Martin MAC 250+ User manual

MAC 250 / MAC 250+
user manual

section 1
Safety
Safety precautions ...................................................................................................................................................3
section 2
Setup
Unpacking ...............................................................................................................................................................4
Lamp installation .....................................................................................................................................................4
Powering .................................................................................................................................................................5
Rigging ....................................................................................................................................................................6
Connecting the serial data link ................................................................................................................................6
section 3
Control Panel
Menu navigation ......................................................................................................................................................8
Personality settings (PERS) ...................................................................................................................................9
Address and protocol selection .............................................................................................................................10
Readouts (INFO) ................................................................................................................................................10
Utilities (UTIL) ....................................................................................................................................................10
Test programs (TEST) .........................................................................................................................................11
Manual control (MAN) ...........................................................................................................................................11
Adjustment (AdJ) .................................................................................................................................................11
section 4
Operation
DMX-512 control ...................................................................................................................................................12
Martin RS-485 control ...........................................................................................................................................12
Controllable effects ................................................................................................................................................12
section 5
Basic Service
Replacing the lamp ................................................................................................................................................15
Optimizing reflector alignment ...............................................................................................................................15
Rotating gobos ......................................................................................................................................................15
Changing color filters (
MAC
250+only) .................................................................................................................16
Configuring the optical system (
MAC
250 only) ....................................................................................................17
Removing modules ................................................................................................................................................18
Cleaning ................................................................................................................................................................18
Lubrication .............................................................................................................................................................18
Replacing fuses .....................................................................................................................................................19
Changing the XLR pin-out .....................................................................................................................................19
Updating software .................................................................................................................................................19
Changing voltage and frequency settings ............................................................................................................20
section 6
Appendixes
DMX protocol ........................................................................................................................................................21
Error messages .....................................................................................................................................................24
Troubleshooting .....................................................................................................................................................25
PCB layout ............................................................................................................................................................26
Specifications ........................................................................................................................................................27
©1998 - 2000 Martin Professional A/S, Denmark.
All rights reserved. No part of this manual may be
reproduced, in any form or by any means, without
permission in writing from Martin Professional A/S,
Denmark.
Printed in Denmark.
P/N 35000067, Rev. D

Safety
3
section 1
SAFETY
Thank you for selecting the Martin MAC 250 or the MAC 250+. Both the MAC 250 and the MAC 250+are yoke-
mounted profile spotlights that are designed around a 250 watt discharge lamp. They provide:
• 12 saturated dichroic colors
• 8 replaceable rotating gobos
• 3-facet rotating prism
• variable focus
• strobe effects
• 0 to 100% dimming
• accurate 16-bit movement.
In addition, the standard MAC 250 provides 4 user-configurable beam angles from 12.1° to 23.3°. The MAC 250+pro-
vides gobo indexing, interchangeable color filters, and an 18.3° achromatic lens system. High-performance optics,
attractive design, modular construction and numerous user-friendly features make these Martin fixtures well suited for
any effect lighting application calling for a compact, hard-focusing 250 watt fixture.
Safety precautions
The MAC 250 and MAC 250+are for professional use only. They are not for household use. They present risks of
injury due to electric shock, heat and ultraviolet radiation burns, lamp explosion, falls, high-intensity light, and fire.
Read this manual before powering or installing the fixture, follow the safety precautions listed below and observe
all warnings in this manual and printed on the fixture. If you have questions about how to operate the fixture safely,
please contact your Martin dealer or call the Martin 24-hour service hotline for assistance.
• ALWAYS disconnect the fixture from AC power before removing or installing the lamp, fuses, or any part; and when
not in use.
• Allow the fixture to cool for at least 5 minutes before replacing the lamp.
• Keep all combustible materials (for example fabric, wood, paper) at least 0.3 meters (12 inches) away from the fixture.
Keep flammable materials well away from the fixture.
• For protection against dangerous electric shock, always ground (earth) the fixture electrically. Use only a source of AC
power that complies with local building and electrical codes. Do not expose the fixture to rain or moisture.
• Ensure that the air flow through fans and vents is free and unobstructed.
• When suspending the fixture above ground level, verify that the structure can hold at least 10 times the weight of all
installed devices and secure the fixture with an approved safety cable. Block access below the work area whenever
installing or removing the fixture.
• Refer any service operation not described in this manual to a qualified technician.
• Do not illuminate surfaces within 0.3 meters (12 inches) of the fixture.
• Never place filters or other materials over the lens.
• Do not operate the fixture if the ambient temperature (Ta) exceeds 40° C (104° F).
• Replace the lamp as soon as it becomes defective or worn out, or before usage exceeds the maximum service life.
• Do not stare directly into the light.
• Never operate the fixture without all lenses and covers installed: an unshielded lamp can explode without warning and
emits dangerous UV radiation that can cause burns and eye damage.
• Do not modify the fixture or install other than genuine Martin accessories and upgrade kits.

4
MAC
250 and
MAC
250+
section 2
SETUP
Unpacking
The MAC 250 and MAC 250+come with:
• 1 1/4-turn clamp mounting bracket
• 1 5-meter, 3-pin shielded XLR control cable
• 1 3-meter, 3-wire IEC power cable
• 1 user manual
The packing material is carefully designed to protect the fixture during shipment - always use it or a custom flight case
to transport the fixture.
Lamp installation
Compatible lamps
The lamps listed in the table below may be used with the MAC 250 and MAC 250+. Installing any other lamp may
damage the fixture.
WARNING!
Disconnect the fixture from AC power and allow the lamp to cool for at least 5
minutes before proceeding. Wear safety goggles to protect your eyes.
Lamp Replace before Average life Color Temp. Output P/N
Osram HSD 250 2500 hr 2000 hr 6000K 68 lm/W 97010103
Philips MSD 250/2 2200 hr 2000 hr 6500K 72 lm/W 97010100
Philips MSD 200 2200 hr 2000 hr 5600K 67 lm/W 97010106
Figure 1: Lamp installation
reflector alignment screws
lamp socket assembly

Setup
5
To install a lamp
1. Remove the 2 Phillips screws from the lamp socket assembly. Pull the lamp and socket out of the head.
2. Remove the old lamp, if any, from the socket.
3. Holding the new lamp by its ceramic base (do not touch the glass), align the small pin with the
small hole and insert the lamp squarely into the socket. Make sure that the 4 small projections on the
base contact the face of the socket.
4. Clean the glass bulb with the cloth supplied with the lamp, particularly if your fingers touched the
glass. A clean, lint-free cloth wetted with alcohol may also be used.
5. Gently insert the assembly, making sure the lamp fits through the opening in the reflector. Replace
the 2 screws.
6. The reflector is pre-adjusted at the factory; however, precise alignment to compensate for variations
between lamps may improve performance. See “Optimizing reflector alignment” on page 15.
Powering
WARNING!
For protection from dangerous electric shock, the fixture must be grounded
(earthed). The AC mains supply shall be fitted with a fuse or circuit breaker and
ground-fault protection.
1. Verify that the voltage and frequency settings match the local AC supply. The factory settings are printed on
a label under the base. Check Table 7 on page 20 to verify that these settings are correct for your local AC
voltage. Operating at the incorrect power setting can result in poor light output, greatly reduced lamp life,
overheating and damage to the fixture. Refer to “Changing voltage and frequency settings” on page 20 if the
settings need to be adjusted.
2. Install a grounding-type cord cap that fits your supply on the power cable. Following the manufac-
turer’s instructions, connect the yellow/green wire to the ground (earth) pin, the blue wire to the neu-
tral pin, and the brown wire to the live pin. The table shows some possible pin identification schemes;
if the pins are not clearly identified, or if you have any doubts about proper installation, consult a
qualified electrician.
3. Verify that the supply cable is undamaged and rated for the current requirements of all connected
devices.
4. Plug the prepared power cable into the 3-prong IEC inlet and a grounded AC power supply. Do not
connect the fixture to a dimmer system.
Wire Pin Marking Screw (US)
brown live “L” yellow or brass
blue neutral “N” silver
yellow/green ground green
Table 1: Cord cap wiring

6
MAC
250 and
MAC
250+
Rigging
The MAC 250 and MAC 250+include a clamp mounting bracket to which 1 or 2 rigging clamps (not included) can be
bolted. The clamp mounting bracket fastens to the base as shown with 1/4-turn fasteners.
WARNING!
Always use an approved safety cable.
The 1/4-turn fasteners are locked only when turned fully clockwise.
1. Verify that the clamps are in good condition and can bear at least 10 times the weight of the fixture. Bolt
clamps to the bracket with a grade 8.8 (minimum) M12 bolt and lock nut, or as recommended by the clamp
manufacturer, through the 13 mm holes in the clamp mounting bracket.
2. Align the clamp mounting bracket with any 2 key slots on the base. Insert both locking pins into the
slots and turn both levers a full 1/4 turn clockwise to lock.
3. Verify that the structure can bear at least 10 times the weight of all installed fixtures, clamps, cables,
auxiliary equipment, etc.
4. Working from a stable platform, clamp the fixture to the structure.
5. Install a safety cable that can bear at least 10 times the weight of the fixture securely to the structure
and anchor the cable to the dedicated attachment point on the base. The attachment point is
designed to fit a carabiner clamp.
Connecting the serial data link
The MAC 250 and MAC 250+have locking 3-pin data input and output sockets that are wired for use with DMX
devices, that is, pin 1 to shield, pin 2 to cold (-) and pin 3 to hot (+). As some devices have 5-pin connectors, or 3-pin
connectors with reversed polarity on pins 2 and 3, the following adaptor cables may be required.
1. Connect the controller’s output to the fixture’s data input. For a DMX controller with 5-pin output, use a
cable with a 5-pin male and a 3-pin female connector, such as P/N 11820005.For a DMX controller with 3-
pin output, use a 3-pin cable such as the one included. For a Martin RS-485 protocol controller, use a
phase reversing cable or reconfigure the pin-out as described on page 19.
2. Connect the output of the fixture closest to the controller to the input of the next fixture. When con-
necting a fixture with pin 3 hot to a fixture with pin 3 cold, use a phase-reversing adaptor.
3. To terminate the link, insert a male 120
Ω
XLR termination plug in the output of the last fixture.
Figure 2: Clamp mounting bracket
Phase-Reversing
Adaptor
Male Female
1
2
3
1
2
3
3-pin to 3-pin
P/N 11820006
Adaptor
Male Female
1
2
3
4
5
1
2
3
5-pin to 3-pin
P/N 11820005
Adaptor
Male Female
1
2
3
1
2
3
4
5
3-pin to 5-pin
P/N 11820004
Figure 3: Cable adaptors

Setup
7
Tips for building a serial link
• Use shielded twisted-pair cable designed for RS-485 devices: standard microphone cable cannot transmit DMX data
reliably over long runs. For links up to 300 meters (1000 ft.) long, you can use 24 AWG, low capacitance, 85-150 ohm
characteristic impedance, shielded cable with 1 or more twisted pairs. For runs up to 500 meters (1640 ft.) use 22 AWG
cable. Use an amplifier if the serial link exceeds 500 meters.
• Never use a “Y” connector to split the link. To split the serial link into branches use a splitter such as the Martin 4-
Channel Opto-Isolated RS-485 Splitter/Amplifier.
• Do not overload the link. Up to 32 devices may be connected on a serial link.
• Terminate the link by installing a termination plug in the output socket of the last fixture on the link. The termination
plug, which is simply a male XLR connector with a 120 ohm, 0.25 watt resistor soldered between pins 2 and 3, “soaks
up” the control signal so it does not reflect back down the link and cause interference. If a splitter is used, terminate
each branch of the link.

8
MAC
250 and
MAC
250+
section 3
CONTROL PANEL
You set the fixture address, mode, and personalities; read lamp hours, DMX values, and other information; calibrate
effects, control the fixture manually, and run test and demo programs from the LED control panel. Functions that do
not require feedback can also be performed remotely via the serial link using a Martin uploader.
The display can be flipped for easy reading by pressing the [↑]and [↓]keys simultaneously. The intensity can be
adjusted and the display can be set to black out 2 minutes after the last key-press.
Menu navigation
The DMX or Martin address, depending on the mode, and any error messages are displayed after the fixture resets. To
enter the menu, press [MENU]. Use the [↑]and [↓]keys to move within the menu. To select a function or submenu,
press [ENTER]. To escape a function or menu, press [MENU].
SWAP
PINV
TINV
PSET AdJ
CAL
VER
AddR MANTESTPERS
Address/
Messages
DMX
RST
L ON
LOFF
HEAd
PATI
P OF
T OF
COOF
RgOF
FOOF
dFOF
d OF
RST
L ON
SHUT
dIM
COL
Rgob
LOFF
FOCU
PRIS/
PAN
TILT
FROS
FTYP
dISP
ALON
dINT
UPLd
PCb
AUTO
SCUT
dMAC
STUd
FACT
dIM
COL
Rgob
FOCU
PRIS
dEMO
MINP
MAXP
MINT
MAXT
FOCU
GO
dFSE
FACT
CUS1
CUS2
CUS3
UTIL
dMOd
EFFb
MART
INFO
HRS
TOTL
RSET DMXL
STCO
SHUT
...
E SP
L HR
TOTL
RSET
L ST
TOTL
RSET
TSEQ
PTSP
MOdE PATI
dLOF
dRES
FEbA
CPU
FEbA
dISP
Figure 4:
MAC
250 and
MAC
250+menu
TRAC
MOdE
CAL
GTYP

Control Panel
9
Personality settings (PERS)
Personality Path Options Effect (Default setting shaded, * indicates DMX override)
Pan/tilt swap PATI/SWAP ON Map DMX pan control to tilt channel and vice versa.
OFF Normal pan and tilt control.
Pan inverse PATI/PINV ON Reverse DMX pan control (right Æleft).
OFF Normal pan control (left Æ
ÆÆ
Æright).
Tilt inverse PATI/TINV ON Reverse DMX tilt control (down Æup).
OFF Normal tilt control (up Æ
ÆÆ
Ædown).
Pan/tilt speed PTSP FAST Optimize movement for speed.*
SLOW Optimize movement for smoothness.*
Gobo type GTYP STd Select non-indexible gobos (
MAC
250).
INdX Select indexible gobos (
MAC
250+).
Fixture type FTYP PRIS Operate with rotating prism.
FROS Operate with optional frost (available soon).
DMX lamp off dLOF ON Enable DMX lamp off command.
OFF Disable DMX lamp off command.*
DMX reset dRES ON Enable DMX reset command.
OFF Disable DMX reset command.*
Automatic lamp on ALON ON Lamp strikes automatically within 90 seconds of power on.
OFF Lamp remains off until “lamp on” command is sent.
Display on/off dISP ON Display stays on.
OFF Display goes out 2 minutes after last key press.
Display intensity dINT 10-100 Adjust display intensity.
Studio mode STUd ON Optimize effects for silence.
OFF Optimize effects for speed.
Dimmer mode dMOd NORM Normal dimming curve.
TUNG Simulated tungsten dimming curve.
Shortcuts SCUT ON Color and gobo wheels turn the shortest direction.*
OFF Wheels turn same direction.*
Effects feedback EFFb ON Enable feedback on color and gobo wheels.
OFF Disable feedback on color and gobo wheels.
DMX macros dMAC ON Enable DMX-selectable macros and pulsating effects.
OFF Disable DMX-selectable macros and pulsating effects.
Tracking algorithm TRAC/MOdE MOd1 Absolute delta value algorithm (for most controllers)
MOd2 Real delta value algorithm
Tracking samples TRAC/CAL 1-10 Tracking samples. Increase if pan/tilt is not smooth.
Default settings dFSE
FACT Select factory default personality settings.
CUS1
CUS2
CUS3
Save / load custom personality settings. To create a custom
configuration, select SAVE after setting the personalities
as desired. Select LOAd to recall the settings.
Table 2: Personality settings

10
MAC
250 and
MAC
250+
Address and protocol selection
The fixture address and operating mode must be selected before the MAC 250 or MAC 250+will respond to the con-
troller. DMX mode 4 provides full control and is recommended unless channels are limited. See “DMX-512 control”
on page 12 for factors to consider when selecting other DMX modes.
The address, also known as the start channel, is the first channel used to receive instructions from the controller. For
independent control, each fixture must be assigned its own address and non-overlapping control channels. Two fixtures
may share the same address only if they are to respond identically: they will receive the same instructions and individ-
ual control will not be possible.
If automatic protocol detection (AUTO) is ON, the fixture automatically switches to DMX or Martin mode after
interpreting the control signal. This allows you to set the fixture up for both DMX and Martin controllers. If it is OFF,
the default, the operating mode must match the controller. Note: automatic protocol detection does not detect the DMX
mode (1, 2, 3, or 4) setup on the controller.
1. Apply power to the
MAC
250 or
MAC
250+. Press [MENU] on the control panel to enter the main menu.
2. Select AddR using the arrow keys. Press [ENTER].
3. Select DMX (to set a DMX address) or MART (to set a Martin address) using the arrow keys. Press
[ENTER].
4. Select the address using the arrow keys. Press [ENTER]. Press [MENU] to return to the main menu.
5. Select PSET using the arrow keys. Press [ENTER].
6. Select MOdE using the arrow keys. Press [ENTER].
7. Select DMX1, DMX2, DMX3, or DMX4 if using a DMX controller, or MART if using a Martin
3032 controller. Press [ENTER].
8. Press [MENU] to return to the main menu. Press [MENU] again to display the address.
Readouts (INFO)
Use the counters to track usage, maintenance intervals, lamp life, etc. To reset a counter, display the readout and press
[↑]for 5 seconds. Counters showing totals are not resettable.
Hours used (HRS)
Read the total number of hours the fixture has been on (TOTL), and the number of hours on since the counter was last
reset (RSET).
Lamp hours (L HR)
Read the total number of hours used with the lamp on (TOTL), and the number of lamp hours since the counter was
last reset (RSET). Reset this counter when installing a new lamp.
Lamp strikes (L ST)
Read the total number of lamp strikes (TOTL), and the number of lamps strikes since the counter was last reset
(RSET). Reset this counter when installing a new lamp.
Software version (VER)
Read the version number of the CPU software (CPU), feedback circuit software (FEBA), and display module soft-
ware (dISP).
Utilities (UTIL)
Upload mode (UPLd)
Upload mode is normally engaged automatically by the uploader.In certain circumstances, however, you may have to
set upload mode manually. See “Updating software” on page 19.
Mode DMX 1 DMX 2 DMX 3 DMX 4 Martin
Movement speed Tracking Tracking and/or Vector Vector
Pan/tilt resolution 8 bit 16 bit 8 bit 16 bit 16 bit
Channels required 9 11 11 13 2
Table 3: Control modes

Control Panel
11
Demonstration program (dEMO)
This menu offers a preprogrammed stand-alone demonstration. Before running the demo, set the minimum and maxi-
mum pan and tilt positions (MINP, MAXP, MINT, MAXT) to a good location for viewing the effects. Select
FOCU to focus the beam. Select GO to run the demo.
Test programs (TEST)
Effects test sequence (TSEQ)
Run a general test of all effects.
DMX log (DMXL)
Read the DMX start code (STCO) and DMX values received for each effect. This is an easy way to check that the
DMX start code is 0 and that the expected DMX values are received.
Quality control and service tests (PCb, FACT)
These menus contain tests for factory and service use.
Manual control (MAN)
The manual control menu permits you to do the following from the control panel:
• reset the fixture (RST)
• turn the lamp on and off (L ON, LoFF)
• open, close, and strobe the shutter at 3 speeds (SHUT)
• control the dimmer (dIM)
• move the color wheel to each position and scroll it at 3 speeds (COL)
• move the gobo wheel to each position and rotate the gobos at 3 speeds (Rgob)
• control the focus (FOCU)
• insert and rotate the prism (PRIS) at 3 speeds, or, if a frost filter is installed, insert the frost (FROS)
• control pan and tilt (PAN, TILT)
Adjustment (AdJ)
The adjustment menu provides the following functions:
• Reset the fixture (RST)
• Turn on and off the lamp (LON, LoFF)
• Disable pan/tilt feedback (FEbA)
• Control effects in the head (HEAd)
• Move the head to the home and extreme positions (PATI)
• Calibrate effects (CAL)
Head effects adjustment (HEAd)
The head submenu provides manual control when making mechanical adjustments, which should be performed by a
qualified technician. It allows the technician to:
• Open, close, and strobe the dimmer/shutter (dIM)
• Move the color and gobo wheels through their positions (COL, Rgob)
• Move the focus lens to its extreme positions (FOCU)
• Insert and rotate the prism (PRIS)
Calibration (CAL)
The calibration submenu allows you to adjust the effects to achieve total uniformity between fixtures: it is not a substi-
tute for mechanical adjustment. To reset all calibrations to their factory defaults, select dFOF and press [ENTER]
when SURE is displayed, or press [MENU] to escape.
1. Select the effect to calibrate: pan (POF), tilt (TOF), dimmer/shutter (dOF), color wheel (COF), rotating-
gobo wheel (RgOF), or focus (FOOF).
2. Adjust the effect using the arrow keys until it matches the other units when set at the same control
value. Offsets are adjustable from 1 to 255. Press [ENTER] to save the calibration.

12
MAC
250 and
MAC
250+
section 4
OPERATION
This section describes the effects and how personality settings affect their behavior. Selecting personalities from the
control panel is described in the previous section.
DMX-512 control
The MAC 250 and MAC 250+can be operated with DMX-512 controllers in 4 modes that combine vector and/or track-
ing control with 8-bit or 16-bit pan/tilt resolution.
Tracking control
With tracking control, the speed at which effects move is set by programming a cross-fade time on the controller. The
controller divides the move into steps and updates the fixture with small changes at the rate required to achieve the
fade. The fixture tracks the changes and averages them with a digital filter algorithm to provide smooth movement at
all speeds.
This algorithm is adjustable to compensate for controllers that calculate position changes unevenly. In most cases the
default settings work well. If movement is not satisfactory there are 2 parameters that can be adjusted. The first is the
calculation method used and is selected under PERS/TRAC/MOdE. MOd1, the default, calculates speed based
on the absolute value of the change in DMX; it is the best choice with controllers that calculate intermediate positions
that are close to the line of travel. MOd2 uses the real value of the DMX delta to calculate speed and is better if the
intermediate positions stray significantly from the line of travel.
The second parameter is the number of position updates used to calculate speed. The level is adjustable between 1 and
10 under PERS/TRAC/CAL. Increasing the number of samples increases the distance over which speed is calcu-
lated, making movement smoother but less responsive to sudden changes.
The ideal settings for both parameters will vary from controller to controller: experiment for best results.
Vector control
With vector control, you set the speed on a speed channel. This provides a way to control speed on controllers without
cross-faders. Vector control also provides smoother movement, particularly at slow speeds, with controllers that send
slow or irregular tracking updates, plus a “blackout speed” and overrides of the shortcut and pan/tilt speed personality
settings. When using vector speed, the cross-fade time must be 0.
Tracking control can be enabled in vector mode by setting one or both of the speed channels to “tracking speed.”
8-bit versus 16-bit pan/tilt resolution
With 8-bit pan/tilt resolution, pan and tilt are divided into 256 equal increments. Finer position control and smoother
movement are provided in 16-bit mode, which divides pan into 40,192 positions and tilt into 43,008 positions.
Martin RS-485 control
The MAC 250 is fully supported by the Martin 3032 controller with version 2.05 or higher software. The MAC 250+
may be set up on the 3032 as a MAC 250: gobo indexing, however, is not supported. To respond to the 3032, Martin
mode must be selected or automatic protocol detection must be enabled as described on page 10.
Controllable effects
All mechanical effects are reset to a home position when the fixture is powered up. They can also be reset via DMX.
Accidental resets can be prevented by turning DMX Reset (PERS/dRES) off.
An on-the-fly position correction system automatically corrects the position of the color and gobo wheels; this feature
can be disabled by turning Effects Feedback (PERS/EFFb) off.
General operation may be optimized for speed or quietness with the Studio Mode setting (PERS/STUd).
Lamp
With the default setting, the lamp remains off until a “lamp on” command is sent from the controller. Note: A peak of
electric current that can be many times the operating current is drawn for an instant when striking a discharge lamp.
Striking many lamps at once may cause a voltage drop large enough to prevent lamps from striking or draw enough

Operation
13
current to trip circuit breakers. If sending “lamp on” commands to multiple fixtures, program a sequence that strikes
lamps one at a time at 5 second intervals.
The fixture automatically strikes the lamp within 90 seconds of being powered on if the Automatic Lamp On setting
(PERS/ALON) is turned on. A delay determined by the fixture address staggers lamp strikes to prevent excessive
voltage drop and current draw.
The lamp can be turned off from the controller. Note: the lamp cannot be restruck for 8 minutes after being turned off.
Accidental “lamp off” commands can be prevented by turning the DMX Lamp Off setting (PERS/dLOF) off.
Color
The MAC 250 and MAC 250+color wheel provides a 5500 to 2900K color temperature correction (CTC) filter and 11
dichroic color filters. The wheel can be scrolled continuously - allowing for split color effects - or in steps, and rotated
randomly or continuously in both directions at different speeds.
The Shortcuts setting (PERS/SCUT) determines whether or not the wheel takes the shortest path to the next posi-
tion; this setting may be overridden on the speed channel in vector mode. Setting the effects speed to “blackout” causes
the shutter to black out the light while the wheel is moving.
The color filters on the MAC 250+are interchangeable. See page 16.
Rotating gobos
The MAC 250 and MAC 250+has 8 rotating gobo positions plus an open position. Each gobo rotates and/or “shakes” at
varying speeds. Gobos and shake are selected on channel 4; rotation is set on channel 5. The gobo wheel also rotates
continuously in both directions at variable speed.
. Position Color
1CTC
2 Yellow 603
3 Blue 104
4 Pink 312
5 Green 206
6 Blue 108
7 Red 301
8 Magenta 507
9 Blue 101
10 Orange 306
11 Green 202
12 Purple 502
Table 4: Color positions
MAC
250+color wheel shown
. Position Gobo
1 Radial Dashes
2 Line of Beams
3 Fan Hat
4 Triple Beam
5 Decentered Beam
6 Fibroid
7 Random Holes, Blue
8 Psycho Circles, Magenta
Table 5: Gobo positions

14
MAC
250 and
MAC
250+
The MAC 250+provides gobo indexing as well. Select the gobo on channel 4, between the DMX values of 5 and 44,
and set the position on channel 5. The gobo type setting (PERS/GTYP) automatically defaults to INdX in the
MAC 250+to enable this feature. It defaults to STd in the MAC 250.
The Shortcuts setting (PERS/SCUT) determines whether or not the wheel takes the shortest path to the next posi-
tion; this setting may be overridden on the effects speed channel. Setting the speed to “blackout” causes the shutter to
black out the light while the wheel turns.
To change the gobos, see “Rotating gobos” on page 15.
Dimmer / shutter
The mechanical dimmer/shutter system provides full, high-resolution dimming, “instant” open and blackout, random
and variable strobe effects, and random and variable pulses in which the dimmer snaps open and slowly dims or snaps
closed and slowly opens. Pulse and random strobe effects can be disabled by switching DMX Macros (PERS/
dMAC) off.
The Dimmer Mode (PERS / dMOd) setting allows you to select between linear or simulated tungsten fade curves.
The fade time must be 0 to simulate tungsten dimming.
Focus
The beam may be focused from approximately 2 meters (6.5 feet) to infinity. The MAC 250’s default beam angle is
17.5°; see page 17 for additional options. The MAC 250+has a different optical system that uses achromatic lenses. It
provides a beam angle of 18.3°.
Rotating prism
The 3-facet prism rotates in both directions at varying speeds. There are 8 preprogrammed macros that combine prism
and gobos. These can be disabled by switching DMX Macros (PERS/dMAC) off. Setting the speed to “blackout”
causes the shutter to black out the light while the prism moves in and out.
Pan and tilt
The yoke pans 540° and the head tilts 289°. Movement may be optimized for speed by setting the pan/tilt speed setting
(PERS / PTSP) to FAST, or for smoothness by setting it to SLOW. This setting may be overridden on the speed
channel in vector mode. Setting the speed to “blackout” causes the shutter to black out the light while the head is mov-
ing. The pan and tilt channels can be inverted and/or swapped using the pan/tilt menu (PERS / PATI).

Basic Service
15
section 5
BASIC SERVICE
The MAC 250 and MAC 250+operate under challenging conditions presented by heat, humidity, dust, and touring.
Excessive dust, grease, and smoke fluid buildup degrades performance and causes overheating and damage that is not
covered by the warranty. The MAC 250 and MAC 250+require regular maintenance to keep performing at their peak.
The schedule will depend on the application and should be discussed with your Martin distributor. Refer any service
that you are not qualified to perform to a professional technician.
WARNING!
Removing covers exposes dangerous live electrical circuits, hot surfaces, and a
lamp under high pressure. Procedures requiring the removal of any cover shall
be performed by professional users or technicians only. Disconnect the fixture
from AC power and allow it to cool before removing any cover.
Replacing the lamp
If the lamp becomes difficult to strike, it probably needs to be replaced. To reduce the
risk of lamp explosion, which may damage the fixture, do not exceed the lamp’s rated
life (2000 hours) by more than 25 percent.
Refer to page 5 for the lamp replacement procedure. After installing the lamp, reset the
lamp usage counters as described on page 10.
Optimizing reflector alignment
The reflector is aligned at the factory. Due to differences between lamps, however, fine
adjustment may improve performance.
1. Strike the lamp and focus the light on a flat surface.
2. See Figure 1 on page 4. Center the hot-spot (the brightest part of the
beam) by turning the 3 adjustment screws one at a time with a 3 mm Allen
wrench. If there is no hot-spot, adjust the reflector until the light is even.
3. To reduce a hot-spot, “push” the reflector out by turning all 3 screws coun-
terclockwise 1/4-turn at a time until the light is evenly distributed.
4. If the light is brighter around the edge than it is in the center, or if light out-
put is low, the lamp is too far back in the reflector. “Pull” the reflector in by
turning the screws clockwise 1/4-turn at a time until the light is bright and
evenly distributed.
Rotating gobos
Custom glass gobos for the MAC 250 and MAC 250+should be made with any
non-reversible graphics true on the coated side. Complete gobo specifications are
listed on page 27. Do not use chrome-coated glass gobos: they absorb more heat
than enhanced aluminum gobos and are likely to break or oxidize.
Changing gobos
1. Disconnect the fixture from AC power and allow it to cool. Remove the top
head shell as shown in Figure 5.
2. Turn the gobo wheel until the gobo lines up with the access hole.
Squeeze the ends of the retention spring together and remove. Push
the gobo out from the back.
3. Insert the new gobo. See Figure 7 for proper orientation.
4. Replace the gobo retention spring.
Figure 5
Figure 6

16
MAC
250 and
MAC
250+
Gobo orientation
Figure 7 shows the correct orientation for different gobo types. When in doubt, install gobos with the more reflective
side towards the lamp.
Changing color filters (
MAC
250+only)
1. Disconnect the fixture from AC power and allow it to cool.
2. Remove the top head shell as shown in Figure 5.
3. Turn the color wheel so the desired color filter is in front of the
access hole. Press the filter forwards slightly to release it and then
grasp it by the edges and remove.
4. To insert a filter, slide it under the retention spring until it snaps into
place.
5. Replace the top head shell.
Coated Glass Gobos
Uncoated side towards stageCoated side towards lamp
When an object is held up to the
coated side there isno space between
the object and its reflection. The back
edge of the gobo cannot be seen
when looking through the coated side.
When an object is held up to the
uncoated side there is a space between
the object and its reflection. The back
edge of the gobo can be seen when
looking through the uncoated side.
Textured side towards stage
Textured Glass Gobos
Smooth side towards lamp
Metal Gobos
Reflective side towards lamp Black side towards stage
Image/text Gobos
True image towards lamp Reversed image towards stage
Figure 7: Gobo orientation
Figure 8

Basic Service
17
Configuring the optical system (
MAC
250 only)
Beam angle options
The standard MAC 250 lens system can be configured for 4 beam angles ranging from 12.1° to 23.3°. The beam angle
in the default 4-lens configuration is 17.5°. Other beam angles are achieved by removing lenses and positioning the
dimmer module as shown below. Note: dimming will be somewhat less even in the 12.1° configuration.
To calculate the projected size of an image, divide the gobo’s image diameter by the focal length and then multiply by
the distance in meters.
Changing beam angle
Verify that lenses and retention springs are fully seated.
1. Disconnect the fixture from AC power and allow it to cool.
2. Remove the top head shell as shown in Figure 5.
3. Remove and/or replace lenses as required.
To remove lens 1, first remove lens 2 as described next. Then pull out the retention spring for lens 1
and tilt the module or head until the lens drops out. Catch it in a soft cloth. Store the lens together
with the spring in a safe place. Replace lens 2 and the module(s).
To remove lens 2, remove either the color/gobo/focus module or the dimmer and prism modules as
described below. Pull out the retention spring for lens 2 and tilt the module or head until the lens
drops out. Catch it in a soft cloth. Store the lens together with the spring in a safe place. Replace the
module(s).
To remove lens 3, pull the lens clip back. Tilt the head until the lens drops out and catch it with a soft
cloth. Store the lens together with the spring in a safe place.
4. Move the dimmer module to the forward or rear position as indicated in Figure 9. Make sure as you
position the module that the bottom sits between the guide pins in the bottom shell. Pull the locking
pins up and then snap them down to lock.
5. Replace the head cover. Position the holes by the lens opening over the nipples and check that all
wires are inside the head as you lower the cover into place. Push the locking pins in with a flat-tip
screwdriver and turn them clockwise until they lock (1/2 turn).
Beam Angle Focal Length Remove Lens Dimmer Position
12.1° 80.2 mm 1 (40 mm) forward
14.6° 66.3 mm 2 (50 mm) forward
17.5° 55.2 mm - rear
23.3° 41.2 mm 3 (60 mm) rear
Table 6:
MAC
250 optical configurations
12 3 4
17.5°
12 4
23.3°
134
14.6°
234
12.1°
Figure 9:
MAC
250 optical configurations

18
MAC
250 and
MAC
250+
Removing modules
Color/gobo/focus module
1. Disconnect the fixture from AC power and allow it to cool.
2. Remove the top head shell as shown in Figure 5.
3.
MAC
250: Unplug the wires from the color and gobo wheel sensors and the 3 top motors.
MAC
250+: Unplug the wires from the color wheel sensor and the 3 top motors. Unplug the outside
connector from the junction print behind the gobo wheel.
4. Pull up the 2 plastic locking pins to release the module. Move the starter wires aside and lift the mod-
ule partially out. Unplug the wires from the bottom motor.
Dimmer module
1. Disconnect the fixture from AC power and allow it to cool.
2. Remove the top head shell as shown in Figure 5.
3. Note whether the module is in the forward or rear position. (The
MAC
250+gives best results with the
dimmer in the forward position.)
4. Unplug the wires from the top dimmer motor. Pull up the 2 plastic locking pins to release the module.
Unplug the wires from the bottom motor.
Prism module
1. Disconnect the fixture from AC power and allow it to cool.
2. Remove the top head shell as shown in Figure 5.
3. Remove the dimmer module.
4. Pull the 2 plastic locking pins to release the prism module. Lift the module partially out and unplug
the wires from motors.
Cleaning
Optical components
Use care when cleaning optical components. The surface on dichroic filters is achieved by means of special multi-layer
coatings and even small scratches may be visible. Residues from cleaning fluids can bake onto components and ruin
them.
1. Allow the components to cool completely.
2. Wash dirty lenses and filters with isopropyl alcohol. A generous amount of regular glass cleaner may
also be used, but no residues may remain.
3. Rinse with distilled water. Mixing the water with a small amount of wetting agent such as Kodak
Photoflo will help prevent streaking and spotting.
4. Dry with a clean, soft and lint-free cloth or blow dry with compressed air.
Fans
To maintain adequate cooling it is important that the fans be cleaned of dust and dirt periodically. Use a soft brush, vac-
uum, or compressed air.
Lubrication
Use silicone lubricant, Martin P/N 37302003 (500 ml) or P/N 37302004 (200 ml, in applicator bottle). No other lubri-
cant is approved for use. When applying lubricant, always remove excess and do not get oil on other parts.
Check the focus mechanism when the head is open and apply a drop of lubricant to the 3 metal slides if movement is
rough.
Lubricate the rotating-gobo bearings if movement is rough on slow rotation or if they become noisy. Apply a few drops
of oil to each bearing from the lamp side of the wheel.

Basic Service
19
Replacing fuses
Power supply fuses
The fuses for each of the 3 low-voltage power supplies are located on the printed circuit board. If one of the circuit
board LEDs does not light, one of these fuses may be blown.
1. Disconnect the fixture from AC power. Remove the 2 Philips screws from the plastic cover on the arm oppo-
site the side with the visible motor and pull off the cover.
2. Locate and replace the defective fuse with one of the same rating. The fuses are shown on the PCB
layout diagram; their values are listed on page 27.
3. Replace the cover before applying power.
Main fuse
The main fuse holder is built in to the mains input socket. Never replace the fuse with one of a different rating!
1. Unplug the mains cable from the input socket.
2. Pry open the fuse holder and remove the fuse.
3. Replace the fuse with one of the same type and rating. The fuse rating is listed on serial number
label.
4. Close the fuse holder and replace the mains cable.
Changing the XLR pin-out
The signal polarity of pins 2 and 3 on the XLR connectors
can be reversed, allowing the fixture to be connected
directly to Martin devices wired with pin 3 cold (-).
Optionally, a phase-reversing cable may be used.
1. Disconnect the fixture from AC power. Remove the 2
Philips screws from the plastic cover on the arm
opposite the side with the visible motor and pull off
the cover.
2. Position the jumpers on PL 233 and PL 234 for the desired XLR pin-out as shown.
3. Replace the cover before applying power.
Updating software
The MAC 250 and MAC 250+operate with the same software. Updates are available from your Martin dealer and the
Martin Professional web site. Please read the update notes included with the software. Note: the software automati-
cally defaults to the correct gobo type setting (PERS/GTYP) in unmodified fixtures.
Normal upload
Update software is uploaded to the MAC 250 and MAC 250+using a Martin uploader such as the MPBB1. The
uploader is connected to the fixture just like a controller. Under normal conditions, software can be installed from a
remote location - there is no need to set the MAC 250 and MAC 250+to boot mode. Please refer to the uploader manual
for further instructions.
Boot mode upload
If the data is corrupted during transmission, a check-sum error (CSER) occurs and after 15 seconds the fixture
switches to boot mode (UPLd) and is ready for a boot mode upload as described in the uploader manual.
If a software upload is interrupted, the fixture must be turned off for at least 10 seconds before a new upload can be
attempted. When powered on, a check-sum error occurs and the fixture goes into boot mode, ready for a second upload
attempt. Select boot mode upload on the uploader.
If there is no functional software in memory, the fixture must be set to boot mode manually. If the control panel works,
select UPLd from the UTIL menu and confirm when SURE is displayed by pressing [ENTER].
DMX pin-out
PL234
PL233
Martin pin-out
PL234
PL233
Figure 10: XLR jumpers
(default)

20
MAC
250 and
MAC
250+
If the control panel does not work, boot mode can be engaged by
moving jumper PL121 on the main circuit board to pins 1 and 2 as
follows.
1. Disconnect the fixture from AC power. Remove the plastic
cover from the arm opposite the side with the visible motor.
2. Move jumper PL121 to pins 1 and 2 (hard boot setting).
See also the diagram on page 26.
3. Perform a boot-mode upload as described in the uploader manual.
4. Disconnect the fixture from AC power. Move the hard boot jumper back to the normal setting and
replace the cover.
Changing voltage and frequency settings
If the factory voltage and frequency setting, shown on the serial number label, does not match local conditions, rewire
the fixture as follows.
1. Disconnect the fixture from AC power. Remove the top base cover closest to the power inlet.
2. Find the correct setting for your AC voltage and frequency in Table 7.
3. Locate the 7-terminal connection block inside the base. Move the blue wire to the 0 or 20 V terminal,
the brown wire to the 120, 230, or 250 V terminal; and the black wire to the 50 or 60 Hz terminal as
shown for each setting in Figure 12.
Local
AC Voltage 50 Hz Setting 60 Hz Setting Maximum power (watts) Maximum current (amps)
95 - 110 V 100 V, 50 Hz 100 V, 60 Hz 350 4.1
110 - 130 V 120 V, 50 Hz 120 V, 60 Hz 350 3.2
200 - 220 V 210 V, 50 Hz 210 V, 60 Hz 370 2.2
220 - 240 V 230 V, 50 Hz 230 V, 60 Hz 360 1.8
240 - 260 V 250 V, 50 Hz 250 V, 60 Hz 370 1.7
Table 7: Power supply settings and consumption
PIN 1 È
PL121 PL121
PIN 1 È
hard boot settingnormal setting
Figure 11: Hard boot jumper
0 V 20 V
120 V 230 V 250 V
60 Hz 50 Hz
100 V / 50 Hz
BLUE BROWN
BLACK
0 V 20 V
120 V 230 V 250 V
60 Hz 50 Hz
120 V / 50 Hz
BLUE BROWN
BLACK
0 V 20 V
120 V 230 V 250 V
60 Hz 50 Hz
210 V / 50 Hz
BLUE BROWN
BLACK
0 V 20 V
120 V 230 V 250 V
60 Hz 50 Hz
230 V / 50 Hz
BLUE BROWN
BLACK
0 V 20 V
120 V 230 V 250 V
60 Hz 50 Hz
250 V / 50 Hz
BLUE BROWN
BLACK
0 V 20 V
120 V 230 V 250 V
60 Hz 50 Hz
100 V / 60 Hz
BLUE BROWN
BLACK
0 V 20 V
120 V 230 V 250 V
60 Hz 50 Hz
120 V / 60 Hz
BLUE BROWN
BLACK
0 V 20 V
120 V 230 V 250 V
60 Hz 50 Hz
230 V / 60 Hz
BLUE BROWN
BLACK
0 V 20 V
120 V 230 V 250 V
60 Hz 50 Hz
250 V / 60 Hz
BLUE BROWN
BLACK
0 V 20 V
120 V 230 V 250 V
60 Hz 50 Hz
210 V / 60 Hz
BLUE BROWN
BLACK
Figure 12: Voltage and frequency settings