Blizzard StormChaser User manual

Blizzard Lighting, LLC
www.blizzardlighting.com
Brookfield, WI USA
Copyright (c) 2011

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StormChaser Manual Rev. A Copyright (c) 2011 Blizzard Lighting, LLC
TABLE OF CONTENTS
StormChaser™ 1
1. Getting Started 3
What’s In The Box? 3
Getting It Out Of The Box 3
Powering Up! 3
Getting A Hold Of Us 3
Safety Instructions (Don’t Stick Your Hand In The Toaster!) 4
2. Meet The StormChaser™ 5
Features 5
The StormChaser Pin-up Picture 6
3. Setup 7
Fuse Replacement 7
Connecting A Bunch Of StormChasers™ 7
Data/DMX Cables 7
Cable Connectors 8
3-Pin??? 5-Pin??? Huh? 8
Take It To The Next Level: Setting up DMX Control 8
Fixture Linking (Master/Slave Mode) 9
Mounting/Rigging 9
4. Operating Adjustments 10
DIP Switch Settings 10
DMX Mode 10
DMX Channel Values In-Depth 11
Troubleshooting 12
5. Appendix 13
A Quick DMX Lesson 13
Keeping Your StormChaser™As Good As New 14
Returns (Gasp!) 14
Shipping Issues 14
Tech Specs 15

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StormChaser Manual Rev. A Copyright (c) 2011 Blizzard Lighting, LLC
1. GETTING STARTED
What’s In The Box?
• 1 x StormChaser™
• 2 x Mounting brackets w/bolts
• This Lovely User Manual
Getting It Out Of The Box
Congratulations on purchasing one way cool, way flexible, way original
LED strip light! Now that you’ve got your StormChaser™ (or hopefully,
StormChasers!), 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 ship-
per immediately and keep the packing material for inspection. Again,
please save the carton and all packing materials. If a fixture must be
returned to the factory, it is important that the fixture be returned in
the original factory box and packing.
Powering Up!
All fixtures must be powered directly off a switched circuit and cannot
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 fixtures have a voltage select switch, so
please verify that the fixture you receive is suitable for your local pow-
er supply. See the label on the fixture or refer to the fixture’s specifi-
cations chart for more information. A fixture’s listed current rating is
its average current draw under normal conditions. Check the fixture or
device carefully to make sure that if a voltage selection switch exists
that it is set to the correct line voltage you will use.
Warning! Verify that the voltage select switch on your unit
matches the line voltage applied. Damage to your fixture may
result if the line voltage applied does not match the voltage
indicated on the voltage selector switch. All fixtures must be
connected to circuits with a suitable Ground (Earthing).
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
PO Box 1874 Brookfield, WI 53008
[email protected]
www.blizzardlighting.com

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StormChaser Manual Rev. A Copyright (c) 2011 Blizzard Lighting, LLC
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 de-
cal or rear panel of the fixture.
• This product is intended for indoor use only.
• To prevent risk of fire or shock, do not expose fixture to rain or moisture.
• Make sure there are no flammable materials close to the unit while operating.
• 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 fixture using a safety chain. NEVER carry the fixture by its
cord. 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 immediately.
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 tech-
nical 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 sup-
[email protected].

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StormChaser Manual Rev. A Copyright (c) 2011 Blizzard Lighting, LLC
2. MEET THE StormChaser™
CONTROL FEATURES
• RGBW color mixing via 252 high power 10mm Red/Green/Blue/White
LEDs
• Variable electronic strobe
• 4 DMX modes for ultimate control flexibility
• Super flexible design allows for use as an effect/chase light or as a
7-pixel RGBW display device
• Built-in color & chase macros via DMX
• Built-in auto & sound activated programs via master/slave & DMX
ADDITIONAL FEATURES
• Compact and lightweight (it kept its new year’s resolution!)
• Lux: ~3,250 @ 1m
• Light source: 252x 10mm .5 watt LEDs. 63 each Red, Green, Blue
and White
Use the space below to draw a masterpiece which you can then sell to
a big-time art collector for $1,000,000, then buy more StormChasers
with that money!!

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StormChaser Manual Rev. A Copyright (c) 2011 Blizzard Lighting, LLC
Figure 1: The StormChaser™ Pin-Up Picture
High Power
LED’s
Anodized Aluminum
Enclosure
Mounting Bracket
& Adjustment
Screw
Figure 2: The Rear Connections
AC Power
Fuse Cover
DMX In DMX Out
Mode/DMX Address DIP Switches
Sound Sensitivity

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StormChaser Manual Rev. A Copyright (c) 2011 Blizzard Lighting, LLC
3. SETUP
Fuse Replacement
With a philips head screwdriver, unscrew the fuse holder from its hous-
ing. Remove the damaged fuse from its holder and replace with exact
same type fuse. Insert the fuse holder back in its place and reconnect
power.
Connecting A Bunch of StormChaser™ Fixtures
You will need a serial data link to run light shows using a DMX-512
controller or to run shows on two or more fixtures set to sync in mas-
ter/slave operating mode. The combined number of channels required
by all the fixtures on a serial data link determines the number of fix-
tures the data link can support.
Fixtures on a serial data link must be daisy chained in one single line.
Also, connecting more than 32 fixtures on one serial data link without
the use of a DMX optically-isolated splitter may result in deterioration
of the digital DMX signal.
The maximum recommended cable-run distance is 500 meters (1640
ft). The maximum recommended number of fixtures on a serial data
link is 32 fixtures.
Data/DMX Cabling
To link fixtures together you’ll need data cables. You should use data-
grade cables that can carry a high quality signal and are less prone to
electromagnetic interference.
For instance, Belden© 9841 meets the specifications for EIA RS-485
applications. Standard microphone cables will “probably” be OK, but
note that they cannot transmit DMX data as reliably over long distanc-
es. In any event, the cable should have the following characteristics:
2-conductor twisted pair plus a shield
Maximum capacitance between conductors – 30 pF/ft.
Maximum capacitance between conductor & shield – 55 pF/ft.
Maximum resistance of 20 ohms / 1000 ft.
Nominal impedance 100 – 140 ohms

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StormChaser Manual Rev. A Copyright (c) 2011 Blizzard Lighting, LLC
Cable Connectors
Cables must have a male XLR connector on one end and a female XLR
connector on the other end. (Duh!)
CAUTION: Do not allow contact between the common and the fix-
ture’s chassis ground. Grounding the common can cause a ground
loop, and your fixture may perform erratically. Test cables with an
ohm meter to verify correct polarity and to make sure the pins are not
grounded or shorted to the shield or each other.
3-Pin??? 5-Pin??? Huh?!?
If you use a controller with a 5 pin DMX output connector, you will need to use a 5 pin to 3 pin adapter.
They are widely available over the internet and from specialty retailers If you’d like to build your own, the
chart below details a proper cable conversion:
Conductor 3-Pin Female
(Output) 5-Pin Male (Input)
Ground/Shield Pin 1 Pin 1
DMX Data (-) Pin 2 Pin 2
DMX Data (+) Pin 3 Pin 3
Not Used. No Connection. No Connection.
Not Used. No Connection. No Connection.
Take It To The Next Level: Setting Up DMX Control
Step 1: Connect the male connector of the
DMX cable to the female connector (output)
on the controller.
Step 2: Connect the female connector of the
DMX cable to the first fixture’s male connec-
tor (input). Note: It doesn’t matter which
fixture address is the first one connected.
We recommend connecting the fixtures in
terms of their proximity to the controller,
rather than connecting the lowest fixture
number first, and so on.
Step 3: Connect other fixtures in the chain
from output to input as above. Place a DMX
terminator on the output of the final fixture
to ensure best communication.

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StormChaser Manual Rev. A Copyright (c) 2011 Blizzard Lighting, LLC
Fixture Linking (Master/Slave Mode)
1. Connect the (male) 3 pin connector side of the
DMX cable to the output (female) 3 pin connector of
the first fixture.
2. Connect the end of the cable coming from the
first fixture which will have a (female) 3 pin connec-
tor to the input connector of the next fixture con-
sisting of a (male) 3 pin connector. Then, proceed
to connect from the output as stated above to the
input of the following fixture and so on.
A quick note: Often,
the setup for Master-
Slave and Standalone
operation requires that
the first fixture in the
chain be initialized for
this purpose via either
settings in the control
panel or DIP-switches.
Secondarily, the fixtures
that follow may also re-
quire a slave setting.
Check the “Operating Adjustments” section in this manual for com-
plete instructions for this type of setup and configuration.
Mounting & Rigging
This fixture may be mounted in any SAFE position provided there is
enough room for ventilation.
It is important never to obstruct the fan or vents pathway. Mount the
fixture using a suitable “C” or “O” type clamp. The clamp should be
rated to hold at least 10x the fixture’s weight to ensure structural sta-
bility. Do not mount to surfaces with unknown strength, and ensure
properly “rated” rigging is used when mounting fixutres overhead.
Adjust the angle of the fixture by loosening both knobs and tilting the
fixture. After finding the desired position, retighten both knobs.
• When selecting installation location, take into consideration lamp
replacement access (if applicable) and routine maintenance.
• Safety cables MUST ALWAYS be used.
• Never mount in places where the fixture will be exposed to rain,
high humidity, extreme temperature changes or restricted ventilation.

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StormChaser Manual Rev. A Copyright (c) 2011 Blizzard Lighting, LLC
4. OPERATING ADJUSTMENTS
DIP Switch Settings
All of the various functions of the StormChaser™ are set up using the 10-po-
sition DIP switch located on the rear of the unit. Using this set of switches,
you can select several different standalone, master/slave and DMX operating
modes. The chart below describes the various operating modes and their re-
spective DIP switch settings.
Function DIP 1 DIP 2 DIP 3 DIP 4 DIP 5 DIP 6 DIP 7 DIP 8 DIP 9 DIP 10
All Red DIM BRITE OFF ON
All Green DIM BRITE
All Blue DIM BRITE
All White DIM BRITE
Color Fade
Color Flash
Auto Chase EFX 1 EFX 2 EFX 3 EFX 4 SLOW MED. FAST ULTRA ON ON
Sound Active OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF
Master/Slave OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF ON
DMX CH. # 1 2 4 8 16 32 64 128 256 OFF

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StormChaser Manual Rev. A Copyright (c) 2011 Blizzard Lighting, LLC
DMX Channel Values (2 Channel Mode)
Ch. Channel Value Does...
1
000 <-> 010
011 <-> 042
043 <-> 084
085 <-> 127
128 <-> 191
128 <-> 131
132 <-> 135
136 <-> 139
140 <-> 143
144 <-> 147
148 <-> 151
152 <-> 155
156 <-> 159
160 <-> 163
164 <-> 167
168 <-> 171
172 <-> 175
176 <-> 179
180 <-> 183
184 <-> 187
188 <-> 191
192 <-> 255
Mode
No Function
7 Channel Mode
31 Channel Mode
10 Channel Mode
2 Channel Mode
Effect Chase #1
Effect Chase #2
Effect Chase #3
Effect Chase #4
Effect Chase #5
Effect Chase #6
Effect Chase #7
Effect Chase #8
Effect Chase #9
Effect Chase #10
Effect Chase #11
Effect Chase #12
Effect Chase #13
Effect Chase #14
Effect Chase #15
Effect Chase #16 (All Chases Cycle)
Sound Active Mode
2000 <-> 255 Speed
DMX Channel Values (7/10/31 Channel Mode)
Channel Channel Value 7 Channel 10 Channel 31 Channel
1
000 <-> 010
011 <-> 042
043 <-> 084
085 <-> 127
128 <-> 191
192 <-> 255
Mode
No Function
7 Channel Mode
31 Channel Mode
10 Channel Mode
2 Channel Mode
Sound Active Mode
2000 <-> 255 Dimmer (0 <-> 100%)
3000
001 <-> 255
Strobe
No Function
Strobe (Slow <-> Fast)
4000 <-> 255 Global Red Intensity Pixel 1 Global Intensity Pixel 1 Red Intensity
5000 <-> 255 Global Green Intensity Pixel 2 Global Intensity Pixel 1 Green Intensity
6000 <-> 255 Global Blue Intensity Pixel 3 Global Intensity Pixel 1 Blue Intensity
7000 <-> 255 Global White Intensity Pixel 4 Global Intensity Pixel 1 White Intensity
8000 <-> 255 N/A Pixel 5 Global Intensity Pixel 2 Red Intensity
9000 <-> 255 N/A Pixel 6 Global Intensity Pixel 2 Green Intensity
10 000 <-> 255 N/A Pixel 7 Global Intensity Pixel 2 Blue Intensity
11 000 <-> 255 N/A N/A Pixel 2 White Intensity
... ... ... ... ...
28 000 <-> 255 N/A N/A Pixel 7 Red Intensity
29 000 <-> 255 N/A N/A Pixel 7 Green Intensity
30 000 <-> 255 N/A N/A Pixel 7 Blue Intensity
31 000 <-> 255 N/A N/A Pixel 7 White Intensity

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StormChaser Manual Rev. A Copyright (c) 2011 Blizzard Lighting, LLC
Troubleshooting
Symptom Solution
Fixture Auto-
Shut Off Check the fan in the fixture. If it is stopped or moving slower than normal, the unit may have shut itself off due to
high heat. This is to protect the fixture from overheating.
Clear the fan of obstructions, or return the unit for service.
Beam is Dim Check optical system and clean excess dust/grime. Also
ensure that the 220V/110V switch is in the correct position,
if applicable.
No Light Output Check to ensure fixture is operating under correct mode, IE
sound active/auto/DMX/Etc., if applicable. Contact service
for more information.
Chase Speed
Too Fast/Slow Check to ensure proper setup of speed adjustment.
No Power Check fuse, AC cord and circuit for malfunction.
Blown Fuse Check AC cord and circuit for damage, verify that moving
parts are not restricted and that unit’s ventilation is not
obstructed
Slow Movement Verify that 220V/110V switch is in the correct position, if
applicable. Also check that speed channels are set appropri-
ately.
No Response to
Audio Verify that the fixture is in “Sound Active” mode. Adjust Audio Sensitivity, If Applicable.
Fixture Not
Responding /
Responding Er-
raticly
Make sure all connectors are seated properly and securely.
Use Only DMX Cables.
Install a Terminator.
Check all cables for defects.
Reset fixture(s).
Intermittant
Lamp Check lamp for properly installation. Relamp, lamp may have reached end of life.
Remote Doesn’t
Work Verify remote control cable is installed properly and securely. Verify remote is correct type (CA-9 or other as applicable.)
Fixture Moving
On Its Own Verify proper mode of operation. Is the fixture in “Auto” mode?
If your problem isn’t listed, or if problems persist,
please contact support: [email protected].

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StormChaser Manual Rev. A Copyright (c) 2011 Blizzard Lighting, LLC
5. APPENDIX
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 lighting
dimmer modules. It was revised in 1990 and again in 2000 to allow more flexibility. 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 clas-
sification.
DMX covers (and is an abbreviation for) Digital MultipleXed signals. It is the most common
communications standard used by lighting and related stage equipment.
DMX provides up to 512 control “channels” per data link. Each of these channels was origi-
nally 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 corresponds 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 stan-
dard over two wires. As with microphone cables, a grounded cable shield is used to prevent
interference with other signals.
There are five 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 flows only from sources to receiv-
ers. 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 defined standard.
DMX is connected using a daisy-chain configuration where the source connects to the input
of the first device, the output of the first 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 fixtures are used, the first fixture might
be set to start at channel 1 so it would respond to DMX channels 1 through 6, and the next
fixture 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 finished, 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 first 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 find
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 trans-
mitted. If all 512 channels are being transmitted, the refresh rate is around 44 times per
second.
In summary, since its design and evolution in the 1980’s DMX has become the standard
for lighting control. It is flexible, robust, and scalable, and its ability to control everything
from dimmer packs to moving lights to foggers to lasers makes it an indispensible tool for
any lighting designer or lighting performer.

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StormChaser Manual Rev. A Copyright (c) 2011 Blizzard Lighting, LLC
Keeping Your StormChaser™As Good As New
The fixture you’ve received is a rugged, tough piece of pro lighting equip-
ment, 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 fixture 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 optics routinely with a suitable glass cleaner will greatly improve
the quality of light output. Keeping the fans free of dust and debris will keep
the fixture running cool and prevent damage from overheating.
In transit, keep the fixtures in cases. 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 light
fixtures.
Common sense and taking care of your fixtures will be the single biggest thing
you can do to keep them running at peak performance and let you worry about
designing a great light show, putting on a great concert, or maximizing your cli-
ent’s satistfaction and “wow factor.” That’s what it’s all about, after all!
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 find yourself with a fixture that isn’t
behaving like a good little fixture should, you’ll need to obtain a Return Authori-
zation (RA).
Don’t worry, this is easy. Just send an email to [email protected],
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 fixture for transit, and whenever possible, use
the original box & packing for shipping.
When returning your fixture 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 fixture. Please remember that
any shipping damage which occurs in transit to us is the customer’s responsibil-
ity, so pack it well!
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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StormChaser Manual Rev. A Copyright (c) 2011 Blizzard Lighting, LLC
Tech Specs!
Weight & Dimensions
Length 42.3 inches (1070 mm)
Width 2.5 inches (65 mm)
Height 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Weight 5.5 lbs (2.5 kg)
Power
Operating Voltage 90-130VAC, 50-60 Hertz
Fuse 2A 250V
Power Consumption 20W
Light Source
LED 252x10mm, .5W (63x Each Red, Green,
Blue, White), 100,000 hours.
Optical
Beam Angle 30 degrees
Luminous Intensity ~3,250 Lux @ 1m
Thermal
Max. Operating Temp. 104 degrees F (40 degrees C) ambient
Control
Protocol USITT DMX-512
DMX Channels 2/7/10/31 (User Selectable)
Input 3-pin XLR Male
Output 3-pin XLR Female
Other Operating Modes Standalone, Master/Slave, Sound Active
Coolness Factor
Leventy Billion Percent
Warranty 2-year limited warranty, does not cover mal- function caused by damage to LED’s.

Enjoy your product!
Our sincerest thanks for your purchase!
--The team @ Blizzard Lighting