Show Tec Creator 2048 User manual

Creator 2048 V3
Highlite International B.V. –Vestastraat 2 –6468 EX –Kerkrade –the Netherlands
Ordercode: 50732
Firmware: 1.1.17.
MANUAL
ENGLISH

1
Ordercode: 50732
Creator 2048
Table of contents
Warning ...............................................................................................................................................................................4
Safety Instructions .........................................................................................................................................................4
Operating Determinations ..........................................................................................................................................6
Connection with the mains.........................................................................................................................................6
Description of the device.................................................................................................................................................8
Frontside..........................................................................................................................................................................9
Glossary.........................................................................................................................................................................11
Backside .......................................................................................................................................................................11
Installation.........................................................................................................................................................................11
Set Up and Operation .....................................................................................................................................................12
Patching .......................................................................................................................................................................12
1. Patching Dimmers ...............................................................................................................................................12
2. Patching Moving Light Fixtures..........................................................................................................................12
3. View the Patching ...............................................................................................................................................13
4. Changing the DMX Address of a Fixture.........................................................................................................13
5. Deleting a Patched Fixture ................................................................................................................................13
6. Patch Utilities.........................................................................................................................................................14
Controlling Dimmers and Fixtures ............................................................................................................................15
1. Selecting Fixtures and Dimmers for Control....................................................................................................15
2. Changing Attributes of the Selected Fixtures ................................................................................................15
3. Grouping ...............................................................................................................................................................16
4. Stepping Through Selected Fixture One At a Time .......................................................................................16
5. Move Lighting Menu ...........................................................................................................................................16
6. The Align Function ...............................................................................................................................................16
7. Flip Function ..........................................................................................................................................................17
8. Fan Mode..............................................................................................................................................................17
9. Advanced Options .............................................................................................................................................17
Palette...........................................................................................................................................................................18
1. Customize Palette ...............................................................................................................................................18
2. Palette Page.........................................................................................................................................................18
3. Shared and Individual Palette ..........................................................................................................................18
4. Which attributes are stored in palettes ...........................................................................................................18
5. Storing a Palette ..................................................................................................................................................19
6. Palette Modes ......................................................................................................................................................19
7. Recalling a Palette Value ..................................................................................................................................19
8. Palettes in Playback............................................................................................................................................20
9. Delete a Palette...................................................................................................................................................20
Shapes...........................................................................................................................................................................20
1. Selecting a Shape ...............................................................................................................................................20
2. Blocking a Shape.................................................................................................................................................21
3. Shape Parameters...............................................................................................................................................21
4. Edit a Running Shape..........................................................................................................................................22
5. Remove a Shape from Fixtures .........................................................................................................................22
6. Delete a Shape....................................................................................................................................................22
7. Relative Shapes and Absolute Shapes ...........................................................................................................22
8. Playback Parameters .........................................................................................................................................23
Scenes...........................................................................................................................................................................24
1. How the Creator 2048 Works When Programming .......................................................................................24
2. Creating a Scene ................................................................................................................................................24
3. Using Shapes in Scenes ......................................................................................................................................24
4. HTP and LTP channels .........................................................................................................................................25
5. Playing Back a Scene .........................................................................................................................................25
6. Editing a Scene ....................................................................................................................................................25
7. Include Function ..................................................................................................................................................26

2
Ordercode: 50732
Creator 2048
8. The “Off” Button ...................................................................................................................................................26
9. Copy a Scene ......................................................................................................................................................26
10. Delete a Scene ..................................................................................................................................................26
11. Time ......................................................................................................................................................................27
12. Overlap Function...............................................................................................................................................28
13. Priority...................................................................................................................................................................28
Chase ............................................................................................................................................................................29
1. Programming a Chase .......................................................................................................................................29
2. Running a Chase .................................................................................................................................................29
3. Connecting a Chase to the Wheels A/B ........................................................................................................29
4. Setting Speed, Crossfade and Direction ........................................................................................................30
5. Manually Controlling the Chase Step .............................................................................................................30
6. Add a Step............................................................................................................................................................30
7. Unfold a Chase for Editing .................................................................................................................................31
8. Include the Data of a Chase Step...................................................................................................................31
9. Delete a Chase....................................................................................................................................................31
10. Delete a Chase Step ........................................................................................................................................31
11. Adjust Speed and Fade Time with Wheels ...................................................................................................31
12. The Global Time of a Chase............................................................................................................................32
13. Set Separate Time For a Step ..........................................................................................................................32
14. Overlap Function...............................................................................................................................................33
15. Priority...................................................................................................................................................................33
16. Advanced Options ...........................................................................................................................................33
CueList...........................................................................................................................................................................34
1. Save a CueList......................................................................................................................................................34
2. Edit a CueList ........................................................................................................................................................34
3. Run a CueList ........................................................................................................................................................34
4. Delete a CueList...................................................................................................................................................34
5. Copy a CueList.....................................................................................................................................................34
6. Set Global Time ....................................................................................................................................................34
7. Set Special Time For a Step................................................................................................................................35
Show Recording ..........................................................................................................................................................35
1. Record a Show.....................................................................................................................................................35
2. Run a Show ...........................................................................................................................................................35
3. Delete a Show......................................................................................................................................................35
4. Save/Load a Show ..............................................................................................................................................36
Save Show List...........................................................................................................................................................36
Load Show List ..........................................................................................................................................................36
Save a Single Show .................................................................................................................................................36
Load a Single Show .................................................................................................................................................36
9 Setup ..........................................................................................................................................................................37
1. Save & Load .........................................................................................................................................................37
2. Wipe Data.............................................................................................................................................................37
3. Select Language .................................................................................................................................................37
4. Personality Management ..................................................................................................................................37
Delete Personality ....................................................................................................................................................37
Delete All Personality...............................................................................................................................................37
Update Personality ..................................................................................................................................................37
Edit Personality..........................................................................................................................................................37
5. Show Record ........................................................................................................................................................38
6. User Settings..........................................................................................................................................................38
7. Update of the IC on the Output PCB ..............................................................................................................38
8. System information ..............................................................................................................................................38
Console Lock ...............................................................................................................................................................38
Updating.......................................................................................................................................................................38
Personality Builder .......................................................................................................................................................39
1. Interface of the Personality Builder ..................................................................................................................39
2. How to create a new Personality (Library) .....................................................................................................39
3. Creating Pallettes ................................................................................................................................................40

3
Ordercode: 50732
Creator 2048
Maintenance....................................................................................................................................................................41
Troubleshooting ...............................................................................................................................................................41
No Light.........................................................................................................................................................................41
Incorrect Language ...................................................................................................................................................41
No Response to DMX..................................................................................................................................................42
Playback Buttons Do Not Respond to Commands..............................................................................................42
Product Specifications....................................................................................................................................................42
Dimensions........................................................................................................................................................................43
Notes ..................................................................................................................................................................................44

4
Ordercode: 50732
Creator 2048
Warning
Unpacking Instructions
Immediately upon receiving this product, carefully unpack the carton and check the contents to ensure
that all parts are present, and have been received in good condition. Notify the dealer immediately and
retain packing material for inspection if any parts appear damaged from shipping or the carton itself
shows signs of mishandling. Save the carton and all packing materials. In the event that a fixture must be
returned to the factory, it is important that the fixture be returned in the original factory box and packing.
Your shipment includes:
Showtec Creator 2048
Flight case
Power cable (1,5 m)
User manual
Optional Accessories:
Goose-neck lamp (ordercode: 60722)
Safety Instructions
Every person involved with the installation, operation and maintenance of this device has to:
be qualified
follow the instructions of this manual
Before your initial start-up, please make sure that there is no damage caused by transportation. Should
there be any, consult your dealer and do not use the device.
To maintain perfect condition and to ensure a safe operation, it is absolutely necessary for the user to
follow the safety instructions and warning notes written in this manual.
Please consider that damages caused by manual modifications to the device are not subject to
warranty.
This device contains no user-serviceable parts. Refer servicing to qualified technicians only.

5
Ordercode: 50732
Creator 2048
IMPORTANT:
The manufacturer will not accept liability for any resulting damages caused by the non-observance of
this manual or any unauthorized modification to the device.
Never let the power cord come into contact with other cables! Handle the power cord and all
connections with the mains with particular caution!
Never remove warning or informative labels from the unit.
Do not open the device and do not modify the device.
Never use anything to cover the ground contact.
Never leave any cables lying around.
Do not insert objects into air vents.
Do not connect this device to a dimmerpack.
Do not switch the device on and off in short intervals, as this would reduce the device’s life.
Do not shake the device. Avoid brute force when installing or operating the device. Never use the
device during thunderstorms, unplug the device immediately.
Only use device indoors, avoid contact with water or other liquids.
Do not touch the device’s housing bare-handed during its operation (housing becomes hot).
Only operate the device after having familiarized with its functions.
Avoid flames and do not put close to flammable liquids or gases.
Always keep case closed while operating.
Always allow free air space of at least 50 cm around the unit for ventilation.
Always disconnect power from the mains, when device is not used or before cleaning! Only handle
the power cord by the plug. Never pull out the plug by tugging the power cord.
Make sure that the device is not exposed to extreme heat, moisture or dust.
Make sure that the available voltage is not higher than stated on the rear panel.
Make sure that the power-cord is never crimped or damaged. Check the device and the power
cord from time to time.
If the external cable is damaged, it has to be replaced by a qualified technician.
If the glass is obviously damaged, it has to be replaced. So that its functions are not impaired, due to
cracks or deep scratches.
If device is dropped or struck, disconnect mains power supply immediately. Have a qualified
engineer inspect for safety before operating.
If the device has been exposed to drastic temperature fluctuation (e.g. after transportation), do not
switch it on immediately. The arising condensation water might damage your device. Leave the
device switched off until it has reached room temperature.
If your Showtec device fails to work properly, discontinue use immediately. Pack the unit securely
(preferably in the original packing material), and return it to your Showtec dealer for service.
For adult use only. The device must be installed out of the reach of children. Never leave the unit
running unattended.
For replacement use fuses of same type and rating only.
The user is responsible for correct positioning and operating of the Creator 2048. The manufacturer
will not accept liability for damages caused by the misuse or incorrect installation of this device.
This device falls under protection class I. Therefore it is essential to connect the yellow/green
conductor to earth.
Repairs, servicing and electric connection must be carried out by a qualified technician.
WARRANTY: Till one year after date of purchase.

6
Ordercode: 50732
Creator 2048
Operating Determinations
This device is not designed for permanent operation. Consistent operation breaks will ensure that the
device will serve you for a long time without defects.
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.
If this device is operated in any other way, than the one described in this manual, the product may
suffer damages and the warranty becomes void.
Any other operation may lead to dangers like short-circuit, burns, electric shock, crash etc.
You endanger your own safety and the safety of others!
Improper installation can cause serious damage to people and property!
Connection with the mains
Connect the device to the mains with the power-plug.
Always pay attention, that the right color cable is connected to the right place.
International
EU Cable
UK Cable
US Cable
Pin
L
BROWN
RED
YELLOW/COPPER
PHASE
N
BLUE
BLACK
SILVER
NEUTRAL
YELLOW/GREEN
GREEN
GREEN
PROTECTIVE GROUND
Make sure that the device is always connected properly to the earth!
Improper installation can cause serious damage to people and property!

7
Ordercode: 50732
Creator 2048
Return Procedure
Returned merchandise must be sent prepaid and in the original packing, call tags will not be issued.
Package must be clearly labeled with a Return Authorization Number (RMA number). Products returned
without an RMA number will be refused. Highlite will not accept the returned goods or any responsibility.
Call Highlite 0031-455667723 or mail [e-mail] and request an RMA prior to shipping the fixture.
Be prepared to provide the model number, serial number and a brief description of the cause for the
return. Be sure to properly pack fixture, any shipping damage resulting from inadequate packaging is the
customer’s responsibility. Highlite reserves the right to use its own discretion to repair or replace
product(s). As a suggestion, proper UPS packing or double-boxing is always a safe method to use.
Note: If you are given an RMA number, please include the following information on a piece of paper
inside the box:
01) Your name
02) Your address
03) Your phone number
04) A brief description of the symptoms
Claims
The client has the obligation to check the delivered goods immediately upon delivery for any short-
comings and/or visible defects, or perform this check after our announcement that the goods are at their
disposal. Damage incurred in shipping is the responsibility of the shipper; therefore the damage must be
reported to the carrier upon receipt of merchandise.
It is the customer's responsibility to notify and submit claims with the shipper in the event that a fixture is
damaged due to shipping. Transportation damage has to be reported to us within one day after receipt
of the delivery.
Any return shipment has to be made post-paid at all times. Return shipments must be accompanied with
a letter defining the reason for return shipment. Non-prepaid return shipments will be refused, unless
otherwise agreed in writing.
Complaints against us must be made known in writing or by fax within 10 working days after receipt of the
invoice. After this period complaints will not be handled anymore.
Complaints will only then be considered if the client has so far complied with all parts of the agreement,
regardless of the agreement of which the obligation is resulting.

8
Ordercode: 50732
Creator 2048
Description of the device
Showtec Creator 2048 can support up to 200 fixtures. It is compatible with R20 format of Avolites Pearl
and featured with built-in shape effects of pan/tilt circle, RGB rainbow and varieties of chases. 15 chases
as well as 8 built-in shapes can be output simultaneously. Faders can be used to output chases and
adjust the intensity of the dimmer channels in the chases.
Features
DMX512 channel number
2048
Fixture
200
Channels for each fixture
40
Chases
150
Chase to run simultaneously
15
Chase step
600
Shapes for each scene
5
Shapes to run simultaneously
8
Re-patched fixture address
Yes
Swap Pan/Tilt
Yes
Reversed channel output
Yes
Channel slope modification
Yes
Channels for each fixture
40 primary + 40 fine tune
Library
Avolite Pearl R20 library supported
Scene
150
Scenes to run simultaneously
15
Total scene steps
600
Time control of scenes
Fade in/out, LTP slope
Shapes for each scene
5
Scene and dimmer by slider
Yes
Swap scene
Yes
Flash scene
Yes
Shape generator
Shapes of Dimmer, Pan/Tilt, RGB, CMY, Color, Gobo, Iris, Zoom and
Focus
Shapes to run simultaneously
8
Master slider
Global
Real time blackout
Yes
Channel value by wheel
Yes
Channel value by slider
Yes
Dimmer by slider
Yes
USB memory
FAT32 supported
Dust cover + flight case
included
Case dimensions
655 x 538 x 250 mm (LxWxH)
Case weight
10,6 kg
Dimensions
595 x 460 x 128 mm (LxWxH)
Weight
10,64 kg

9
Ordercode: 50732
Creator 2048
Frontside
Fig. 01

10
Ordercode: 50732
Creator 2048
Fig. 02
The Attribute buttons are used for selecting which attributes of a fixture (e.g. color, gobo, pan, focus)
are going to be controlled by means of the control wheels. The buttons will light up to show you
which attributes are active.
The Preset faders are used for controlling individual dimmer channels and fixture intensities or to
control fixture attributes.
The Fixture Buttons and the Fixture Group Buttons are used for patching and selecting fixtures. The
Fixture Group Buttons can also be used for grouping of the fixtures.
The Palette buttons allows you to save or apply many effects (e.g. color, gobo, position) on your
fixtures.
The Swop Button is to swap the swop function and the flash function of scenes/chases.
The Blackout button allows you to blackout the whole console. When the Blackout button is
activated or when the master slider is not in FULL ON position, its indicator will be on.
The Master Fader controls the overall output of the intensities in the console. When the master slider is
at 0, the dimmer channels in the console will all be set to 0. You will normally have this master slider
set to full; otherwise, the indicator of the Blackout button will keep flashing.
The Playback faders & buttons can be used for saving and playing scenes/chases.
The Playback page can be used for toggling through the 10 playback pages.
The Chase and cue list control area can be used for controlling the running of chases or cue lists.
The Wheels are used to modify the attributes of fixtures, the speed, slope and other settings of chases
and cue lists.
The Menu Operation buttons can be used for cancelling, selecting, toggling through or clear the
programming area in menu operation.
The Menu Option buttons can be used for selecting control options. The display next to the buttons
shows what each one will do. The options for each key change depending on what the console is
doing.
The Fixture Page buttons select 10 pages for the fixtures and palettes.
The Fixture Control buttons used for selecting fixtures by step or by odd/even and for locating fixtures.
The Function buttons are used to carry out functions such as storing cues, copying, saving to disk, etc.
These buttons have lights on to indicate when they are active.

11
Ordercode: 50732
Creator 2048
Glossary
Scene: The data of a stage scene, saved in a playback.
Chase: The data of a series of fixture performances, saved in a playback.
HTP: Channels with the highest output (highest takes precedence), normally for dimmer channels.
LTP: Channels with the latest output (latest takes precedence), for non-dimmer channels.
Fade in: The intensity of the light changes from dark to bright.
Fade out: The intensity of the light changes from bright to dark.
Slope: Gradual changing in a fixture’s channel data.
Scene: A single stage look programmed onto a Playback button or a fader. Also known as MEMORY,
STATE, CUE, LOOK.
Chase: A sequence of multiple pre-recorded steps which automatically run one after the other.
Chase Steps: Individual cues within a chase.
Playback: Area of the system that can replay recorded scenes or chases using playback faders.
Record by fixture: This is the normal mode of the Showtec Creator 2048. When you record a cue, all
attributes of every fixture that you have changed are recorded in the cue. If you change only the
position of a fixture, the color, gobo, intensity and all the other attributes of that fixture are recorded
as well. When you recall the cue, it will look exactly as it did when you saved it. However, it can be
slightly inflexible if you want to combine cues.
Record by channel: Only the attributes you have changed are recorded in the cue. If you change
the position of a fixture, only the position is recorded. When you recall the cue, the color, gobo etc.
will remain as previously set. This means that you can use a cue to change the position of some
fixtures while leaving the color set from a previous cue, allowing more variety when you are running a
show. It is a powerful feature but you can easily get yourself into trouble with it, so you need to be
sure about which attributes you need to record and which you want to “show through”. When you
are learning, it is best to have some cues “recorded by fixture” which turn on the fixtures in a known
state, then have some color cues to modify just the color, or some gobo cues to set the gobo, or
other attributes.
Backside
Fig. 03
01) Power switch ON/OFF
02) IEC power connector 100-240V AC + Fuse F1L/250V
03) Ground/Earth connection
04) 3-pin DMX Output A
05) 3-pin DMX Output B
06) 3-pin DMX Output C
07) 3-pin DMX Output D
08) Audio Input
09) Microphone
10) MIDI Input
11) MIDI Thru
12) MIDI Output
Installation
Remove all packing materials from the Creator 2048. Check if all foam and plastic padding is removed.
Connect all cables.
Do not supply power before the whole system is set up and connected properly.
Always disconnect from electric mains power supply before cleaning or servicing.
Damages caused by non-observance are not subject to warranty.

12
Ordercode: 50732
Creator 2048
Set Up and Operation
Follow the directions below, as they pertain to your preferred operation mode.
Before plugging the unit in, always make sure that the power supply matches the product specification
voltage. Do not attempt to operate a 120V specification product on 230V power, or vice versa.
Connect the device to the main power supply.
This user manual is based on the software version 1.1.17.
Patching
Patching is the process during which you tell the Creator 2048:
01) What type of lighting units you have connected to it
02) What DMX addresses they are operating at
03) Which DMX output line each unit is connected to
04) Which fixture button you want to use in order to access them
You can either patch the DMX channels on your console, to match your lighting rig, or set up the console
first and then set the lighting rig to match.
1. Patching Dimmers
Each dimmer channel is assigned to one fixture button. If you want to link dimmers together, you can
assign several dimmers to the same fixture button.
01) Press <Patch>, then <A> [Dimmer].
02) In the second line, the display shows the DMX address which is going to be used. You can change
this by turning the Wheel V. Press <A> to patch onto the other DMX output line.
03) To patch a single dimmer, press one of the fixture buttons. To patch a range of dimmers, hold down
the fixture button for the first dimmer in the range, then press the last fixture button in the range. The
range of dimmers will be patched to sequential DMX addresses.
04) To patch another dimmer to the same fixture button, enter the new DMX channel and press the
fixture button again.
05) Repeat from step 2 for other dimmers.
You can patch multiple dimmers to the same fixture button by inserting the DMX address of the next
dimmer to be patched and subsequently pressing the fixture button again.
2. Patching Moving Light Fixtures
Moving light fixtures are more complicated to patch than dimmers because they have more attributes to
control, such as pan, tilt, color etc., whereas a dimmer channel just has intensity. When you patch a
fixture, you will see on the display that it occupies a block of DMX channels rather than just one.
01) Press <Patch>.
02) If the desired fixture library is not available in the console, you can copy it (in R20 format) to the root
directory of a USB memory stick (do not save more than 40, FAT32 files on a USB memory stick).
03) Press <B> [Select a Fixture]. It will access the fixture library in the USB memory stick; if the USB is not
inserted, then, it will access the library in the console.
04) Press <Up> or <Down> to browse through the library; Press the soft key to select. When a library from
the USB memory is selected, the library will be added or updated into the console.
05) In the second line, the display shows the DMX address which is going to be used. You can change
this by turning the Wheel V. Press <A> to patch onto the other DMX output line.
06) Press an unused fixture button to patch the fixture. If you want to use a different fixture page, select
the new page first.
07) Press <Exit> to return to the upper menu; then, you can select fixtures of other types. You can patch
a range of fixtures by holding down the first and last fixture buttons of the range, the same as for
dimmers.
Unlike dimmers, you cannot patch more than one fixture to a fixture button. If the fixture button is already
used, then the patch will fail. Use a different fixture button or delete the already existing fixture from the
fixture button, if you do not want it any more.

13
Ordercode: 50732
Creator 2048
3. View the Patching
Follow the below steps to view the patching:
01) Press <Patch> to enter Patch menu.
02) Press <E> [Patch Information] to view the patching info.
03) The button number, fixture name and address code will be displayed in the menu. Press < Up> or
<Down> to browse. Press the fixture button to go to the fixture directly.
4. Changing the DMX Address of a Fixture
You can re-patch a fixture to a different DMX address or a different DMX output line. All programming is
kept.
01) Press <Patch> to enter Patch menu.
02) Press <C> [Repatch Fixtures].
03) In the second line, the display shows the DMX address which is going to be used. You can change
this by turning the Wheel V. You can also use menu option A to patch onto the other DMX output
line.
04) Press the fixture button for fixture to patch that fixture at the new address.
05) Press <Enter> to confirm the change.
06) Repeat from step 3 if you want to change other fixture
If the new DMX address was already used, the fixture or dimmer on that fixture button will be
“parked”. All programming for the fixture button is preserved, but you need to patch it to a new DMX
address using the above procedure before you can use it again. If you view the fixture patch as
described above, the display will show “park.”
5. Deleting a Patched Fixture
01) Press <Patch> to enter Patch menu.
02) Press <Delete> to enter Delete Patch menu.
03) Press the fixture button, assigned to the fixture which you want to delete.
04) Press <Enter> to delete.
You can delete individual DMX channels from a fixture button by modifying the channel number
instead of pressing a fixture button. This is useful for deleting dimmer channels from fixture buttons
which have multiple channels patched to them. Be careful not to delete individual channels from
the fixtures using this function.

14
Ordercode: 50732
Creator 2048
6. Patch Utilities
The Creator 2048 allows several options to be set for each fixture or dimmer when it is being patched.
Patch options menu can be accessed by pressing <D> [Patch utilities] while you are in patch mode. Set
the options before you start programming, because scenes will play back differently when the options
are on. The options are:
01) Invert –Allows you to invert an attribute of a fixture, so when you set zero the output will be full. You
cannot invert some attributes.
01) Press <Patch> to enter Patch menu.
02) Press <D>[Patch Utilities].
03) Press <A>[Set Invert].
04) Select the desired fixtures and press the attribute buttons to select the desired attributes. Then, press
<A> or <B> on the right hand side of the screen to modify.
01) Set/Reset Instant Mode –When the Creator 2048 faders LTP (movement) channels between two
scenes, the LTP values normally change smoothly. You can set Instant mode to make the channel
snap instantly to the new value.
Press <Patch> to enter Patch menu.
Press <D>[Patch Utilities].
Press <B> [Set/Reset Instant Mode].
Select the desired fixtures and press the attribute buttons to select the desired attributes. Then, press
<A> or <B> on the right hand side of the screen to modify.
01) Swap Pan & Tilt - If you have some fixtures mounted sideways, it can be useful to swap the pan and
tilt channels over.
Press <Patch> to enter Patch menu.
Press <D> [Patch Utilities].
Press <C> [Swap Pan & Tilt] to enter Swop Pan and Tilt.
Press <Up> or <Down> to browse the swop info of pan and tilt. You can change the setting with the
buttons on the right of the screen.

15
Ordercode: 50732
Creator 2048
Controlling Dimmers and Fixtures
When you are programming a show, and sometimes when you are running a show, you need to
manually control the fixtures and dimmers to set the intensity, position, color, etc. To do this you first select
the fixtures you want to change using the Swop buttons, then you set the attributes of those fixtures using
the wheels and attribute buttons.
1. Selecting Fixtures and Dimmers for Control
To select the fixtures or dimmer channels that you want to control, you use the fixture buttons. You can
select fixtures or dimmers individually, or several at once.
You can control dimmer channels and fixture intensity directly from the fader control of the handle, or
select the channels as described below and use the dimmer attribute.
Press the fixture buttons for the fixtures you want. The LED on the fixture button will light up for the
selected fixtures.
To select a range of fixtures, hold down the fixture button for the first fixture then press the fixture
button for the last fixture.
Press <Locate> to position the selected fixtures in open white at a central position. These values are
not loaded into the programmer –they will not be saved in a scene unless you modify the fixture.
If you want to light up a fixture without moving its position, press <M.L. MENU> then <A> [Locate
without P/T]
If you select a fixture you do not want, press its fixture button again to deselect it.
You can deselect a fixture by pressing the fixture select button again.
Once you have changed any attribute, pressing a fixture button will deselect all fixtures and start the
selection process again.
2. Changing Attributes of the Selected Fixtures
“Attributes” are the functions of the fixture, such as: pan, tilt, color, dimmer, etc. You select which
attributes you want to modify by pressing the buttons on the top left side of the console and set values by
turning the wheels at the bottom of the Showtec Creator 2048. The available attributes depend on the
fixture type. Dimmer channels only have a dimmer attribute. Showtec Creator 2048 can control up to 40
attributes per fixture.
Each attribute button controls two attributes, one on the Wheel A and another on the Wheel B.
Press the button for the attribute to be changed.
Turn the wheels to set the attribute. The display above the wheels shows which attributes are being
controlled.
Repeat step 1 to change other attributes of the selected fixtures.
Information about attributes:
01) The attribute buttons let you select the first 20 attributes. Another 20 attributes are available by
pressing the attribute banks 11-20 button, to cater for the weird and wonderful DMX fixtures of the
future. The light on the button stays on when you are using the top 20 attributes.
02) If the display above the wheels does not show the attribute when you press the button, that attribute
is not available on the selected fixtures.
03) If you press the selected attribute button, the attributes will switch to other pages.
There are three operation modes for the sliders above the fixture buttons. Press <Fader Mode> to change
the mode:
01) Level (Pro): The preset faders are to control the dimmer channels of the fixture button. The data will
enter the programmer.
02) Level (Run): The preset faders are to control the dimmer channels of the fixture button. The data will
not enter the programmer.
03) Attribute: To control the attributes of the selected fixtures. The data will enter the programmer.

16
Ordercode: 50732
Creator 2048
3. Grouping
You can create groups of fixtures or dimmer channels, to make selecting them faster. You can, for
example, make a group for each type of fixture or group by left/right stage, etc. You can record up to 20
groups.
01) Select the desired fixtures for group setting (be aware of the order in which you select the fixtures as
it will have influence upon the performance).
02) Press <Enter> to record the group.
03) Select a fixture group button on which you want to save the group.
04) Repeat steps 1-3 to save another group.
To load a fixture group:
01) Press <Group>.
02) Press the desired fixture button to load the previously saved groups.
4. Stepping Through Selected Fixture One At a Time
If you have selected a range of fixtures, or a group, the Showtec Creator 2048 offers the function with
which you can step through the selected fixtures, one at a time. This can make it easier to program a
range of fixtures because you do not have to select each one manually.
●Select a range of fixtures or a group.
●Press <←> (Reverse) and <→> (Forward) to select the fixtures in the range, one at time.
●Press <HiLight> button to highlight the output of the selected fixture, so that you can see it on site
(the button LED is lit, when in Highlight mode).
●Press <All> button to reselect all the previously selected fixtures.
Press <Odd> or <Even> and the fixtures at the odd/eve positions will be selected.
5. Move Lighting Menu
In Fixture menu, there are more options for fixture operation. Press <M.L. MENU> to turn the pages.
01) Locate without P/T: Turns on the selected fixtures but does not move them tot he central position. It is
useful if you do not want to change the positioning of the fixtures.
02) Align Fixture/Attribute: See The Align Function, page 16.
03) Flip: See Flip Fixtures, page 16.
04) Macro: Serves the purpose of lighting up or auto testing a fixture. Alter the personality settings first, for
this function to work.
05) De-Select fixtures: Deselects all fixtures but does not clear the programmer.
06) Flip Pan: Pan movement flip.
07) Flip Tilt: Tilt movement flip.
08) Remove Shape Temp: Move two fixtures running the same shape to the desired position.
6. The Align Function
The Align function allows you to copy an attribute from one fixture to others. This can be useful if you want
to set a row of scans to have the same tilt position, or if you want to copy a color from one fixture onto
other fixtures.
Press an attribute button of the attribute that you want to align.
Select the fixture which is to be used as the reference.
Select the other fixtures you want to align to the first one.
Press <M.L. MENU>, then, press <C> [Align Attribute].
The attributes will be copied to all the selected fixtures.
You can align all attributes of the fixtures using <B> [Align Fixtures] (it does not matter which attribute
is selected).
If you use a group to select the fixtures, the one you selected first when you recorded the group will
be the reference fixture.

17
Ordercode: 50732
Creator 2048
7. Flip Function
The flip function is mainly used for moving heads. This type of fixture has two possible pan and tilt positions
for each point on stage, and this function alternates between them. This gives you more freedom to
make movement without hitting the pan stop.
01) Select desired fixtures to flip.
02) Press <M.L. MENU>.
03) Press <D>.
8. Fan Mode
Fan mode automatically spreads out the values on a selected range of fixtures. If used on pan and tilt,
the result is spreading out “rays” of light beams. The first and last fixtures of the range are affected most,
and the central fixtures are affected least. The amount of fan can be set by turning the wheels.
As with shapes, the order in which you select the fixtures sets how the fan effect works. The fixtures you
select first and last will be the ones which change most. If you use a group to select the fixtures, the order
is the one in which the fixtures in the group were selected when it was created.
The fan effect, while normally used on pan or tilt attributes, can be applied to any attribute.
Select the fixtures which you want to fan.
Select the attributes to fan (Pan/Tilt, Color, etc).
Press <Fan> and set the reference point for the fan effect. You can select 3 modes:
01) <A> Middle.
02) <B> First
03) <C> Last
The controllable attributes will be displayed in the bottom two lines in the screen.
The display shows which attribute is being controlled by each wheel.
Turn off Fan by pressing the <Fan> button again, when you have finished.
Fan mode needs to be used on at least 4 fixtures to give good effects. If you have an odd number of
fixtures, the central fixture will not move in fan mode.
Press the <Fan> button again to leave Fan mode. Any effects which you have set will remain in the
programmer.
<A> Middle: In this mode, the fixtures on the edges will move fully, while the fixture close to the
middle will move partially. If the total number of fixtures is odd, then the fixture located on the right
middle will nove move at all.
<B> First: If set to First, the first fixture will remain static and the remaining fixtures will move in the way
that every fixture will move more than its predecessor.
<C> Last: If set to Last, the last fixture will remain static and the remaining fixtures will move in the way
that every fixture will move less than its predecessor.
It is fairly easy to accidentally leave Fan mode turned on and be very confused about why the wheels
are not working properly, so turn it off as soon as you have completed the effect.
9. Advanced Options
There are more than two pages of advanced options under <ML> menu. Press <Up> or<Down> to toggle
through them.
Locate Fix. No P/T: turns on the selected fixtures but does not move them to a central position. This is
useful if you do not want to disturb the positioning of fixtures but need to light them up. The settings
for each type of fixture are defined in the personality file.
Align: See page 16.
Flip: See page 17.
De-Select fixtures deselects all fixtures but does not clear the programmer.
Macro: Can be used for lighting up the fixtures or to auto check them, which shall be set in the
personality file in advance.
Flip Pan: Flips the pan movement of fixtures.
Flip Tilt: Flips the tilt movement of fixtures.
Remove Shape Temp.: This function can be used when we want to move two fixtures, which are
running a shape, to a certain point.

18
Ordercode: 50732
Creator 2048
Palette
When in programming, you will find some of the positions or colors frequently used. The console allows
you to store the frequently used data, like an artist using his palette. Therefore, you can access such data
quickly by pressing a single button. 20 x 5 pages of palettes are available on the console.
Actually, when patching a fixture, Showtec Creator 2048 will automatically load 10 preset positions, 10
colors and 10 gobos into the palette of this fixture. That allows you to apply a specific color and/or gobo
without searching. Normally, the positions shall be edited in advance but the preset palettes shall be
provided in the personality files.
1. Customize Palette
The Creator allows you to select the way in which the palettes can be used.
01) Press <Setup> and then press <Down> to scroll down.
02) Press <A> [User Setting].
03) There are 2 options in the menu:
Save Pal. Not link A/Save Pal. Link Attr.: When recording a palette entry, you can select to link it
to attributes or not. If yes, then only the data of the selected attributes in the programmer will be
recorded. Otherwise, all the data in the programmer will be recorded.
Use Pal. Not link At/Use Pal. Link Attr.: When loading a palette entry, you can select to link it to
attributes or not. If yes, then only the data of the selected attributes will be loaded. Otherwise, all
the data will be loaded.
2. Palette Page
Palette pages can be locked/unlocked, as fixture pages are turning.
01) Press <Setup> and then press <Down> to scroll down.
02) Press <A> [User Setting].
03) Press <Down> to scroll down.
04) Press <E> [Palette Page ON/OFF].
If set to ON, then the palette pages will turn together with the fixture pages.
If set to OFF, then the palette page will be locked on page 1.
3. Shared and Individual Palette
Palette entries can be shared or individual.
Shared: If there is only one fixture in the programmer (you have only changed one fixture) when
recording the palette entry, then you can use that palette entry for all fixtures of the same type. So
you could save a value for “Red” on the first of your moving heads and then use that value for any
of your other moving heads. This is a shared palette, useful for values which are the same for all the
fixtures of one type, such as color, gobo, prism etc. The preprogrammed palettes are all shared.
Individual: If there is more than one fixture in the programmer when recording the palette entry, then
the entry is unique for each fixture. Therefore, when you save an entry with pan/tilt positions for your 4
central moving heads, those positions will only ever apply to those fixtures. You can later add values
for other fixtures; fixtures which have no values saved will not change when the palette is recalled.
This is an individual palette, useful for values which vary for each fixture, like pan, tilt and image
focus.
4. Which attributes are stored in palettes
A palette entry can store any or all attributes of a fixture, so you could store position, color and gobo in
the same palette entry. However, it is easier to operate the Showtec Creator 2048 if you have some
palettes for position, some for color, some for gobo and so on. There are 100 palettes available so you do
not need to mix them up.
Some attributes are linked to each other. When we store or recall the first attribute, the console will store
all the other modified attributes or recall al the other attributes stored with data. The 4th attribute button
is also linked to the 9th and the 10th attribute buttons.

19
Ordercode: 50732
Creator 2048
5. Storing a Palette
This is how you save a palette value:
01) Press <Clear> to clear the programmer.
02) Select the fixtures for which you want to store palette values. Select one fixture only to record a
shared palette entry.
03) Using the attribute buttons and wheels, set the attributes you want in the palette entry. You can store
any or all attributes of a fixture in each palette entry. Only attributes you have changed will be
recorded.
04) Press the attribute button for the attributes you want to store (the dimmer button will store all
attributes). The buttons light up to show you which attributes are going to be recorded. It’s best to
save only one type of attribute (e.g. Tilt/Pan).
05) Press <Store Palette>, then press one of the palette buttons, to save.
If you have selected [Save Pal. link Attr] in [User Settings], and when storing the palette values, only
the data of the selected attributes will be stored. If you want to store all the data that you have
modified, you can set the attribute button to the dimmer attribute or change to [Save Pal. not link A]
in [User Settings].
When you select to Record by Fixture, all the data of the modified fixtures will be recorded. Then, it is
nothing about the selected attributes. You can use this method in Mode 1 and Mode 2 (refer to the
next section).
6. Palette Modes
There are 4 palette modes for different arenas. Read below about how to set the palette mode:
01) Press <Time/Mode >.
02) Press the desired palette button to modify the mode.
03) Select the desired option. Press <Up>/<Down> to scroll through the menu.
Mode 0: Recalling a palette in this mode, data will be output directly without entering the
programmer. Such data can be overwritten by scene data. The dimmer data will not output.
Mode 1: Recalling a palette in this mode, data will be output after pressing the palette button. The
indicator of the palette button will keep on flashing, while running. Press the same palette button
again, to stop. The data before running the palette will be recovered and the indicator will stop
flashing. Scene data cannot overwrite the related channel data from the running palette.
Mode 2: Recalling a palette in this mode, data will be output when the palette button is pressed and
held. The indicator of the palette button will keep on flashing, while running. Release the palette
button to stop. The data before running the palette will be recovered and the indicator will stop
flashing. Scene data cannot overwrite the related channel data from the running palette.
Mode 3: Recalling a palette in this mode, data will be output directly and will enter the programmer
and take over the output of scene data. This is the traditional way of recalling a palette.
7. Recalling a Palette Value
Read below about how to recall a palette value.
01) Select the fixtures.
02) If you have selected [Save Pal. link Attr] in [User Settings], then you need to select attributes to load
the relevant data. The dimmer attribute can load all the data in the palette. If you have selected
[Save Pal. link Attr] in [User Settings], then all the data of the palette will be loaded directly.
03) Press one of the palette buttons to recall it.
It is the easiest if you only save one type of attribute (such as pan/tilt) into each palette. Then you
can just leave the dimmer attribute button selected when recalling the palette. If you store a mixture
of attributes, you always have to make sure that the correct attributes are selected when recalling a
palette. This is an extra step which you could do without.
When in Palette mode 3, the data will enter the programmer and take over the scene output.
Therefore, when in a show the scene is outputting white light, we can recall a palette to change it to
red light. If you want to go back to white light, it does not work to move the playback slider up again
or to press the scene button. You have to press <Clear> first and then load the scene again.