Chauvet Obey 3 User manual

3000 N 29th Ct, Hollywood, FL 33020 U.S.A.
[phone] –[phone]
FAX [phone]
www.chauvetlighting.com
User Manual
Snapshot
Use on Dimmer
Outdoor Use
Sound Activated
DMX
Master/Slave
Autoswitching
Power Supply
Replaceable Fuse
User Serviceable
Duty Cycle

TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. BEFORE YOU BEGIN................................................................................................................................................... 3
WHAT IS INCLUDED ................................................................................................................................................................................ 3
UNPACKING INSTRUCTIONS .................................................................................................................................................................... 3
MANUAL CONVENTIONS ......................................................................................................................................................................... 3
ICONS .................................................................................................................................................................................................. 3
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS .......................................................................................................................................................................... 4
2. INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................................................................... 5
FEATURES ............................................................................................................................................................................................ 5
PRODUCT OVERVIEW............................................................................................................................................................................. 6
3. SETUP .......................................................................................................................................................................... 7
AC POWER........................................................................................................................................................................................... 7
MOUNTING............................................................................................................................................................................................ 7
Orientation................................................................................................................................................................ 7
Installation ................................................................................................................................................................ 7
4. OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS...................................................................................................................................... 8
OPERATING MODES............................................................................................................................................................................... 8
Preset Operation....................................................................................................................................................... 8
Chases Operation..................................................................................................................................................... 8
Macro Operation....................................................................................................................................................... 8
OPERATING FUNCTIONS......................................................................................................................................................................... 9
Strobe....................................................................................................................................................................... 9
Blackout.................................................................................................................................................................... 9
Manual RGB............................................................................................................................................................. 9
Sound....................................................................................................................................................................... 9
5. APPENDIX.................................................................................................................................................................. 10
DMX PRIMER ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 10
GENERAL MAINTENANCE...................................................................................................................................................................... 10
FIXTURE LINKING................................................................................................................................................................................. 11
Data Cabling........................................................................................................................................................... 11
DMX Data Cable..................................................................................................................................................... 11
Cable Connectors................................................................................................................................................... 11
3-Pin to 5-Pin Conversion Chart.............................................................................................................................. 12
Setting up a DMX Serial Data Link.......................................................................................................................... 12
SETTING THE STARTING ADDRESS ........................................................................................................................................................ 13
GENERAL TROUBLESHOOTING .............................................................................................................................................................. 13
CONTACT US...................................................................................................................................................................................... 13
RETURNS PROCEDURE ........................................................................................................................................................................ 14
CLAIMS .............................................................................................................................................................................................. 14
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS ................................................................................................................................................................ 14

1. Before You Begin 3 11/30/2009 10:32 AM
1. BEFORE YOU BEGIN
What is included
1 x Obey™3
1 x Power supply
1 x Warranty Card
1 x User Manual
Unpacking Instructions
Immediately upon receiving a fixture, carefully unpack the carton, check the contents to ensure that
all parts are present, and have been received in good condition. Notify the shipper immediately and
retain packing material for inspection if any parts appear damaged from shipping or the carton itself
shows signs of mishandling. Save the carton and all packing materials. In the event that a fixture
must be returned to the factory, it is important that the fixture be returned in the original factory box
and packing.
Manual Conventions
CHAUVET manuals use the following conventions to differentiate certain types of information from
the regular text.
CONVENTION
MEANING
[10]
A DIP switch to be configured
<Menu>
A key to be pressed on the fixture’s control panel
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 (for example, showing the operating mode/current status)
MENU > Settings
A sequence of menu options to be followed
ON
A value to be entered or selected
Icons This manual uses the following icons to indicate information that requires special attention on the part
of the user.
ICONS
MEANING
This paragraph contains critical installation, configuration or operation information. Failure
to comply with this information may render the fixture partially or completely inoperative,
cause damage to the fixture or cause harm to the user.
This paragraph contains important installation or configuration information. Failure to
comply with this information may prevent the fixture from functioning correctly.
This paragraph reminds you of useful, although not critical, information.

1. Before You Begin 4 11/30/2009 10:32 AM
Safety Instructions
Please keep this User Manual for future consultation. If you sell the unit to another user, be sure that
they also receive this instruction booklet.
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 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 20 in (50 cm) from adjacent
surfaces. Be sure that no ventilation slots are blocked.
Maximum ambient temperature (Ta) is 104° F (40° C). Do not operate fixture at temperatures higher
than this.
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 technical assistance center.
Never connect the device to a dimmer pack.
Make sure the power cord is never crimped or damaged.
Please read these instructions carefully. It includes important
information about the installation, usage and maintenance of this
product.

2. Introduction 5 11/30/2009 10:32 AM
2. INTRODUCTION
Features
Universal DMX-512 compact controller for 3-channel LED fixtures
Works with all 3-channel LED fixtures
Channel 1: red
Channel 2: green
Channel 3: blue
Playback options include automated, sound-activated or manual RGB
Playback modes:
Preset: 9 built-in colors
Chase: triggers automated programs
Macro: scrolls through the color spectrum
Variable fade times for all playback modes
Variable strobing on the fly
Fader for master dimmer
Adjustable blackout allows fixtures to fade out
Adjustable audio sensitivity

2. Introduction 6 11/30/2009 10:32 AM
Product Overview
Manual RGB
Button
Strobe Button
Preset Button
Sound Button
Fade/Speed/
Strobe/Green
Fader
Chases Button
12 VDC Input
Sound Sensitivity
Adjustment Knob
Blackout
Button
Macro Button
DMX Out
Master
Dimmer/Blue
Fader
Chases/Macro/
Red Fader
Power On/Off
Switch

4. Operating Instructions 7 11/30/2009 10:32 AM
3. SETUP
AC Power This fixture runs on 12 VDC, 500 mA. Before powering on the unit, make sure the power supply
voltage to which you are connecting it is correct.
Always connect the fixture to a switched circuit. Never connect the fixture to a rheostat
(variable resistor) or dimmer circuit, even if the rheostat or dimmer channel is used only as a 0
to 100% switch.
To determine the power requirements for a particular fixture, see the label affixed to the back plate of
the fixture or refer to the fixture’s specifications chart. A fixture’s listed current rating indicates its
average current draw under normal conditions.
Mounting
Orientation
The Obey™3may be mounted in any safe position, provided there is adequate room for
ventilation.
Installation
Please see the drawing below, which shows the back of the controller. It details the
dimensions for mounting. This will aid in placing the holes for installation.

Appendix 8 11/30/2009 10:32 AM
4. OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
Operating Modes
Preset Operation
This controller has preset color macros. There are nine color macros to choose from, which may be
accessed using the nine preset buttons. Please see the instructions below for this operation.
1. Press <PRESET> until the appropriate LED indicator lights.
2. Adjust the Fade/Speed/Strobe/Green Fader to the desired level to set the Fade Time.
3. Adjust the Master Dimmer/Blue Fader to the desired level.
4. Select one of the nine preset color macros.
5. The Fade time and dimming may now be readjusted.
Please be sure that the Strobe, Blackout, and Manual RGB functions are not overriding the controls.
Sound will not function in Preset Mode.
Chases Operation
This controller has preset color chases, which will change between one color and another. There are
several color combinations to choose from. Please see the instructions below for this operation.
1. Press <CHASES> until the appropriate LED indicator lights.
2. Adjust the Fade/Speed/Strobe/Green Fader to the desired level to set the Fade Time.
3. Adjust the Master Dimmer/Blue Fader to the desired level.
4. Using the Chases/Macro/Red Fader, select one of the color combinations.
5. The Fade time and dimming may now be readjusted.
There are several preset color combinations that may be discovered by moving the
Chases/Macro/Red Fader through the full range of movement.
Please be sure that the Strobe, Blackout, and Manual RGB functions are not overriding the controls.
Sound will function in Preset Mode.
Macro Operation
This controller has preset color macros. This is a static color selection, meaning that no chasing,
movement, or color flows of any kind will occur. There are several color macros to choose from,
which may be accessed using the Chases/Macros Fader. Please see the instructions below for this
operation.
1. Press <MACRO> until the appropriate LED indicator lights.
2. Adjust the Fade/Speed/Strobe/Green Fader to the desired level.
3. Adjust the Master Dimmer/Blue Fader to the desired level.
4. Using the Chases/Macro/Red Fader, select one of the color macros.
5. The Fade time and dimming may now be readjusted.
Please be sure that the Strobe, Blackout, and Manual RGB functions are not overriding the controls.
Sound will not function in Preset Mode.

5. Appendix 9 11/30/2009 10:32 AM
Operating Functions
Strobe
This controller has multiple functions for the 3 faders. One of the functions for the middle fader
(Fade/Speed/Strobe/Green) is the strobe function. Please see the instructions below for this
operation.
1. Press <STROBE> until the appropriate LED indicator lights.
2. Adjust the fader to the desired level.
3. In order to return to the desired mode, press <STROBE> until the appropriate LED indicator is
off.
This function may be activated while operating in any other mode (preset, chases, macro).
In order to deactivate this function, the mode must be entered, and the fader must be set to 0.1M
(fully down). Then, deactivate <STROBE>.
Blackout
This controller has a dedicated blackout button. This button works in conjunction with the
Fade/Speed/Strobe/Green fader. Please see the instructions below for this operation.
1. Adjust the Fade/Speed/Strobe/Green fader to the desired value to determine how quickly the
lights will fade out.
2. Press <BLACKOUT> until the appropriate LED indicator lights.
The blackout function will also work with the Fade/Speed/Strobe/Green fader when disabling the
blackout.
The blackout function will not work when the controller is in manual RGB mode.
Manual RGB
This controller has the ability to manually choose a custom color combination by simply using the
Red, Green, and Blue faders. However, <Manual RGB> must first be pressed. Please see the
instructions below for this operation.
1. Press <Manual RGB> until the appropriate LED indicator lights.
2. Adjust the Red, Green, and Blue Faders to the desired levels.
You may press <Manual RGB> until the appropriate LED indicator is off to disable this mode.
Blackout will not work in Manual RGB function.
Fade/Speed will not work in Manual RGB function.
Sound
This controller has preset chases. These chases are normally triggered using the Speed fader.
However, they can be triggered using the built-in microphone, as well. Please see the instructions
below for this operation.
1. Follow the instructions for working with chases in the appropriate section of this manual.
2. Press <SOUND> until the appropriate LED indicator lights.
3. Adjust the Sensitivity Fader to the desired level (turn clockwise to increase sensitivity).
You may press <SOUND> until the appropriate LED indicator is off to disable this mode.
You may adjust the master dimmer and the fade time in this mode with the appropriate faders.

5. Appendix 10 11/30/2009 10:32 AM
5. APPENDIX
DMX Primer
There are 512 channels in a DMX connection. Channels may be assigned in any manner. A fixture
capable of receiving DMX will require one or a number of sequential channels. The user must assign
a starting address on the fixture that indicates the first channel reserved in the controller. There are
many different types of DMX controllable fixtures and they all may vary in the total number of
channels required. Choosing a start address should be planned in advance. Channels should never
overlap. If they do, this will result in erratic operation of the fixtures whose starting address is set
incorrectly. You can however, control multiple fixtures of the same type using the same starting
address as long as the intended result is that of unison movement or operation. In other words, the
fixtures will be slaved together and all respond exactly the same.
DMX fixtures are designed to receive data through a serial Daisy Chain. A Daisy Chain connection is
where the DATA OUT of one fixture connects to the DATA IN of the next fixture. The order in which
the fixtures are connected is not important and has no effect on how a controller communicates to
each fixture. Use an order that provides for the easiest and most direct cabling. Connect fixtures
using shielded two conductor twisted pair cable with three pin XLR male to female connectors. The
shield connection is pin 1, while pin 2 is Data Negative (S-) and pin 3 is Data positive (S+).
General Maintenance
To maintain optimum performance and minimize wear, fixtures should be cleaned frequently. Usage
and environment are contributing factors in determining frequency. As a general rule, fixtures should
be cleaned at least twice a month. Dust build up reduces light output performance and can cause
overheating. This can lead to reduced lamp life and increased mechanical wear. Be sure to power off
fixture before conducting maintenance.
Unplug fixture from power.
Use a vacuum or air compressor and a soft brush to remove dust collected on external
vents.
Clean all glass when the fixture is cold with a mild solution of glass cleaner or Isopropyl
Alcohol and a soft lint free cotton cloth or lens tissue.
Apply solution to the cloth or tissue and drag dirt and grime to the outside of the lens.
Gently polish optical surfaces until they are free of haze and lint.
The cleaning of external optical lenses and/or mirrors must be carried out periodically to optimize light
output. Cleaning frequency depends on the environment in which the fixture operates. Damp, smoky
or particularly dirty surroundings can cause greater accumulation of dirt on the unit’s optics. Clean
with soft cloth using normal glass cleaning fluid. Clean the external optics at least every 20 days.
Clean the fixture at least every 30/60 days.
Always dry the parts carefully after cleaning them.
Never spin a fan using compressed air.

5. Appendix 11 11/30/2009 10:32 AM
Fixture Linking
You will need a serial data link to run light shows of one or more fixtures using a DMX controller or to
run synchronized shows on two or more fixtures set to a master/slave operating mode. The combined
number of channels required by all the fixtures on a serial data link determines the number of fixtures
the data link can support.
Fixtures on a serial data link must be daisy chained in one single line. To comply with the EIA-
485 standard, no more than 32 fixtures should be connected on one data link. 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.
Maximum recommended serial data link distance: 500 m (1640 ft)
Maximum recommended number of fixtures on a serial data link: 32
Data Cabling
To link fixtures together you must obtain data cables. You can purchase CHAUVET certified DMX
cables directly from a dealer/distributor or construct your own cable. If you choose to create your own
cable please use data-grade cables that can carry a high quality signal and are less prone to
electromagnetic interference.
DMX Data Cable
Use a Belden© 9841 or equivalent cable which meets the specifications for EIA RS-485 applications.
Standard microphone cables cannot transmit DMX data reliably over long distances. The cable must
have the following characteristics:
Type: shielded, 2-conductor twisted pair
Maximum capacitance between conductors: 30 pF/ft
Maximum capacitance between conductor and shield: 55 pF/ft
Maximum resistance: 20 ohms/1000 ft
Nominal impedance: 100 ~ 140 ohms
Cable Connectors
Cabling must have a male XLR connector on one end and a female XLR connector on the other end.
Do not allow contact between the common and the fixture’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.
COMMON
DMX +
DMX -
INPUT
OUTPUT
1
3
2
1
3
2
1
3
2
120 ohm ¼ W
resistor between
pin 2 (DMX -) and
pin 3 (DMX +) on
the output of the
last fixture
To avoid signal transmission problems
and interference, it is always advisable to
connect a DMX signal terminator.
DMX connector configuration

5. Appendix 12 11/30/2009 10:32 AM
This drawing
provides a general
illustration of the
DMX input/output
panel of a lighting
fixture.
Universal DMX Controller
Continue the link
3-Pin to 5-Pin Conversion Chart
If you use a controller with a 5-pin DMX output connector, you will need to use a 5-pin to 3-pin
adapter. The chart below details a proper cable conversion:
3-PIN TO 5-PIN CONVERSION CHART
Conductor
3-Pin Female (Output)
5-Pin Male (Input)
Ground/Shield
Pin 1
Pin 1
Data ( - ) signal
Pin 2
Pin 2
Data ( + ) signal
Pin 3
Pin 3
Not used
Pin 4
Not used
Pin 5
Setting up a DMX Serial Data Link
1. Connect the (male) 3-pin connector side of
the DMX cable to the output (female) 3-pin
connector of the controller.
2. Connect the end of the cable coming from
the controller which will have a (female)
3-pin connector to the input connector of
the next fixture consisting of a (male) 3-pin
connector.
3. Then, proceed to connect from the output
as stated above to the input of the following
fixture and so on.

5. Appendix 13 11/30/2009 10:32 AM
Setting the Starting Address
This DMX mode enables the use of a universal DMX controller device. Each fixture requires a start address
from 1~512. A fixture requiring one or more channels for control begins to read the data on the channel
indicated by the start address. For example, a fixture that uses six DMX channels and was addressed to start
on DMX channel 100, would read data from channels: 100, 101, 102, 103, 104, and 105. Choose start
addresses so that the channels used do not overlap, and note the start address selected for future reference.
If this is your first time addressing a fixture using the DMX control protocol, we suggest jumping to the
“Appendix” section and reading the heading “DMX Primer”. It contains very useful information that will help you
understand its use.
General Troubleshooting
SYMPTOM
POSSIBLE CAUSE(S)
POSSIBLE ACTION(S)
Breaker/Fuse
keeps blowing
Excessive circuit load
Check total load placed on the electrical circuit.
Short circuit along the power
wires
Check for a short in the electrical wiring (internal and/or
external).
Device does not
power up
No power
Check for power on Mains.
Loose power cord
Check power cord
Fixture is not
responding to
DMX
Wrong DMX addressing
Check Control Panel and unit addressing
Damaged DMX cables
Check DMX cables
Wrong polarity settings on the
controller
Check polarity switch settings on the controller
Loose DMX cables
Check cable connections
Faulty DMX interface
Replace DMX input
Faulty Main PCB
Replace Main PCB
Loss of signal
Non DMX cables
Use only DMX compatible cables
Bouncing signals
Install terminator as suggested.
Long cable / Low level signal
Install amplifier right after fixture with strong signal.
Too many fixtures
Install an optically coupled DMX splitter after unit #32.
Interference from AC wires
Keep DMX cables separated from power cables or
black lights.
If you still have a problem after trying the above solutions, please contact CHAUVET Technical
Support.
Contact Us
World Wide General Information CHAUVET
3000 North 29th Court
Hollywood, FL 33020
voice: 954.929.1115
fax: [phone]
toll free: 800.762.1084
Technical Support CHAUVET
3000 North 29th Court
Hollywood, FL 33020
voice: 954.929.1115 (Press 4)
fax: [phone] (Attention: Service)
World Wide Web www.chauvetlighting.com

5. Appendix 14 11/30/2009 10:32 AM
Returns Procedure
Returned merchandise must be sent prepaid and in the original packing; call tags will not be issued.
Package must be clearly labeled with a Return Merchandize Authorization Number (RMA #).
Products returned without the RMA # will be refused. Call CHAUVET and request an RMA # prior to
shipping the fixture. Be prepared to provide the model number, serial number and a brief description
of the cause for the return. Be sure to pack fixture properly; any shipping damage resulting from
inadequate packaging is the customer’s responsibility. As a suggestion, proper UPS packing or
double-boxing is always a safe method to use.
CHAUVET reserves the right to use its own discretion to repair or replace product(s).
If you are given an RMA #, please include the following information on a piece of paper inside
the box:
1) Your name
2) Your address
3) Your phone number
4) The RMA #
5) A brief description of the symptoms
Claims Damage incurred in shipping is the responsibility of the shipper; therefore, the damage must be
reported to the carrier upon receipt of merchandise. It is the customer's responsibility to notify and
submit claims with the shipper in the event that a fixture is damaged due to shipping. Any other claim
for items such as missing component/part, damage not related to shipping, and concealed damage,
must be made within seven (7) days of receiving merchandise.
Technical Specifications
WEIGHT & DIMENSIONS
Length..........................................................................................................................5.5 in (140 mm)
Width............................................................................................................................8.3 in (210 mm)
Height ............................................................................................................................2.1 in (52 mm)
Weight.............................................................................................................................. 2 lbs (0.9 kg)
POWER
Operating Range................................................................................................DC 12 V, 500 mA max
Adapter (external power supply: 100~240 VAC, 50/60 Hz)......................................................Provided
THERMAL
Maximum ambient temperature......................................................................................113° F (45° C)
CONTROL & PROGRAMMING
Data output ........................................................................................ locking 3-pin XLR female socket
Data pin configuration ............................................................................pin 1 shield, pin 2 (-), pin 3 (+)
Protocols.....................................................................................................................DMX-512 USITT
ORDERING INFORMATION
Obey™ 3 Controller ..................................................................................................................OBEY3
WARRANTY INFORMATION
Warranty...........................................................................................................2-year limited warranty