you want. Enter the last page number, and press [Enter]. MicroVision FX sends the report to the printer.
5 - 10 MicroVision FX Disk management MicroVision FX’s disk drive lets you save up to five shows per standard 3.5-inch computer disk. This allows you to work on more than one show at a time or to use more than 200 cues for your production by loading a second show into memory after the first 200 cues. We recommend that you make a backup copy of each show on separate disks and keep them in different locations. If your show disk were damaged, a backup disk stored at home could save you hours of work.
Chapter 5 Using print and disk options 5 - 11 Storing disks Computer disks are somewhat fragile, magnetic devices for storing your work. Therefore, we suggest the following disk storage and handling practices to ensure that your work is not lost as a result of disk damage. • Store disks at a temperature between 50 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit. • Keep disks away from magnets, magnetized objects or heavy electrical equipment. Some large lighting equipment may damage disks.
5 - 12 MicroVision FX Formatting disks Before you can use a disk in an MicroVision FX, you must format it on a MicroVision FX console. Disks formatted on other ETC consoles or on a standard personal computer do not work in MicroVision FX. To format a disk, follow these steps: Warning: Formatting a disk erases all information recorded on it. Formatting does not affect show in console. 1. Press [Set Up]. 2. Insert standard 3.5-inch double-sided, double-density disk in disk drive. 3.
Chapter 5 Using print and disk options 5 - 13 Recording a show on disk To record a show from memory to a disk follow these steps: 1. Insert a formatted disk in disk drive. 2. Press [Set Up]. 3. Select 1, Write show to disk, and press [Enter]. If any shows are currently recorded on disk, the screen displays the message, Recorded, or the date recorded if you have a Real Time Clock. If no shows are recorded on disk, MicroVision FX displays the message, Not recorded. 4.
5 - 14 MicroVision FX Reading a show from disk When you read a show from a disk and load it into memory, the new show overwrites the current show in the board. Therefore, if you want to keep the current show, follow the instructions on the previous page to record current show before you read a new show from disk. Current submaster and cue output levels are not affected when you read a new show into the console from a disk. Live submasters remain on stage until you pull their pots to zero.
chapter 6 accessories This chapter includes instructions for working with the following MicroVision FX optional accessories: • • • • • • • Infrared Remote Focus Unit (IRFU) Real Time Clock MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) Remote Go Analog inputs Analog outputs AMX192 outputs For accessory installation instructions, see Chapter 2, Installation. For purchase information, please contact your local dealer or ETC.
6-2 MicroVision FX Infrared Remote Focus Unit (IRFU) The Infrared Remote Focus Unit (IRFU) allows you to control the MicroVision FX console from distances up to 225 feet (75 yards). With it you can playback cues and macros, and access dimmers, channels, groups, and cues. The IRFU can also be wired to the main control console.To enable the IRFU in MicroVision FX , ETC must modify the console at the factory.
Chapter 6 Accessories 6-3 Pressing any key on the infrared controller automatically turns power on. Once you have turned the unit on, if no key is pressed after three minutes, the power shuts off. Note: When not connected to the console, the transmitter is powered by a nine-volt, size PP3 battery. When it is wired to the console (either directly or through the receiver), it receives power from the console. Console controls and the infrared controller are able to operate simultaneously.
6-4 MicroVision FX Real Time Clock The Real Time Clock option allows you to program cues to playback in real time, that is to playback automatically at any time of day, on any day of the week. For example, you might program the work lights to come on for a choir rehearsal between 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. on Monday and Wednesday. Or, you might want to warm the filaments of your studio instruments 15 minutes prior to your news program.
Chapter 6 Accessories 6-5 Setting Real Time Clock Follow these steps to set Real Time Clock: 1. Press [Set Up]. 2. Select 9, Options, and press [Enter]. MicroVision FX displays the following screen: 3. Select 5, Real time clock, and press [Enter].
6-6 MicroVision FX 4. Select 2, Set real time clock, and press [Enter]. MicroVision FX displays the following screen: 5. At Time prompt, enter current time in military format. For example, enter 8:00 a.m. as 08:00 and 5:15 p.m. as 17:15. Press [Enter]. 6. At Date prompt, enter current date (1 through 31), then press [Enter]. Next, enter one of the following month codes, and press [Enter].
Chapter 6 Accessories 6-7 8. At Weekday prompt, enter one of the following codes to indicate the current day of the week, then press [Enter]. 1 - Sunday 2 - Monday 3 - Tuesday 4 - Wednesday 5 - Thursday 6 - Friday 7 - Saturday 9. Press [Rec] to set new time and return to options menu. Or, press [Clear] to return to Time prompt.
6-8 MicroVision FX Creating or editing real time programs 1. Press [Set Up]. 2. Select 9, Options, and press [Enter]. MicroVision FX displays the following screen. 3. Select 5, Real time clock, and press [Enter]. MicroVision FX displays the following screen.
Chapter 6 Accessories 6-9 4. Select 1, Edit real time programs, and press [Enter]. MicroVision FX displays the following screen. 5. Enter a program number (1 through 10), and press [Enter]. 6. Enter the cue number you want real time program to play. Press [Enter]. 7. Enter the time you want console to playback cue. Enter time in military format. For example, enter 8:00 a.m. as 08:00 and 5:15 p.m. as 17:15. Press [Enter]. 8. Enter the time you want console to fade cue out. Enter time in military format.
6 - 10 MicroVision FX 9. At the days of the week prompt, enter one or more of the following codes to indicate on which days the cue should run. To run a cue on more than one day of the week, use [And] and [Thru] to select a group of days. For example, to enter Monday through Wednesday and Saturday, enter: [2] [Thru] [4] [And] [7]. 1 - Sunday 2 - Monday 3.- Tuesday 4 - Wednesday 5 - Thursday 6 - Friday 7 - Saturday 10. Press [Enter] to record the program.
Chapter 6 Accessories 6 - 11 Enabling/disabling real time programs Follow these steps to enable or disable real time programs you have recorded: 1. Press [Set Up]. 2. Select 9, Options, and press [Enter]. MicroVision FX displays the following screen. 3. Select 5, Real time clock, and press [Enter]. MicroVision FX displays the following screen.
6 - 12 MicroVision FX 4. Select 3, Enable/disable real time programs. MicroVision FX displays the following screen. 5. Enter 1 to enable real time programs, or 2 to disable real time programs, then press [Enter] to record your choice.
Chapter 6 Accessories 6 - 13 Deleting real time programs Follow these steps to delete real time programs: 1. Press [Set Up] to display the Set Up Menu. 2. Select 9, Options, and press [Enter]. MicroVision FX displays the following screen. 3. Select 5, Real time clock, and press [Enter]. MicroVision FX displays the following screen.
6 - 14 MicroVision FX 4. Select 1, Edit real time programs, and press [Enter]. MicroVision FX displays the following screen. 5. Enter a program number (1 through 10), and press [Enter]. 6. Press [Clear] to delete the program. 7. Press [Set Up] to return to the Setup Menu.
Chapter 6 Accessories 6 - 15 MIDI MicroVision FX supports MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface). To enable MIDI in MicroVision FX, ETC must modify the hardware at the factory. Consoles configured with MIDI option will display a message indicating so during system boot. MicroVision FX both transmits and receives MIDI messages with any MIDI instrument. The MIDI protocol can operate cues and submaster bump switches. ETC assumes that MIDI users have a working knowledge of MIDI.
6 - 16 MicroVision FX Interfacing with MIDI Follow these steps to connect MIDI equipment to MicroVision FX: 1. Turn console power off. 2. Insert standard MIDI cable into the connector on the back of the console labeled MIDI In. 3. If you are sending MIDI commands from the console, insert another standard MIDI cable into the connector on the back of the console labeled MIDI Out. 4. Turn console on. 5. Press [Set Up] to display Set Up Menu.
Chapter 6 Accessories 6 - 17 Message formats The following table lists MIDI message formats used to control MicroVision FX. All numbers are in Hex format.
6 - 18 MicroVision FX Message definitions Submaster bump switch execution Note C5 C#5 D5 D#5 E5 F5 MIDI # Submaster # 60 61 62 63 64 65 1 2 3 4 5 6 Note: C0 = MIDI note #0. C5 = MIDI note #60 or middle C.
Chapter 6 Accessories 6 - 19 Remote Go Remote Go enables you to control up to seven MicroVision FX functions from a remote location. ETC provides the internal circuitry and the back panel connector for Remote Go. You must provide the remote control unit itself, as well as appropriate cable and connectors. You can activate Remote Go functions with a momentary closure switch. This switch will often be a push button on a stage manager’s remote control panel. Remote Go functions are described below.
6 - 20 MicroVision FX Analog inputs Analog inputs are analog control signals that originate from external sources. MicroVision FX accepts input from 32, 64 or 96 analog inputs, depending on your console's configuration. Analog inputs enable you to incorporate output from analog sources into your console. If you have enabled the analog outputs option, the output levels of channels1 through 32, 64 or 96 will be affected by the output levels of the analog inputs.
Chapter 6 Accessories 6 - 21 Analog outputs Analog outputs are analog control signals that originate from the MicroVision FX console. MicroVision FX provides 32, 64 or 96 analog outputs depending on your console’s configuration. Analog outputs work in conjunction with any other output protocol on your console. They can be softpatched to any channel, but always start as dimmer 1. Note: If your analog dimmers stay at full after you turn on your console, check the System Settings for the correct setup.
6 - 22 MicroVision FX AMX192 outputs AMX192 outputs are analog multiplex control signals that originate from the MicroVision FX console. MicroVision FX provides 96 or 192 AMX192 outputs depending on your console’s configuration. AMX192 outputs work in conjunction with any other output protocol on your console. They can be softpatched to any channel, but always start as dimmer 1. Follow these steps to enable or disable AMX192 outputs: 1. Press [Set Up]. 2. Press [7], System Settings, and [Enter]. 3.
Chapter 7 Reference 7-1 chapter 7 reference This reference chapter lists all MicroVision FX keys, features and menu options in alphabetical order. Listings include a description of the feature and instructions for using it. For more instructions on using MicroVision FX to create shows, cues and submasters, and instructions on tracking see Chapter 4, Tutorial.
7-2 MicroVision FX And [And] allows you to select a set of channels, cues or dimmers that has a break in the numerical sequence. You can then enter an intensity level for the set. For example, you can select channels 1 and 7 and 9. You can also use [And] in conjunction with [Thru] to select a set such as 1 through 10 and 15 through 20. To select a discontinuous set of cues or channels follow these steps: 1. Press [Chan] or [Cue] (whichever you are selecting). 2. Enter a channel or cue number. 3.
Chapter 7 Reference 7-3 At [At] indicates that the next number entered will be an intensity level for selected channels. You can also use the fader wheel or [Full] to set intensity levels. 1. Select channels. 2. Press [At] to indicate that next number entered will be an intensity level setting. 3. Enter a two-digit intensity level setting for selected channels. Or, if you prefer to enter levels on a scale of 1 to 10 (for example, 1 = 10 percent, 2 = 20 percent, etc.
7-4 MicroVision FX Back After you play a cue, [Back] lets you automatically replay the cue that precedes it on the cue sheet. This is a handy feature to use for bows or similar situations. For example, assume you have recorded cues 1, 2 and 3. If you play cue 1 and then cue 2, pressing [Back] brings up cue 1 again. But, if you play cue 1 and then cue 3, pressing [Back] will bring up cue 2 because it is immediately before cue 3 on the cue sheet.
Chapter 7 Reference 7-5 Black out [Black out] forces all channels to a zero intensity level. All dimmers immediately black out. MicroVision FX displays the message Black out in flashing letters in the upper left hand corner of the console. To restore channel settings, press [Black out] again. All stage fixtures remain off until you release the black out. However, you retain control of the console while in black out; you can create or edit any cues or submasters.
7-6 MicroVision FX Blind Blind is a display mode that allows you to create, preview or edit cues and submasters without affecting live fixtures. If you want live control of dimmers, use Stage mode. When you press [Blind], MicroVision FX displays the following screen: In Blind you can perform some actions that you cannot perform in Stage. For example, you can clear cues and submasters. See the section titled Clear for instructions on clearing cues.
Chapter 7 Reference 7-7 Bump switches Bump switches immediately push submasters to 100 percent and hold them at that level for as long as you press the bump switch. You may also use bump switches to indicate in which submaster you want to record a current look. To record a submaster using the bump switch, follow these steps: 1. In either Stage or Blind mode, create a look. 2. Press [Record] to indicate that you want to save the look. 3.
7-8 MicroVision FX Captured channels Captured channels are channels that you have selected and are live on stage. They remain live until you press [Rel] to release them. Captured channels override all other channel settings except the Grand Master. For example, if a channel is in a fader at 100 percent and you capture it and set it to 50 percent, MicroVision FX reads the 50 percent setting. You can capture channels while in Stage mode, but not in Blind mode since it is not live.
Chapter 7 Reference 7-9 Chan [Chan] allows you to select channels in all display modes. Pressing [Chan], indicates that the next number entered will be a channel number. Pressing [Chan] [Enter] selects all channels with a current output level greater than zero. This feature makes it easy to proportionally modify all channels in a particular cue. Once channels are selected, you have immediate keyboard control over channel levels. You can use [Full], [At], [+], [-], or the fader wheel to set desired levels.
7 - 10 MicroVision FX Chase controls The three toggle switches above the Rate and Step rotary pots allow you to turn chases on and off, select chase types, and determine how chase rate is controlled. The settings and functions of each of the three switches are described below. For more information on creating chases, see pages 4 - 38 through 4 - 42. Forward/Reverse/Bounce This switch allows you to select from three types of chase.
Chapter 7 Reference 7 - 11 Light/Dark/Off This switch allows you to select either Light or Dark chase and to turn the chase on or off. Light Setting switch to Light turns chase on with the channels that constitute the chase step flashing on, then turning off when the next step begins. Dark Setting switch to Dark turns chase on with channels that constitute the chase step flashing off, then turning on again when the next step begins. Off Setting the switch to Off turns off the chase.
7 - 12 MicroVision FX Clear The [Clear] key’s primary function is to delete cues and tracks and clear submasters. You can also delete channel tracks using [Clear]. Occasionally an error message may prompt you to press [Clear]. You can also use [Clear] to clear an incorrect level setting and reset it to zero. To do so, select channels, and press [At] [Clear]. To delete a cue, follow these steps: 1. Press [Blind]. You must be in Blind to delete cues. 2. Press [Cue]. 3.
Chapter 7 Reference 7 - 13 Resetting channels to zero To set channels to zero, follow these steps: 1. Select channels. 2. Press [At]. 3. Press [Clear]. Examples [Blind] [Cue] [1] [Clear] [Record] deletes cue 1. [Blind] [2] [Chan] [1] [At] [0] [0] [Track] [Enter] deletes channel one from cue two and remaining track. [Chan] [5] [At] [Clear] sets channel five at zero.
7 - 14 MicroVision FX Clear all cues The Clear cues option on the Set Up Menu clears all cues from memory. It does not clear submasters, submaster pages, softpatch or system settings. To use the option, follow these steps: 1. Press [Set Up]. 2. Select 4, Clear all cues, and press [Enter]. 3. Press [Enter] to clear cues, or [Clear] to cancel.
Chapter 7 Reference 7 - 15 Clear all submasters and submaster pages The Clear all submasters and submaster pages option on the Set Up Menu allows you to clear all recorded submasters on all pages without affecting cues or softpatch. Follow these steps to clear submasters: 1. Press [Set Up]. 2. Select 5, Clear all submasters and submaster pages, and press [Enter]. 3. Press [Enter] to delete submasters, or [Clear] to cancel.
7 - 16 MicroVision FX Clear fader pairs The [Clear] keys above the fader pairs clear all cue information from faders. To clear the AB fader, press the [Clear] key above that fader pair. To clear the CD fader pair, press the [Clear] key above that fader pair.
Chapter 7 Reference 7 - 17 Clear system The Clear system option erases all cues and resets number of channels and dimmers, and softpatch to factory default settings. Other system settings, such as submasters, output protocol, analog inputs, and monitor color are not affected. Warning: When you initiate Clear system, all show data stored in MicroVision FX is lost. Save the current show on disk if you do not want to permanently lose all show information.
7 - 18 MicroVision FX Cue [Cue] allows you to select a cue to display in Blind mode or to play back in Stage mode. Pressing [Cue] indicates that the next number entered will be a cue number. To display a cue in Blind mode, follow these steps: 1. Press [Blind]. 2. Press [Cue]. 3. Enter cue number you want to display. MicroVision FX displays the channel settings for the cue. Channels are not live.
Chapter 7 Reference 7 - 19 Numbering cues MicroVision FX has a 200 cue limit per show. However, you can number cues from .1 to 999.9, using up to one decimal place. Examples [Blind] [Cue] [1] displays cue 1 in Blind. [Stage] [Cue] [1] [Go] brings cue 1 up on stage.
7 - 20 MicroVision FX Delay time To change the delay time for linked cues, follow these steps: 1. Press [Cue], and enter the first cue in the link. 2. Press [Link] twice. 3. Enter the delay time in minutes and seconds either in minutes and seconds or with a fraction of a second in decimal format. For example, all of the following are acceptable: .2, 00:12, 5.5, 5:30. Delay time can be as long as 99:59 minutes. 4. Press [Enter].
Chapter 7 Reference 7 - 21 Diagnostic system clear A diagnostic system clear erases all cues, submasters, chases, and realtime programs, and resets default fade time and full levels, number of channels, number of dimmers, and softpatch configuration to their factory default settings. Warning: When you initiate a diagnostic system clear, all show data stored in MicroVision FX is lost. Save the current show on disk if you do not want to lose it permanently.
7 - 22 MicroVision FX Enter [Enter] functions as an Enter key does on most computer keyboards. It indicates that you have finished entering a number or have completed an operation. The operator prompt line indicates when you should use this key.
Chapter 7 Reference 7 - 23 Fader wheel The fader wheel gives you incremental, proportional control of selected channel intensity levels. When selected channels are displayed on your screen, regardless of what mode MicroVision FX is in, you can move the fader wheel to increase or decrease level settings.
7 - 24 MicroVision FX Full [Full] enters full intensity for all selected channels. [Full] works in all display modes. When you use [Full], you do not have to press [At]. Example [Chan] [5] [Thru] [1][0] [Full] sets channels 5 through 10 at 100 percent. Resetting default full level MicroVision FX enters the default full setting for selected channels when you press [Full]. The default setting for full is 100 percent, and is reset to 100 percent after a diagnostic system clear.
Chapter 7 Reference 7 - 25 Go The [Go] keys initiate the playback of cues. When you press a [Go] key, the cue highlighted on the cue sheet begins playing back in the fader pair. If you have pressed [Hold] to interrupt the playback of a cue, press [Go] to resume the fade. Hint: To go to a cue out of sequence, press [Cue], enter the cue number, and press [Go]. To push the levels to their full recorded levels immediately (avoiding the fade time), push fader controls to 0 and back up to 10.
7 - 26 MicroVision FX Grand Master The Grand Master pot controls all channels and overrides all other controls except [Black out]. Normally the Grand Master is set at 10 (100 percent) so that all channels operate at 100 percent of their set levels. When the Grand Master is set at a level less than 10, channel outputs equal current settings multiplied by the percentage level at which that the Grand Master is set. The Grand Master setting is displayed in the upper left corner of the screen.
Chapter 7 Reference 7 - 27 Help [Help] provides a brief explanation for all available keys. To display help screens: 1. Press [Help]. 2. Press any key on the console. MicroVision FX displays a description of the key you pressed. Help screens are not available for menu options. 3. Press any key to clear the help message from the screen. Example [Help] [Set Up] displays the Set Up Help screen.
7 - 28 MicroVision FX Hold [Hold] stops the playback of the cue in the fader pair above the [Hold] key. To resume the playback, press [Go]. To cancel the playback, press [Hold] again. The faders hold current levels until you play another cue or clear the fader pair. Example [Cue] [1] [Go] [Hold] begins playing back cue 1 and then puts it on hold.
Chapter 7 Reference 7 - 29 Link [Link] joins two or more recorded cues to one another so that they playback automatically in the sequence you link them. Each cue in the link counts as one cue in the 200 cue limit. To link cues, follow these steps: 1. In either Stage or Blind, press [Cue]. 2. Enter number of first cue you want in linked sequence. 3. To link cue to another cue, press [Link]. Then enter number of second cue in linked sequence. 4. Press [Link] again to enter desired delay time.
7 - 30 MicroVision FX Deleting links To delete link information from a cue, follow these steps: 1. In either Stage or Blind, press [Cue]. 2. Enter number of first cue from which you want to delete link information, and press [Link] [Clear]. Example [Cue] [1] [Link] [2] [Link] [5] [Enter] links cue 1 to cue 2 with a five second delay time between the cues. [Cue] [1] [Link] [Link] [6] [Enter] changes the delay time to six seconds. [Cue] [1] [Link] [Clear] clears link information from Cue 1.
Chapter 7 Reference 7 - 31 Minus (-) The minus key [-] decreases the value of a highlighted number by one. The value may be a channel number, a cue number, a level setting, or any other type of number that is highlighted on the screen. The plus key [+] increases the value of a highlighted number by one. For example, when you are selecting channels, press [-] to highlight the preceding channel (or [+] to highlight the next channel).
7 - 32 MicroVision FX Page MicroVision FX has five pages of submasters. Each page can hold six submaster memories. MicroVision FX displays the message Submaster Page: 1 on the Submaster/cue description line to indicate which page is currently active. To switch pages, press [Page], and enter the new page number. The message indicates the new page number. Any submasters set at a level above zero when you load a new page remain on stage until you pull them down to zero.
Chapter 7 Reference 7 - 33 Patch [Patch] displays the softpatch setup screen. The softpatch setup screen allows you to assign dimmers to channel numbers. The softpatch screen is illustrated below. For complete instructions on softpatching, see Chapter 3, Entering softpatch.
7 - 34 MicroVision FX Plus (+) The plus key [+] increases the value of a highlighted number by one. The value could be a channel number, a cue number, a level setting, or any other type of number that is highlighted on the screen. The minus key [-] decreases the value of a highlighted number by one. For example, when you are selecting channels, press [+] to highlight the next channel (or [-] to highlight the preceding channel).
Chapter 7 Reference 7 - 35 Potentiometers (Pots) Potentiometers, commonly referred to as pots, are sliding fader controls. The AB and CD fader pairs and the Grand Master are potentiometers. These pots have special functions on MicroVision FX and are described in separate sections of this chapter, Timed fader pairs and Grand Master. Numbers next to submaster pots indicate the percentage of the recorded levels at which the submaster is set. Scale numbers are divided by 10.
7 - 36 MicroVision FX Power MicroVision FX’s power switch is located on the console’s back panel. We recommend that you turn the console power switch to the Off position before you plug or unplug the power cable.
Chapter 7 Reference 7 - 37 Rate potentiometer The rotary potentiometer labeled Rate allows you to set the rate of a chase at a level from 0 (chase stopped) to 10 (chase rate of approximately 15 chase steps per second). To use only the Rate pot to control chase rate, you must set the Rate/Both/Audio toggle switch to Rate or to use both the Rate pot and audio input, set it to Both.
7 - 38 MicroVision FX Record [Record] indicates that you want to save a look that is currently on stage or on the screen as a cue or submaster. When you record a cue using [Record], levels are recorded only in the specified cue. When you press [Record], MicroVision FX assumes that you want to save the look as a cue. To record a look as a cue or submaster, follow these steps: 1. Press [Record]. 2. To record the look as a cue, enter the cue number.
Chapter 7 Reference 7 - 39 Rel [Rel] releases captured channels. Captured channels are live channels that you have selected in Stage mode. Captured channels may or may not be under direct control of the keyboard. When you press [Rel], MicroVision FX first releases captured channels that are under direct keyboard control (selected channels). If you press [Rel] again, MicroVision FX releases all remaining captured channels. Captured channel levels always take precedence over other controls.
7 - 40 MicroVision FX Rem Dim [Rem Dim] lets you select a channel or a group of channels and suppress all others to a level of zero. [Rem Dim] is useful for selecting part of a look currently displayed on your screen (in any mode) and recording only that portion. You may also want to use [Rem Dim] to isolate a subset of a live look to readjust or refocus those channels without the other channels interfering. [Rem Dim] also allows you to record a blackout cue by setting all channels to zero.
Chapter 7 Reference 7 - 41 Using Rem Dim to create a blackout cue A blackout cue has two useful functions. One is that it downfades all channels in the fader pair through which you play it back. And secondly, a blackout cue acts as a roadblock for tracks when you use the Track record function. 1. Press [Blind]. 2. Press [Rem Dim] twice. This sets all channels at zero. 3. Press [Rec], enter cue number, and press [Enter].
7 - 42 MicroVision FX Setup The Setup Menu provides access to disk options, system settings, print functions, and clear cues, clear submaster and clear system options. Press [Setup] to display the Setup Menu illustrated below. Each of the features below are described in detail elsewhere in this manual. The following table indicates where each is located.
Chapter 7 Reference 7 - 43 Stage Stage mode gives you live control of all channels. The Stage mode screen displays the final output level for all channels. The levels displayed on Stage take into account: pile-on submaster settings, cues loaded in fader pairs, captured channels, and Grand Master setting. A Stage mode screen is displayed below.
7 - 44 MicroVision FX Step The rotary potentiometer labeled Step enables you to determine which of the six submasters from the currently loaded submaster page will be included in the chase. Example If the Step pot is set to 3, submasters one, two and three will be included in the chase.
Chapter 7 Reference 7 - 45 Sub Pressing [Sub] indicates that the next number entered will be a submaster number. You may want to select a submaster to display it in Blind, or you might use [Sub] when you save a look in a submaster. Press [Sub] and then the submaster number you wish to select. For detailed instructions on working with submasters, see Chapter 4, Tutorial. Example [Blind] [Sub] [1] displays submaster 1 on the Blind mode screen.
7 - 46 MicroVision FX System Settings Menu The System Settings Menu includes options for setting default softpatch, softpatch customizing options and system configuration options. The chart on the next page indicates where each menu option is described in the manual. To display the System Settings Menu, follow these steps: 1. Press [Set Up]. 2. Select 7, System settings, and press [Enter]. The System Settings Menu is displayed below.
Chapter 7 Reference 7 - 47 System setting options Number of dimmers Chapter 3, Entering softpatch and system settings, page 3 - 3 Number of channels Chapter 3, Entering softpatch and system settings, page 3 - 3 Default full level Chapter 3, Entering softpatch and system settings, page 3 - 13 Default fade times Chapter 3, Entering softpatch and system settings, page 3 - 14 Select default softpatch Chapter 3, Entering softpatch and system settings, page 3 - 4 Dimmer selection Chapter 2, Installat
7 - 48 MicroVision FX Thru [Thru] allows you to select a range of channels or cues. You can then enter an intensity level for the entire range at one time. For example, you can select channels 1 through 10. You can also use [Thru] in conjunction with [And] to select a set such as 1 through 10 and 15 through 20. To select a range of cues or channels follow these steps: 1. Press [Chan] or [Cue] (whichever you are selecting). 2. Enter a cue or channel number. 3. Press [Thru]. 4.
Chapter 7 Reference 7 - 49 Timed fader pairs The AB and CD fader pairs are timed faders (potentiometers) through which MicroVision FX plays back recorded cues. To playback the highlighted cue in the cue sheet, press the [Go] key for the fader pair through which you want to play the cue. You can playback cues in both fader pairs at the same time. Faders playback cues independently of each other. When you playback a standard cue (not a linked cue) the left fader in each pair, A and C, controls upfade times.
7 - 50 MicroVision FX Track The [Track] feature provides a simple method of tracking channels through several cues. Tracked channels are channels in which intensity level setting is unchanged from the previous cue. Complete description and instructions on using the [Track] feature is included in Chapter 4, Tutorial, on page 4 - 47.
appendix a error messages Disk formatter I/O error To continue, press [Clear] A disk drive error has occurred in attempting to format the disk. Try the operation again. If the error recurs, try another disk. If the error continues to occur with other disks, notify your dealer or authorized service center. Disk operation aborted by operator To continue, press [Clear] The disk operation was aborted by the operator pressing the [Clear] button.
A-2 MicroVision FX Printer is off-line To continue, press [Clear] Printer is not connected to the MicroVision FX, printer power is turned off, or printer is not on line. Check the printer and try again. Unable to write disk — write protected To continue, press [Clear] The disk is currently write protected. Slide the disk’s write protect tab to the write enabled position and try again. Unknown disk error To continue, press [Clear] The disk drive has reported an error of unknown type.
appendix b specifications Interfaces • Input/Output options MicroVision FX accepts a total of up to 96 analog input\output options, configured in any of the following combinations.
B-2 MicroVision FX Cue capacity • • • • 200 cues per show 5 shows per disk 125 control channels Proportional softpatching of up to 512 DMX512 dimmers Display functions • • • • • • Stage display Blind display Submaster display Softpatch display Set Up display Help display Playback controls • Autofader pairs (2) on 60mm potentiometers • .
Appendix B Specifications B-3 Keyboard functions • • • • Cue function selection for cue numbers .1 to 999.
Index I-1 index A Accessories 6-1 Infrared Remote Focus Unit (IRFU) 6-2 Real Time Clock 6-4 Remote Go 6-15 Add 4-39 AMX192 2-6, 6-22 Analog inputs 2-8, 6-20 Analog outputs 2-7, 6-21 Analog readbacks.
I-2 Cues 4-16, 5-5 controlling manually 4-28 copying 4-21 creating 4-9 deleting 4-22 fade times in 4-14 go to a different 4-27 inserting 4-20 linking 4-16 modifying 4-29 playing back 4-24, 4-26 selecting 4-25 viewing 4-23 Customer service 1-6 D Dark 4-39 Delay time 7-20 Deleting cues 4-22 Deleting real time programs 6-13 Deleting submasters 4-36 Diagnostic system clear 7-21 Dimmer check 3-10 Dimmer pinouts 2-7 Dimmers connecting 2-6 number of 3-3 Disk reading show from 4-46 Disk operations 4-43, 5-10 forma
Index Monitor installation 2-3 pinouts 2-5 Moving channels 4-6 O Operator prompt line 4-4 Optional equipment audio input 2-14 Infrared Remote Focus Unit 6-2 Infrared Remote Focus Unit (IRFU) 2-10 printer 2-9 Remote Go 6-15 Optional inputs 6-16 Output options 2-6 P Page 7-32 Patch 7-33 Pile-on convention 1-4 Pinout printer 2-9 Pinouts audio input 2-14 dimmers 2-7 Infrared Remote Focus Unit (IRFU) 2-12 monitors 2-5 Remote Go 2-13 Playing back cues 4-24, 4-26 Plus (+) 7-34 Potentiometers (Pots) 7-35 Power 7-
I-4 MicroVision FX Submasters 4-31, 4-32, 5-9 copying 4-35 deleting 4-36 modifying 4-34 pages 4-32, 4-34 recording 4-33, 4-34 System settings 3-12 setting default full 3-13 setting up and down fade times 3-13 System Settings Menu 7-46 T Text conventions 1-4 Thru 7-48 Timed fader pairs 7-49 Track 4-47, 7-50 Tracked channels 4-6 Tracks 4-48 U Using this manual V Viewing cues 4-23 1-3
