Chauvet 4Play 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
Auto-ranging
Power Supply
Replaceable Fuse
User Serviceable
Duty Cycle

CHAUVET®, 2009, All Rights Reserved
Information and specifications in this User Manual are subject to change without notice. CHAUVET® assumes no
responsibility or liability for any errors or inaccuracies that may appear in this manual.
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
Power Linking ....................................................................................................................................................................7
MOUNTING ................................................................................................................................................................................. 8
Orientation..........................................................................................................................................................................8
Rigging...............................................................................................................................................................................8
4. OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS..............................................................................................................................................9
CONFIGURING THE STARTING ADDRESS .......................................................................................................................................... 9
CONTROL PANEL FUNCTIONS ........................................................................................................................................................ 9
MENU MAP................................................................................................................................................................................. 9
OPERATION .............................................................................................................................................................................. 10
DMX Mode.......................................................................................................................................................................10
Automatic Mode...............................................................................................................................................................10
Sound Mode.....................................................................................................................................................................10
MASTER/SLAVE OPERATION........................................................................................................................................................ 11
Fixture Linking..................................................................................................................................................................11
LIGHT ADDRESSING ................................................................................................................................................................... 12
DMX CHANNEL VALUES ............................................................................................................................................................. 13
5. APPENDIX............................................................................................................................................................................14
DMX PRIMER ........................................................................................................................................................................... 14
GENERAL MAINTENANCE ............................................................................................................................................................ 14
DATA CABLING.......................................................................................................................................................................... 15
DMX Data Cable..............................................................................................................................................................15
Cable Connectors............................................................................................................................................................15
FIXTURE LINKING....................................................................................................................................................................... 15
3-Pin to 5-Pin Conversion Chart .....................................................................................................................................16
Setting up a DMX Serial Data Link .................................................................................................................................16
SETTING THE STARTING ADDRESS ............................................................................................................................................... 17
GENERAL TROUBLESHOOTING ..................................................................................................................................................... 17
CONTACT US............................................................................................................................................................................ 17
RETURNS PROCEDURE............................................................................................................................................................... 18
CLAIMS .................................................................................................................................................................................... 18
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS ....................................................................................................................................................... 19

1. Before You Begin 3 3/30/2010 3:40 PM
1. BEFORE YOU BEGIN
What is included
1 x 4PLAY™
1 x Transport Bag
1 x Power Cable
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.
(Included
Transport Bag)

1. Before You Begin 4 3/30/2010 3:40 PM
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.
Always disconnect from power source before servicing or replacing fuse and be sure to replace with
same fuse source.
Secure fixture to fastening device using a safety chain.
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.
Never disconnect the power cord by pulling or tugging on the cord.
Avoid direct eye exposure to the light source while it is on.
Please read these instructions carefully. It includes important
information about the installation, usage and maintenance of this
product.

2 Introduction 5 3/30/2010 3:40 PM
2. INTRODUCTION
Features
6-channel DMX-512 LED beam effect system
Individual control of red, green, blue and white LEDs within each light (4 total)
Adjustable strobe speed
Built-in automated programs via DMX
Built-in sound activated programs via master/slave or DMX
Additional Features
Fits onto most standard tripods including speaker stands and the 4BAR™ tripod
Safely mounts to truss with clamps (sold separately)
Razor-sharp rotating beams
Independent positioning of each light
Additional power output: max 30 units

2 Introduction 6 3/30/2010 3:40 PM
Product Overview
Lights (4)
Hanging Clamp
Attachment point (2)
DMX In
DMX Out
Microphone
Control panel
Tripod Attachment
Adjustment Knob
Power In
Bracket Adjustment knob
Microphone
adjustment knob
Power Link Out

3. Setup 7 3/30/2010 3:40 PM
3. SETUP
AC Power This fixture runs on 100~240 VAC, 50/60 Hz. Before powering on the unit, make sure the line voltage
to which you are connecting it is within the range of accepted voltages.
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.
Always connect the fixture to a circuit with a suitable electrical ground.
Power Linking
This fixture contains power linking via the edison outlet located in front of the power input cable.
Please see the diagram below for further explanation.
The maximum quantity of fixtures that may be linked is 30.
Additional power
link out
Fixture #1
Fixture #2
Fixture #3

3. Setup 8 3/30/2010 3:40 PM
Tripod Stand
(sold separately)
4PLAY™
Mount Clamps Directly to the
fixture (minimum of 2 clamps)
(sold separately)
4BAR™
(sold separately)
Mounting
Orientation
The 4PLAY™ may be mounted in any safe position, provided there is adequate room for ventilation.
Rigging
Be sure that the structure can support the weight of the fixture. Please see the “Technical
Specifications” section of this manual for a detailed weight listing. Mount the fixture securely. This
may be done with a screw, nut and bolt, or a hanging clamp. The bolt in each bracket is 13 mm in
size. When rigging, consider routine maintenance and control panel access. Please see the following
steps for installation.
If the power link out is intended to be used with multiple fixture, take into account the length
of each power cable, and mount the fixtures close enough to one another to accommodate
for this.
When aiming the fixtures, you may use the bracket adjustment knobs. Loosen the knob,
adjust to the desired angle, and then tighten the knob by turning clockwise. Do not use
tools for this step, as it may cause damage.
There are 2 different methods of mounting this fixture. This fixture may be used with a
tripod stand (sold separately), or it may be mounted to a structure using hanging clamps.
Safety cables must always be used.
2 clamps, one on either mounting position, must be used if using clamps mounted directly
to the fixture.

4. Operating Instructions 9 3/30/2010 3:40 PM
4. OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
Configuring the Starting Address
Each fixture requires a starting address from 1~512. A fixture requiring one or more channels for
control begins to read the data on the channel indicated by the starting address. For example, a
fixture that uses seven DMX channels and is addressed to start on DMX channel 100, will read data
from channels: 100, 101, 102, 103, 104, 105 and 106. Choose the starting addresses for each fixture
so that the channels used do not overlap. In addition, you should note the starting address selected
for future reference.
The 4PLAY™ fixture uses six DMX channels. If this is your first time using DMX, we recommend
reading the “DMX Primer” section in the “Appendix”.
Control Panel Functions
Access control panel functions using the four buttons located directly underneath the LED display on
the control panel.
The Control Panel shows the current state of the unit. It is used to select the operating mode, as well
as the sub-features. For a detailed layout of the control panel functions, please see the “menu map”
section below.
Menu Map
MENU OPTION
SUB-MENU
FUNCTION /DESCRIPTION
Sets to DMX mode
Allows to change DMX address
-
Sets to sound-active mode
-
Sets to automatic mode
-
Allows to change Auto speed
BUTTON
FUNCTION
<MENU>
Used to scroll through the
current operating mode,
as well as back out of the
current menu option
<DOWN>
Used to select decreasing
advancement in the value
<UP>
Used to select increasing
advancement in the value
<ENTER>
Used to select a value and
store it to memory
MENU DOWN UP ENTER

4. Operating Instructions 10 3/30/2010 3:40 PM
Operation
DMX Mode
This mode allows the unit to be controlled by any universal DMX controller. If you are unfamiliar with
DMX, please read the “DMX Primer” section in the “Appendix”section of this manual.
1) Press <MENU> until is displayed.
2) Press <ENTER>.
3) Use <UP> and <DOWN> to select the DMX starting address.
4) Press <ENTER>.
Automatic Mode
This fixture has a built-in automatic program. To access this, please see the below instructions:
1) Press <MENU> until is displayed.
2) Press <ENTER>.
3) Press <MENU> until the display reads “ ”.
4) Use <UP> and <DOWN> to select the operating speed of the program.
5) Press <ENTER>.
Sound Mode
This fixture has a built-in sound-triggered program. To trigger this program, please see the below
instructions:
1) Press <MENU> until is displayed.
2) Press <ENTER>
3) Then, use the <Sound adjustment knob> to adjust the sensitivity of the program to the sound
received from the microphone.

4. Operating Instructions 11 3/30/2010 3:40 PM
Master/Slave Operation
This mode allows for multiple 4PLAY™slave fixtures to follow a single master fixture. Please see the
following instructions for the setup.
1) Set the master fixture to one of the 2 standalone operating modes: automatic or sound mode.
3) Set the DMX starting address of the Slave(s) to “ ”.
Fixture Linking
In order to use this fixture in a DMX or master/slave operation, you must daisy chain using DMX cables to link
from one fixture to another. In a master/slave operation, the DMX controller is not connected.
Additional signal
link out
DMX controller
(only in DMX operation)
Fixture #1
Fixture #2
Fixture #3

4. Operating Instructions 12 3/30/2010 3:40 PM
Light Addressing
The 4PLAY™ has 4 lights which must all be addressed. While these lights come preaddressed from the factory,
the section below demonstrates how to address them. This is important, so that they will operate properly.
Please see the instructions and drawings below for further details on how to set the DIP switches on each light.
Addressing:
Light #1: set only DIP switch #1 to the ON position
Light #2: set only DIP switch #2 to the ON position
Light #3: set only DIP switch #3 to the ON position
Light #4: set only DIP switch #4 to the ON position
Duplicating these addresses will cause the main light show to malfunction.
DIP switch settings
Back of each light

4. Operating Instructions 13 3/30/2010 3:40 PM
DMX Channel Values
CHANNEL
VALUE
FUNCTION
1-4
000 010
011 016
017 022
023 028
029 034
035 040
041 046
047 052
053 058
059 064
065 070
071 076
077 082
083 088
089 094
095 100
101 106
107 112
113 118
119 124
125 130
131 136
137 142
143 148
149 154
155 160
161 166
167 172
173 178
179 184
185 190
191 196
197 202
203 208
209 214
215 220
221 255
Light 1-4
No function
Group 1 of White
Group 2 of White
Group 3 of White
Group 1 of Red
Group 2 of Red
Group 3 of Red
Group 1 of Green
Group 2 of Green
Group 3 of Green
Group 1 of Blue
Group 2 of Blue
Group 3 of Blue
All White
All Red
All Green
All Blue
All Red & Green
All Red & Blue
All Green & Blue
All Red & Green & Blue
All Red & White
All Green & White
All Blue & White
Group 1 of Blue & all White
Group 2 of Blue & all Red
Group 3 of Blue & all Green
Group 1 of Blue & group 3 of Red
Group 2 of Blue & group 2 of Red
Group 3 of Blue & group 1 of Red
Group 1 of Green & group 3 of White
Group 2 of Green & group 2 of White
Group 3 of Green & group 1 of White
Group 1 of Blue, group 3 of Green, group 1 of Red, & group 3 of White
Group 2 of Blue, group 2 of Green, group 2 of Red, & group 2 of White
Group 3 of Blue, group 1 of Green, group 3 of Red, & group 1 of White
All White & Red & Green & Blue
5
000 010
011 255
Strobe
No function
Strobe: (Slow ~ Fast)
6
000 010
011 036
037 062
063 088
089 114
115 130
131 156
157 182
183 208
209 250
251 255
Function
No function
Program 1
Program 2
Program 3
Program 4
Program 5
Program 6
Program 7
Program 8
Auto mode
Sound mode
Light #1 Light #2 Light #3 Light #4

5. Appendix 14 3/30/2010 3:40 PM
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 15 3/30/2010 3:40 PM
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.
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
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 16 3/30/2010 3:40 PM
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

5. Appendix 17 3/30/2010 3:40 PM
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 power outlet
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 18 3/30/2010 3:40 PM
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 19 3/30/2010 3:40 PM
Technical Specifications
WEIGHT & DIMENSIONS
Length .................................................................................................................................33 in (838 mm)
Width.................................................................................................................................... 3.5 in (89 mm)
Height............................................................................................................................... 12.5 in (318 mm)
Weight................................................................................................................................12.7 lbs (5.7 kg)
POWER
Auto-ranging Power Supply ................................................................................100~240 VAC, 50/60 Hz
Power Consumption @ 120 VAC, 60 Hz..................................................12 W (0.2 A) max, 0.2 A inrush
Power Consumption @ 230 VAC, 50 Hz..................................................11 W (0.2 A) max, 0.2 A inrush
Power output...........................................................................................................................30 units max
Fuse .........................................................................................................................................F 2 A, 250 V
LIGHT SOURCE
LED .......................................... 57 per light, 228 total (48 red, 72 green, 72 blue, 36 white) 100,000 hrs
PHOTO OPTIC
Coverage Angle (per light, 1 of 4)..........................................................................................................25°
THERMAL
Maximum ambient temperature .......................................................................................... 104° F (40° C)
ORDERING INFORMATION
4PLAY™...........................................................................................................................................4PLAY
WARRANTY INFORMATION
Warranty..................................................................................................................2-year limited warranty