Blizzard Lighting Kontrol 5 User manual

COPYRIGHT 2012-13
BLIZZARD LIGHTING, LLC
WISCONSIN, USA

KONTROL 5 Manual Rev A.
Page 2
© 2012-13 Blizzard Lighting, LLC.
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. GETTING STARTED 3
1.1 What’s In The Box? 3
1.2 Getting It Out Of The Box 3
1.3 Powering Up! 3
1.4 Getting A Hold Of Us 3
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS 4
1.5 Instructions on Our Instructions 4
2. INTRODUCTION 5
2.1 Features 5
2.2 General Overview 5
2.3 Nifty, Spiffy Diagram (front) 5
2.4 Nifty, Spiffy Diagram (back) 6
2.5 Common Terms 7
3. OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS 8
3.1 Setup 8
3.1.1 Setting Up The System 8
3.1.2 Fixture Addressing 8
3.1.3 The LED Display Screen 8
3.1.4 Resetting The System 9
3.2 Programming 9
3.2.1 Entering Programming Mode 9
3.3 Color/Scene Preset Programming Mode 9
3.3.1 Creating A New Color/Scene Preset 9
3.3.2 Color/Scene Preset Delete Mode 9
3.4 Chase Programming 10
3.4.1 Creating A New Chase 10
3.4.2 Inserting a Chase Step 10
3.4.3 Deleting a Chase Step 10
3.5 Playback 11
3.5.1 Manual Control Mode 11
3.5.2 Color/Scene Preset Mode 11
3.5.3 Chase Playback Mode 11
3.5.3.1 Auto Mode 12
3.5.3.2 Music Mode 12
3.5.3.2 Manual Mode 12
3.5.4 Playback Override 12
3.5.5.1 Strobe Setup 13
3.5.5.2 Strobe Playback 13
3.5.6 Blackout 13
3.6 USB Functions
3.6.1 Data Backup 14
3.6.2 Data Load 14
3.6.3 Firmware Update 14
4. APPENDIX 16
4.1 A Quick Lesson On DMX 16
4.2 Keeping Your KONTROL 5 As Good As New 16
4.3 Returns (Gasp!) & Shipping Issues 16
4.5 TECH SPECS! 17

KONTROL 5 Manual Rev A.
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ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
1. GETTING STARTED
1.1 What’s In The Box?
• 1x KONTROL 5™ DMX Controller
• 1x 9VDC, 300ma (minimum) AC/DC Adaptor
• A Warranty Card & Warranty Info
• This Lovely User Manual
1.2 Getting It Out Of The Box
We could tell just by lookin’ atcha. You’re a bit of a control freak, aren’t
ya? Just kidding! CONGRATULATIONS! You’ve purchased a GREAT little
DMX controller! Bravo! Now that you’ve got your KONTROL 5™, you
should carefully unpack the box and check the contents to ensure that all
parts are present and in good condition. If anything looks as if it has been
damaged in transit, notify the shipper immediately and keep the packing
material for inspection. Again, please save the carton and all packing ma-
terials.Ifaxturemustbereturnedtothefactory,itisimportantthatthe
xturebereturnedintheoriginalfactoryboxandpacking.
1.3 Powering Up!
All xtures must be powered directly off a switched circuit and can-
not be run off a rheostat (variable resistor) or dimmer circuit, even
if the rheostat or dimmer channel is used solely for a 0% to 100%
switch.
ACVoltageSwitch-Notallxtureshaveavoltageselectswitch,soplease
verifythatthextureyoureceiveissuitableforyourlocalpowersupply.
Seethelabelonthextureorrefertothexture’sspecicationschartfor
moreinformation.Axture’slistedcurrentratingisitsaveragecurrent
drawundernormalconditions.Checkthextureordevicecarefullyto
make sure that if a voltage selection switch exists that it is set to the cor-
rect line voltage you will use.
Warning! Verify that the voltage select switch on your unit matches
the line voltage applied. Damage to your xture may result if the
line voltage applied does not match the voltage indicated on the
voltage selector switch. All xtures must be connected to circuits
with a suitable Ground (Earthing).
1.4 Getting A Hold Of Us
If something is wrong, just give us a call or send an email. We’ll be happy
to help, honest.
Blizzard Lighting
W220 N1531 Jericho Ct. Suite E, Waukesha, WI 53186 USA
[email protected] | Phone: [phone]
www.blizzardlighting.com

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ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
• Please keep this User Guide for future use. If you sell the unit to someone
else, be sure that they also receive this User Guide.
• ALWAYS make sure that you are connecting to the proper voltage, and that
the line voltage you are connecting to is not higher than that stated on the
decalorrearpanelofthexture.
• This product is intended for indoor use only.
• Topreventriskofreorshock,donotexposexturetorainormoisture.
• Makesuretherearenoammablematerialsclosetotheunitwhileoperat-
ing.
• The unit must be installed in a location with adequate ventilation, at least
20in (50cm) from adjacent surfaces. Be sure that no ventilation slots are
blocked.
• ALWAYS disconnect from the power source before servicing or replacing
fuse and be sure to replace with same fuse size and type.
• ALWAYSsecurextureusingasafetychain.NEVERcarrythexturebyits
head. Use its carrying handles.
• DO NOT operate at ambient temperatures higher than 104°F (40°C).
• In the event of a serious operating problem, stop using the unit imme-
diately. NEVER try to repair the unit by yourself. Repairs carried out by
unskilled people can lead to damage or malfunction. Please contact the
nearest authorized technical assistance center. Always use the same type
spare parts.
• NEVER connect the device to a dimmer pack.
• Make sure the power cord is never crimped or damaged.
• Never disconnect the power cord by pulling or tugging on the cord.
• Avoid direct eye exposure to the light source while it is on.
Caution! There are no user serviceable parts inside the unit. Do not open
the housing or attempt any repairs yourself. In the unlikely event your unit
may require service, please contact Blizzard Lighting at support@blizzard-
lighting.com.
1.5 Instructions on Our Instructions
We try to make these manuals easy to read and as fun as reading an in-
struction manual can be. Because there are buttons, switches, sliders and
knobs galore on most of our products, it makes sense to refer to things in
a consistent fashion. So, when you see text formatted in certain ways, it
should say to you “Hey! Look at me! I MEAN something, dammit!”
Special Text What It Means
LED Textdisplayedonthexture’sLEDcontrolpanel
<MENU> Button <X> to be pressed
MENU --> SHMD A sequence to be followed
000 <-> 255 A range of values

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ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
2. INTRODUCTION
2.1 Features
• DMX512/1990 Standard
• Controls16xturesofupto10channels,160channelstotal
• 16 preset scene/color banks, 8 per page
• Record up to 16 chases with up to 200 scenes per chase
• 5 sliders for direct control of channels
• Built-in microphone for music mode
• Auto mode program controlled by fade time sliders
• DMX out: 3-pin XLR
• LED information display
• Blackout function and instant strobe with variable speed fader
• USB Backup/Restore of Data
2.2 General Overview
The controller is a universal intelligent lighting controller. It allows the con-
trolof16xturescomposedof10channelseachandupto16program-
mable scenes. Sixteen chase banks can contain up to 200 steps composed
of saved scenes or manual inputs in any order. Programs can be triggered
by music, automatically or manually. All chases can be executed at the
same time.
Onthesurfaceyouwillndvariousprogrammingtoolssuchas5RGBAW/
universalchannelsliders,quickaccessxtureandscenebuttons,andan
LED display indicator for easier navigation of controls and menu functions.
2.3 Nifty, Spiffy Diagram (front)
123 4
567 8 9 11 12
16 17 18
13 14
20
10 19
15

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Number Button/Fader/Connection Does...
1Fixture Select Buttons Fixture selection.
2Fixture Indicator LEDs Indicatesthexture(s)currentlyselected.
3Scene Select Buttons / LEDs Universal bump buttons representing scene location for
storage and selection.
4Chase Select Buttons / LEDs Universal bump buttons representing chase location for
storage and selection.
5Channel Faders Adjusts DMX values - Channel 1-5 may be adjusted after
pressingtherespectivextureselectbutton.
6Edit/REC Button Enters programming mode, records a step in a chase.
7Insert/Tap Button Inserts a step in a chase while in programming mode, or
allows tap control of chases in playback mode.
8DEL/Clear Button Deletes Scenes/Chases, clears current fader output.
9Chase Time Fader Sets the chase time in AUTO mode, 1=slowest, 10=fast-
est.
10 Fader Page Select Button Togglesbetweencontroloftherstor2nd5DMXchan-
nelsperxture
11 Fade Time Fader Sets the fade time in AUTO mode, 1=fastest, 10=slow-
est.
12 Strobe Speed Fader Sets the speed of the strobe effect, 1=slowest, 10=fast-
est.
13 Blackout Button & LED Stops all output from the controller.
14 Strobe Button / LED Triggers the strobe function (momentary button)
15 Scene/Chase Page Select Buttons Toggles between control/playback of Scene/Chase Page
A or B.
16 LED Display Displays pertinent information about the current opera-
tion of the controller. See page 9 for more details.
17 LEFT/RIGHT Buttons
Selects the current bank, steps through chases in MANU-
AL mode, adjusts the sound sensitivity and the length of
time each chase runs when running multiple chases.
18 Run Mode Button & LEDs Selects between AUTO/MUSIC/MANUAL modes and
displays current operating mode.
19 USB Disk Interface For attachment of an optional USB disk drive, for backup/
restore of scenes/chases.
20 Mounting Holes
Allows you to securely fasten the controller to the surface
of your choice, also works nicely for holding pens,
pencils, and other small round things you always have
laying around.
21 Power Switch Really? C’mon!
22 DC Power Input Connector Plug in ONLY the included AC/DC adaptor here.
23 DMX Output Connector 3-pin DMX output - this is where all the magic happens
2.4 Nifty, Spiffy Diagram (back)
2223 21

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ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
2.5 Common Terms
The following are common terms used in intelligent light programming,
so pay attention! We’ll be using them throughout the manual.
• Blackoutisastatebywherealllightingxtureslightoutputare
set to 0 or off, usually on a temporary basis.
• DMX-512 stands for Digital MultipleXis an industry standard
digital communication protocol used in entertainment lighting
equipment. For more information read the DMX Primer and
DMX Control Mode Sections later in the manual.
• Fixture refers to your lighting instrument or other device such
as a fogger or dimmer of which you can control.
• Programs are a bunch of scenes stacked one after another. It
can be programmed as either a single scene or multiple scenes
in sequence.
• Scenes are static lighting states.
• Sliders are a delicious small burger or sandwich, but here they
are used in the same context as faders.
• Chases can also be called programs. A chase consists of a num-
ber of scenes stacked one after another.
• Stand Alonereferstoaxture’sabilitytofunctionindepen-
dently of an external controller and usually in sync to music, due
to a built in microphone.
• Fade Slider is used to adjust the time between scenes within a
chase.
• Speed Slider affects the amount of time a scene will hold its
state. It is also considered a wait time.
• Shutter/Strobeisamechanicaldeviceinthelightingxture
that allows you to block the lights path. It is often used to less-
en the intensity of the light output and to strobe.
• PatchingreferstotheprocessofassigningxturesaDMX
channel.
• Playbacks can be either scenes or chases that are directly
called to execution by the user. A playback can also be consid-
ered program memory that can be recalled during a show.

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ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
3. OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
3.1 Setup
3.1.1 Setting Up The System
Plug the AC to DC power supply to the system back panel and to the mains
outlet.
Plug in your DMX cable(s) to your intelligent lighting as described in the
xturesrespectivemanual.ForaquicklessononDMXseetheDMX Prim-
er section in the Appendix of this manual.
3.1.2 Fixture Addressing
TheControllerisprogrammedtocontrol10channelsofDMXperxture,
thereforethexturesyouwishtocontrolwiththecorresponding FIXTURE
buttons on the unit, must be spaced 10 channels apart.
Fixt. # DMX Start
Address
Binary DIP Switch
Settings
(SET TO ON POSI-
TION)
Fixt. # DMX Start
Address
Binary DIP Switch
Settings
(SET TO ON POSI-
TION)
11 1 981 1, 5, 7
211 1, 2, 4 10 91 1, 2, 4, 5, 7
321 1, 3, 5 11 101 1, 3, 6, 7
431 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 12 111 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7
541 1, 4, 6 13 121 1, 4, 5, 6, 7
651 1, 2, 5, 6 14 131 1, 2, 8
761 1, 3, 4, 5, 6 15 141 1, 3, 4, 8
871 1, 3, 4, 5 16 151 1, 2, 4, 5, 8
Pleaserefertoyourindividualxture’smanualfordetailedDMXaddressing
instructions. The table above refers to a standard 9-DIP Switch binary con-
gurabledevice.
3.1.3 The LED Display Screen
KONTROL 5 features a 4-position LED display which provides information
about the current mode, function and status of the controller. The messages
displayed on the screen are detailed here:
LED Display Means...
S000-S200 When a Chase Preset is selected, displays the current chase scene being played
back. The display will step through chase steps based on the current output mode
(Auto/Music/Manual)
D000-D255 DMXvaluecurrentlybeingassignedbytheactivexturecontrolfader.
F01.0 - F20.0 While holding down the <STROBE> button, displays the current strobe speed,
1-20ashespersecond
S0.10-S30.0 Chase scene time. From 0.1-30 seconds per step.
F0.00-F30.0 Chase fade time. From 0.1-30 seconds per step.
T0.10-T30.0 Tap tempo time, used in auto control mode.
M001-M100 Sound sensitivity, used in music control mode.
L001-L200 Loop Time. The time a chase will loop before moving to the next selected chase.
01Yc-10No Displayed when the user selects channels to be used by the strobe function Yc=
Strobe Enabled (Yes), No=Strobe Disabled.

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ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
3.1.4 Resetting The System
WARNING: This will reset the controller to its factory defaults. ALL PRO-
GRAMS AND SETTINGS WILL BE ERASED!
1. Turn the unit off.
2. Press and hold <EDIT/REC>, <RUN MODE> & <DEL/CLEAR>
3. Turn the unit on while you continue to hold <EDIT/REC> & <DEL/
CLEAR>
4. All LEDs will blink. Release the held buttons and the LEDs will stop
blinking.
5. The settings will be reset to factory defaults.
3.2 Programming
Regardless of whether you are programming a chase or scene, you must rst
enter programming mode.
3.2.1 Entering Programming Mode
1. Press and hold <EDIT/REC> for 3 seconds.
2. The Program/REC LED indicator will blink, indicating programming is
active.
3. The LED indicators for any previously programmed scenes in the cur-
rent bank and any previously programmed chases will blink.
4. Programming mode is now active.
3.3 Color/Scene Preset Programming Mode
This allows the user to create a preset color/scene which can be used to
override current xture output and may also be used in chase programming.
3.3.1 Creating A New Color/Scene Preset
1. Enter programming mode as described in Section 3.2.1.
2. Using the <FIXTURE SELECTOR> button(s),selectthexturesto
include in the Color/Scene Preset.
3. Adjustthexture(s)outputusing<CHANNEL FADERS 1-5> as
desired.
4. Press <EDIT/REC>.
5. Select the desired scene page using <SCENE PAGE>.
6. Press <SCENE 1-8>.AllLEDswillashquickly.
7. Repeat steps 1-6 to add additional presets if desired.
8. Hold <EDIT/REC> for 3 seconds to exit programming mode. The
LED indicator above the <EDIT/REC> button will extinguish.
3.3.2 Color/Scene Preset Delete Mode
This allows the user to delete a previously programmed preset color/scene.
1. Enter programming mode as described in Section 3.2.1.
2. Select the desired scene bank using <LEFT/RIGHT>.
3. Hold <DEL/CLEAR>, then press the <SCENE 1-8> button you wish
to delete.

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4. AllLEDswillash3times,andtheLEDindicatorfortheselected
scene will now remain off. The scene has been deleted.
5. Repeat steps 2-4 to delete additional presets if desired.
6. Hold <EDIT/REC> for 3 seconds to exit programming mode. The
LED indicator above the <EDIT/REC> button will extinguish.
3.4 Chase Programming
A chase is a sequence of different scenes or steps which are called one after
another. KONTROL 5 can store up to 16 programs of 200 scenes each.
3.4.1 Creating A New Chase
1. Enter programming mode as described in Section 3.2.1.
2. Using the <CHASE 1-8> button, select the chase you wish to pro-
gram.
3. Using the <FIXTURE SELECTOR> button(s),selectthexturesto
include in the chase step.
4. Adjustthexture(s)outputusing<CHANNEL FADERS 1-5> as de-
sired, OR, to use a previously programmed scene/color preset:
5. Select the desired scene bank using <LEFT/RIGHT>.
6. Press <SCENE 1-8>.
7. Press <EDIT/REC>.AllLEDswillblink3timestoindicatetherst
step has been stored successfully.
8. Repeat steps 2-6 to store additional steps if desired. Up to 200 steps
may be stored in each chase. If 200 steps have been stored in a
chase and the user attempts to store an additional step, the LED
display will read FULL.
9. Hold <EDIT/REC> for 3 seconds to exit programming mode. The
LED indicator above the <EDIT/REC> button will extinguish.
NOTE: After scene programming, press the <DEL/CLEAR> button to clear
any output, to avoid inadvertently overwriting a scene/color preset.
3.4.2 Inserting a Chase Step
1. Enter programming mode as described in Section 3.2.1.
2. Using the <CHASE 1-8> button, select the chase you wish to modify.
3. Press the <INSERT/TAP> button. The LED indicator will illuminate
and the current step will display on the LED display. If there are no
steps in the chase, the display will read ST00.
4. Use the <LEFT/RIGHT> buttons to select the position for the in-
serted step.
5. Using the <FIXTURE SELECTOR> button(s),selectthexturesto
include in the chase step.
6. Adjustthexture(s)outputusing<CHANNEL FADERS 1-5> as de-
sired, OR, to use a previously programmed scene/color preset:
7. Select the desired scene bank using <LEFT/RIGHT>.
8. Press <SCENE 1-8>.
9. Press <EDIT/REC>.AllLEDswillblink3timestoindicatetherst
step has been stored successfully. If no data has been stored, the
LED display will read NULL.
10. Repeat steps 2-9 to store additional steps if desired. Up to 32 steps
may be stored in each chase. If 32 steps have been stored in a chase
and the user attempts to store an additional step, the LED display will

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read FULL.
11. Hold <EDIT/REC> for 3 seconds to exit programming mode. The
LED indicator above the <EDIT/REC> button will extinguish.
3.4.3 Deleting a Chase Step
1. Enter programming mode as described in Section 3.2.1.
2. Using the <CHASE 1-8> button, select the chase you wish to modify.
3. Press the <INSERT/TAP> button. The LED indicator will illuminate
and the current step will display on the LED display. If there are no
steps in the chase, the display will read ST00.
4. Use the <LEFT/RIGHT> buttons to select the step to delete.
5. Press the <DEL/CLEAR> button. All LEDs will blink 3 times, indicat-
ing the delete has succeeded. The steps following the deleted step
will move up one step, and the chase will be one step shorter. If the
last step is deleted, the previous step will be displayed. If there are
no steps to delete, the LED display will read NULL.
6. Repeat steps 2-5 to delete additional steps as desired.
7. Hold <EDIT/REC> for 3 seconds to exit programming mode. The
LED indicator above the <EDIT/REC> button will extinguish.
3.5 Playback
The KONTROL 5 features three different playback modes: Manual Control
Mode, Scene/Color/Scene Preset Mode, and Chase Mode. Additionally, the
user may trigger step changes in chase mode in one of three ways: Auto-
matically (Auto Chase Mode), Via audio signal detection (Music Chase Mode),
or Manually (Manual Chase Mode). We’ll look at all the options now.
3.5.1 Manual Control Mode
Allows the user to create a precise static color using KONTROL 5’s 4 control
faders.
1. Ensure that BLACKOUT mode is not selected, IE that the LED indica-
tor above the <BLACKOUT> button is not lit.
2. Using the <FIXTURE SELECTOR> button(s),selectthexturesto
be controlled.
3. Adjust the color output using <FADER 1-5> as desired.
3.5.2 Color/Scene Preset Mode
Allows the user to display one of up to 16 previously programmed color pre-
set.
1. Ensure that BLACKOUT mode is not selected, IE that the LED indica-
tor above the <BLACKOUT> button is not lit.
2. Select the desired scene page using <SCENE PAGE A/B>.
3. Select the desired scene/color preset using <SCENE 1-8>.
3.5.3 Chase Playback Mode
Allows the user to display one or more of up to 16 previously programmed
chases in sequence.

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1. Ensure that BLACKOUT mode is not selected, IE that the LED indica-
tor above the <BLACKOUT> button is not lit.
2. Select the desired scene page using <SCENE PAGE A/B>.
3. Press <CHASE 1-8> to run a chase directly. The corresponding LED
indicator will illuminate.
4. If you wish to run additional chases in sequence, select additional
chases to run by again pressing <CHASE 1-8>.Therstchasese-
lected will have its LED indicator lit. Subsequently selected chases
willhavetheirLEDindicatorsashoncepersecond.
5. Now, select the playback mode for the chase; Auto, Music or Manual.
3.5.3.1 Auto Mode
In auto mode, the chases will automatically move through their individual
steps based on the chase and fade times set using the <CHASE TIME> and
<FADE TIME> faders.
1. Follow the steps indicated in Section 3.5.3.
2. Press the <RUN MODE> button until the LED indicator for AUTO
mode is illuminated.
3. Using the <CHASE TIME> fader, adjust the time each step will be
displayed, between 0.1 and 30 seconds per step. The LED display will
indicate the current time.
4. Using the <FADE TIME> fader, adjust the time each step will be
displayed, between 0.1 and 30 seconds per step. The LED display will
indicate the current time.
5. Using the <LEFT/RIGHT> buttons, adjust the number of times to
loop each chase. This function is only applicable when 2 or more
chases are being run in sequence.
6. Finally, you may override the chase/fade times set using the faders
by using the <INSERT/TAP> button. Press the <INSERT/TAP>
button and the LED indicator will begin to blink.
7. Press the <INSERT/TAP> button again and the LED indicator will be
extinguished. The amount of time between successive button presses
will be the new chase time.
8. Adjusting the <CHASE TIME> or <FADE TIME> faders will override
this setting.
3.5.3.2 Music Mode
In music mode, the chases will automatically move through their individual
steps based on the beat detected via the internal microphone.
1. Follow the steps indicated in Section 3.5.3.
2. Press the <RUN MODE> button until the LED indicator for MUSIC
mode is illuminated.
3. Using the <LEFT/RIGHT> buttons, adjust the sound sensitivity to
achieve optimal beat detection.
3.5.3.2 Manual Mode
In manual mode, the chases will move through their individually steps only
when triggered manually by the user.
1. Follow the steps indicated in Section 3.5.3.

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2. Press the <RUN MODE> button until the LED indicator for MANUAL
mode is illuminated.
3. Using the <LEFT/RIGHT> buttons, move through the steps in the
selected chase.
3.5.4 Playback Override
Allows the user to manually override the current output while in Color/Scene
Preset or Chase Playback Mode.
1. Ensure that BLACKOUT mode is not selected, IE that the LED indica-
tor above the <BLACKOUT> button is not lit.
2. Using the <FIXTURE SELECTOR> button(s),selectthexturesto
be controlled.
3. Adjust the color output using <FADER 1-5> as desired.
4. To return to Color/Scene Preset or Chase Playback Mode, press
<DEL/CLEAR>.
3.5.5.1 Strobe Setup
Allows the user to set the channel/channels which will be controlled by the
strobe function, for each xture.
1. Enter programming mode as described in Section 3.2.1.
2. Press the <STROBE> button.
3. Using the <FIXTURE SELECTOR> button(s),selectthexturesto
setup.
4. Using the <LEFT/RIGHT> buttons, select the channel to adjust.
5. To enable the strobe function on the channel selected, press the
<EDIT/REC> button.
6. To disable the strobe function on the channel selected, press <DEL/
CLEAR>.
7. Repeatsteps2-7toadjustadditionalchannels/xturesasdesired.
8. Hold <EDIT/REC> for 3 seconds to exit programming mode. The
LED indicator above the <EDIT/REC> button will extinguish.
3.5.5.2 Strobe Playback
Allows the user to strobe the current playback. Note: Strobe operates even
when the <BLACKOUT> button is active.
1. Press and hold the <STROBE> button. All currently selected/operat-
ingxtureswillstrobe.
2. Using the <STROBE SPEED> fader, adjust the strobe speed, from 1
to20ashespersecond.
3. Release the <STROBE> button, and strobing will stop.
3.5.6 Blackout
Allows the user to stop all xture output immediately (except while strobing
is active).
1. Press the <BLACKOUT> button. All output will cease. The LED
indicator will illuminate.
2. Press the <BLACKOUT> button again, and playback will resume

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3.6 USB Functions
KONTROL 5 is capable of saving/loading scene and chase data from USB
drives, using the USB jack on the unit’s front panel. During USB operation,
KONTROL 5’s LED display will show the following information, depending on
mode.
LED Display Means...
SAvE Indicates KONTROL 5 is currently in Data Backup/Save Mode.
LoAd Indicates KONTROL 5 is currently in Data Load Mode.
UP-- Indicates KONTROL 5 is currently in Firmware Update Mode.
Ft01-Ft16 Displaysthecurrentlenumbertobewritten/loaded
ot “OK,”indicatesthatthecurrentleoperationwassuccessful.
FAIL Indicatesthatthecurrentleoperationwasunsuccessful.TryadifferentUSB
device or program.
3.6.1 Data Backup
Allows the user to save scene and chase data to a USB Flash “Thumbdrive.”
1. Press and hold the <RUN MODE> & <LEFT> buttons to enter Data
Backup Mode.
2. Kontrol 5’s LED display will show “SAvE.”
3. Use the <FIXTURE SELECTOR 1-16> buttonstoselectthele
name, “FILE1 - FILE16.”
4. Once backup is complete, KONTROL 5 will display the “OK” message
(ot) as indicated above
3.6.2 Data Load
Allows the user to load scene and chase data from a USB Flash “Thumb-
drive.”
1. Press and hold the <RUN MODE> & <RIGHT> buttons to Enter
Data Load Mode.
2. Kontrol 5’s LED display will show “LoAd.”
3. Use the <FIXTURE SELECTOR 1-16> buttonstoselectthele
name, “FILE1 - FILE16.”
4. Once data load is complete, KONTROL 5 will display the “OK” mes-
sage (ot) as indicated above
3.6.3 Firmware Update
Allows the user to upgrade KONTROL 5’s internal rmware from a USB Flash
“Thumbdrive.”
WARNING: AFTER STARTING FIRMWARE UPGRADE, DO NOT POWER DOWN
KONTROL 5 UNTIL THE UPGRADE FINISHES!!! UNPLUG ALL FIXTURES FROM
KONTROL 5 PRIOR TO PROCEEDING.

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1. Turn the unit off.
2. With the unit off, press and hold the <EDIT/REC> & <LEFT> but-
tons.
3. Continue to hold the button combination until Kontrol 5’s LED display
shows “UP--.”
4. Release the button combination, then press any button to proceed
with the upgrade.
5. Once upgrade is complete, KONTROL 5 will display the “OK” message
(ot) as indicated above.

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4. APPENDIX
4.1 A Quick Lesson On DMX
DMX (aka DMX-512) was created in 1986 by the United States Institute for Theatre
Technology (USITT) as a standardized method for connecting lighting consoles to light-
ingdimmermodules.Itwasrevisedin1990andagainin2000toallowmoreexibility.
The Entertainment Services and Technology Association (ESTA) has since assumed
control over the DMX512 standard. It has also been approved and recognized for ANSI
standardclassication.
DMX covers (and is an abbreviation for) Digital MultipleXed signals. It is the most com-
mon communications standard used by lighting and related stage equipment.
DMX provides up to 512 control “channels” per data link. Each of these channels was
originally intended to control lamp dimmer levels. You can think of it as 512 faders
on a lighting console, connected to 512 light bulbs. Each slider’s position is sent over
the data link as an 8-bit number having a value between 0 and 255. The value 0 cor-
responds to the light bulb being completely off while 255 corresponds to the light bulb
being fully on.
DMX data is transmitted at 250,000 bits per second using the RS-485 transmission
standard over two wires. As with microphone cables, a grounded cable shield is used to
prevent interference with other signals.
TherearevepinsonaDMXconnector:awireforground(cableshield),twowiresfor
“Primary” communication which goes from a DMX source to a DMX receiver, and two
wires for a “Secondary” communication which goes from a DMX receiver back to a DMX
source.Generally,the“Secondary”channelisnotusedsodataowsonlyfromsources
to receivers. Hence, most of us are most familiar with DMX-512 as being employer over
typical3-pin“miccables,”althoughthisdoesnotconformtothedenedstandard.
DMXisconnectedusingadaisy-chaincongurationwherethesourceconnectstothe
inputoftherstdevice,theoutputoftherstdeviceconnectstotheinputofthenext
device, and so on. The standard allows for up to 32 devices on a single DMX link.
Each receiving device typically has a means for setting the “starting channel number”
thatitwillrespondto.Forexample,iftwo6-channelxturesareused,therstxture
might be set to start at channel 1 so it would respond to DMX channels 1 through 6,
andthenextxturewouldbesettostartatchannel7soitwouldrespondtochannels
7 through 12.
The greatest strength of the DMX communications protocol is that it is very simple
and robust. It involves transmitting a reset condition (indicating the start of a new
“packet”), a start code, and up to 512 bytes of data. Data packets are transmitted
continuously.Assoonasonepacketisnished,anothercanbeginwithnodelayif
desired (usually another follows within 1 ms). If nothing is changing (i.e. no lamp levels
change) the same data will be sent out over and over again. This is a great feature of
DMX--ifforsomereasonthedataisnotinterpretedthersttimearound,itwillbe
re-sent shortly.
Not all 512 channels need to be output per packet, and in fact, it is very uncommon
tondall512used.Thefewerchannelsareused,thehigherthe“refresh”rate.Itis
possible to get DMX refreshes at around 1000 times per second if only 24 channels are
being transmitted. If all 512 channels are being transmitted, the refresh rate is around
44 times per second.
DMXhasbecomethestandardforlightingcontrol.Itisexible,robust,andscalable,
and its ability to control everything from dimmer packs to moving lights to foggers to
lasers makes it an indispensable tool for any lighting designer or lighting performer.

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4.2 Keeping Your KONTROL 5 As Good As New
The KONTROL 5 you’ve received is a rugged, tough piece of pro lighting
equipment, and as long as you take care of it, it will take care of you. That
said, like anything, you’ll need to take care of it if you want it to operate as
designed. You should absolutely keep the unit clean, especially if you are
using it in an environment with a lot of dust, fog, haze, wild animals, wild
teenagers or spilled drinks.
Cleaning the surface routinely with a suitable cleaner is useful for keeping the
faders clean and in good operating condition.
In transit, keep the contoller in a case. You wouldn’t throw a prized guitar,
drumset, or other piece of expensive gear into a gear trailer without a case,
and similarly, you shouldn’t even think about doing it with your shiny new
lighting controller.
Common sense and taking care of your contoller will be the single biggest
thing you can do to keep it running at peak performance and let you worry
about designing a great light show, putting on a great concert, or maximizing
your client’s satisfaction and “wow factor.” That’s what it’s all about, after all!
4.3 Returns (Gasp!)
We’ve taken a lot of precautions to make sure you never even have to worry
about sending a defective unit back, or sending a unit in for service. But,
like any complex piece of equipment designed and built by humans, once in
awhile,somethingdoesn’tgoasplanned.Ifyoundyourselfwithaxture
thatisn’tbehavinglikeagoodlittlextureshould,you’llneedtoobtaina
Return Authorization (RA).
Don’t worry, this is easy. Just send an e-mail to support@blizzardlighting.
com, and we’ll issue you an RA. Then, you’ll need to send the unit to us
using a trackable, pre-paid freight method. We suggest using USPS Priority
orUPS.Makesureyoucarefullypackthexturefortransit,andwhenever
possible, use the original box & packing for shipping.
When returning your controller for service, be sure to include the following:
1.) Your contact information (Name, Address, Phone Number, Email
address).
2.) The RA# issued to you
3.) A brief description of the problem/symptoms.
Wewill,atourdiscretion,repairorreplacethexture.Pleaserememberthat
any shipping damage which occurs in transit to us is the customer’s responsi-
bility, so pack it well!
4.4 Shipping Issues
Damage incurred in shipping is the responsibility of the shipper,
and must be reported to the carrier immediately upon receipt of the
items. Claims must be made within seven (7) days of receipt.

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4.5 TECH SPECS!
Weight & Dimensions
Length 10.2 inches (255 mm)
Width 5.6 inches (142 mm)
Height 2.75 inches (69.5 mm)
Weight 3.25 lbs (1.5 kg)
Power
Operating Voltage 9-12 VDC, .3A (From included power supply)
Thermal
Max. Operating Temp. 104 degrees F (40 degrees C) ambient
Control
Protocol USITT DMX-512
DMX Channels 160
Output 3-pin XLR Female
USB Data Format
USBSpecication 1.0
Disk Format FAT16 / FAT32 ONLY
Maximum Disk Size 4GB
Know What?
Chicken Butt!
Warranty 2-year limited warranty.

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ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
Your mom misses you! Write her a quick note here! (And
give this page a reason for living).

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