Show Tec ColorCue 4 User manual

ColorCue 4
Highlite International B.V. –Vestastraat 2 –6468 EX –Kerkrade –the Netherlands
Product code: 50706
USER MANUAL
ENGLISH
V1

1
ColorCue 4
Product code: 50706
Preface
Thank you for purchasing this Showtec product.
The purpose of this user manual is to provide instructions for the correct and safe use of this product.
Keep the user manual for future reference as it is an integral part of the product. The user manual shall be
stored at an easily accessible location.
This user manual contains information concerning:
●Safety instructions
●Intended and non-intended use of the device
●Installation and operation of the device
●Maintenance procedures
●Troubleshooting
●Transport, storage and disposal of the device
Non-observance of the instructions in this user manual may result in serious injuries and damage of
property.
©2021 Showtec. All rights reserved.
No part of this document may be copied, published or otherwise reproduced without the prior written
consent of Highlite International.
Design and product specifications are subject to change without prior notice.
For the latest version of this document or other language versions, please visit our website
www.highlite.com or contact us at [e-mail].
Highlite International and its authorized service providers are not liable for any injury, damage, direct or
indirect loss, consequential or economic loss or any other loss arising from the use of, or inability to use or
reliance on the information contained in this document.

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ColorCue 4
Product code: 50706
Table of contents
1. Introduction..........................................................................................................................................................4
Before Using the Product ..................................................................................................................................4
Intended Use .......................................................................................................................................................4
Product Lifespan.................................................................................................................................................4
Text Conventions ................................................................................................................................................4
Symbols and Signal Words................................................................................................................................5
Symbols on the Information Label ..................................................................................................................5
2. Safety ....................................................................................................................................................................6
Warnings and Safety Instructions ....................................................................................................................6
Requirements for the User.................................................................................................................................7
3. Description of the Device ...................................................................................................................................8
Top View –Fixtures/Paybacks Section ...........................................................................................................8
Top View –Modes/Functions Section ............................................................................................................9
Back View ..........................................................................................................................................................10
Product Specifications ....................................................................................................................................11
Optional Accessories.......................................................................................................................................11
Dimensions.........................................................................................................................................................12
Mounting Dimensions.................................................................................................................................12
4. Installation ..........................................................................................................................................................13
Installation Site Requirements ........................................................................................................................13
Mounting............................................................................................................................................................13
Connecting to Power Supply.........................................................................................................................13
5. Setup ...................................................................................................................................................................14
Warnings and Precautions .............................................................................................................................14
DMX Connection..............................................................................................................................................14
DMX-512 Protocol .......................................................................................................................................14
DMX Cables .................................................................................................................................................14
Setup Example..................................................................................................................................................15
6. Operation ...........................................................................................................................................................16
Safety Instructions for Operation...................................................................................................................16
Start-up...............................................................................................................................................................16
Setup Mode.......................................................................................................................................................16
LEDs Type Setup ..........................................................................................................................................17
DMX Starting Address of the Connected Fixtures ................................................................................17
MIDI Address Setup ....................................................................................................................................18
Control Modes ..................................................................................................................................................18
Double (24-Fixtures) Mode........................................................................................................................18
Single (48-Fixtures) Mode ..........................................................................................................................18
Operating Functions ........................................................................................................................................19
Color Selection Mode vs. Parameter Selection Mode........................................................................19
Color Selection Mode .......................................................................................................................19
Parameter Selection Mode..............................................................................................................19
Strobe............................................................................................................................................................20
Blackout........................................................................................................................................................20
Flash...............................................................................................................................................................20
Hold ...............................................................................................................................................................20
Clear the Programmer...............................................................................................................................20
Manual Operating Mode ...............................................................................................................................21
Create a Scene in Bank A (Double Control Mode) ............................................................................21
Create a Scene in Bank B (Double Control Mode) .............................................................................22
Crossfade between Bank A and Bank B (Double Control Mode)....................................................22
Create a Scene (Single Control Mode) .................................................................................................23
Transition between Scenes (Single Control Mode)..............................................................................23

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ColorCue 4
Product code: 50706
Programming Mode ........................................................................................................................................24
Record a Scene ..........................................................................................................................................24
Record a Chase..........................................................................................................................................25
Chase Parameters......................................................................................................................................26
Direction...............................................................................................................................................26
Speed ...................................................................................................................................................26
Fade......................................................................................................................................................26
Delete a Chase/Scene .............................................................................................................................27
Delete a Step in a Chase..........................................................................................................................28
Edit a Step in a Chase ...............................................................................................................................29
Insert a Step in a Chase ............................................................................................................................30
Playback Mode ................................................................................................................................................31
Factory Reset ....................................................................................................................................................31
MIDI Implementation Chart ......................................................................................................................32
7. Troubleshooting .................................................................................................................................................33
8. Maintenance .....................................................................................................................................................33
Preventive Maintenance................................................................................................................................33
Basic Cleaning Instructions .......................................................................................................................33
Corrective Maintenance................................................................................................................................34
9. Deinstallation, Transportation and Storage ....................................................................................................34
10. Disposal ..............................................................................................................................................................34
11. Approval.............................................................................................................................................................34

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ColorCue 4
Product code: 50706
1. Introduction
Before Using the Product
Important
Read and follow the instructions in this user manual before installing, operating or
servicing this product.
The manufacturer will not accept liability for any resulting damages caused by the non-observance of
this manual.
After unpacking, check the contents of the box. If any parts are missing or damaged, contact your
Highlite International dealer.
Your shipment includes:
●Showtec ColorCue 4
●AC power adapter with
4 interchangeable AC plugs
(Europe, UK, US/JP, AUS/NZ)
●User manual
Fig. 01
Intended Use
This device is intended for use as a LED DMX controller. It is suitable only for indoor installation. It is not
suitable for households.
Any other use, not mentioned under intended use, is regarded as non-intended and incorrect use.
Product Lifespan
This device is not designed for permanent operation. Disconnect the device from the electrical power
supply when the device is not in operation. This will reduce the wear and will improve the device’s
lifespan.
Text Conventions
Throughout the user manual the following text conventions are used:
●References: References to chapters and parts of the device are in bold lettering, for example:
“Refer to 2. Safety”, “press the power switch (03)”
●0–255: Defines a range of values
●Notes: Note: (in bold lettering) is followed by useful information or tips

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ColorCue 4
Product code: 50706
Symbols and Signal Words
Safety notes and warnings are indicated throughout the user manual by safety signs.
Always follow the instructions provided in this user manual.
DANGER
Indicates an imminently hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in
death or serious injury.
WARNING
Indicates an imminently hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result
in death or serious injury.
CAUTION
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation, which, if not avoided, may result in
minor or moderate injury.
Attention
Indicates important information for the correct operation and use of the
product.
Important
Read and observe the instructions in this document.
Provides important information about the disposal of this product.
Symbols on the Information Label
This product is provided with an information label. The information label is located on the bottom plate of
the device.
The information label contains the following symbols:
This device is designed for indoor use.
Read and follow the instructions in the user manual before installing, operating or
servicing the device.
This device falls under IEC protection class II.
This device shall not be treated as household waste.

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ColorCue 4
Product code: 50706
2. Safety
Important
Read and follow the instructions in this user manual before installing, operating or
servicing this product.
The manufacturer will not accept liability for any resulting damages caused by the non-observance of
this manual.
Warnings and Safety Instructions
DANGER
Danger for children
For adult use only. The device must be installed beyond the reach of children.
●Do not leave various parts of the packaging (plastic bags, polystyrene foam, nails, etc.) within
children’s reach. Packaging material is a potential source of danger for children.
Attention
Incorrect handling of the AC power adapter may result in hazardous situations
This device is delivered with an AC power adapter. Incorrect handling of the AC power adapter may
result in hazardous situations.
●Use only the AC power adapter delivered with the device.
●Do not wrap the power cable around the power adapter or any other object. This can damage the
internal wires.
●Do not cover the power adapter with anything when it is plugged into the socket-outlet. This may
cause overheating.
●Do not expose the power adapter to water or other liquids.
Do not use the power adapter:
●If it shows signs of overheating, for example the plastic is damaged
●If the AC input pins show signs of corrosion or overheating
●If the power cable is damaged or shows signs of material fatigue.
Attention
General safety
●Do not shake the device. Avoid brute force when installing or operating the device.
●If the device is exposed to extreme temperature variations (e.g. after transportation), do not switch it
on immediately. Let the device reach room temperature before switching it on, otherwise it may be
damaged by the formed condensation.

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ColorCue 4
Product code: 50706
Attention
This device shall be used only for the purposes it is designed for.
This device is designed to be used as a LED DMX controller. Any incorrect use may lead to hazardous
situations and result in injuries and material damage.
This device does not contain user-serviceable parts. Unauthorized modifications to the device will render
the warranty void. Such modifications may result in injuries and material damage.
Attention
Do not expose the device to conditions that exceed the rated IP class conditions.
This device is IP20 rated. IP (Ingress Protection) 20 class provides protection against solid objects greater
than 12 mm, such as fingers, and no protection against harmful ingress of water.
Requirements for the User
This product may be used by ordinary persons. Maintenance and installation may be carried by ordinary
persons. Service shall be carried out only by instructed or skilled persons. Contact your Highlite
International dealer for more information.
Instructed persons have been instructed and trained by a skilled person, or are supervised by a skilled
person, for specific tasks and work activities associated with the service of this product, so that they can
identify risks and take precautions to avoid them.
Skilled persons have training or experience, which enables them to recognize risks and to avoid hazards
associated with the service of this product.
Ordinary persons are all persons other than instructed persons and skilled persons. Ordinary persons
include not only users of the product but also any other persons that may have access to the device or
who may be in the vicinity of the device.

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ColorCue 4
Product code: 50706
3. Description of the Device
The Showtec ColorCue 4 is a LED DMX controller featuring 2 master faders, 48 fixture intensity faders, 6
color rotary encoders, 48 memory buttons for colors/chases/user memories. It can control up to 48
RGBWA-UV fixtures.
Top View –Fixtures/Paybacks Section
Fig. 02
A) FIXTURES (Flash)/PLAYBACKS buttons with LEDs (01)–(24) and faders with LEDs (01)–(24) (BANK A)
B) FIXTURES (Flash)/PLAYBACKS buttons with LEDs (25)–(48) and faders with LEDs (25)–(48) (BANK B)

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ColorCue 4
Product code: 50706
Top View –Modes/Functions Section
Fig. 03
C) LCD display
I) AMBER/STROBE control
D) Modes buttons with LEDs (53)–(56)
J) UV control
E) RED/DIRECTION control
K) BANK A master fader and flash button with LED (57)
F) GREEN/SPEED control
L) BANK B master fader and flash button with LED (58)
G) BLUE/FADE control
M) Function buttons with LEDs (59)–(68)
H) WHITE/SOUND control
N) UP/DOWN and LEFT/RIGHT buttons with LEDs (49)–(52)

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ColorCue 4
Product code: 50706
Back View
Fig. 04
O) MIDI connector THRU
P) MIDI connector OUT
Q) MIDI connector IN
R) USB connector (no function)
S) Microphone
T) 3-pin DMX connector OUT
U) DC input connector
V) Power switch ON/OFF

11
ColorCue 4
Product code: 50706
Product Specifications
Model:
ColorCue 4
Electrical:
Input voltage:
9–12 V DC
Input current:
0,8 A
Power consumption:
15 W
AC power adapter:
Input voltage:
100–240 V AC, 50/60 Hz
Input current:
0,5 A max
Output voltage:
12 V DC
Output current:
1,5 A
Physical:
Dimensions:
720 x 265 x 80 mm (L x W x H)
Installation depth:
100 mm
Weight:
5,6 kg
Operation and control:
Fixtures:
48
Fixture channels:
6 DMX channels per fixture
Playback faders:
48
Master faders:
2
Playback keys:
48
Parameter controls:
6
Memories:
1000
Control protocol:
DMX-512
Display:
LED
Connections:
Power connection:
DC input connector
MIDI:
5-pin MIDI connectors THRU/OUT/IN
Input connections:
USB input connector (no function)
Output connections:
3-pin DMX connector OUT
Construction:
Housing:
Metal
Color:
Gray
IP rating:
IP20
Cooling:
Natural heat dissipation
Thermal:
Maximum ambient temperature ta:
40 °C
Maximum housing temperature tc:
40 °C
Optional Accessories
There is flight case available for ColorCue 4. The flight case can be purchased separately. Contact your
Highlite International dealer for more information.
Product code: D7408 (Case for ColorCue 4)

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ColorCue 4
Product code: 50706
Dimensions
Fig. 05
Fig. 06
Mounting Dimensions
Fig. 07

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ColorCue 4
Product code: 50706
4. Installation
Installation Site Requirements
●The device must be installed only indoors.
●The device can be placed on a stable, flat surface, or mounted vertically or horizontally in an
opening.
●The device can be operated from the optional flight case. See 3.5. Optional Accessories on page 11
for more information.
●The maximum ambient temperature ta= 40 °C must never be exceeded.
●The relative humidity must not exceed 50 % with an ambient temperature of 40 °C.
Mounting
The device can be mounted vertically or horizontally in an opening. Make sure that there is enough
space for ventilation and for the connected cables. See 3.6.1. Mounting Dimensions on page 12.
Fasten the device with 4 screws to the mounting surface.
Connecting to Power Supply
Attention
Incorrect handling of the AC power adapter may result in hazardous situations
This device is delivered with an AC power adapter. Incorrect handling of the AC power adapter may
result in hazardous situations.
Connect the device to the socket-outlet with the delivered AC power adapter. Use only the AC power
adapter delivered with the device.

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ColorCue 4
Product code: 50706
5. Setup
Warnings and Precautions
Attention
Connect all data cables before supplying power.
Disconnect power supply before connecting or disconnecting data cables.
DMX Connection
DMX-512 Protocol
DMX-512 is a communication protocol used to control stage lighting and effects.
Devices on a serial data link must be daisy-chained in a single line. To comply with the TIA-485 standard,
no more than 32 devices should be connected on one data link.
In order to connect more than 32 devices on one data link, you can use a DMX optically isolated
splitter/booster. If no splitter/booster is used, this may result in deterioration of the DMX signal.
DMX Cables
Shielded twisted-pair cables with 3-pin XLR connectors must be used for reliable DMX connection. You
can purchase DMX cables directly from your Highlite International dealer or make your own cables.
If you use XLR audio cables for DMX data transmission, this may lead to signal degradation and unreliable
operation of the DMX network.
When you make your own DMX cables, make sure that you connect the pins and wires correctly as
shown in Fig. 06.
Fig. 08

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ColorCue 4
Product code: 50706
Setup Example
The ColorCue 4 can control up to 48 fixtures with up to 6 channels (RGBWA/UV) per fixture. It is suitable for
small theatres and venues. Fig. 09 and Fig. 10 show a typical setup with ColorCue 4 as a LED controller.
Fig. 09
Fig. 10

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ColorCue 4
Product code: 50706
6. Operation
Safety Instructions for Operation
Attention
This device must be used only for the purposes it is designed for.
This device is intended for use as a LED DMX controller. It is suitable only for indoor installation. It is not
suitable for households.
Any other use, not mentioned under intended use, is regarded as non-intended and incorrect use.
Start-up
The device has a power switch.
●Press the power switch (V) in ON position to turn on the ColorCue 4.
●Press the power switch (V) in OFF position to turn off the ColorCue 4.
Setup Mode
In this mode you can select the type of the LEDs of the connected lighting fixture(s) and the MIDI address
of the device.
The setup mode screen provides information about the MIDI address of the device, the LEDs type of the
connected fixtures, the starting DMX address of the last connected fixture, whether the default settings of
the fixtures are active, and the firmware version.
01) Press and hold down the SETUP button (53)for 3 seconds to enter setup mode. The LED on the button
will start blinking.
Refer to 6.3.1. LEDs Type Setup on page 17 and to 6.3.3. MIDI Address Setup on page 18 for more
information about the available settings in this mode.
02) Press and hold down the SETUP button (53)for 3 seconds to exit setup mode. The LED on the button
will stop blinking.

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ColorCue 4
Product code: 50706
LEDs Type Setup
Fig. 11
01) In setup mode, press one or more FIXTURES buttons (01)–(48)to select the fixture(s) for which you
want to set up the LEDs type. You can select multiple fixtures at the same time. The LEDs on the
selected buttons will light up.
02) Press the LEFT/RIGHT buttons (50)/(51) to select the LEDs type of the fixture. The available options are:
●RGB
●RGBW
●RGBA
●RGBWA
●RGBAW
●RGBW/UV
●RGBA/UV
●RGBWA/UV (default mode)
●RGBAW/UV
●Dimmer (white only)
03) Press the FIXTURES buttons (01)–(48)once again to cancel the selection of the fixtures in step 1. The
LEDs on the buttons will turn off. Do not do steps 3 and 4, if the LEDs type for all connected fixtures is
the same.
04) Repeat steps 1–3 to set up the LEDs types for the remaining fixtures, which have different LEDs type.
DMX Starting Address of the Connected Fixtures
The ColorCue 4 calculates automatically the starting DMX address of each connected fixture depending
on the LEDs type setup. Each color is controlled on a separate DMX channel. However, there are no
reserved DMX channels for each color and only the active channels are used.
For example, if you want to connect 3 fixtures with RGB LEDs and 3 fixtures with RGBWA/UV LEDs, the
starting DMX address of the connected 6 fixtures will be as follows:
Fixture
FIXTURES button
LEDs Type
Channels
Starting DMX address
Fixture 1
01
RGB
3
001
Fixture 2
02
RGB
3
004
Fixture 3
02
RGB
3
007
Fixture 4
04
RGBWA/UV
6
010
Fixture 5
05
RGBWA/UV
6
016
Fixture 6
06
RGBWA/UV
6
022
...
...
...
...
...
The starting DMX address of the last selected fixture is displayed on the setup mode screen.

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ColorCue 4
Product code: 50706
●Approach 1: If you want to note down the starting DMX addresses, select one fixture first, change
the LEDs type and then select the next fixture. Thus, each time the screen will display
the correct starting DMX address of each fixture.
●Approach 2: If you select all fixtures first and then set the LEDs type, only the starting DMX address
of the last fixture will be displayed on the screen.
There are no functional differences between Approach 1 and 2.
MIDI Address Setup
In setup mode press the UP/DOWN buttons (49)/(52) to assign the MIDI address of the ColorCue 4. The
selection range is 1–16. Refer to 6.10. MIDI Implementation Chart on page 32 for more information.
Control Modes
The device has 2 control modes:
●double (24-fixture) mode, and
●single (48-fixture) mode.
Press the FIXTURES button (54)to toggle between double and single control mode. In single mode the LED
on the button will light up in red and in double mode in green.
Double (24-Fixtures) Mode
In double (24-fixtures) mode you can control up to 24 fixtures. You can create scenes in Bank A and
Bank B. In manual operating mode you can crossfade between the scenes in Bank A and Bank B.
Fig. 12
In double (24-fixtures) mode:
●The FIXTURES buttons and faders (01)–(24)control Bank A scene values of the connected up to 24
fixtures
●The FIXTURES buttons and faders (25)–(48)control Bank B scene values of the connected up to 24
fixtures.
●The BANK A master fader and flash button (K) control the output of Bank A.
●The BANK B master fader and flash button (L) control the output of Bank B.
Single (48-Fixtures) Mode
In single (48-fixtures) mode you can control up to 48 fixtures. You can create single scenes. It is not
possible to work with Bank A and Bank B scenes in this mode. You can transition between the scenes
without crossfading.
Fig. 13

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ColorCue 4
Product code: 50706
In single (48-fixtures) mode:
●The FIXTURES buttons and faders (01)–(48) control the connected up to 48 fixtures.
●The BANK A master fader and flash button (K) act as master fader and flash button for all connected
fixtures.
●The BANK B master fader and flash button (L) have no function.
Operating Functions
Color Selection Mode vs. Parameter Selection Mode
The controls (E)–(I) have double function.
Press the MANUAL button (55)to toggle between the two functions. In color selection mode, the LED on
the MANUAL button (55) is on. In parameter selection mode the MANUAL button (55) is off.
Notes:
●Enabling one mode automatically disables the other mode.
●The UV control (J) does not have a double function. It functions only in color selection mode.
Color Selection Mode
You can adjust the intensity of the colors (red, green, blue, white, amber and UV) of the connected
fixtures.
When the LED on the MANUAL button (55) is ON, the color selection mode is enabled and you can adjust
the colors with the controls (E)–(J).
Fig. 14
In color selection mode you will first need to fetch the last output value of the respective color. Turn the
controls (E)–(J) clockwise or counterclockwise to fetch the value and return to zero. The display will show
000 for the respective color.
Parameter Selection Mode
You can adjust direction, speed, and fade in a chase. You can also adjust the sound sensitivity and add
strobe effect to a chase/scene.
When the LED on the MANUAL button (55)is OFF, the parameter selection mode is enabled and you can
adjust the parameters with the controls (E)–(I).
Fig. 15