Martin Xciter User manual

Xciter
user manual

Measurements are in millimeters:
483
188
468
265
120
35
85
© 2003 Martin Professional A/S, Denmark.
Printed in Denmark
This user manual has been developed by R&D International NV, Belgium on behalf of 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.
The information contained in this document is subject to change without notice. Martin Professional AS makes no
warranty of any kind with regard to this material, including, but not limited to, the implied warranties of fitness for a
particular purpose.
Martin Profession AS shall not be liable for errors contained herein or for incidental or consequential damages in
connection with the furnishing, performance or use of this material.
P/N 35000119 Revision A

Table of contents
Chapter 1. Introduction ............................................................................................ 7
1.1 Naming conventions used in this manual................................................................................... 7
1.2 Safety precautions...................................................................................................................... 8
Chapter 2. Installation .............................................................................................. 9
2.1 Power connection....................................................................................................................... 9
2.2 DMX connection......................................................................................................................... 9
2.2.1 Devices............................................................................................................................ 10
2.2.2 Master/slave.................................................................................................................... 10
2.3 MIDI connection........................................................................................................................ 10
2.4 AUDIO connection.................................................................................................................... 10
2.5 I²C expansion ........................................................................................................................... 10
Chapter 3. Basics.................................................................................................... 13
3.1 Power on .................................................................................................................................. 13
3.2 Power off .................................................................................................................................. 13
3.3 Setup menu.............................................................................................................................. 13
Chapter 4. Patch ..................................................................................................... 15
4.1 Physical channels and control channels .................................................................................. 15
4.2 Fixtures..................................................................................................................................... 15
4.2.1 Patch an unpatched fixture number................................................................................ 16
4.2.2 Edit a patched fixture number ......................................................................................... 17
4.2.3 Clear patch data.............................................................................................................. 18
4.3 Dimmer patch........................................................................................................................... 18
4.3.1 Create or edit dimmer labels........................................................................................... 19
4.3.2 Create or edit dimmer devices........................................................................................ 20
4.4 DA patch................................................................................................................................... 20
Chapter 5. Fixture Library...................................................................................... 23
5.1 Create a new fixture definition.................................................................................................. 23
5.2 Edit existing fixture definition.................................................................................................... 24
5.3 Remove fixture definition.......................................................................................................... 24
Chapter 6. The Xciter philosophy.......................................................................... 27
6.1 Xciter show elements ............................................................................................................... 27
6.1.1 Cue list ............................................................................................................................ 27
6.1.2 Cue.................................................................................................................................. 28
6.1.3 Sequence........................................................................................................................ 28
6.1.4 Cue scene....................................................................................................................... 29
6.1.5 Effect generator............................................................................................................... 29
6.1.6 Preset.............................................................................................................................. 29
6.1.7 Playback.......................................................................................................................... 30
6.2 Use of show elements.............................................................................................................. 30
6.3 Process hierarchy..................................................................................................................... 30
Chapter 7. Program features.................................................................................. 33
7.1 Device selection ....................................................................................................................... 33
7.2 Device range selection............................................................................................................. 33
7.2.1 Moving lights ................................................................................................................... 33
7.2.2 Generic lights .................................................................................................................. 33
7.3 Device groups........................................................................................................................... 33
7.3.1 Moving lights ................................................................................................................... 33
7.3.2 Generic lights .................................................................................................................. 33
7.4 Fixture information.................................................................................................................... 34
7.5 The programmer....................................................................................................................... 34
7.5.1 Active versus transparent channels................................................................................ 34

7.5.2 Channel status indicators................................................................................................34
7.5.3 The active and inactive layer of the programmer............................................................35
7.6 Clearing channels.....................................................................................................................36
7.7 Scene/sequence editor.............................................................................................................36
7.7.1 Insert and add scenes.....................................................................................................37
7.7.2 Modify scene and fade time.............................................................................................37
7.7.3 Preview sequence...........................................................................................................38
7.7.4 Lamp procedures.............................................................................................................39
7.7.5 Effects..............................................................................................................................39
7.7.6 Pan / Tilt modifiers...........................................................................................................39
7.7.7 Copy / Paste....................................................................................................................40
Chapter 8. Store menu............................................................................................41
8.1 Store as new sequence............................................................................................................41
8.2 Store as new cue scene ...........................................................................................................41
8.3 Store as new playback..............................................................................................................41
8.4 Store as new preset..................................................................................................................41
8.5 Store Current............................................................................................................................41
8.6 Input name................................................................................................................................41
Chapter 9. Edit menu ..............................................................................................43
9.1 Edit Sequence ..........................................................................................................................43
9.2 Edit cue scene..........................................................................................................................43
9.3 Edit playback ............................................................................................................................43
9.4 Edit preset.................................................................................................................................43
Chapter 10. Quick edit ............................................................................................45
10.1 Quick edit sequence...............................................................................................................45
10.2 Quick edit sequence...............................................................................................................45
10.3 Quick edit sequence...............................................................................................................45
Chapter 11. Run mode features .............................................................................47
11.1 Sequence transparency across cues .....................................................................................47
11.1.1 Transparency enabled...................................................................................................47
11.1.2 Transparency disabled..................................................................................................48
11.1.3 Precautions....................................................................................................................48
11.2 Basic cue (run mode) dialog...................................................................................................49
11.2.1 Activate – deactivate sequences...................................................................................49
11.2.2 Sequence trigger and step mode..................................................................................49
11.2.2.1 Internal trigger .........................................................................................................50
11.2.2.2 Manual trigger..........................................................................................................50
11.2.2.3 Audio trigger............................................................................................................50
11.3 Extended cue (run mode) dialog. ...........................................................................................51
11.3.1 Add cue scene...............................................................................................................51
11.3.2 Add sequence................................................................................................................51
11.3.3 Remove elements from cue...........................................................................................52
11.3.4 Assign playback scenes to banks and faders ...............................................................52
11.3.5 Link a playback bank to a cue.......................................................................................52
11.3.5.1 Audio settings..........................................................................................................53
11.4 Store run mode settings..........................................................................................................53
11.5 Playback controls....................................................................................................................54
11.5.1 Activate and bounce override playbacks.......................................................................54
11.5.2 Deactivate override playbacks ......................................................................................54
11.5.3 Auto lock........................................................................................................................54
11.5.4 Hard lock........................................................................................................................54
11.6 Basic cue list dialog................................................................................................................54
11.7 Extended cue list dialog..........................................................................................................55
11.7.1 Add / insert cue..............................................................................................................55
11.7.2 Add X-block...................................................................................................................56
11.7.2.1 Delay .......................................................................................................................56
11.7.2.2 Sleep .......................................................................................................................56
11.7.2.3 Wait for go...............................................................................................................57

11.7.2.4 Loop ........................................................................................................................ 57
Chapter 12. Instant manipulation features ........................................................... 59
12.1 Pitch control and freeze.......................................................................................................... 59
12.2 Master, Master Flash and Black Out...................................................................................... 59
12.3 DA buttons: SMK, STRB, EXT1 and EXT2............................................................................ 59
Chapter 13. Auto run .............................................................................................. 61
Chapter 14. User mode........................................................................................... 63
14.1 Different modes for different people.......................................................................................63
14.1.1 Programmer mode ........................................................................................................ 63
14.1.2 Operator (run) mode......................................................................................................63
14.1.3 Dummy mode................................................................................................................ 63
14.2 Changing user modes............................................................................................................ 63
14.2.1 From programmer to other............................................................................................ 63
14.2.2 From other to programmer............................................................................................ 64
Chapter 15. Interface configuration ...................................................................... 65
15.1 DMX timings........................................................................................................................... 65
15.2 Master/Slave Configuration.................................................................................................... 66
Chapter 16. PC software......................................................................................... 67
16.1 Software installation ............................................................................................................... 67
16.2 Firmware manager ................................................................................................................. 67
16.2.1 Update IO processor..................................................................................................... 67
16.2.2 Update main processor................................................................................................. 68
16.3 Library manager ..................................................................................................................... 68
16.3.1 Add a fixture definition................................................................................................... 68
16.3.2 Update main processor................................................................................................. 68
16.3.3 Update Xciter library...................................................................................................... 69
16.3.4 Export to lib ................................................................................................................... 69
16.4 Backup / Restore.................................................................................................................... 69
Chapter 17. Specifications - Xciter........................................................................ 71

Introduction
Martin Xciter user manual 7
Chapter 1. Introduction
Thank you for selecting the Martin Xciter. The Xciter is a hands-on lighting control tool for DJs and lighting
operators. This lighting controller allows operators to instantly manipulate the light show via easy-to-use
buttons and faders for spontaneous lighting effects. Ideal for clubs, small touring applications, even larger
mobile DJs, Xciter puts programming, playback and live manipulation of light shows at your fingertips.
Instant pitch control, freeze, flash, blackout, master control and many other features are standard . Apply
any effect and delay to any parameter for more advanced effects. Functions like strobe, smoke and more
can be assigned to each of four programmable customizable buttons for personalized, intuitive control.
Assign effects, scenes or dimmer to any of six faders and flash buttons and access them live during
playback. Keep your finger on the pulse by increasing or decreasing the show speed by up to 5 times using
the convenient pitch fader.
With Xciter you can control up to 20 fixtures, each up to 48 channels - max of 512 channels (soon to
control up to 40 fixtures with a software upgrade). Up to 160 cues containing 4 sequences can run
simultaneously. Sequences can be triggered via an internal clock, manually or via audio or BPM. Up to 10
manual override scenes can be accessed during playback.
Also incorporated are 20 general-purpose buttons so operators can select cues or fixtures directly. Xciter
also includes a joystick for manual pan/tilt control. Pan/tilt effects include timing effects and 20 pan/tilt
presets. Other features include direct access to dimmer channels, a master fader adjustment for general
light intensity control, and easy control of generic dimmers.
Extremely easy to navigate, Xciter features an easy-to-read, blue backlight LCD display for show menu,
dialogue and fader label presentation, as well as a jog wheel that makes it easy to scroll through fader
pages. Connect your PC directly to Xciter via the USB connection to update fixture libraries, export/import
shows, for show back up, editing, and more.
The Xciter comes with the following:
•User manual
•5 meter (16 ft.) 3-pin XLR cable
•XLR termination plug
•3-wire 1.5 meter (5 ft.) IEC mains cable
1.1 Naming conventions used in this manual
The following conventions are used in this user manual:
[x] Key with label ‘x’
{x} Soft key with label ‘x’
GP Group/page key
MATRIX Number and letter keys
ARROW The previous and next keys with the arrow left and right
DA Direct Access keys (Smoke, Strobe, Ext1, Ext2)
MF Master fader
SMF Sub Master Fader
MB Master bounce
SMB Sub Master Bounce keys
LCD1 The main LCD
LCD2 The fader LCD

Introduction
8Martin Xciter user manual
SCR1 Jog wheel next to LCD1
SCR2 Jog wheel next to LCD2
CS Cue Scene
PB Playback
SEQ Sequence
1.2 Safety precautions
The Xciter is not for domestic use.
Use the device only as described.
Do not expose the device to rain or moisture.
Make sure the device is properly grounded.
Do not operate the device with the cover removed.
Immediately repair or replace damaged power cords.
There are no user-serviceable parts inside; refer all service to a qualified technician.

Installation
Martin Xciter user manual 9
Chapter 2. Installation
90-260 VAC
50-60 Hz
15W
AUDIO
DMX-512
MIDI
in thru out
in out
IC
2
line in
mono MIC
2.1 Power connection
The Xciter does not need a mains adapter. It takes main supply directly into the IEC mains connector in the
following ranges:
•90V – 260V AC
•50Hz – 60Hz
Warning! For protection from dangerous electric shock, the fixture must be grounded (earthed). The AC mains
supply shall have overload and ground-fault protection.
Important! Verify that the feed cables are undamaged and rated for the current requirements of all
connected devices before use.
The Xciter comes with a 3-wire 1.5 meter (5 ft.) IEC mains cable. This may require a grounding-type cord
cap that fits your power distribution cable or outlet. Consult a qualified electrician if you have any doubts
about proper installation.
Following the cord cap manufacturer’s instructions, connect the appropriate wires to ground (earth), live,
and neutral. The following table below shows some common wire identification schemes.
Wire (EU) Wire (US) Function
brown black live
blue white neutral
yellow/green green ground
2.2 DMX connection
Xciter has one DMX-512 universe. On the back panel of the console you can see one 5-pin input, one 3-
pin output and one 5-pin output. The 3-pin and 5-pin outputs belong to the same DMX universe but they
are both buffered. This means they can be used together without violating the DMX specifications.

Installation
10 Martin Xciter user manual
2.2.1 Devices
3-pin or 5-pin out
in out in out in out in out
DMX terminator
2.2.2 Master/slave
Because the 3-pin and 5-pin DMX out can be used together, you can link two consoles together and attach
your devices at the same time. If you want to link more slaves to the master, you need a splitter.
5-pin out 5-pin in
devices
universe 1
3-pin out
devices
universe 2
3-pin or 5-pin out
MASTE
R
SLAVE
2.3 MIDI connection
If you have a MIDI device to control your shows, you can connect it to the MIDI-in socket. You can also
patch through via MIDI-thru. The MIDI-out will be used for future applications where the controller can send
MIDI notes to other devices.
2.4 AUDIO connection
The desk also has audio triggering capabilities. There is an internal microphone if no direct audio feed is
available. We recommend a direct audio line to get the best results out of the audio trigger. You can plug
audio into the 6.3mm mono jack. When using the line-in, the internal microphone is switched off.
Use standard audio signals like the pre-amp output from your audio mixer to get the best results. If you
want to have even more control over the audio trigger, you can place an equalizer between the audio
source and the console.
Warning: DO NOT use an amplified output like the one coming from the speaker amplifier as it may
damage the console.
2.5 I²C expansion
Use this connector to attach accessories to the console.
As you can see, the I²C expansion port is the same as MIDI. Connecting MIDI to this port will not damage
the console.

Installation
Martin Xciter user manual 11
Warning: Use Martin accessories only. DO NOT connect other devices, as this may damage the
console.

Basics
Martin Xciter user manual 13
Chapter 3. Basics
3.1 Power on
1. Make sure the Xciter has power.
2. Press [ON].
The intro screens will appear on LCD1 and LCD2.
3.2 Power off
The Xciter’s power off is safeguarded by a 2 second delay. Meaning you have to hold the ON button for at
least 2 seconds.
Hold [ON] 2 seconds to power off.
3.3 Setup menu
The setup menu is only accessible from the start-up screen. If the Xciter is in not in programmer mode, it
will ask for the password to go to programmer mode. You have to provide this password to enter the setup
menu.
Hold [ESC] for 2 seconds to go to the setup menu.
Libr ar y
Pat c h
A
ut or un
User Mode
Int er faces
Envir onment

Patch
Martin Xciter user manual 15
Chapter 4. Patch
Before you start programming, Xciter needs to know which devices are connected to its DMX universe and
how it will control them. This is where the patch comes in. To patch a device means to connect it to the
Xciter controls, so you are able to manipulate it.
The Xciter controls are divided into three groups, which enable you to control up to:
•20 fixtures.
•20 dimmers.
•4 direct access devices.
Press {Patch} in the setup menu to access the patch menu.
Fi xt ur e Pat c h
Dimmer Pat ch
DA Pat ch
4.1 Physical channels and control channels
You will encounter the terms ‘physical channel’ and ‘control channel’ a lot in this manual. You need to know
what they mean to better understand this manual.
Physical channels or DMX channels are the channels as they occur on the DMX chain. They start at
channel 1 and end at channel 512.
Example: The first dimmer is on channel 480.
In this manual we are constantly talking about selected devices and the control channels we use to
manipulate certain features of those devices. We rarely talk about the actual channel on the DMX output.
Example: Use SMF1 to set the value of dimmer 1 to 128.
4.2 Fixtures
Each fixture type has its own set of control channels, which are predefined in a fixture definition. Xciter’s
internal library can hold up to 1000 fixture definitions.

Patch
16 Martin Xciter user manual
26
DMX channels
Martin MX-4
SHUT
COLW1
GOBW1
PAN
TILT
PTSPD
CGSPD
25
24
23
22
27
28
control
channels
fixture type
internal library
The internal control channels have subsequent DMX addresses, thus the fixture will occupy a certain space
on the DMX chain beginning at the start address you specify in the patch. Occupied space relates directly
to the number of internal control channels. A Fixture type can have up to 48 control channels. But you have
to consider a maximum of 512 physical channels (1 complete DMX universe). Example: You cannot patch
40 devices of 48 channels because you would need 1920 physical DMX channels.
Thanks to the interactive features and intuitive user interface, you will find it easy to patch fixtures without
overlapping.
Press {Fixture Patch} in the patch menu. The Xciter asks you to select a fixture number.
When you select a fixture number, there are two possibilities. Either the fixture number is empty
(unpatched) or occupied (already patched). An illuminated MATRIX button indicates a patched fixture
number. You can edit the patch data at any time. Beware that certain modifications in this data may corrupt
the show that is currently in memory.
Example: If you unpatch a fixture from a control, that fixture will no longer appear in the show. However,
you can readdress fixtures without corrupting the show, provided that you also readdress the devices on
your rig accordingly.
4.2.1 Patch an unpatched fixture number
When you select an unpatched fixture number, Xciter reports this.
1. Example: MATRIX 10.
The LED under MATRIX 10 starts blinking to indicate that fixture number 10 is selected.
Fi x t u r e 1 0
not pat ched yet !!
Pr ess ENTER t o pat ch
2. Press [ENT] to patch.
3. Select a fixture category, Example: Moving Mirror.
4. Select a fixture manufacturer, Example: Martin.
5. Select a fixture type from the list, Example: MX-10.
If you cannot find the necessary fixture type, you have to use the library editor to create one on the fly, or
use the PC application to download one via USB.

Patch
Martin Xciter user manual 17
6. Xciter automatically detects the first available space on the DMX chain and suggests the start address
(Example: 1).
Fi xt ur e: 1 0 CH: 1
Pan i n v
Ti l t i n v
P/T s wap
Mas t er
BO
7. If you wish to use another number, press {CH: xxx}.
Use ARROW or SCR1 to adjust the value.
[CLEAR] and MATRIX 1-10 to input a new number.
[ENT] to confirm, [ESC] to cancel.
When you specify a start address, Xciter will check if there is enough space behind that address to place
the fixture. If not, the console reports this and suggests the start address of the next available space. Press
[ENT] to accept the suggested number, [ESC] to decline.
8. Depending on the orientation of the patched fixture on the rig, you can inverse the pan, inverse the tilt and
swap pan and tilt.
Press the soft keys next to the options to toggle them on/off.
TILT inverse PAN inverse PAN/TILT swap
9. You can choose to exclude a device from master and/or blackout. Exclude from master means the dimmer
or shutter of the fixture is not affected by the master fader. Exclude from blackout means the blackout
button does not affect the dimmer or shutter of the fixture.
Press the soft key next to the options to toggle them on/off.
You can see the status of every option by looking at the square next to it. A filled square means on, an
empty one off.
10. Repeat steps 1-9 until you have patched all fixtures on your rig.
4.2.2 Edit a patched fixture number
Select a fixture that is already patched.
1. Example: MATRIX 10 to select fixture number 10.
The LED of MATRIX 10 starts blinking to indicate that fixture number 10 is selected.
Xciter shows the patch data.
Fi x t u r e: 1 0 CH: 1
Pan i n v
Ti l t i n v
P/T s wap
Mas t er
BO

Patch
18 Martin Xciter user manual
2. Press the soft key next to the channel number.
Use ARROW + SCR1 to adjust the number.
[CLEAR] and MATRIX 1-10 to input a new number.
When you specify a start address, Xciter will check if there is enough space behind that address to place
the fixture. If not, the console reports this and suggests the start address of the next available space. Press
[ENT] to accept the suggested number, [ESC] to decline.
3. Depending on the orientation of the patched fixture on the rig, you can inverse the pan, inverse the tilt or
swap pan and tilt.
Press the soft keys next to the options to toggle them on/off.
4. You can choose to exclude a device from master and/or blackout. Exclude from master means the dimmer
or shutter of the fixture is not affected by the master fader. Exclude from blackout means the blackout
button does not affect the dimmer or shutter of the fixture.
Press the soft key next to the options to toggle them on/off.
You can see the status of every option by looking at the square next to it. A filled square means on, an
empty one off.
5. Repeat steps 1-4 if you want to re-patch other fixtures.
4.2.3 Clear patch data
If you want to assign a different fixture type to a fixture number, you have to clear that fixture number first. If
you remove a fixture from the patch permanently, that fixture will no longer take part in the show.
Fi xt ur e: 1 0 CH: 1
Pan i n v
Ti l t i n v
P/T s wap
Mas t er
BO
1. Example: MATRIX 10 to select fixture number 10.
The LED of MATRIX 10 starts blinking to indicate that fixture number 10 is selected.
2. Press [CLEAR] to delete the patch data. Xciter will ask for confirmation. Press [ENT] to confirm, [ESC] to
cancel.
After a successful delete operation, Xciter reports an unpatched fixture number. If you want to delete
another fixture, you have to select another number.
4.3 Dimmer patch
Fixture types are predefined because they have their own set of subsequent channels, which you cannot
change. Most dimmers however have only one control channel, which you can move freely across the
DMX chain. That is why Xciter does not use predefined devices in the dimmer patch. Above all you have
more direct access to physical DMX channels. The more experienced user may take advantage of this low
level access to control other devices than dimmers with the dimmer patch.

Patch
Martin Xciter user manual 19
DMX channels
Dimmer 1
BLUE
RED
175
160
180
internal
control
channels
176
GRN
dimmer device
Xciter permits up to 20 dimmer devices. A single device can contain up to 255 dimmer control channels. If
you compare fixtures and dimmers, you will conclude that most of the differences lie in the control
channels:
•A fixture control channel manipulates only one DMX channel. A dimmer control channel can
manipulate multiple physical channels.
•Fixture control channels have subsequent DMX addresses when you patch them. The DMX Channels
you patch to a dimmer control channel do not have to be subsequent; they can be anywhere on the
DMX chain, provided they are not occupied by another patch.
•Fixture control channels have factory-defined labels. The labels of dimmer control channels are user-
defined.
Press {Dimmer Patch} in the patch menu.
Xciter shows the dimmer patch menu.
--- DIMMER PATCH ---
Dimmer l abel s
Dimmer pat ch
4.3.1 Create or edit dimmer labels.
When you start from scratch, there are no labels present. You have to create some before you can start
patching physical channels to the control channels.
1. Press {Dimmer labels}.
Xciter shows the first 6 of 255 user definable labels.
Red
123456
Gr n Bl ue Fr o n t Bac k
2. Use SCR2 to scroll through the labels.
Select a label with SMB below it.

Patch
20 Martin Xciter user manual
3. Use ARROW or SCR1 to move the cursor.
Use MATRIX 1-10 to input numbers and MATRIX 11-20 to input letters (maximum 5 characters).
Press [ENT] to confirm, [ESC] to cancel and return to the previous label.
4. Repeat steps 2 and 3 until you have created or edited all labels you need.
If you only need 10 labels, you do not need to fill out all 255; the patch will work with 1 or more.
5. Press [ESC] to exit the label editor and return to the dimmer patch menu.
4.3.2 Create or edit dimmer devices
To create a dimmer device, you need to select the appropriate labels and patch some physical channels
behind them.
1. Press {Dimmer patch}.
2. Select one of 20 dimmer devices with MATRIX 1-20.
3. Use ARROW to select one of the labels you have created before.
4. Press [LOAD] to add a physical channel to the control channel.
Xciter suggests the address of the first free physical channel.
Press [ENT] to accept [ESC] to decline.
If you decline, Xciter asks you input the address of the physical channel you wish to add.
The moment you assign a physical channel to a label, that label becomes a control channel of the selected
dimmer device. Only those labels with physical channels behind them will be visible when you select the
dimmer device in the programmer.
5. Repeat step 4 until you have patched all necessary physical channels to the selected control channel.
000 255 000 Fade Lab: dim1
Lol im Hil im Def l t Sn/Fa Dim: 1
6. Press [EDIT] to modify the parameters of the current control channel.
7. Use SMF to adjust the parameters.
Example: Increase the life span of your light bulbs by having a constant glow. Set a low limit on the control
channel. This prevents the dimmer going to 0 (0%).
Example: If your dimmer pack does not have a hardware limit and you still want to use 120V PAR cans on
a 240V dimmer, set the high limit to 127 (50%) or less.
8. Press [STORE] to keep the changes, [ESC] to return to the previous settings.
9. Repeat steps 3-8 until you have put all the control channels you needed into the selected dimmer device.
10. Repeat steps 2-9 until you have configured all dimmer devices you needed.
4.4 DA patch
DA stands for Direct Access. You have 4 DA buttons on the console. The DA patch allows you to program
a static scene behind each DA button. Xciter will warn you if you have used channels that are occupied by
other devices but it allows you to patch them over. DA scenes cannot be used in the programmer. The
main purpose of the DA button is to momentarily control devices like smoke machines and strobes. If you
want to make your smoke machine part of scenes and sequences, you have to patch it as a fixture (or
dimmer).