Chauvet Professional F2 User manual
User Manual
F2 User Manual Rev. 1
Edition Notes
The F2 User Manual includes a description, safety precautions, installation, programming, operation and
maintenance instructions for the F2 as of the release date of this edition.
Trademarks
CHAUVET, the Chauvet logo and F2 are registered trademarks or trademarks of Chauvet & Sons, LLC (d/
b/a Chauvet and Chauvet Lighting) in the United States and other countries. Other company and product
names and logos referred to herein may be trademarks of their respective companies.
Copyright Notice
The works of authorship contained in this manual, including, but not limited to, all design, text and images
are owned by Chauvet.
© Copyright 2020 Chauvet & Sons, LLC. All rights reserved.
Electronically published by Chauvet in the United States of America.
Manual Use
Chauvet authorizes its customers to download and print this manual for professional information purposes
only. Chauvet expressly prohibits the usage, copy, storage, distribution, modification, or printing of this
manual or its content for any other purpose without written consent from Chauvet.
Document Printing
For best results, print this document in color, on letter size paper (8.5 x 11 in), double-sided. If using A4
paper (210 x 297 mm), configure the printer to scale the content accordingly.
Intended Audience
Any person installing, operating, and/or maintaining this product should completely read through the guide
that shipped with the product, as well as this manual, before installing, operating, or maintaining this
product.
Disclaimer
Chauvet believes that the information contained in this manual is accurate in all respects. However,
Chauvet assumes no responsibility and specifically disclaims any and all liability to any party for any loss,
damage or disruption caused by any errors or omissions in this document, whether such errors or
omissions result from negligence, accident or any other cause. Chauvet reserves the right to revise the
content of this document without any obligation to notify any person or company of such revision, however,
Chauvet has no obligation to make, and does not commit to make, any such revisions. Download the latest
version from www.chauvetprofessional.com.
Document Revision
This F2 User Manual is the 1st edition of this document. Go to www.chauvetprofessional.com for the latest
version.
F2 User Manual Rev. 1
Table of Contents
i
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. Before You Begin ....................................................................... 1
What Is Included.................................................................................. 1
Claims.................................................................................................. 1
Text Conventions................................................................................. 1
Symbols............................................................................................... 1
Safety Notes ........................................................................................ 2
Personal Safety ....................................................................................... 2
Mounting and Rigging.............................................................................. 2
Power and Wiring .................................................................................... 2
Operation ................................................................................................. 2
Expected LED Lifespan ....................................................................... 2
2. Introduction ................................................................................ 3
Product Description ............................................................................. 3
Features................................................................................................... 3
Required Accessories.............................................................................. 3
Optional Accessories ............................................................................... 3
Available Signal and Power Cables......................................................... 3
Product Overview ................................................................................ 4
Pixels per Panel................................................................................... 5
Scrambled Pulse-Width Modulation .................................................... 5
Product Dimensions ............................................................................ 5
3. Setup ........................................................................................... 7
AC Power ............................................................................................ 7
AC Plug.................................................................................................... 7
Power Linking .......................................................................................... 7
4. Mounting ..................................................................................... 8
Orientation ........................................................................................... 8
Mounting Points................................................................................... 8
DRB-F50CM Dual Function Rig Bar Dimensions ................................ 9
DRB-F100CM Dual Function Rig Bar Dimensions .............................. 9
Mounting with Dual Function Rig Bar (Hanging) ................................. 10
Truss Installation...................................................................................... 11
Mounting with Dual Function Rig Bar (Stacking) ................................. 12
Removing the Feet .................................................................................. 12
Flat Wall Installation ............................................................................ 13
Spacers (Flat Wall Installation) ................................................................ 14
5. Joining Each F2 (Creating a Modular Design)......................... 15
Vertically Joining the Panels................................................................ 15
Vertical Panel Connection ....................................................................... 16
Horizontally Joining the Panels ........................................................... 17
Horizontal Panel Connection ................................................................... 17
Table of Contents
F2 User Manual Rev. 1
ii
6. Connecting (Cabling) Each F2 .................................................. 18
Testing Signal and Power Connections............................................... 18
Using the F2 Test Button..................................................................... 18
Connecting Power and Signal Cables ................................................. 19
Connecting the Signal Between Joined Panels ....................................... 19
Custom Resolutions................................................................................. 19
Signal Chain Rectangles ......................................................................... 20
Connecting the Power Between Joined Panels....................................... 21
7. LED Module Care and Replacement......................................... 22
F2 Module............................................................................................ 22
LED Lot Numbers .................................................................................... 22
A and B Modules ..................................................................................... 22
Calibration Recall..................................................................................... 22
F2 LED Module Removal......................................................................... 23
Removing and Replacing the LED Masks ........................................... 24
8. F2 Serviceability ......................................................................... 25
9. Typical F2 Installation (Hanging) .............................................. 27
10. Operation .................................................................................. 28
Additional Hardware and Software ...................................................... 28
About NovaLCT ................................................................................... 28
Description............................................................................................... 28
Rotating the Video Panel Orientation .................................................. 29
11. Technical Information .............................................................. 31
F2 Maintenance................................................................................... 31
Returns ................................................................................................ 31
12. Technical Specifications ......................................................... 32
Contact Us ...................................................................................... 33
Page 1 of 33
F2 User Manual Rev. 1
Before You Begin
1. Before You Begin
What Is Included
Claims
Carefully unpack the product immediately and check the container to make sure all the parts are in the
package and are in good condition.
If the box or the contents (the product and included accessories) appear damaged from shipping, or show
signs of mishandling, notify the carrier immediately, not Chauvet. Failure to report damage to the carrier
immediately may invalidate your claim. In addition, keep the box and contents for inspection.
For other issues, such as missing components or parts, damage not related to shipping, or concealed
damage, file a claim with Chauvet within 7 days of delivery.
Text Conventions
Symbols
•F2
• 1 Seetronic®Powerkon®Power Cord
• 4 Seetronic®Powerkon®Power Linking Cords
• 4 Seetronic®Etherkon®Signal Linking Cords
• 5 Spare LED Masks
• Quick Reference Guide
Convention Meaning
1–512 A range of values
50/60 A set of values of which only one can be chosen
Settings A menu option not to be modified
Menu > Settings A sequence of menu options to be followed
<ENTER> A key to be pressed on the product’s control panel
Symbol Meaning
Critical installation, configuration, or operation information. Not following these
instructions may make the product not work, cause damage to the product, or cause
harm to the operator.
Important installation or configuration information. The product may not function
correctly if this information is not used.
Useful information.
The term “DMX” used throughout this manual refers to the USITT DMX512-A digital data
transmission protocol.
Page 2 of 33
Before You Begin
F2 User Manual Rev. 1
Safety Notes
Read all the following safety notes before working with this product. These notes contain important
information about the installation, usage, and maintenance of this product.
Personal Safety
• Always disconnect the product from the power source before cleaning or replacing the fuse.
• Always connect the product to a grounded circuit to avoid the risk of electrocution.
• Do not touch the product’s housing when operating because it may be very hot.
Mounting and Rigging
• WARNING: This product should only be used by competent and qualified persons.
• This product is for indoor use only! To prevent risk of fire or shock, do not expose this product to
rain or moisture. (IP20)
• CAUTION: When transferring product from extreme temperature environments, (e.g. cold truck to
warm humid ballroom) condensation may form on the internal electronics of the product. To avoid
causing a failure, allow product to fully acclimate to the surrounding environment before connecting
it to power.
• Mount this product in a location with adequate ventilation, at least 20 in (50 cm) from adjacent
surfaces.
• Make sure there are no flammable materials close to this product while it is operating.
• When hanging this product, always secure to a fastening device using a safety cable.
• Never carry the product by the power cord or any moving part.
Power and Wiring
• Make sure the power cord is not crimped or damaged.
• Always make sure you are connecting this product to the proper voltage in accordance with the
specifications in this manual or on the product’s specification label.
• To eliminate unnecessary wear and improve its lifespan, during periods of non-use completely
disconnect the product from power via breaker or by unplugging it.
• Never connect this product to a dimmer pack or rheostat.
• Never disconnect this product by pulling or tugging on the power cable.
Operation
• Do not operate this product if there is damage on the housing, lenses, or cables. Have the damaged
parts replaced by an authorized technician at once.
• Do not cover the ventilation slots when operating to avoid internal overheating.
• The maximum ambient temperature is 113 °F (45 °C). Do not operate the product at higher
temperatures.
• The minimum startup temperature is -4°F (-20°C). Do not start the product at lower temperatures.
• The minimum ambient temperature is -22°F (-30°C). Do not operate the product at lower
temperatures.
• In the event of a serious operation problem, stop using this product immediately!
Expected LED Lifespan
Over time, use and heat will gradually reduce LED brightness. Clustered LEDs produce more heat than
single LEDs, contributing to shorter lifespans if always used at full intensity. The average LED lifespan is
40,000 to 50,000 hours. To extend LED lifespan, maintain proper ventilation around the product, and limit
the overall intensity.
This product contains no user-serviceable parts. Any reference to servicing in this User
Manual will only apply to properly trained, certified technicians. Do not open the housing
or attempt any repairs.
All applicable local codes and regulations apply to proper installation of this product.
If your Chauvet product requires service, contact Chauvet Technical Support.
Page 3 of 33
F2 User Manual Rev. 1
Introduction
2. Introduction
Product Description
The F2 is a 2.9 mm pixel pitch LED video panel equipped with a high contrast 1,500 NITS and a refresh
rate of 3,840 Hz for crisp, high quality, imagery. This high-performance video panel is ideal for corporate
events with text, high-res IMAG and any space with a shorter viewing distance. The F2 features a light-
weight die-cast magnesium housing and magnetic assisted hanging. The magnetic LED modules are also
both front and rear serviceable.
Features
• 2.9 mm pitch high resolution indoor video panel works with the VIP Drive 43Nova2, using the
Novastar control protocol
• High quality black body LEDs accurately reproduce video at 16-bit grayscale, operating on the A5s
receiver card from Novastar (18-bit available)
• High performance digital LED drivers deliver 3840Hz refresh rate and a clear, vibrant image
• Uses specialized LED dimming control via S-PWM (Scrambled Pulse-Width Modulation), which
enhances on-camera performance.
• Intelligent, high speed magnetic LED modules with dedicated memory stores factory calibration,
ensuring optimal image quality, color uniformity, and simplifies maintenance by making service fast
and easy
• 1,000 x 500 x 82.5 mm, 30 lb (13.6 kg) magnesium die-cast housing (500 x 500 mm available)
makes this product among the lightest and slimmest in its class without compromising strength,
capable of hanging up to 23 panels vertically safely
• Specialized frame design allows for overhead hanging, ground stacking, and wall mounting
maximizing installation flexibility and aftermarket front and rear service; simply push out modules
from the rear using the handles, or use the included service tool from the front.
• Front LED surface protective design features prevent damage when handling: 4x stainless steel
standing feet to keep the LEDs from touching the floor, specialized LED board design to improve
impact resistance up to 3x that of other panels, and resilient led mask design to optimize image
viewing angle and uniformity without exposing the LEDs to front or side impacts
• Strong, magnetic assisted hanging makes setting up the panels fast and easy with a minimal crew
• Optimized heat dissipation ensures an even color across the F2
• Dual power supplies increase the stability of the system
• Cable management solutions include angled connectors on panels for easy operation, long cables
which can connector horizontally or vertically, and handles on the bottoms of each panel to organize
cables and keep them neat
• Ground support system, and concave curving hardware available
Required Accessories
• Required Software: Nova LCT Mars
• Controller (required): VIP Drive 43Nova 2 or VIP Drive 83R Nova
• Accessories (required): VIP Driver
• Compatible Mounting Options: F-series Rig Bar (0.5 m and 1 m) (overhead hanging), M10 Bolt/
Clamp (front mounting), M12 Bolt/Clamp (rear mounting)
Optional Accessories
• ArKaos Media Master Express + KN software
• DRB-100CM, DRB-50CM, and DRB-CurveX2
• VIDTOURCART
• GROUNDSUPPORT2KIT
• VIDCURVEKIT
Available Signal and Power Cables
Signal cables (Neutrik®etherCON®CAT6 Signal Extensions)
• ETHERCONEXT18IN
• ETHERCONEXT5FT
• ETHERCONEXT10FT
• ETHERCONEXT25FT
• ETHERCONEXT50FT
Power cables (Neutrik®powerCON®Power Extensions)
• POWERCONEXT18IN
• POWERCONEXT5FT
• POWERCONEXT10FT
• POWERCONEXT25FT
• POWERCONEXT50FT
Page 4 of 33
Introduction
F2 User Manual Rev. 1
Product Overview
Alignment Conical (x2) Carry Handles
Alignment Holes
Female Speego
Connection
Female Speego
Connections
Threaded
Mounting Hole
Size M12 (x6)
Test Button
Power/Signal Indicator LEDs
Male Speego
Connections
Alignment
Magnets
(x4)
Alignment
Magnets
(x4)
Seetronic®
Powerkon®
In
Seetronic®
Powerkon®
Out
Seetronic®Etherkon®
Signal Through Ports
Alignment
Magnets
(x4)
Alignment
Conicals
Alignment
Bolts (x4)
Page 5 of 33
F2 User Manual Rev. 1
Introduction
Pixels per Panel
Each pixel is 1 tri-color LED. The following table provides the pixels per panel in each F2. For detailed
specifications, refer to the Technical Specifications table at the end of this User Manual.
Scrambled Pulse-Width Modulation
This product features Scrambled-PWM (S-PWM) technology, which de-synchronizes the pulse widths of
each color of the multi-color LEDs. This ensures that there is always some LED output, reducing flicker,
and maintaining the same grayscale performance.
Product Dimensions
Parameter F2
Pixels per Panel 168 x 336
Total Pixels per Panel 56,448
Pixels per LED Module 84 x 168
Total Pixels per LED Module 14,112
LED Module Dimensions 250 x 500 mm
To calculate the number of panels, horizontally and vertically, supported by a single
VIP Drive 43Nova 2 or VIP Drive 83R Nova, you will use:
• The number of pixels per panel.
• The screen resolution you would like to use for your video wall display.
The VIP Drive 43Nova 2 or VIP Drive 83R Nova is required to operate an F2 video wall
system. Diagrams of how the F2 panels and the VIP Drive connect follow later in this
manual. For detailed information about the VIP Drive and panel calculation examples, refer
to the User Manual for the VIP Drive 43Nova 2 or VIP Drive 83R Nova.
LED Module
2.46 in
62.55 mm
3.25 in
82.5 mm
Page 7 of 33
F2 User Manual Rev. 1
Setup
3. Setup
AC Power
The F2 has an auto-ranging power supply and it can work with an input voltage range of 100 to 240 VAC,
50/60 Hz.
To determine the product’s power requirements (circuit breaker, power outlet, and wiring), use the current
value listed on the label affixed to the product’s back panel, or refer to the product’s specifications chart.
The listed current rating indicates the product’s average current draw under normal conditions.
AC Plug
The F2 comes with a power input cord terminated with a Seetronic Powerkon A connector on one end and
an Edison plug on the other end (U.S. market). If the power input cord that came with your product has no
plug, or if you need the change the plug, use the table below to wire the new plug.
Power Linking
All F2 panels support power linking. Refer to the following table for specifications on each panel.
• Always connect the product to a protected circuit (a circuit breaker or fuse). Make sure
the product has an appropriate electrical ground to avoid the risk of electrocution or
fire.
• To eliminate unnecessary wear and improve its lifespan, during periods of non-use
completely disconnect the product from power via breaker or by unplugging it.
Never connect the product to a rheostat (variable resistor) or dimmer circuit, even if the
rheostat or dimmer channel serves only as a 0 to 100% switch.
Connection Wire (U.S.) Wire (Europe) Screw Color
AC Live Black Brown Yellow or Brass
AC Neutral White Blue Silver
AC Ground Green/Yellow Green/Yellow Green
Voltage F2 Products
@ 120 V, 60 Hz 7
@ 208 V, 60 Hz 13
@ 230 V, 50 Hz 13
Please refer to all applicable local codes and regulations for the proper installation of this
product.
Power
Source 1st Product
2nd Product
Additional Products
3rd Product
Page 8 of 33
Mounting
F2 User Manual Rev. 1
4. Mounting
Orientation
Each F2 is constructed of die-cast magnesium. This ensures each panel is stable and easy to install. Each
panel also has convenient built-in handles located on the top and bottom of the backside of the panel along
with two alignment conicals on the top and 4 alignment bolts (feet) on the bottom. This combination
enables you to easily pick up and securely hold each panel while mounting and working with the panels.
The F2 can be assembled to provide any number of modular designs. The panels on the top can be
securely hung from a truss or other stable surface. Always hang in a safe position with adequate space for
ventilation, configuration, and maintenance. Chauvet recommends following the general guidelines below.
• When selecting an installation location, consider ease of access for operation and routine maintenance.
• Make sure to hang away from any flammable material, as indicated in the Safety Notes section.
• Never mount in places where rain, extreme temperature changes, or restricted ventilation may affect it.
• Make sure that the structure and attachment points to which you are hanging the panels can support
the weight.
• Make sure that all load-bearing hardware used can support the weight.
• See the Technical Specifications for the weight requirement of each F2.
Mounting Points
12
311
12
2
2
2
3
3
3
3
11
1. Threaded Mounting
Holes Size M12 (x6)
2. Male Speego
Connection
3. Female Speego
Connection
4. Feet (Alignment
Bolts) (x4)
5. Handles
445
5
5
555
Page 9 of 33
F2 User Manual Rev. 1
Mounting
DRB-F50CM Dual Function Rig Bar Dimensions
DRB-F100CM Dual Function Rig Bar Dimensions
19.67 in
499.8 mm 19.98 in
507.6 mm
4.72 in
120 mm
2.36 in
60 mm
5.2 in
132 mm
6.65 in
169 mm
Sold Separately
39.35 in
999.6 mm
39.55 in
1,007.4 mm
4.72 in
120 mm
2.36 in
60 mm
5.2 in
132 mm
6.65 in
169 mm
Sold Separately
Page 10 of 33
Mounting
F2 User Manual Rev. 1
Mounting with Dual Function Rig Bar (Hanging)
1. Loosen the spring knobs on the male Speego connections of each Rig Bar to be used.
2. Insert alignment conicals into the alignment holes and allow magnets to connect.
3. Insert the Rig Bar Speego locking bars into the female Speego connections on the F2.
4. Twist the spring knob on the Rig Bar Speego until it locks into place.
5. Twist the tightening knobs clockwise until the F2 products are secure to the Rig Bars and aligned
correctly to each other.
6. Install the side latches of the panels to each other (Horizontal Panel Connection) only after
ensuring the alignment is correct.
7. To detach the Rig Bar from the F2, reverse the previous steps. Tilt the panels away from each
other to safely release the magnetic attachments.
When mounting a video panel assembly together, mount the entire top row of panels using
only the spring knobs before moving on to step 5.
The alignment magnets on the F2 and Dual Function Rig Bar are designed to temporarily
hold the weight of the panel to allow the user to properly align and tighten the panel into
place.
Warning! The magnetic attachments are not load-bearing, and are intended for alignment
assistance only. Do not release panel until the hanging hardware has been fully secured.
Alignment
Conical (x2)
Male Speego
Connection
Tightening
Knob
Spring
Knob
Locking
Bar
Rig Bar Speego
Female Speego
Connection (x2)
(For use with
DRB Curve Kit)
Alignment
Bolts
Alignment
Holes (x2)
Alignment
Magnets (x3)
Bottom View
Back View
Side View
Page 11 of 33
F2 User Manual Rev. 1
Mounting
Truss Installation
The M12 and M10 mounting points are not intended for hanging or suspending from a
truss or other overhead structure.
In order to suspend/hang the panels from a truss or other overhead structure, use the Dual
Series Rig Bars (DRB-F50CM or -F100CM, sold separately).
All applicable local codes and regulations apply to proper installation of this product.
WARNING: The alignment magnets on the Dual Function Rig Bars are not designed for
load bearing! All Rig Bars in a panel assembly must be mounted individually to the
mounting point! Adjacent Rig Bars will NOT support the attached weight!
WARNING: This product should only be used by competent and qualified persons.
Attach to Truss Using Dual Function Rig Bar
Page 12 of 33
Mounting
F2 User Manual Rev. 1
Mounting with Dual Function Rig Bar (Stacking)
1. Insert alignment conicals into the alignment holes and allow magnets to connect.
2. Close the latches of the male speego connections on the F-series panel.
3. To detach the Rig Bar from the F-Series panel, reverse the previous steps.
Removing the Feet
To remove the feet (alignment bolts) from the F2, twist them counter-clockwise with a 5 mm wrench until
they come loose.
Warning! The magnetic attachments are not load-bearing, and are intended for alignment
assistance only. Do not release panel until the hanging hardware has been fully secured.
Removing the feet may result in damage not covered by the warranty.
Alignment
Conical (x2)
Male Speego
Connection
Female Speego
Connection
(For use with
DRB Curve Kit or
Ground Support 2 Kit)
Back View
Top View
Alignment
Bolt (x4)
Alignment
Holes (x4)
Female Speego
Connection
Back View Side View
5 mm
Page 13 of 33
F2 User Manual Rev. 1
Mounting
Flat Wall Installation
Refer to the following diagrams for flat wall installation.
The 4 rear and front mounting holes are intended for flush mount installation to a flat
surface against the video panels. 1 mounting point for every junction, including outside
edges and corners, must be used in order to maintain structural integrity. The mounting
points are not intended for hanging or suspending from a truss or other overhead
structure.
The 2 rear mounting holes in the middle of the product are intended for use with the
Ground Support 2 Kit from Chauvet.
Spacers greater than 5 mm thick must be used at each mounting point, between the panels
and the struts.
Chauvet recommends using a VERTICAL steel strut for each column of panels, plus 1, as
in the following diagram:
The illustrations above are examples only. Please refer to all applicable local codes and
regulations for the proper installation of the product.
Mounting Points on a Flat Wall
Rear
Threaded Mounting Holes
Size M12 (x6)
Front
Mounting Holes
Size M10 (x6)
At least 1 mounting point for
every junction (circled above)
must be secured, including
outside edges and corners
M12 bolts must be
used for rear mounting
applications
SAE 3/8” or M10 bolts
are compatible for front
mounting applications
4 columns + 1
= 5 steel struts
Page 15 of 33
F2 User Manual Rev. 1
Joining Each F2 (Creating a Modular Design)
5. Joining Each F2 (Creating a Modular Design)
Vertically Joining the Panels
Each F2 can be easily joined vertically to a truss using an optional rig bar and the 2 female Speego
connections located at the top corners of each panel. Use the male Speego connections at the bottom of
each panel to connect additional panels. These connectors stay recessed when not being used.
Male Speego
Spring Knob
Tightening Latch
Locking Bar
Page 16 of 33
Joining Each F2 (Creating a Modular Design)
F2 User Manual Rev. 1
Vertical Panel Connection
Use the following instructions to join panels vertically:
1. Line up the alignment conicals at the top of each panel, and the alignment magnets at the top and
bottom of each panel.
2. Push male Speego connections into female Speego connections.
3. Turn the spring knobs clockwise until secure.
4. Turn the tightening latches counter-clockwise until secure.
Due to tolerances in the materials, as well as wear and tear of the latches, some tightening
latches may not line up when tightened. This is normal.
Warning! The magnetic attachments are not load-bearing, and are intended for alignment
assistance only. Do not release panel until the hanging hardware has been fully secured.
Table of contents
Other Chauvet Professional Industrial Monitor manuals
