LSC Redback 12 Channel Owner's manual
12 Channel
INSTALLATION and OPERATION
Version 1.1
March 2009
L.S.C. Lighting Systems (Aust) Pty Ltd
A.B.N. 21 090 801 675
Building 3, 66-74 Micro Circuit, South Dandenong
Victoria 3175 Australia
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Operator Manual V1.1
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LSC Lighting Systems (Aust) Pty. Ltd
Redback Dimmer Table of Contents
Operator Manual V1.1
CONTENTS
1Meet the Redback ..................................................2
1.1 Redback's Layout.....................................................2
1.2 Power Supply ...........................................................2
1.3 Control Panel............................................................2
1.4 LED Display..............................................................2
1.5 SD flash memory slot ...............................................2
1.6 Load Circuit Breakers...............................................3
1.7 DMX512 sockets ......................................................3
1.8 Load sockets ............................................................3
1.9 Power supply entry...................................................3
1.10 MIDI input (optional) ...............................................3
2Installation..............................................................4
2.1 Mounting Options .....................................................4
2.1.1 Rack Mounting ...................................................4
2.1.2 Wall Mounting ....................................................4
2.2 Electrical installation.................................................4
2.2.1 Safety.................................................................4
2.2.2 Power Supply.....................................................4
2.2.3 Load circuits.......................................................4
2.3 Connecting DMX512 and RDM ................................4
2.4 Connecting MIDI (optional).......................................4
3Fast Track Guide....................................................5
4Menu System..........................................................6
4.1 Menu Structure.........................................................6
4.2 Control Pad...............................................................6
4.3 Menu LEDs...............................................................6
4.4 Status LEDs..............................................................6
4.4.1 DMX DATA.........................................................6
4.4.2 DMX ERR...........................................................6
4.4.3 ~1 ~2 ~3 (Mains power)..................................6
4.5 LED Screen..............................................................6
4.5.1 Text Mode..........................................................6
4.5.2 Graphical Mode..................................................6
4.6 Data Entry.................................................................7
4.6.1 Wrap around ......................................................7
4.6.2 Single step entry ................................................7
4.6.3 Multi step entry...................................................7
4.6.4 Jump to limit value .............................................7
4.7 Power Up Display.....................................................7
4.8 Default Status Screen...............................................7
4.8.1 Text Default Status Screen ................................7
4.8.2 Graphical Default Status Screen........................7
4.8.3 Changing the Default Screen .............................7
4.9 Locking the Menu system.........................................7
4.10 Unlocking the Menu system....................................7
4.11 Menu Structure.......................................................8
5Basic Menu.............................................................9
5.1 DMX Address Allocation [ADDR]..............................9
5.1.1 Direct DMX address...........................................9
5.1.2 Bank address.....................................................9
5.2 MIDI Address Allocation [MIDI].................................9
5.3 Scene Setting [SCENE]............................................9
5.3.1 SCENE Menu LED...........................................10
5.4 Chase Mode [CHASE]............................................10
5.4.1 Chase effects patterns .....................................10
5.4.2 CHASE Menu LED...........................................11
6Advanced Menu ...................................................12
6.1 Accessing the Advanced Menus [ADV] ..................12
6.2 Soft Patch...............................................................12
6.3 Fade Curve Selection.............................................12
6.3.1 S Law Curve.....................................................12
6.3.2 Square Law......................................................12
6.3.3 120 Volt............................................................12
6.3.4 Switching loads On and Off .............................12
6.3.5 Non Dim...........................................................12
6.3.6 Relay................................................................12
6.4 Redback's Advanced Scenes.................................13
6.5 Capturing a DMX Snapshot....................................13
6.6 Setting Scene Levels .............................................13
6.6.1 Excluded Mode................................................13
6.6.2 Entering Excluded mode..................................13
6.7 Setting Scene Fade Times.....................................13
6.8 Running a Scene....................................................14
6.9 Setting Minimum Dimmer Levels............................14
6.10 Setting Maximum Dimmer Levels.........................14
6.11 Testing the Dimmers............................................14
6.12 About Redback.....................................................14
6.13 Setup....................................................................15
6.14 Resetting Redback...............................................15
6.14.1 System Reset (
SYSRST
)................................15
6.14.2 Total Reset (
TOTRST
)....................................15
7DMX 512 Explained .............................................16
7.1 Typical DMX Installations.......................................16
8Specifications......................................................17
8.1 Mechanical Specifications......................................17
8.2 Technical Specifications.........................................17
9Software (Firmware) Upgrades ..........................18
9.1 Upgrading Redback's Firmware.............................18
10 Compliance Statements......................................18
10.1 C Tick Compliance Statement..............................18
10.2 CE Compliance Statement...................................18
10.3 Disclaimer ............................................................18
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LSC Lighting Systems (Aust) Pty. Ltd Page 1
Meet the Redback Redback Dimmer
Operator Manual V1.1
1 Meet the Redback
The Redback is a compact, simple-to-operate
small-system dimmer, with a range of
sophisticated, big-system capabilities. It can be
controlled by any DMX512 controller, or
optionally, any standard MIDI sequencing device.
It can be operated locally from the front panel to
output a preset scene or run one of the built-in
chase patterns.
All control functions are combined on a basic
highest takes precedence basis.
Redback can be powered from either a three
phase or single phase supply.
Advanced capabilities include individual channel
settings for fade curve, maximum and minimum
output levels and MIDI and DMX control patching.
All configuration options and front panel
operations can also be controlled using the RDM
(Remote Device Management) protocol.
1.1 Redback's Layout
Redback is a rack mounting device that occupies
2RU (88mm) in a standard 19" (484mm)
equipment rack. The version with front mounted
connecters occupies 4RU (180mm).
The front panel of all versions:
1 Control panel
2 LED display
3 SD Flash memory card slot
4 DMX512 Input connector
5 DMX512 Through socket
6 Load circuit breakers
On the rear panel of 2RU versions and the front
panel of 4 RU versions:
7 Load connectors
8 Power supply entry
9 MIDI IN socket (optional).
1.2 Power Supply
Redback can be powered from:
Three phase supply of 208 - 415v
at 50 - 60Hz of up to 40Amps per phase.
Single phase supply of 100 - 240v
at 50 - 60Hz of up to 75Amps
Safety Note: Conversion between three phase and
single phase operation should only be undertaken by a
suitably trained and qualified electrical technician.
1.3 Control Panel
All control and configuration operations on
Redback are accessed using the five-button
control pad and the Menu scroll keys.
The Left and Right arrow keys are used to
step between the parameters being set in the
selected function.
The Up and Down arrow keys are generally
used to increase or decrease the values for the
selected parameter.
The 3Flip key is generally used to switch
between text and graphical modes on the LED
display.
The red Menu Up Sand Menu Down Tkeys scroll
between menu functions.
The menu LEDs Windicate the currently active
menu function.
1.4 LED Display
The LED panel has both text and graphical
display modes.
DMX 13
Menu information is generally displayed as text.
Dimmer levels are displayed in graphical mode.
The status LEDs indicate the presence of the
mains power supply and the health of the
DMX512 data feed.
1.5 SD flash memory slot
The card slot accepts standard full-size SD
memory cards up to 2GB for loading firmware
updates. MiniSD and microSD flash cards can be
used when fitted into a standard SD adapter.
Note: The slot is not compatible with the SDHC (Secure
Digital High Capacity) data format used in SD cards over
2GB.
Page 2 LSC Lighting Systems (Aust) Pty. Ltd
Redback Dimmer Meet the Redback
Operator Manual V1.1
1.6 Load Circuit Breakers 1.8 Load sockets
Each load circuit is protected by a 10amp
miniature circuit breaker. For normal operation the
circuit breaker lever should be in the up position,
displaying a red indicator triangle (as illustrated).
The 4RU version of the Redback has the load
sockets mounted on the front panel.
The 2RU version of the Redback has the load
sockets mounted on the rear panel.
1.9 Power supply entry
To facilitate the installation of permanent wiring or
flexible cable suitable for your specific
requirements, Redback is supplied with a cable
clamping grommet fitted to the supply entry point.
1.10 MIDI input (optional)
The standard 5 pin DIN MIDI IN (Musical
Instrument Digital Interface) input socket allows
any MIDI controller to set dimmer levels using
note velocity values.
The indicator triangle is green if the circuit breaker
has been switched off or has tripped due to a
fault.
1.7 DMX512 sockets
Redback is DMX512 (1990) or DMX512-A (E1-11)
and RDM (E1-20) compliant, with standard XLR 5
pin Input and Through sockets.
LSC Lighting Systems (Aust) Pty. Ltd Page 3
Installation Redback Dimmer
Operator Manual V1.1
2 Installation
2.1 Mounting Options
Redback may be installed in different
configurations to suit a range of applications.
2.1.1 Rack Mounting
The 2 RU versions of Redback are designed for
installation in standard 19" equipment racks,
touring cases, or rack sleeves, where access is
available to both the front and rear of the rack
cabinet.
The 4 RU versions are designed for installation
in standard 19" equipment racks, touring cases,
or rack sleeves, where access is available only
from the front of the rack cabinet.
Each Redback should be fixed to the equipment
rack by a minimum of four screws.
2.1.2 Wall Mounting
Reversing the side panels on 4RU versions
allows the rack ears to be used as wall mounting
brackets.
Each Redback should be fixed to the wall
mounting frame by a minimum of four screws.
2.2 Electrical installation
2.2.1 Safety
All electrical work must be carried out by a
suitably trained and qualified electrical
technician.
2.2.2 Power Supply
The Redback dimmer must be fed from a
suitably rated external circuit breaker.
In three phase installations the supply wiring and
overload protection should be suitable for loads
of up to 40 Amps per phase. The supply must be
in "wye" or "star" configuration with a neutral
connection.
Due to the large harmonic currents produced by
all phase-controlled dimmers, it is recommended
that the neutral cable should be rated to carry
currents up to 75 Amps.
In single phase installations the supply wiring
and overload protection should be suitable for
the maximum rating of the fitted input cable, but
should not exceed 75 Amps.
2.2.3 Load circuits
Load circuits should be suitable for loads of up
to 10 Amps per dimmer channel.
The minimum channel loading for reliable
smooth fading is a resistive load (incandescent
lamp) of 250 milliamps. This is the equivalent of
a 60 Watt lamp on a 220/240 Volt supply or 27.5
Watts on a 110/120 Volt supply.
2.3 Connecting DMX512 and RDM
DMX 512 (ANSI E1.11, DMX512-A) is the
industry standard for the transmission of digital
control signals between lighting equipment.
DMX is usually “looped” from one piece of
equipment to the next.
If the RDM (ANSI E1.20 Remote Device
Management) extensions to DMX 512 are to be
used to configure or control the Redback, all
distribution devices between the controller and
the Redback must support bi-directional DMX
512 data.
Where a Redback dimmer is the last device on a
DMX signal chain, the DMX standard requires
that a termination device must be plugged in to
the DMX Through socket.
See “DMX Explained and Typical Installations”
for more information.
2.4 Connecting MIDI (optional)
The standard 5-pin DIN MIDI (Musical
Instrument Digital Interface) input socket on the
rear allows any MIDI controller to set dimmer
levels using note velocity values.
As there is no MIDI Thru port on a Redback
dimmer, it must be the last device in a MIDI
control chain.
Warning. No user controls or user serviceable
parts are located inside the Redback. Refer all
servicing to suitably qualified personnel.
.
Page 4 LSC Lighting Systems (Aust) Pty. Ltd
Redback Dimmer Fast Track Guide
Operator Manual V1.1
3 Fast Track Guide
Getting Redback Up and Running
•Connect a power supply
The Redback dimmer must be fed from a suitably rated external circuit breaker.
In three phase installations the supply wiring and overload protection should be suitable for loads of
up to 40 Amps per phase. The supply must be in "wye" or "star" configuration with a neutral
connection rated for currents up to 75 Amps.
When configured for three phase operation, the ~1 ~2 ~3 LEDs indicate the availability of the
corresponding phase of mains supply. All three supply phases must be present for full operation of
all dimmers.
In single phase installations the supply wiring and overload protection should be suitable for the
maximum rating of the fitted input cable, but should not exceed 75 Amps.
When configured for single phase operation, input supply cabling is bridged and all three power
LEDs illuminate if the mains supply is available.
•Reset the system to default setup (optional)
Note: Resetting the Redback clears all scene memories, sets all parameters (addresses, fade
curves, scenes, times, minimum and maximum levels, etc) back to their default values.
To reset Redback, hold down the (white) Up and Down arrow keys during power up.
•Connect the DMX512 control data
DMX512 data is connected to the 5 pin DMX INPUT connector. If the RDM (ANSI E1) extensions
to DMX 512 are to be used to configure or control the Redback, all distribution devices between the
controller and the Redback must support bi-directional DMX 512 data.
If the Redback dimmer is the last device on a DMX signal chain, the DMX512 standard requires
that a termination device must be plugged in to the DMX THRU socket.
•Set the DMX512 address
Use the red Menu Up Sand Menu Down Tkeys to scroll to the Address [ADDR] menu function.
This menu provides two methods for allocating the DMX address of the dimmers.
Direct Addressing
Direct DMX mode address allows the address of the first Redback dimmer to be set to any slot in
the DMX universe where all dimmers can be allocated a valid address (Range 1-501).
DMX 181
In this screen:
The Left and Right arrow keys switch between the Direct DMX Address and Bank Address
modes
The Up and Down arrow keys increment and decrement the starting address.
Bank addressing
Bank mode allocates fixed blocks of addresses to the dimmers (see table 9). Selecting bank 1
allocates DMX addresses 1-12 to the Redback. Selecting bank 2 allocates DMX addresses 13-24,
etc. (Range 1-42).
BANK26
In this screen:
The Left and Right arrow keys switch between the Direct DMX Address and Bank Address
modes
The Up and Down arrow keys increment and decrement the bank number.
•Connect the loads
Redback can smoothly dim loads ranging from 60 Watts to 2,400 Watts at 240 Volts, or 27.5 Watts
to 1,100 Watts at 110 Volts (250 milliamps to 10 Amps).
•Fade up the dimmers
•Read the manual (RTFM)
The Redback can do just about anything that you will ever want from a compact digital dimmer, but
you'll never know how to get the most from it if you don't read the manual.
LSC Lighting Systems (Aust) Pty. Ltd Page 5
Menu System Redback Dimmer
Operator Manual V1.1
4 Menu System
4.1 Menu Structure
Redback has a two level menu system.
The Basic menu provides access to those
settings needed for general day-to-day use of
the Redback in production.
The Advanced menu gives access to
configuration and operations options required for
more complex operating environments, dimmer
configuration and dimmer diagnostics.
4.2 Control Pad
All menu operations on Redback are accessed
via the five-button control pad and the Menu
scroll keys.
The Left and Right arrow keys are used to
step between the parameters being set in the
selected function.
The Up and Down arrow keys are generally
used to increase or decrease the values for the
selected parameter.
The 3Flip key is generally used to switch
between text and graphical modes on the LED
display.
The red Menu Up Sand Menu Down Tkeys
scroll between menu functions.
4.3 Menu LEDs
The menu LEDs Windicate the currently active
menu function.
A double flashing menu LED indicates that an
option is active and overriding basic DMX
control.
The Advanced Menu [ADV] LED double-flashes
to indicate that Advanced functions are
overriding basic dimmer settings.
4.4 Status LEDs
4.4.1 DMX DATA
The DATA LED illuminates to indicate the
presence of DMX512 data on the DMX INPUT
connector. If the data signal is lost, the indicator
double-flashes to indicate data failure. All
dimmers will hold their current levels until data is
restored or the Redback is powered down or re-
set.
4.4.2 DMX ERR
The DMX Error LED flashes to indicate errors in
the DMX512 data arriving at the DMX INPUT
connector.
The problems that cause error indication
include:
•a noisy DMX512 signal due to poor or
damaged cables or connections,
particularly if the shielding is not
continuous or one of the signal pair is
broken.
•damaged or incomplete data packets
from a faulty DMX512 transmitter on a
control console or a data splitter.
4.4.3 ~1 ~2 ~3 (Mains power)
The three power indicator LEDs illuminate to
indicate the presence of the mains power supply
to the Redback.
Three Phase Supply
When configured for three phase operation, the
~1 ~2 ~3 LEDs indicate the availability of the
corresponding phase of mains supply All three
supply phases must be present for full operation
of all dimmers.
Single Phase Supply
When configured for single phase operation,
input supply cabling is bridged and all three
power LEDs illuminate if the mains supply is
available.
4.5 LED Screen
The LED panel has both text and graphical
display modes.
4.5.1 Text Mode
ALL CH
Menu selections and settings are generally
displayed as text.
4.5.2 Graphical Mode
Dimmer levels are displayed in graphical mode.
This example shows:
Dimmer 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
Level Fl 25 50 75 80 33 66 99 95 90 85 5
The height of the column indicates the level of
the dimmer. The brightness of the topmost LED
provides a finer level of indication.
Symbol
Level ~5% ~10% ~15% ~20%
The two additional LEDs on either side of the
level for dimmer 12 indicate that dimmer 12 is
the dimmer currently selected for adjustment.
Page 6 LSC Lighting Systems (Aust) Pty. Ltd
Redback Dimmer Menu System
Operator Manual V1.1
4.6 Data Entry
Data entry in Redback is achieved using the
arrow keys to step backwards and forwards
through the possible values for the current
setting.
4.6.1 Wrap around
Entry for many settings is wrap-around.
Incrementing beyond the maximum value will
step back to the minimum value and begin
incrementing again (eg. Dimmer 10,11,12, 1, 2).
Decrementing below the minimum value will
step back to the maximum value and begin
decrementing again (eg. Bank 3, 2, 1, 42, 41).
4.6.2 Single step entry
Values are changed by a single step with each
press of the arrow key.
4.6.3 Multi step entry
Holding down the arrow key when setting values
steps continuously through the available values
until the limit is reached. The key must be
released and re-pressed to wrap the value
around. The longer a key is held down the faster
the setting will step.
4.6.4 Jump to limit value
The limit value of a setting is selected with a
"double-tap and hold for two seconds" action on
the arrow key.
4.7 Power Up Display
On power up, the screen displays an LED test
sequence that lights up each LED in the front
panel, followed by a brief display of the version
number of the software running on the dimmer.
It then resumes the selected default screen.
4.8 Default Status Screen
The default status screen is displayed:
•after the Power Up sequence.
•following two minutes of menu
inactivity.
•when the Menu Up Skey is pressed
from the Address menu.
There are two alternative status screens.
4.8.1 Text Default Status Screen
The text default screen displays the either:
The DMX address of the first dimmer when set
up in a continuous (1 to 1) sequence e.g.
DMX 42
or
DMX --
when the dimmers are soft patched to some
other (non-linear) sequence.
4.8.2 Graphical Default Status Screen
The graphical default screen is a display of the
current dimmer levels. The levels displayed are
the sum of all control functions including, DMX
input, all scenes, test levels, MIDI input, chase
sequences, dimmer curves, highest and lowest
level limits. Outputs are combined on a highest-
takes-precedence basis. (ie. the levels from all
sources are electronically combined so that only
the highest level is controlling the dimmer.)
4.8.3 Changing the Default Screen
The 3Flip key toggles between the text and
graphical default screens. Your current selection
becomes the new system default screen.
4.9 Locking the Menu system
The Redback menu system may be locked to
prevent unauthorised access to the menus.
When the menu system is locked, only the
current default screen is displayed. Pushing any
key will produce the screen message:
LOCKED
To lock the menu system, simultaneously press
both the Left and Right arrow keys. This
will produce the 4 digit code entry screen:
0.0.0 0
In this screen:
The Left and Right arrow keys move the
selection cursor dots between digits.
The Up and Down arrow keys increment
and decrement the currently selected digit.
The 3Flip key records the current digits as the
key for the lock and displays the word LOCKED.
4.10 Unlocking the Menu system
To unlock the menu system, simultaneously
press both the Left and Right arrow keys.
This will produce the 4 digit code entry screen:
.0.0 0 0
In this screen:
The Left and Right arrow keys move the
selection cursor dots between digits.
The Up and Down arrow keys increment
and decrement the currently selected digit.
The 3Flip key submits the current digits as the
key for the lock.
If the submitted key code is correct, the screen
displays the word UNLOCKED and activates the
menu system.
If the submitted key code is not correct, the
screen displays the word LOCKED then returns to
the locked default screen.
It is recommended that lock codes be easy to
remember (eg. 1337 or 1991) but not obvious
(eg.0000 or 9999). Whatever you choose, to
LSC Lighting Systems (Aust) Pty. Ltd Page 7
Menu System Redback Dimmer
Operator Manual V1.1
avoid embarrassment, write it down somewhere
for future reference.
4.11 Menu Structure
Basic Menu
Status Screen
ADDR DMX Address setting
MIDI MIDI Address settings
SCENE Scene setting and operation
CHASE Chase setting and operation
ADV Enter the Advanced Menu System
Advanced Menu
SOFTP Soft Patch - advanced DMX addressing.
CURVE Fade curve selection
SNAP Snapshot - DMX scene capture
SCN LV Scene Levels - scene level setting
SCN TM Scene Times - scene fade time setting
SCN RN Scene Run - triggering scene fades
MIN LV Minimum Levels - dimmer minimum level settings
MAX LV Maximum Levels - dimmer maximum level settings
TEST Dimmer testing
ABOUT Software revision information
SETUP Channel Setup - selection of 6 or 12 channel mode
RESET Reboot system or Reset to System Defaults
Page 8 LSC Lighting Systems (Aust) Pty. Ltd
Redback Dimmer Basic Menu
Operator Manual V1.1
5 Basic Menu
5.1 DMX Address Allocation [ADDR]
Sets the DMX512 addresses for Redback's
dimmers.
Selecting this menu option displays the current
DMX address of the first dimmer:
DMX 1
If dimmer addresses have been allocated from
the Soft Patch [SOFTP] option of the Advanced
Menus the display reads:
PATCHD
Allocating an address from this menu overrides
the addresses set from the Soft Patch menu.
Levels set by DMX512 control are combined on
a highest-takes-precedence basis with levels
from the internal scene memories, the internal
chaser and the optional MIDI interface.
In Basic operating mode, the dimmers are
automatically allocated sequential addresses
following the start address. (eg. If the start
address is set to 4, then dimmer 1 will be
allocated a DMX address of 4, dimmer 2 will be
allocated an address of 5, dimmer 3 will be
allocated an address of 6, etc).
This menu provides two methods for allocating
the DMX address of the dimmers.
5.1.1 Direct DMX address
Direct DMX mode address allows the address of
the first Redback dimmer to be set to any slot in
the 512 slot DMX universe where all dimmers
can be allocated a valid address (Range 1-501).
DMX 181
In this screen:
The Left and Right arrow keys switch
between the Direct DMX Address and Bank
Address modes
The Up and Down arrow keys increment
and decrement the starting address.
5.1.2 Bank address
Bank mode allocates fixed blocks of addresses
to the dimmers (see table). Selecting bank 1
allocates DMX addresses 1-12 to the Redback,
selecting bank 2 allocates DMX addresses 13-
24, etc. (Range 1-42).
BANK42
In this screen:
The Left and Right arrow keys switch
between the Direct DMX Address and Bank
Address modes
The Up and Down arrow keys increment
and decrement the bank number.
DMX 512 start addresses for Redback 12 banks
Bank 12 3 4 5 6
Start Addr 113 25 37 49 61
Bank 78 9 10 11 12
Start Addr 73 85 97 109 121 133
Bank 13 14 15 16 17 18
Start Addr 145 157 169 181 193 205
Bank 19 20 21 22 23 24
Start Addr 217 229 241 253 265 277
Bank 25 26 27 28 29 30
Start Addr 289 301 313 325 337 349
Bank 31 32 33 34 35 36
Start Addr 361 373 385 397 409 421
Bank 37 38 39 40 41 42
Start Addr 433 445 457 469 481 493
5.2 MIDI Address Allocation [MIDI]
Sets the MIDI addresses for controlling
Redback's dimmers.
Dimmers are controlled by Note-On, Note-Off
and Velocity messages for a block of six
adjacent MIDI Notes starting from the Channel
and Note set from this menu.
Levels set by MIDI control are combined on a
highest-takes-precedence basis with levels from
DMX512, the internal scene memories and the
internal chaser.
Selecting this menu displays the current MIDI
Channel controlling the Redback dimmer or the
current MIDI Note controlling dimmer 1.
In this screen:
The Left and Right arrow keys switch
between:
•selecting the MIDI Channel
CH 1
•selecting the MIDI Note to control
dimmer 1.
NOT 42
The Up and Down arrow keys switch
between:
•setting the MIDI Channel number
(Range 1-16).
•setting a Note number where all
dimmers can be allocated to a valid
Note (Range 0-122)
5.3 Scene Setting [SCENE]
Activates and sets a single static scene for
situations where a control system is not
available.
Levels set in this scene are combined on a
highest-takes-precedence basis with levels from
the advanced scene memories, DMX512
control, the internal chaser and the optional MIDI
interface.
LSC Lighting Systems (Aust) Pty. Ltd Page 9
Basic Menu Redback Dimmer
Operator Manual V1.1
The Scene function is useful where some
dimmers are required to be held at a fixed level
independently of other control settings.
Applications include dimming musician's lights, a
follow spot, the spot on the lectern or important
sponsor signage.
The default setting for the scene is off.
In this screen:
The 3Flip key switches between text and
graphical modes on the LED display.
The Left and Right arrow keys step
between:
•enabling and disabling scene output
OFF
•selecting each dimmer for setting
C 1 L42
or
•selecting all dimmers for setting.
ALL CH
or
The Up and Down arrow keys increase or
decrease the selected dimmer or dimmers.
In All Channel mode, each dimmer increments
or decrements by the same amount, regardless
of its starting level.
5.3.1 SCENE Menu LED
If the scene is active, the SCENE Wmenu LED
gives a short double-flash when Redback is
displaying the default status screen.
5.4 Chase Mode [CHASE]
Activates and controls the internal chase effects
generator.
Redback has six inbuilt chase effects patterns
(c1 - c6) that may be varied in replay speed
between 10 and 900 beats (steps) per minute.
Levels generated in chase effects are combined
on a highest-takes-precedence basis with levels
from scene memories, DMX512 control and the
optional MIDI interface.
The Chase generator is useful where a repeated
pattern of lights is needed without requiring an
external control system.
Applications include displays, signage and
parties.
In this screen:
The Left and Right arrow keys step
between:
•enabling and disabling chase effects.
OFF
•selecting the current chase effect.
c3B440
The Up and Down arrow keys increase or
decrease the speed of the effects generator in
steps of 10 beats per minute.(Range 10 - 900).
This value is not wrap-around.
The 3Flip key switches between text and
graphical modes on the LED display.
5.4.1 Chase effects patterns
c1 - single channel
Step Channels
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
c2 - add then subtract
Step Channels
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
c3 - single channel shadow
Step Channels
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
Page 10 LSC Lighting Systems (Aust) Pty. Ltd
Redback Dimmer Basic Menu
Operator Manual V1.1
c4 - single channel sweep
Step Channels
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
c5 - duplicated single channel
Step Channels
1
2
3
4
5
6
c6 - mexican wave
Step Channels
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
Key to symbols
Level Symbol
0%
25%
50%
100%
In chase patterns 1 to 5, the dimmer channels
are either on or off. In chase pattern 6, the
smooth rolling wave is produced by fading the
channels fade up and down at the same rate as
the chase steps.
5.4.2 CHASE Menu LED
If the chase is active, the CHASE Wmenu LED
gives a short double-flash when Redback is
displaying the default status screen.
LSC Lighting Systems (Aust) Pty. Ltd Page 11
Advanced Menu Redback Dimmer
Operator Manual V1.1
6 Advanced Menu
The advanced menus provide access to system
settings and functions not required for general
operation of Redback.
6.1 Accessing the Advanced
Menus [ADV]
To enter the Advanced Menu system requires
holding down the 3Flip key for two seconds.
The display changes to show the Soft Patch
menu SPATCH, when the Advanced Menu
system is available.
6.2 Soft Patch
SPATCH
The Soft Patch option allows any dimmer to be
allocated to any address in the DMX universe
(including the possibility of multiple dimmers
sharing the same DMX address).
The Right arrow key activates the menu
option and displays the current soft patch mode
of the dimmers.
If DMX channel allocation has been set from the
Basic [ADDR] sequential address option, the
screen will display:
1 TO 1
If dimmer addresses have been allocated from
the soft patch option, the display reads:
PATCHD
In this screen:
The Up and Down arrow keys switch DMX
addressing between the Basic sequential and
Advanced soft patch modes.
The Left and Right arrow keys step
between:
•displaying the current address mode
1 TO 1
•selecting a dimmer for addressing
2 D181
In the address screen:
The Up and Down arrow keys increment
and decrement the DMX address allocated to
the selected dimmer (Range 1-512).
Soft patched address allocations are retained in
system memory, irrespective of Redback's
current address mode.
6.3 Fade Curve Selection
CURVE
The Fade Curve menu enables selection of the
relationship between the input control signal and
the actual dimmer output. Each of the available
fade curves produces a different response from
the dimmer as the channel is faded up and
down.
6.3.1 S Law Curve
SCU
The S law curve is the standard dimming curve
found on the majority of electronic dimmers in
current use. It is favoured in live applications
because its "S" shape gives plenty of gentle
adjustment at the bottom and top ends of the
channel fader where subtle fades are important,
and a rapid rise in the middle of the fader. (This
is the default curve for Redback.)
6.3.2 Square Law
SQU
The square law curve produces a linear power
output as the fader level increases. It comes on
rapidly at the bottom end but rises more gently
after 25% on the fader, a characteristic that
matches the light response of many video
camera systems.
6.3.3 120 Volt
120
The 120 Volt curve is intended for powering
120V lamps from a 240V mains supply. It follows
the pattern of the standard S law curve, but
limits the output to 120 Volts when the control
signal is at Full.
Warning:
A Total Reset, sets all dimmers to the default S
law curve (SCU). This could result in 240 Volts
being fed to 120 Volt lamps.
6.3.4 Switching loads On and Off
Redback has two curves for switching loads
directly between ON and OFF. These curves are
useful for controlling loads that don't take kindly
to being dimmed, such as motors or discharge
lamps.
6.3.5 Non Dim
NON
The Non Dim curve is for use when a load
needs to be switched during a fade cue.
The load is switched ON when the dimmer level
goes above 60% and switched OFF when the
dimmer level falls below 40%.
6.3.6 Relay
RLY
The Relay curve is for use when a load needs to
be switched at the beginning or end of a fade
cue.
The load is switched ON when the dimmer level
goes above 4% and switched OFF when the
dimmer level falls below 2%.
The Right arrow key activates the Curve
menu and displays the currently selected
dimmer and its assigned fade curve.
Page 12 LSC Lighting Systems (Aust) Pty. Ltd
Redback Dimmer) Advanced Menu
Operator Manual V1.1
C1 SCU
In this screen:
The Left and Right arrow keys select the
dimmer for curve assignment (Range 1-6).
The Up and Down arrow keys allocate the
fade curve (Range SCU, SQR, NON, RLY, 120).
The [ADV] menu indicator LED double-flashes in
the default status screen if any dimmer is set to
a curve other than the default S Curve (SCU).
6.4 Redback's Advanced Scenes
The advanced scene system has six scene
memories that can be either set manually or
captured from the DMX control signal, and
played back with defined fade times.
The [ADV] menu indicator LED double-flashes in
the default status screen if any scene is active.
6.5 Capturing a DMX Snapshot
SNAP
The Snapshot option allows the dimmer levels
set by the current DMX data to be captured into
a scene memory. The stored scene will contain
only levels from the DMX input, ignoring dimmer
levels originating from scene memories, the
chase generator or dimmer maximum and
minimum settings. If the DMX signal has been
disconnected (DMX DATA LED flashing), the
snapshot will store the levels from the last DMX
signal received.
The Right arrow key activates the menu
option and displays the current scene memory.
In this screen:
The Left and Right arrow keys select the
current scene (Range 1-6).
SCN1
The Up and Down arrow keys both trigger
the capture of the DMX snapshot:
-SNAP-
6.6 Setting Scene Levels
SCN LV
The Scene Levels option enables the levels in
the stored scenes to be modified.
The Right arrow key activates the menu
option and displays the current scene memory.
SCN3
In this screen:
The 3Flip key switches between text and
graphical modes on the LED display.
The Left and Right arrow keys step
between:
•displaying the current scene number
SCN4
•selecting each dimmer for setting
C 1 L42
or
•selecting all dimmers for setting.
ALL CH
or
The Up and Down arrow keys step between:
•selecting the current scene for editing
(Range 1-6)
•increasing or decreasing the level of the
selected dimmer or dimmers.
In All Channel mode, each dimmer increments
or decrements by the same amount, regardless
of its starting level.
6.6.1 Excluded Mode
By setting a dimmer channel into Excluded
mode from the Scene Levels menu, the scene's
settings will have no effect on the existing level
of that dimmer during scene replay.
6.6.2 Entering Excluded mode
When a dimmer level is at zero, the Down
arrow key sets the dimmer into Excluded mode.
The Up arrow key exits from Excluded mode.
C 3 EXC
In the graphical display, an excluded dimmer is
indicated by a single dot at the top of its level
column.
6.7 Setting Scene Fade Times
SCN TM
The Scene Time menu sets the fade time for
transition to and from the recorded scenes.
The Right arrow key activates the menu
option and displays the current scene memory.
SCN3
In this screen:
The Left and Right arrow keys step
between:
•displaying the current scene number
SCN4
•displaying the fade time for the current
scene.
The Up and Down arrow keys step between:
•selecting the current scene (Range 1-6)
•increasing or decreasing the fade time
for the selected scene (Range 0-
335,544 seconds).
T4.2s
The default fade time for all scenes 1.0 seconds.
LSC Lighting Systems (Aust) Pty. Ltd Page 13
Advanced Menu Redback Dimmer
Operator Manual V1.1
6.8 Running a Scene
SCN RN
The Scene Run menu enables the activation
and deactivation of the recorded scenes.
When activated, a scene fades up in the set
fade time.
When deactivated the scene fades down in the
set fade time
The Right arrow key activates the menu
option and displays the currently selected scene.
SCN3
In this screen:
The 3Flip key switches between text and
graphical modes on the LED display.
The Left and Right arrow keys step
between:
•displaying the selected scene number
SCN4
•displaying the status of the selected
scene
OFF
The Up and Down arrow keys step between:
•selecting the current scene (Range 1-6)
•activating and deactivating the selected
scene
ON
The [ADV] menu indicator LED double-flashes in
the default status screen if any scene is active.
6.9 Setting Minimum Dimmer
Levels
MIN LV
The Minimum Level menu sets the level of the
dimmer output when the control signal is set to
zero. Setting this value slightly above zero is
useful to "Pre-Heat" lamp filaments where a
rapid fade up is required.
The Right arrow key activates the menu and
displays the currently selected dimmer.
C 1 L0
In this screen:
The Left and Right arrow keys select the
dimmer for adjustment.
The Up and Down arrow keys increase and
decrease the minimum level for the selected
dimmer.
The default minimum for all dimmers is Zero.
The [ADV] menu indicator LED double-flashes in
the default status screen if any dimmer is set to
a minimum above Zero.
6.10 Setting Maximum Dimmer
Levels
MAX LV
The Maximum Level menu sets the highest
possible level of dimmer output when its control
signal is set to maximum.
Setting this value to slightly less than full mains
voltage has little impact on light output from
most lamps, but gives a significant increase in
the operational life the lamp.
Setting the maximum to zero effectively locks
the dimmer out of use. (But make a note so you
won't be wondering why the dimmer isn't
working next time you need to use it.)
The Right arrow key activates the menu and
displays the currently selected dimmer.
C 1 FL
In this screen:
The Left and Right arrow keys select the
dimmer for adjustment.
The Up and Down arrow keys increase and
decrease the maximum level for the selected
dimmer.
The default maximum for all dimmers is Full.
The [ADV] menu indicator LED double-flashes in
the default status screen if any dimmer is set to
a maximum below Full.
6.11 Testing the Dimmers
TEST
The test menu allows each dimmer to be tested
independently of all other functions. The dimmer
under test responds only to the level set from
test function.
The Right arrow key activates test mode and
displays the current dimmer under test.
C 1 L42
In this screen:
The Left and Right arrow keys select the
dimmer under test. The currently set test level is
applied to the dimmer under test.
The Up and Down arrow keys increase and
decrease the level of the selected dimmer.
Exiting from the test menu disables test mode.
6.12 About Redback
ABOUT
The About menu displays information about the
firmware running in the Redback.
The Right arrow key activates the menu and
displays:
Redback
In this screen:
The Left and Right arrow keys display the
release number of the current firmware and
other information to identify the dimmer's
operating system.
RX.X
The Release number may be used to determine
if a new firmware update is available from the
Downloads area of the LSC web site at
www.lsclighting.com.
Page 14 LSC Lighting Systems (Aust) Pty. Ltd
Redback Dimmer Advanced Menu
Operator Manual V1.1
6.13 Setup
SETUP
Setup enables the Redback operating system to
toggle between 6 and 12 channel modes.
Setting a 12 channel Redback to six channel
mode will disable dimmers 3, 4, 7, 8, 11 and 12,
and may also cause unpredictable behaviour in
DMX addressing, Chase patterns and Fade
Curves.
Changing channel mode resets all parameters
(addresses, curves, scenes, times, minimum
and maximum levels, etc) back to their default
values
In this screen:
The Right arrow key enables changing the
channel mode.
12Ch
The 3Flip key initiates the mode change
process and checks for confirmation:
6Ch ?N
The Up and Down arrow keys toggle
between Yand N.
If the confirmation is set to Y, pressing the 3
Flip key changes channel mode then triggers a
Total Reset.
wait..
6.14 Resetting Redback
RESET
The Reset menu provides two levels of reset.
6.14.1 System Reset (SYSRST)
Shuts down and restarts (reboots) the Redback.
All levels and memories are retained and
restored after system restart. This is the
equivalent of switching the power to Redback
off, then on again.
6.14.2 Total Reset (TOTRST)
Shuts down Redback and sets all parameters
(addresses, curves, scenes, times, minimum
and maximum levels, etc) back to their default
values, then restarts. This is the equivalent of
switching the power to Redback off, then
switching on again while holding down the Up
and Down arrow keys.
The Right arrow key activates the Reset
menu.
In this screen:
The Left and Right arrow keys toggle
between System Reset (SYSRST) and Total
Reset (TOTRST).
The 3Flip key initiates the reset process and
checks for confirmation:
SURE?N
The Up and Down arrow keys toggle
between Yand N.
If the confirmation is set to Y, pressing the 3
Flip key triggers the reset process.
wait..
Warning:
A Total Reset, sets all dimmers to the default S
law curve (SCU). This could potentially result in
240 Volts being fed to 120 Volt lamps.
LSC Lighting Systems (Aust) Pty. Ltd Page 15
DMX 512 Explained Redback Dimmer
Operator Manual V1.1
7 DMX 512 Explained
DMX512/ 2003-A is the industry standard for the
transmission of digital control signals between
lighting equipment. It utilises just a single pair of
wires on which is transmitted the level
information for the control of up to 512 DMX
slots (addresses or channels).
The information for each slot is sent
sequentially. The level of slot 1 is transmitted,
then the level of slot 2, then 3, etc. up to a
maximum of 512 slots. This stream of data
containing the levels for all 512 DMX slots is
repeated a minimum (generally) of 44 times per
second. This provides sufficient updates of
channel information for smooth fade transitions.
As the DMX512-A signal contains the level
information for all slots, each piece of equipment
needs to be able to read the level(s) of the
slots(s) that apply only to that piece of
equipment. To enable this, the Redback dimmer
has a “SPatch” (softpatch) menu that allows you
to patch (connect) each DMX slot (address) from
your lighting controller to a Redback dimmer
channel number.
When good quality data cables are used,
DMX512 cable runs may be up to 1,000 metres
in length. When several DMX feeds are required
(to feed different locations), DMX512 splitters
must be used. These provides multiple isolated
DMX512 feeds.
The Redback uses a high impedance DMX input
circuit allowing you to loop the DMX signal from
one Redback to the next. The last Redback in
the chain will automatically terminate the DMX
line if no cable is plugged in to the Thru socket.
Note: Do not use unscreened microphone or
low speed data cables for DMX. This can cause
problems in the DMX network. Make sure the
cable conforms to the EIA485 cable
requirements by providing the following
specifications:
•Low capacitance
•One or more twisted pairs
•Foil and braid shielded
•Impedance of 85 -150 Ohms, nominally 120
Ohms
•22AWG gauge for continuous lengths over
300 metres
The following diagrams illustrate some simple
setups utilising DMX512.
7.1 Typical DMX Installations
In the following example, the DMX output signal
from the lighting control desk is fed to the DMX
connector of the first Redback dimmer. The
DMX cable is then looped to the following
Redback dimmers. The order of the daisy
chaining is not important as each Redback
dimmer channel can be patched to any DMX slot
number. The end of the DMX line is terminated
to prevent the signal reflecting back up the line
and causing possible errors.
Page 16 LSC Lighting Systems (Aust) Pty. Ltd
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