Load Connections
The SM8 will dim any load up to 1kW per channel. The load may be incandescent, inductive
or resistive. This includes conventional incandescent, quartz incandescent, “rain lights", pin-
beams, and similar "low-voltage" lighting loads containing transformers. Fluorescent and
neon loads can be controlled by the SM8 with no damage to the dimmer, but the nature of
these loads requires specialized circuitry to get full range dimming. Consult the factory if you
need to dim such loads.
Many “dimmable” LED bulbs work fine with the SceneMaster (though it’s common for them to
dim only to about 10% before turning completely off which can be disappointing), and the
percentage of those in the market continues to increase with time as bulb manufactures
improve their circuitry’s compatibility. Still, some LED bulbs will flicker at low power levels.
There are a few approaches to dealing with these bulbs: The easiest is to test several
different bulb models, and just avoid the trouble makers. Some control consoles can be
programed to avoid the problematic low power levels. In some cases, the flickering can be
mitigated by adding parallel loads in the form of a low power incandescent bulb or resistors.
Dove Systems offers factory installed 4.7kΩoutput resistors by special order or retrofit.
Plug the load or an extension cord to the load into the outlet which corresponds to the circuit
you wish to use. Always use grounded cords. Loads may be single fixtures or combinations of
lights not exceeding a total of 1kW per channel. Each output channel is protected by a 10
Amp circuit breaker. If the breaker trips, it is generally due to an overload or short in the
output load. However, elevated ambient temperatures or lack of ventilation can also result in
breakers tripping just shy of their rated current.
Control Connections
If external DMX devices are to be controlled, the DMX OUT port should be connected to them
using DMX-512, 5-pin cables providing access to all 512 DMX channels.
If an another DMX console is to be used with this system, it should be plugged into the DMX
IN port. See the sections on manual Blackout & Grandmaster controls as well as programing
patch tables and cues for details about the DMX IN capabilities.
If using the optional External Go foot switch (or other remote switch), it can be plugged into
the center of the back panel. See the section on running a show with timed crossfades for
details on its use.
