Pharos DESIGNER LPC X User manual

DESIGNER LPCX
LPCX S3 INSTALLATION
The Lighting Playback Controller X (LPCX) is designed to be rack mounted in a central control room
for fixed installations or flight cased for touring applications. The 1U enclosure and 19” rack mounting
complies with IEC 60297.
The unit is largely solid state and has been qualified to operate in a dry environment within a
temperature range of 0°C to 50°C (32°F to 122°F).
NOTE: Particular attention must be paid to cooling; under no circumstances should the airflow to
the heat sinks be restricted and a rack fan cooling unit should be considered when multiple
units are stacked together to maintain the correct ambient temperature.
NOTE: This equipment is not suitable for use in locations where children are likely to be present.
Since the unit requires no user intervention once installed it is suitable for remote installation with all
configuration and management taking place over an Ethernet network. However, it is recommended
that access can be gained in the unlikely event of a hardware failure.
The LPCX is fitted with fan filters mounted on the front panel of the product. Should the filters
become clogged, they need to be replaced. Please contact Pharos Support for further information.
LPCX LAYOUT
The following drawings illustrate the layout of the LPCX, refer to the following sections for details:
LPCX VERSIONS
There are multiple versions of the LPCX that differ only in the maximum number of control channels
that can be accommodated. For example, the LPC 20 can control 20 DMX universes (10,240 channels)
while the LPC 100 can control 100 DMX universes (51200 channels).
Any LPCX can also be ordered with an optional HDMI Input port and HD capture card for real-time
video content input.
INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
DESIGNER LPCX
© 2004-2023 Pharos Architectural Controls Limited.
All rights reserved. Subject to change without notice. 1

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The LPCX can be used as a stand-alone controller or co-operatively with other Pharos Designer
Controllers and Remote Devices, via an Ethernet network, to form a scalable system.
POWER SUPPLY
The LPCX is mains powered via a fused, universal input power supply unit (PSU) compatible with all
worldwide mains supply standards; 100-250V 50/60Hz. The replacement fuse should be a 250V rated
1A T (anti-surge) 20mm cartridge type only.
The LPCX will consume 40W typical (50W maximum).
NOTE: Power must not be disconnected when uploading project data nor during
bootloader/firmware updates to the LPCX as corruption of the data or software may occur,
perhaps even rendering the unit inoperable.
CAUTION: For pluggable equipment, the socket outlet shall be installed near the equipment and
shall be easily accessible.
ATTENTION: En cas d'equipement enfichable, la prise doit etre montee pres de l'equipement et
doit offrir un acces facile.
GROUNDING
The LPCX must be correctly grounded to electrical safety earth at all times.
REALTIME CLOCK BATTERIES
The LPCX’s internal realtime clock is battery-backed to ensure operation when the unit is not
powered. The batteries should last for at least 10 years and are easily replaced when necessary,
replacement battery: Renata CR2032 Lithium Button Cell.
CAUTION: Risk of explosion if battery replaced by incorrect type. Dispose of used batteries
according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
ATTENTION: Il y a un danger d’explosion s’il y a un remplacement incorrect de batterie. Mettre au
rebut les batteries usages conformement aux instructions du fabricant.
MEMORY STORAGE
The LPCX is shipped with a 128GB SSD which should be sufficient for most projects since the LPC X’s
data storage is extremely efficient, even with a multitude of imported media files. However, a larger
capacity card could be fitted if required.
As only the project’s programming data resides on the card, the card is also a convenient way to
backup data for archiving; the Designer project file for example.
Furthermore, in the event of LPCX hardware failure, simply moving the card into a replacement unit
is sufficient to get the project up and running again.
INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
DESIGNER LPCX

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STATUS LEDS
The Pharos logo will illuminate when power is applied to the LPCX. The red LEDs above indicate the
unit’s current status.
Active: The Active LED flashes throughout the boot up procedure and
lights solidly once this has been completed and is indicative of a
fully functional unit.
Output: The Output LED indicates that a valid project file has been loaded
from storage and that playback & data output (eDMX) has started.
Ethernet: The Ethernet LED indicates Pharos-related network activity (not
network link) while the rear panel LEDs indicate communication on
the various Ethernet ports of the LPCX.
Remote: Flashes when the unit has internet access, and will illuminate when
the unit is connected to a Remote Site on Pharos Cloud or a Pharos
Cloud Portal.
I/O: Flashes with any activity on LPCX’s serial and audio ports. (Rear
panel LED indicates HDMI input signal). When receiving data on the
serial port the LED will blink briefly, when timecode is received, the
LED will blink on initial acquisition and then again every 3 seconds
of elapsed timecode, and when audio is being output, the LED will
blink when the audio starts playing.
Overtemp : The Overtemp and Error LEDs will illuminate if the processor core
(s) reaches 95°C (203°F) indicating a fault in the system’s cooling,
typically caused by raised ambient temperatures. Consult the web
interface’s home page to monitor the system temperatures and
take remedial action.
Error: Illuminates when an error is detected. Remaining LEDs will then
turn on to indicate error type (See Error Codes below).
ERROR CODES
Additionally, the Error LED in combination with other status LEDs is used to indicate any boot failures
that prevent the unit from going active. In the event of a boot error, the Active LED will remain off, and
the Error LED will illuminate with the following additional LEDs indicating the specific issue:
Output: SSD Missing or Failed. Indicates the unit cannot detect or
communicate with the SSD.
Ethernet: SSD Corrupt. Indicates the unit can detect the SSD, but it does not
contain a valid boot image.
Output + Ethernet: Unable to communicate with front panel. Contact Support.
Remote: Invalid hardware configuration. Contact Support.
INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
DESIGNER LPCX

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Main board errors can usually be resolved by running the LPCX Recovery Tool on a PC. This may
format the SSD and reinstall the firmware. In such a case all project data will be erased and so an
upload will be required to restore programming.
RESET SWITCH
The LPCX may be reset by inserting a small blunt object into the reset hole on the front panel to
depress the reset switch. The switch should be held for at least one second.
NOTE: The reset must not be operated when uploading project data nor during
bootloader/firmware updates to the LPCX as corruption of the data or software may occur,
perhaps even rendering the unit inoperable.
WATCHDOG
The internal “watchdog” is enabled by default to reset automatically the LPCX in case of a software
crash as a result of either a coding error (“bug”) or a random electromagnetic event such as a power
brown-out or spike, nearby lightning strike or static discharge. Please refer to the Designer Help to
learn how to disable this feature (not recommended).
PORTS
lEthernet 1 - MGMT
A standard 10/100/1000BASE-T Ethernet connection may be made to this port for
management and networking to other Pharos Controllers and Remote Devices.
lEthernet 2 - DATA
A standard 10/100/1000BASE-T Ethernet connection may be made to this port to output
data to lighting fixtures using Ethernet protocols (eDMX) such as sACN, Art-Net and KiNET.
lRS232 Serial Port
The serial port's data rate and format settings (baud, parity, stop bits, etc.) are configured
using Designer. The port operates in full duplex with the following pinout:
Signal ground
Transmit
Receive
The serial port is not isolated from the LPCX’s power supply. If isolation is required, it
must either be provided by the connected device or a separate isolator should be used.
lUSB
This port is not supported at the time of writing (refer to the current Designer Help).
INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
DESIGNER LPCX

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lAudio Input - Stereo analog
Balanced stereo audio input is provided @ 0dBV line level on a 6 way connector:
Signal ground
Balanced audio left channel - (tie to ground for unbalanced)
Balanced audio left channel +
Signal ground
Balanced audio right channel - (tie to ground for unbalanced)
Balanced audio right channel +
The audio input can accept linear time code (LTC) such as SMPTE/EBU on both channels,
configured using Designer.
lAudio Output - Stereo analog
Balanced stereo audio output is provided @ 0dBV line level on a 6 way connector:
Signal ground
Balanced audio left channel -
Balanced audio left channel +
Signal ground
Balanced audio right channel -
Balanced audio right channel +
lAudio Output - SPDIF
A standard RCA coaxial cable may be connected for digital audio output from the
Controller. 2-channel PCM audio is supported.
lVideo Output
DisplayPort for monitoring or video-mapped fixtures.
INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
DESIGNER LPCX

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lHDMI Input
A standard HDMI connection may be made to this port to route video data to a Live Video
Preset within the project. Requires the Controller to be the HDMI variant.
HDMI cable retention:
Included with the LPC X S3 HDMI variant is a cable lock package including a
cable tie base, cable tie and spare screw.
Installation:
1. Place the cable tie base around the HDMI cable as close to the
connector as possible, with the cable tie grip facing away from the
connector.
2. Secure the cable tie to the LPC X S3 using the locking screw above the
HDMI port.
3. Connect the HDMI cable to the port.
4. Insert the cable tie into the cable tie base, firmly pulling on it to remove
any slack.
5. To remove the cable, release the latch on the base.
NOTE: Ports and third party equipment can be damaged when plugging or unplugging an
energised system (hot-plugging). It is therefore advisable to remove power before making or
breaking port connections.
INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
DESIGNER LPCX

WARRANTY
This Pharos Architectural Controls Limited (“Pharos”) product is warranted for the period of five (5)
years from the original date of purchase against defective materials and workmanship.
In the event that warranty service is required, you should contact your dealer or Pharos technical
support at the following email address: [email protected].
CONDITIONS
1. The warranty is only valid if the Pharos software registration is fully and properly completed, Pharos is presented with the original
invoice or sales confirmation, Pharos has received payment in full and the serial number on the product has not been defaced.
2. Pharos’ obligations are limited to the repair or, at its discretion, replacement of the product or the defective part.
3. It is the consumer’s obligation to notify Pharos within one week of any suspected defect, and to return the goods prepaid to Pharos’
authorised service address. Goods will only be received under warranty when they are returned with a recognised RMA number
that has been issued by Pharos.
4. Warranty repairs must be carried out by a nominated Pharos employee or Pharos approved service technician. No reimbursement
will be made for repairs carried out by non-Pharos personnel or dealers, and any such repair work or damage to the product caused
by such repair work will not be covered by this warranty.
5. This product is not considered to be defective in materials or workmanship by reason that it requires adaptation in order to
conform to national or local technical or safety standards in force in any country other than the one for which the product was
originally designed or manufactured. This warranty will not cover, and no reimbursement will be made for such adaptation or any
damage which may result.
6. This warranty covers none of the following:
a. Maintenance and repair or replacement of parts due to normal wear and tear.
b. Cost relating to transport, removal or installation of the product.
c. Misuse, including the failure to use this product for its normal purposes or incorrect installation.
d. Damage caused by lightning, water, fire, acts of God, war, public disturbances, incorrect supply voltage, improper ventilation
or any other cause beyond the control of Pharos.
7. This warranty is valid for any person who legally acquired possession of the product during the warranty period.
8. The consumer’s statutory rights in any applicable national legislation arising from the purchase are not affected by this warranty.
The rights under this warranty are the consumer’s sole rights and Pharos, its subsidiaries or distributors shall not be liable for any
indirect or consequential loss, damages for any loss of use, time, profits or income, or any damage to related equipment, materials
or consumable parts.
INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
WARRANTY
Revision 1 | 28/11/2023 7