MDG theFAN 1.00 User manual

Les Générateurs de Brouillard MDG Ltée / MDG Fog Generators Ltd
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10301 avenue Pelletier, Montréal, Québec, Canada H1H 3R2
Tel. [phone] - Fax [phone]
www.mdgfog.com e-mail : [e-mail]
User Guide
Digital Fan, Model 1.00
(Revision A/d, November 2016, © MDG Fog Generators Ltd)

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Intentionally left blank

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TABLE OF CONTENT
Section Page
Table of Content 3
User Guide 4
How to read this User Guide 4
Qualified Personnel 4
Need a little Help? 5
Copyright Notice 5
Basic Description 6
Working with theFanTM 7
The Keyboard 8
LCD Saver 8
The Menu 9
Operating instructions 11
DMX Control 12
RDM Control 12
Rigging theFan 14
Troubleshooting 15
Technical Datasheet 16
Electrical Requirements 16
Cable Requirements 16
Environmental Requirements 17
Mechanical Data 17
Installation Dimensions 18
Warranty 19
Declaration of conformity 20
Certificate of Compliance 21
Notes 22

theFan TM Digital Fan
User Guide, Rev: A/d 4 / 22
USER GUIDE
Congratulations on your purchase of the MDG theFan™. These original instructions describes
the use of this digital Fan.
MDG manufactures fog generators since 1980. Our fog systems have been used in numerous
applications including firefighters’ training, the motion picture industry, theatres, theme parks,
flight simulators, and also educational, worship and touring venues throughout the world. With
proper care, we are confident your MDG theFan™will provide you with years of quality service.
HOW TO READ THIS USER GUIDE
WARNING and CAUTION are used throughout this manual to forewarn of possible
danger to the users if precautions are not observed. As is customary in military and
some commercial manuals, the precautions will always precede the steps to which it
refers so that the users will be aware of any potential danger before performing the
task.
WARNING and CAUTION labels are key equipment parts. Do not remove, change
or cover these labels. If the labels are not readable, contact MDG Fog Generators
Ltd.
BOLD TEXT: Contains important information, cautionary steps and warnings that should
be read and understood prior to installing the unit.
BOLD and ITALIC TEXT: pertains to product names and trademarks, proprietary names
and products made by MDG Fog Generators Ltd.
Please read the following instructions carefully and completely before installing, and using this
digital fan.
QUALIFIED PERSONNEL
MDG Fog Generators Ltd systems will perform as designed but are to be installed,
operated, and serviced by trained personnel. Installation, operation and servicing of this
equipment require trained personnel with technical skills in electrical theory and fluid
dynamics.
CAUTION
This equipment must always be disconnected from its power source during service or
when replacing parts.

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User Guide, Rev: A/d 5 / 22
This manual is not a substitute for qualified technicians or local authorities on electricity,
gas, fluid, or engineering, and therefore does not supersede, amend or void local safety
installation practices. Please refer to local authorities for further information.
CAUTION
This equipment is not intended for use by persons (including children) with reduced
physical, sensory or mental capabilities, or lack of experience and knowledge, unless
they have been given supervision or instruction concerning use of the appliance by a
person responsible for their safety.
CAUTION
Children should be supervised to ensure that they do not play with the appliance
NEED A LITTLE HELP?
At MDG, we try our best to provide you with complete information for our products. Despite it
all, sometimes, a little more is required due to the specifics of your project and installation.
We’re looking forward to go that extra mile for you.
Contact us:
By Phone: [phone] [phone]
By Fax: [phone]
By e-mail: [email protected]
On the Web: www.mdgfog.com
By Mail: MDG Fog Generators Ltd.
10301, Avenue Pelletier
Montréal, QC, H1H 3R2
Canada
Please note that our business hours are from 08h30 to 12h00 and from 12h30 to 17h00
(8:30AM to 12:00PM and 12:30PM 5:00PM), Eastern (GMT -5).
COPYRIGHT NOTICE
This User Guide (Original Instructions) is copyrighted and all rights are reserved by MDG Fog
Generators Ltd.
No part of this publication may be reproduced, transmitted, transcribed, stored in a retrieval
system, or translated into any language or computer language, in any form or by any means,
electronic, mechanical, magnetic, optical, chemical, manual or otherwise, without the prior
written permission of MDG Fog Generators Ltd.

theFan TM Digital Fan
User Guide, Rev: A/d 6 / 22
BASIC DESCRIPTION
The MDG theFan™is a revolutionary digital fan. It is the best complement to any atmospheric
effect!
Low power consumption –only 100W –with controllable velocity via DMX or RDM, this ultra-
compact stage fan can be used anywhere due to its universal switching power supply (100V-
250V, 50/60 Hz), either sitting on stage or hung from underneath your trussing (Omega bracket,
metric and imperial-size clamp sockets).
Its simple and efficient multi-level User Interface, accessible from the backlit LCD panel, allows
for a gradual switch between local mode and most common protocols: DMX-512-A USITT and
RDM ANSI E1.20.
WARNING
When not in use ALWAYS switch off the power switch located on the front
panel, or unplug the appliance.
Never install above people.

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WORKING WITH THEFANTM
The MDG theFanTM is quite easy to operate and require no preventive maintenance. It should
only be used indoor.
It can be suspended from a truss via a Omega clamp or a Half Cheeseborough clamp, or it can
be simply placed on a horizontal surface on its vibration feet.
Connect the data wiring (DMX or RDM), if you want to use remote control
Plug the PowerCON connector (100–250 VAC, 50/60 Hz, 100 W)
Block the hand wheels
Switch On the power
The MDG theFanTM will display during two (2) seconds, the following message:
theFan by MDG
V: x.xx –F: y.yyy
where ‘x.xx’ is the version of your theFAN, and ‘y.yyy’ is the firmware of the program.
The program will load the configuration parameters, saved in the EEPROM memory. These
parameters are saved each time the program is modifying them (User or Configuration).
Finally, the screen will display the menu.
Main power switch
PowerCON power
100-250 VAC
50/60 Hz
XLR-5 DMX/ RDM
Connector
LCD
Keyboard
Hand wheel
10" fan

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User Guide, Rev: A/d 8 / 22
THE KEYBOARD
The user can scroll in the menu by using the buttons of the keyboard:
‘Down’ moves the selection to the next menu, or decrease a data value.
When at the end of a list, the program moves back to the first item of this list.
If the selected menu is a data input menu, keeping this key pressed will decrease
the value more rapidly.
In a data input menu, when the value reaches its minimum value, the program
continues with the maximum value.
‘Up’ moves the selection to the previous menu, or increase a data value.
If the item is the first of a menu, the program moves the selection to the last item
of that menu.
If the selected menu is a data input menu, keeping this key pressed will increase
the value more rapidly.
In a data input menu, when the value reaches its maximum value, the program
continues with the minimum value.
‘Mode’ moves the last selection to the upper level
This key has no effect in the first level.
In a data input menu, pressing this key permit to exit the menu without changing
any value (escape).
‘Enter’ confirms a selection or data value.
This key has the same effect that the key ‘’, when scrolling through the menus.
In a toggle menu, this key confirms the selection and moves the cursor back to
the upper level menu.
In a data input menu, this key confirms the value of the data and moves the
cursor back to the upper level menu.
LCD SAVER
The program can automatically switch off the LCD screen (menu display and backlight) if there is
no keyboard activity. The user can choose between a 30 second and a 2 minute delay in the
Settings Menu (« SETTINGSLCD SAVER »).
When the LCD Saver is activated, just press any key of the keyboard to re-activate the LCD screen
functions.
The user can also deactivate the LCD saver by selecting the OFF option.

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THE MENU
The tree menu architecture is explained below. Items highlighted in blue are state menu (-), and
those highlighted in yellow are control menu ( > ).
The menu is refreshed every second.
-Items preceded by the « - » character are state messages or parameters, updated by
the program. The user cannot modify them.
-Items preceded by the « » character are control parameters.
-The user, within specific ranges or choices, can MODIFY them. In user input mode, the
value or the choice is preceded with the « ?» character.
This menu can be
modified by user
This menu cannot
be modified by user
The value is presently
modified by user

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Since the MDG theFanTM has two personalities, the Menu tree varies:
Mode 1 Channel
Output xxx Fan Output (0 - 255)
- < 26 (10%), the Output is off
- ≥26 (10%), proportional Output
Mode 2 Channels
Fan OFF/ON Start or stop the fan
Output xxx Fan Output (0 - 255), from low to high speed
DMXAdd yyy DMX Address (1 to 511)
Can be set by RDM
Perso. 1 CH/2 CH Personality (Can be set by RDM)
Comm. ---- Communication toggle. The MDG theFan™ is:
AUTO - controlled by DMX/RDM if a signal is present, or
locally if there is no signal
LOCAL - controlled by the keyboard ONLY
DMX - controlled by DMX/RDM ONLY
Firm. x.xx Program Firmware
DevLab yyyyyy RDM Device Name (Can only be set by RDM)
DevUID yyyyyy RDM Device ID
Saver ---- LCD Saver (Can be set by RDM)
30 s - LCD saver is activated after 30 s
2 mn - LCD saver is activated after 2 min
OFF - LCD Saver is Off
R.Time yyyyyy Run Times (Decimal hours)

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OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
The MDG theFanTM can be controlled either locally, with the keyboard, via DMX (see DMX
control and RDM Control). This paragraph focuses on local control.
Starting Procedures
Powered up, the control program configures the Input/Output and loads the configuration
parameters, saved in the EEPROM memory.
At this point, the MDG theFanTM switches to stand-by mode, and most of the electronic controls
are off.
Mode 1 Channel
Scroll to the Output menu.
Any value between 0 (0%) and 26 (10%) will stop the fan.
Any value above 26 (10%) will start the fan. The program is written to generate a
proportional air flow between 26 (10%) and 255 (100%).
Mode 2 Channels
Scroll to the Fan menu.
Set the Fan menu to On to start the MDG theFanTM. The fan will start to blow immediately.
Set the Fan menu to Off to stop the MDG theFan™.
Scroll down to the Output menu.
Set any value between 0 (0%) and 255 (100%).
The program is written to generate a proportional air flow between 0 (0%, low flow) and
255 (100%, high flow).

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DMX CONTROL
The MDG theFanTM can be controlled via a DMX512-A USITT standard protocol.
WARNING
Activating the «DMX» mode («Comm.  DMX»), controls the MDG theFanTM only
by DMX signal. If the DMX wire is unplugged or DMX signal is lost, the MDG
theFanTM will stop.
Activating the «AUTO» mode («Comm.  AUTO»), controls MDG theFanTM by
DMX, only if there is a signal. If the DMX wire is unplugged or DMX signal is lost,
the MDG theFanTM keeps the last DMX values.
WARNING
In «AUTO Mode», DMX commands always take precedence over Local commands.
The MDG theFanTM provides a simple way to check if there is DMX signal:
The user can change the DMX Start Address in the Interface Menu («DMX Add»), and choose any
value between 1 and 511 (512, last DMX channel).
The MDG theFan has two personalities:
Mode 1 Channel
1.Fan Off < 10% (26)
Fan Speed, from low (10%) to high (100%)
Mode 2 Channels
1.Fan Off < 50 % (128) ≤Fan On
2.Fan Speed, from low (0%) to high (100%)
These channels have the same behaviour that the menus of the local interface (see Operating
instructions paragraph).
RDM CONTROL
The MDG theFanTM can be controlled via a RDM ANSI E1.20 protocol, an intelligent bi-
directional communication utilizing the DMX512 data link.
RDM permits a console or other controlling device to discover and then configure, monitor, and
manage intermediate and end-devices connected through a DMX512 network. RDM provides for
intelligent control of devices on a DMX512 network, which has not been previously available
outside of proprietary networks
RDM Control has the same functionalities than the DMX Control (see DMX Control) with bi-
directional functions allowing the user to read or write specific functions.
No DMX Signal
DMX Signal

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The RDM supported parameters implemented in the MDG theFanTM are summarized in the
following table.
RDM Parameter ID’s
Value
GET
Allowed
SET
Allowed
Comments
DISC_UNIQUE_BRANCH
0x0001
DISC_MUTE
0x0002
DISC_UN_MUTE
0x0003
QUEUED_MESSAGE
0x0020

STATUS_MESSAGES
0x0030

SUPPORTED_PARAMETERS
0x0050

PARAMETER_DESCRIPTION
0x0051

DEVICE_INFO
0x0060

PRODUCT_DETAIL_ID_LIST
0x0070

Air Mover
DEVICE_MODEL_DESCRIPTION
0x0080

Atmospheric Other
MANUFACTURER_LABEL
0x0081

MDG Fog Generators Ltd
DEVICE_LABEL
0x0082


SOFTWARE_VERSION_LABEL
0x00C0

DMX_PERSONALITY
0x00E0


2
DMX_PERSONALITY_DESCRIPTION
0x00E1

theFan (x1), Version 1.00
theFan (x2), Version 1.00
DMX_START_ADDRESS
0x00F0


1 to 512
SLOT_INFO
0x0120

SLOT_DESCRIPTION
0x0121

DEFAULT_SLOT_VALUE
0x0122

IDENTIFY_DEVICE
0x1000


LCD flashes
MDG_LCD_SAVER
0x8004


Unsigned Byte
(0=30 s,1=2 min, 2=Off)
MDG_COMM
0x8005


Unsigned Byte
(0=AUTO,1=LOCAL, 2=DMX)
Table 1: RDM Supported Parameters.

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Using theFan with a fog generator
Do not place the MDG theFan™in front of a fog
generator with the fog flowing through the fan.
This will cause condensation and will degrade the
quality of the fog.
Always blows the fog…
RIGGING THEFAN
Verify that the structure can support at least 10 times the total weight of the complete fixtures.
Verify that Cheeseborough bolts are properly tightened.
Any quarter-turn fasteners used (omega clamp) must be turned a full quarter turn clockwise to
lock them.
Always use a safety cable (around one of the handle) that can hold at least 10 times the weight
of the MDG theFan.
WARNING
The fan is to be installed by qualified installer. Installer is responsible for mounting
properly and securely according to manual
Safety cable
around handle
Safety cable
around handle
Half Cheeseborough clamp
(Metric or imperial)
Omega clamp

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TROUBLESHOOTING
Contact MDG, if symptoms are not listed, or if the provided solutions fail to resolve the issue.
Table 2: Symptoms and Solutions
Symptoms
Probable Causes and Suggested Actions
The MDG theFanTM does not switch on
Verify that AC power cord is properly
connected on both ends.
Check the fuse or the breakers of your VAC
entry. The wattage of the MDG theFAN is
around 100 W.
Verify the AC voltage on the power cord.
100-250 VAC.
Switch ON the Main
The MDG theFanTM does not blow
Verify the personality (1 or 2 channels)
The Output channel must be over 10% for
the 1 Channel personality
The Fan channel must be ON for the 2
Channels personality
Verify the communication mode «Comm.»
You cannot control the MDG theFAN
locally if you are in DMX mode, and vice-
versa.
If you are in DMX mode:
Verify the cable
Verify the DMX address
Verify the personality
Verify the channels
LCD displays strange letters or does not seem
to work normally
In some conditions (Radio transmission or static
discharges), the LCD may lose its settings. The
MDG theFAN is still working, but the LCD
displays strange or no characters:
Wait 30 seconds without touching any
key,
Press any key
If the menu does not reappear, restart the
MDG theFAN.
Please contact the Service if this problem
persists.

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TECHNICAL DATASHEET
ELECTRICAL REQUIREMENTS
If the supply cord is damaged, it must be replaced by a special cord or assembly available from
the manufacturer, or its distributing / service agent.
-Operating voltage: 100-250 VAC, single phase. 50/60 Hz, 100 W.
-Ground / Earth connection REQUIRED.
-Cable Preparation
Da = 9.5 [0.374”] - 15.0 [0.59”]
-Cable Assembly
1. Put bushing and chuck onto the cable
2. Prepare cable as shown above
3. Insert the wire into the terminals and fasten the clamping device by a flat screw
driver
4. Push insert and chuck into housing (pay attention to the guiding keyway!)
5. Fasten bushing by means of a fork wrench ¾”, min. Torque 2.5 Nm (1.8 lb-ft)
CABLE REQUIREMENTS
-Power input: 1 mm (18 AWG), 3-wire, 90 ˚C copper,
CE UL/CSA compliant cable
-DMX/RDM data: Dual twisted pair 0.75 mm (22 AWG) + shield, XLR-5 type connector,
CE UL/CSA compliant cable.

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ENVIRONMENTAL REQUIREMENTS
-Indoor use.
-Dry room conditions, 90 % relative humidity @ 50 ˚C (122 ˚F) , non-condensing
-0 ºC to 50 ºC (32 ºF to 122 ºF) operating temperature
-Dust-free space
-Storage conditions: -40 ºC to 60 ºC (-40 ºF to 160 ºF), 80 % relative humidity @ 60 ºC
(140 ˚F).
MECHANICAL DATA
-3-bladed fan, 270º tilt
-Variable speed, Max airflow: 850 CFM
-Noise Level: 64db @ full speed
-Omega clamp socket, M12x1.75 metric bolt hole, 1/2”x13 imperial bolt hole
-2 handles
-Total net weight: 6.8 kg (15 lbs)

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INSTALLATION DIMENSIONS

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WARRANTY
When installed and operated as recommended, MDG Fog Generators Ltd guarantees that this
product will remain free of defects in parts and labour for a period of two (2) years from the
moment it is delivered. This warranty does not apply if the product has been modified without
our written authorization, or repaired without a written authorization from MDG or one of its
authorized service centres, or if it is used under conditions for which it has not been designed.
MDG Fog Generators Ltd is not responsible for any damages resulting from a faulty installation
or from abusive use of the product.
If any device is found unsatisfactory under the terms of this warranty, MDG Fog Generators Ltd
will repair or replace it free of all charges, except transportation costs.
This warranty applies only to the product itself and MDG Fog Generators Ltd declines
responsibility for any losses, costs, or damages resulting from its use.
MDG Fog Generators Ltd shall not be liable for consequential damage in case of any failure to
meet the conditions of any warranty or shipping schedule, nor will claims for labour, loss of
profits, repairs, or other expenses incidental to replacement be allowed.
The repair or replacement of the product, by MDG Fog Generators Ltd shall constitute
fulfilment of all obligations to the purchaser.
No other guarantees or warranties, expressed or implied, are made by MDG Fog Generators
Ltd in connection with its products. This warranty is non-transferable and applies to the original
purchaser only.
To obtain satisfaction under the terms of this warranty, contact your local sales office, and we
will be pleased to help you.

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User Guide, Rev: A/d 20 / 22
DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY