ETC HIGH END SYSTEMS SolaPix 37 User manual

Automated Luminaire
User Manual
Version 1.1 — Revision A

To view a list of ETC trademarks and patents, go to etcconnect.com/ip. To view a list of High
End Systems, Inc. patents, go to highend.com/patents. All other trademarks, both marked and
not marked, are the property of their respective owners.
Information and specifications in this document are subject to change without notice. High End
Systems, Inc. intends this document, whether printed or electronic, to be provided in its entirety.
This product is intended for professional use only. Read this entire document before using the
product.

Table of Contents
Table of Contents i
Introduction 1
Contacting High End Systems 1
Headquarters 1
Technical Support 1
FCC Information 1
Patents 1
Terms and Conditions and Warranty Information 2
Product Modification Warning 2
Mise En Garde Contre La Modification Du Produit 2
Produktmodifikationswarnung 2
Avvertenza Sulla Modifica Del Prodotto 2
Advertencia De Modificatión Del Producto 2
Important Safety Information 3
Fixture Overview 4
Modular Control 5
Dimensions 6
Safety Considerations 7
General Operation and Use Guidelines 8
Install the Fixture 9
Power 11
Input and Power Factor 11
Connector Specification 11

DMX Control 12
DMX Connector Pinout 12
Connect DMXCables to Fixture 12
Terminate DMX 13
Set the DMX Start Address 13
DMX Channels 13
Ethernet Control 14
Connect EthernetCables to a Fixture 14
Set the DMX Start Address 15
Set the Control Source and Universe 15
Configure the Fixture 16
Navigate the User Interface 16
Set Fixture Parameters 17
Address 17
Info Menu 21
Set Menu 23
Test Menu 26
Preset Menu 27
Error Codes 29
Cleaning and Maintenance 30
ii SolaPix 37 User Manual

Introduction 1
Introduction
Congratulations on your purchase of the SolaPix 37 automated fixture. This manual provides
important information for the safe installation, configuration, and maintenance of your SolaPix
37 fixture.
Contacting High End Systems
High End Systems, Inc. is an ETC company.
Headquarters
For Customer Service or Sales support, please contact our company headquarters:
2105 Gracy Farms Lane
Austin, TX 78758 USA
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Toll-free: 800.890.8989
Website: highend.com
Technical Support
If you are having difficulties installing, configuring, or operating your SolaPix 37, your most
convenient resources are the references given in this manual. To search more widely, try the
High End Systems, Inc. website at highend.com. Additional technical resources are available on
the support website support.etcconnect.com/HES.
If you have additional questions that cannot be answered within these resources, contact High
End Systems Technical Services directly at the office nearest you. Emergency support is
available outside of regular business hours. Contact information is available at
highend.com/about/contact-us.
FCC Information
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device,
pursuant to part 15 of the FCC rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection
against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment.
This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed
and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio
communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful
interference, in which case the user will be required to correct the interference at his own
expense.
Patents
NOTICE OF INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS
High End Systems, Inc. products are protected by one or more patents listed on the High End
Systems, Inc. website: highend.com/patents and may be subject to one or more pending
patents.

2 SolaPix 37 User Manual
Terms and Conditions and Warranty Information
Complete terms and conditions and warranty information can be found on the High End
Systems, Inc. website:highend.com/pub/products/HES-Warranty-Information.pdf.
Product Modification Warning
High End Systems products are designed and manufactured to meet the requirements of the
United States and International safety regulations. Modifications to the product could affect
safety and render the product non-compliant to relevant safety standards.
Mise En Garde Contre La Modification Du Produit
Les produits High End Systems sont conçus et fabriqués conformément aux exigences de
règlements internationaux de sécurité. Toute modication du produit peut entraîner sa non
conformité aux normes de sécurité en vigueur.
Produktmodifikationswarnung
Design und Hestellung von High End Systems entprechen den Anforderungen der U.S.
Amerikanischen und internationalen Sicherheithsvorschriften. Abänderungen dieses Produktes
können dessen Sicherheit beeinträchtigen und unter Umständen gegen die diesbezüglichen
Sicherheitsnormen verstoßen.
Avvertenza Sulla Modifica Del Prodotto
I prodotti di High End Systems sono stati progettati e fabbricati per soddisfare i requisiti delle
normative di sicurezza statunitensi ed internazionali. Qualsiasi modifica al prodotto potrebbe
pregiudicare la sicurezza e rendere il prodotto non conforme agli standard di sicurezza
pertinenti.
Advertencia De Modificatión Del Producto
Los productos de High End Systems están diseñados y fabricados para cumplir los requisitos de
las reglamentaciones de seguridad de los Estados Unidos e internacionales. Las modificaciones
al producto podrían afectar la seguridad y dejar al producto fuera de conformidad con las
normas de seguridad relevantes.

Introduction 3
Important Safety Information
Please read all instructions prior to assembling, mounting, and operating this equipment.
Continued and safe operation of this fixture is the responsibility of the operator. This manual will
give tips for that continued safe operation. At any time please contact High End Systems
Technical Support for any safety concerns.
The following international note, caution, and warning symbols appear in margins throughout
this manual to highlight important messages.
Note: Notes are helpful hints and information that is supplemental to the main text.
CAUTION: This statement indicates that while operating, equipment
surfaces may reach very high temperatures. Allow the fixture to cool before
handling or servicing.
CAUTION: A Caution statement indicates situations where there may be
undefined or unwanted consequences of an action, potential for data loss or
an equipment problem.
WARNING: A Warning statement indicates situations where damage may
occur, people may be harmed, or there are serious or dangerous
consequences of an action
WARNING: RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK! This warning statement indicates
situations where there is a risk of electric shock.

4 SolaPix 37 User Manual
Fixture Overview
For technical specifications of the SolaPix 37 fixture, see the technical data sheet:
highend.com/documentation/SolaPix37/SolaPix37-Datasheet.pdf
2
3456
1
8910 11
7
1: Lens
2: Tilt lock
3: Display
4: Navigation controls
5: Pan lock
6: Handle
7: Power In
8: USB
9: DMX In
10: DMXThru
11: Ethernet ports (x2)

Fixture Overview 5
Modular Control
Note: Some consoles may refer to the Flex effects by the feature name "Macro". For
the purposes of the SolaPix 37 software and user manual, "Flex" and "Macro" are
interchangeable.
The SolaPix 37 fixture has three segments of control (or modules) that essentially give you three
fixtures in one, letting you customize each fixture based on your control needs.
•
The Base module is the master. The settings in this module control the basic functions of
the fixture, which include pan, tilt, zoom, and the control settings for the fixture.
•
The Flex module lets you build and customize animation effects based on a library of
animations.
•
The Pixel module gives you individual control of each pixel.
The Base module is always active. The Flex and Pixel modules can be disabled, or they can be
set to Compound or Independent modes.
In Compound mode, a module automatically addresses itself to the same source as the Base
module and follows immediately after the address of the Base module.
In Independent mode, you address a module individually to any source (DMX or Ethernet),
Address, or Universe that your control setup requires.
Compounding the modules enables several different options:
•
Base + Flex (default)
•
Base + Pixel
•
Base + Flex + Pixel
See Configure the Fixture on page16 for information about configuring the modules.
Because the modules all control the same light sources, you can set the priority of control using
the Module Priority function (channel 12 in the Base module).
See the DMX map on the High End Systems, Inc. website for details.
highend.com/documentation/SolaPix37/SolaPix37-protocol.pdf

6 SolaPix 37 User Manual
Dimensions
Dimensions shown are listed as inches [millimeters].
19.5"
[494mm]
4.9"
[125mm]
18.1"
[460mm]
19.9"
[505mm]
16.1"
[409mm]
10.4"
[265mm]
24.2"
[614mm]
7.3"
[186mm]
3.3"
[85mm]
4.0"
[101mm]
21.0"
[533mm]
7.1"
[180mm]
7.1"
[180mm]

Safety Considerations 7
Safety Considerations
In order to ensure safe operation, follow the safety instructions and warning notes in this user
manual and any instructions from the manufacturer representative.
•
The SolaPix 37 fixture is intended for professional use only. Not for residential use. Read
the entire manual before using this equipment.
•
Contact your High End Systems authorized dealer or High End Systems Technical Support
before performing any service in order to maintain warranty coverage.
WARNING: For your safety, read the following warnings and notices
before use:
•
This equipment is designed for operation by qualified personnel only.
•
Disconnect the unit from power and DMX and data before servicing.
•
Replace fuses with the specified type and rating only.
•
Make sure that the available voltage is within the stated range. See
Power on page11 .
•
NEMA Type 1 enclosure, indoor use, dry locations only. Do not use
outdoors. This fixture is intended for use where humidity does not
exceed 90% (non-condensing).
•
Do not use this fixture with a damaged power lead (cord set). If the
lead is damaged, it must be replaced by a qualified technician with an
equivalent type before use. Contact your local authorized dealer for
spare power leads.
•
Do not use this fixture if the lens is damaged. Damaged lenses must be
replaced before use. Contact your local authorized dealer for a
replacement.
•
When the fixture has been stored or transported in cold temperatures,
allow it to warm to room temperature for a minimum of one hour
before applying power. Applying power to a cold fixture may cause
damage to the fixture and void the manufacturer warranty.
•
This is a Class 1 device and must be grounded. Follow national and
local codes.
•
Do not project the beam onto combustible substances.
•
Keep fixture head at least 0.1 m (0.33 ft) away from any flammable
materials.
•
Minimum distance to lighted objects:2 m (6.5 ft).
•
When you power on the fixture, you may notice smoke or odor. This is
normal and should decrease gradually. If smoke or odor persists,
disconnect the fixture from power and contact your High End Systems
dealer or High End Systems technical support.
CAUTION: Hot Surfaces. Allow the fixture to cool completely before
handling and servicing.

8 SolaPix 37 User Manual
CAUTION: Damages caused by the disregard of this user manual are not
subject to warranty. High End Systems, Inc. and its authorized dealers will not
accept liability for any resulting defects or problems.
General Operation and Use Guidelines
•
This fixture is only allowed to be operated with the maximum alternating current that is
stated in the technical specifications label provided on the fixture.
•
Lighting effects are not designed for permanent operation. Consistent operation breaks
may ensure that the fixture will serve you for a long time without defects.
•
Do not shake the fixture. Avoid brute force when installing or operating the fixture.
•
When choosing the installation location, make sure that the fixture is not exposed to
extreme heat, moisture, or dust.
•
If using the supplied Omega brackets with quick-locking thumb screws for fixture hanging,
ensure that the thumb screws have engaged a complete 90-degree positive latch.
•
Operate the fixture only after having familiarized yourself with its functions. Do not permit
other persons who are not qualified and familiar with its functions to operate the fixture.
•
Please use the original packaging if the fixture is to be transported. ETC and High End
Systems, Inc. will not be responsible for the fixture if packaging other than manufacturer
provided packaging is used.
•
Do not modify the fixture. Any modifications will void the warranty.
•
This manual describes the proper installation and operation of this fixture. Using this
fixture in any way other than the intended use may cause damage and may void the
warranty.
•
Misuse of this fixture or using it in a way different from the methods described in this
manual may lead to personal injury and/or equipment failure.
•
If it is necessary to replace the light source, the service work should only be performed by
qualified personnel.

Install the Fixture 9
Install the Fixture
WARNING:
•
The installation location must support a minimum point load of 10
times the weight of the fixture.
•
The installation must always be secured with a secondary safety
attachment. An appropriate safety cable is supplied.
•
Safety cable attachment must be rated by a safety factor of 10.
•
Use of third party clamps are permitted, but they should comply with,
and be approved by, the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ).
•
A supportive and stable surface must be used when the fixtures are
placed on the feet.
•
The operating temperature range for this fixture is -10°C–45°C (14°F–
113°F). Do not operate the fixture outside of this range.
•
Never stand directly below the installed fixture when mounting,
removing, or servicing the fixture.
•
All safety and technical aspects of fixture installation must be
approved by a qualified personnel before operation.
•
The installation must be regularly inspected by qualified personnel.
•
Overhead rigging must be performed by qualified personnel.
CAUTION: Follow all local codes and recommended practices by the
Authority Having Jurisdiction. The installation must only be carried out by
qualified personnel.
You can install the fixture in any of the orientations shown below.

10 SolaPix 37 User Manual
12
53
1. Assemble the clamp (provided by others) to the Omega bracket and secure together using
appropriately sized hardware (not provided).
2. Align the assembled Omega bracket and quick-lock fasteners into the respective holes on
the bottom of the fixture upper enclosure.
3. Tighten each of the quick-lock fasteners fully, turning clockwise. You will hear and feel a
click when the fastener is fully secured.
4. Repeat steps 1 through 3 for the second clamp and bracket.
5. Attach the provided safety cable through the attachment point on the bottom of the
fixture upper enclosure and secure to the trussing system or other safe installation point.
Follow local codes and recommended safety standards for securing the fixture to the
installation location.
6. Attach the fixture to the installation location using the installed clamps, using the clamp
manufacturer's instructions for a secure fit. When using the Omega clamp, close the
safety and fully tighten the clamp wing nut until secure.
7. Inspect the installation prior to lifting the fixture overhead.

Power 11
Power
Input and Power Factor
VAC Amps Hz Watts VA PF
100 19.4 50 1891 1938 0.99
120 15.2 60 1815 1822 0.99
200 8.6 50 1710 1723 0.99
208 8.3 60 1716 1730 0.99
220 7.8 50 1704 1721 0.98
240 7.2 60 1704 1726 0.98
Connector Specification
A fixture power cord with powerCON TRUE1 TOP input to bare end is provided. Install a suitable
connector to meet the installation requirements. See the following wire color code chart:
Wire Color Code (EU) Wire Color Code (US Standard) Connection type Terminal
Green/Yellow Green Earth/Ground
Blue White Neutral N
Brown Black Line (Live) L

12 SolaPix 37 User Manual
DMX Control
The SolaPix 37 fixture operates on standard DMX-512 control bus, controlled by a DMX console.
The fixture requires 186 channels of DMX-512 in standard mode.
Two XLR termination receptacles are available: one for connection of DMXInput, and one for
DMX (used when daisy-chaining to additional fixtures on the DMX control bus).
DMX Connector Pinout
For DMXInput, the DMX cable must have a male XLR connector on one end of the cable that
connects to the fixture. When daisy-chaining DMX to the next device, prepare a DMX cable with
a female XLR connector on one end and a male XLR connector on the other end. Terminate the
cable ends as indicated in the pinout image below.
Connect DMXCables to Fixture
The following instructions are guidelines for connecting DMX to your fixture. Your installation
may vary.
1. Connect the male XLR connector of a DMX data cable to the DMX connector on the DMX
control source.
2. Connect the female XLR connector of the DMX data cable to the DMX In connector of the
first fixture on the DMX control run.
3. Continue linking the remaining fixtures by connecting a cable from the DMX connector of
a fixture to the DMXIn connector of the next fixture on the control run.
Note: A maximum of 32 DMX devices may be connected in any one DMX data run
when installed in a daisy-chain fashion.
DMX-512
(Belden 9729 or equivalent)
terminate DMX
with a 120 Ohm
resistor
DMX-512
control
source

DMX Control 13
Terminate DMX
Use a DMX terminator or install a resistor on the last fixture of the DMXcontrol run to prevent
corruption (data reflection) of the digital control signal by electrical noise.
A DMXterminator is an XLR plug with a 120 Ωresistor connected between pins 2 and 3 that can
be installed into the DMX output receptacle of the last fixture in the DMX control run. This plug
is available and sold separately. Contact your local High End dealer for ordering information
(visit highend.com/about/contact-us to locate a High End dealer).
Set the DMX Start Address
Give each fixture a unique DMX starting address so that the correct fixture responds to the
control signals. This DMX start address is the channel number from which the fixture starts to
“listen” to the digital control information sent out from the control source.
Example: The SolaPix 37 requires up to 186 channels of control depending on the
configuration of the modules. The Base module uses 21 channels. When the Flex
module is set to Compound mode, an additional 17 channels are added. If the Pixel
module is also set to Compound mode, then an additional 148 channels are added,
making 186 channels total.
If you are using the Base and Pixel modules (the Pixel module is set to Compound mode
and the Flex module is disabled) the total channel usage is 169 channels.
DMX Channels
The most current DMX Map data for the SolaPix 37 can be found on the High End Systems, Inc.
website:
highend.com/documentation/SolaPix37/SolaPix37-protocol.pdf

14 SolaPix 37 User Manual
Ethernet Control
The SolaPix 37 fixture includes two Ethernet ports that allow sending and receiving of control
signals using the Art-Net protocol or sACN.
Use a Cat5e (or better) cable and terminate to RJ45 connectors following the TIA/EIA 568B
wiring standard.
Connect EthernetCables to a Fixture
The following instructions are guidelines for connecting Ethernet to your fixture. Your
installation may vary.
1. Connect a cable from the Ethernet control source to one of the Ethernet ports on the first
fixture in the Ethernet control run.
2. Connect the first fixture to a second fixture by connecting a cable from the second
Ethernet port on the first fixture to one of the Ethernet ports on the second fixture.
3. Continue linking the remaining fixtures by connecting a cable from Ethernet port to
Ethernet port on the fixtures on the control run.
Note: The Cat5e cable distance should not exceed 100 m (328 ft), and you should not
connect more than 20 fixtures in one Ethernet control run when the fixtures are linked
together.
Ethernet
control
source
Cat5e (or better) Cat5e (or better) Cat5e (or better)

Ethernet Control 15
Set the DMX Start Address
Give each fixture a unique DMX starting address so that the correct fixture responds to the
control signals. This DMX start address is the channel number from which the fixture starts to
“listen” to the digital control information sent out from the control source.
Example: The SolaPix 37 requires up to 186 channels of control depending on the
configuration of the modules. The Base module uses 21 channels. When the Flex
module is set to Compound mode, an additional 17 channels are added. If the Pixel
module is also set to Compound mode, then an additional 148 channels are added,
making 186 channels total.
If you are using the Base and Pixel modules (the Pixel module is set to Compound mode
and the Flex module is disabled) the total channel usage is 169 channels.
Set the Control Source and Universe
For Ethernet control, you must configure the control source (Art-Net or sACN) and set a universe
(000-255) for each fixture. See Address on page17 for details.

16 SolaPix 37 User Manual
Configure the Fixture
You can configure SolaPix 37 fixtures through the onboard user interface.
Navigate the User Interface
Mode
Esc.
1. Press the [MODE/ESC] button
Mode
Esc.
to access the main menu. (The display is powered by
battery when the fixture has no power; press and hold the [MODE/ESC] button
Mode
Esc.
for
three seconds to access the main menu.)
2. Browse the menu by pressing the up, down, left, or right navigation buttons.
3. Press the Enter button to select a menu item.
4. Modify the selection by pressing the up, down, left, or right navigation buttons according
to the selection.
5. Press the Enter button to confirm a modified selection.
6. To exit the menu, press the [MODE/ESC]
Mode
Esc.
button.
Note: If you press the Enter button to confirm a selection and push no other buttons,
the user interface returns to the default display after 15 seconds.