Show Tec Solar FL-280 V1 User manual

Solar FL-280
Highlite International B.V. –Vestastraat 2 –6468 EX –Kerkrade –the Netherlands
Product code: 46200
USER MANUAL
ENGLISH
V1

1
Solar FL-280
Product code: 46200
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.
©2020 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, 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.

2
Solar FL-280
Product code: 46200
Table of contents
1. Introduction..........................................................................................................................................................4
Before Using the Product ..................................................................................................................................4
Intended Use .......................................................................................................................................................4
Product Lifespan.................................................................................................................................................4
LEDs 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.................................................................................................................................8
3. Description of the Device...................................................................................................................................9
Front View ............................................................................................................................................................9
Back View ............................................................................................................................................................9
Product Specifications ....................................................................................................................................10
Dimensions.........................................................................................................................................................11
4. Installation ..........................................................................................................................................................12
Safety Instructions for Installation ..................................................................................................................12
Personal Protective Equipment .....................................................................................................................12
Installation Site Requirements ........................................................................................................................12
Rigging ...............................................................................................................................................................12
Angle Adjustment.......................................................................................................................................13
Connecting to Power Supply.........................................................................................................................14
Power Linking of Multiple Devices.................................................................................................................14
5. Setup ...................................................................................................................................................................15
Warnings and Precautions .............................................................................................................................15
Stand-alone Setup ...........................................................................................................................................15
DMX Connection..............................................................................................................................................15
DMX-512 Protocol .......................................................................................................................................15
DMX Cables .................................................................................................................................................16
DMX Linking..................................................................................................................................................17
DMX Addressing..........................................................................................................................................17
6. Operation ...........................................................................................................................................................18
Safety Instructions for Operation...................................................................................................................18
Control Modes ..................................................................................................................................................18
Control Panel ....................................................................................................................................................19
Start-up...............................................................................................................................................................19
Menu Overview ................................................................................................................................................20
Main Menu Options .........................................................................................................................................21
DMX Address ...............................................................................................................................................21
Info.................................................................................................................................................................21
Menu Settings..............................................................................................................................................22
Fan Mode ............................................................................................................................................22
Dimmer Curve.....................................................................................................................................22
Factory Reset ......................................................................................................................................23
DMX Fail................................................................................................................................................23
Manual Mode .............................................................................................................................................23
DMX Mode...................................................................................................................................................24
DMX Channels ..................................................................................................................................................24
7. Troubleshooting .................................................................................................................................................25
8. Maintenance .....................................................................................................................................................26
Safety Instructions for Maintenance.............................................................................................................26

3
Solar FL-280
Product code: 46200
Preventive Maintenance................................................................................................................................26
Basic Cleaning Instructions .......................................................................................................................27
Corrective Maintenance................................................................................................................................27
9. Deinstallation, Transportation and Storage ....................................................................................................28
Instructions for Deinstallation..........................................................................................................................28
Instructions for Transportation ........................................................................................................................28
Storage...............................................................................................................................................................28
10. Disposal ..............................................................................................................................................................28
11. Approval.............................................................................................................................................................28

4
Solar FL-280
Product code: 46200
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 Solar FL-280, barndoor not included
●Schuko to Powercon power cable (1,5 m)
●User manual
Fig. 01
Intended Use
This device is intended for professional use as a light effect. It is suitable only for indoor installation. This
device is not suitable for households and for general lighting.
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.
LEDs Lifespan
The light output of the LEDs gradually decreases over time (lumen depreciation). High operating
temperatures contribute to this process. You can extend the lifespan of the LEDs by providing adequate
ventilation and operating the LEDs at the lowest possible brightness.
Text Conventions
Throughout the user manual the following text conventions are used:
●Buttons: All buttons are in bold lettering, for example “Press the UP/DOWN buttons”
●References: References to chapters and parts of the device are in bold lettering, for example:
“Refer to 2. Safety”, “turn the adjustment handle (05)”
●0–255: Defines a range of values
●Notes: Note: (in bold lettering) is followed by useful information or tips

5
Solar FL-280
Product code: 46200
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 a potentially 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.
Electrical hazard
Hot surface
Eye damage hazard
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 at the backside of the
device.
The information label contains the following symbols:
This device is designed for indoor use.
This device shall not be treated as household waste.
This device falls under IEC protection class I.
Minimum distance from lighted objects.
Minimum distance from other objects.

6
Solar FL-280
Product code: 46200
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.
DANGER
Electric shock caused by dangerous voltage inside
There are areas within the device where dangerous touch voltage may be present.
●Do not open the device or remove any covers.
●Do not operate the device if the covers or the housing are open. Before operation, check if the
housing is firmly closed and all screws are tightly fastened.
●Disconnect the device from electrical power supply before service and maintenance, and when the
device is not in use.
DANGER
Electric shock caused by short-circuit
This device falls under IEC protection class I.
●Make sure that the device is electrically connected to ground (earth). Connect the device only to a
socket-outlet with ground (earth) connection.
●Do not cover the ground (earth) connection.
●Do not bypass the thermostatic switch or fuses.
●For replacement use fuses of the same type and rating only.
●Do not let the power cable come into contact with other cables. Handle the power cable and all
connections with the mains with caution.
●Do not modify, bend, mechanically strain, put pressure on, pull or heat up the power cable.
●Make sure that the power cable is not crimped or damaged. Examine the power cable periodically
for any defects.
●Do not immerse the device in water or other liquids. Do not install the device in a location where
flooding may occur.
●Do not use the device during thunderstorms. Disconnect the device from the electrical power supply
immediately.

7
Solar FL-280
Product code: 46200
WARNING
Risk of burns due to hot surface
The surface and the inner parts of the device can become very hot during operation.
●Do not touch the device during operation.
●Allow the device to cool down for at least 15 minutes before handling.
WARNING
Risk of epileptic shock
Strobe lighting can trigger seizures in photosensitive epilepsy. Sensitive persons should avoid looking at
strobe lights.
WARNING
Possible eye damage caused by high light intensity
Possibly hazardous optical radiation emitted from this device.
●Do not look at the operating light source. May be harmful to the eye.
●Do not look at the light source with optical instruments that may concentrate the light output.
●Make sure that persons are not looking directly into the light source when the device lights up
suddenly. This can happen when the device is powered or when it receives DMX signal, or when
certain menu items are selected.
●Disconnect power supply before servicing.
●Wear protective goggles if looking into light source during service or maintenance.
Attention
Power supply
●Before connecting the device to the power supply, make sure that the current, voltage and
frequency match the input voltage, current and frequency specified on the information label on the
device.
●Make sure that the cross-sectional area of the extension cords and power cables is sufficient for the
required power consumption of the device.
Attention
General safety
●Do not insert objects into the air vents.
●Do not connect the device to a dimmer pack.
●Do not switch the device on and off in short intervals. This decreases the device’s life.
●Do not shake the device. Avoid brute force when installing or operating the device.
●Change the lens or the LEDs if they are visibly damaged to such an extent that their effectiveness is
impaired, for example by cracks or deep scratches. Contact your Highlite International dealer for
more information, as servicing can be performed only by instructed or skilled persons.
●If the device is dropped or struck, disconnect the device from the electrical power supply
immediately.

8
Solar FL-280
Product code: 46200
●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.
●If the device fails to work properly, discontinue the use immediately.
Attention
For professional use only
This device shall be used only for the purposes it is designed for.
This device is designed to be used as a professional stage light effect. Any incorrect use may lead to
hazardous situations and result in injuries and material damage.
●This device is not suitable for households and for general lighting.
●This device is not designed for permanent operation.
●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
Before each use, examine the device visually for any defects.
Make sure that:
●All screws used for installing the device or parts of the device are tightly fastened and are not
corroded.
●The safety devices are not damaged.
●There are no deformations on housings, fixations and installation points.
●The lens is not cracked or damaged.
●The power cables are not damaged and do not show any material fatigue.
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 may be carried by ordinary persons.
Installation and 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 installation, service and maintenance 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 installation, service and maintenance 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.

9
Solar FL-280
Product code: 46200
3. Description of the Device
The Solar FL-280 is a LED fixture with an impressive light output in a compact but sturdy housing.
Front View
01) Mounting bracket
02) Adjustment screw
03) 14x 20W White CREE LED
04) Barndoor not included
Fig. 02
Back View
05) LCD display + control buttons
06) 100-240V Neutrik power connector IN (Blue)
07) 5-pin DMX signal connector IN
08) 100-240V Neutrik power connector OUT (Gray)
09) 5-pin DMX signal connector OUT
Fig. 03

10
Solar FL-280
Product code: 46200
Product Specifications
Model:
Solar FL-280
Electrical:
Input voltage:
100–240 V AC, 50/60 Hz
Power consumption:
280 W
Physical:
Dimensions:
468 x 262 x 265 mm (L x W x H)
Weight:
7 kg
Optics:
Light source:
14x 20W White CREE LED
Color temperature:
7500 K
Lux @2m
73579 Lux
Lumen
18000 lm
Dimmer:
0–100 %
Strobe:
0–20 Hz
Beam angle:
13°
Power Factor:
0.95
CRI:
95
Operation and control:
Control:
Stand-alone (manual)
DMX-512
DMX channels:
1, 2 and 4 channels
Control panel:
LED display and buttons
Connections:
Power connections:
Neutrik power connector IN (Blue)
Neutrik power connector OUT (Gray)
Data connections:
5-pin DMX connectors IN/OUT
Signal pinouts:
pin 1 (ground), pin 2 (-), pin 3 (+), pin 4 (NC), pin 5 (NC).
Construction:
Housing:
Die-cast aluminum
Color:
Black
IP rating:
IP20
Cooling:
Fan, Temperature controlled
Thermal:
Maximum ambient temperature ta:
40 °C
Maximum housing temperature tc:
70 °C
Minimum distance:
Minimum distance from flammable surfaces:
0,5 m
Minimum distance to lighted object:
0,5 m

11
Solar FL-280
Product code: 46200
Dimensions
Fig. 04
Fig. 05

12
Solar FL-280
Product code: 46200
4. Installation
Safety Instructions for Installation
WARNING
Incorrect installation can cause serious injuries and damage of property.
If trussing systems are used, installation must be carried out only by instructed or skilled persons.
Follow all applicable European, national and local safety regulations concerning rigging and trussing.
Personal Protective Equipment
During installation and rigging wear personal protective equipment in compliance with the national and
site-specific regulations.
Installation Site Requirements
●The device can be used only indoors.
●The device can be mounted to a truss or other rigging structure.
●The minimum distance to other objects must be bigger than 0,5 m.
●The minimum distance between the light output and the illuminated surface must be bigger than
0,5 m.
●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.
Rigging
The device can be positioned on a flat surface or mounted to a truss or other rigging structure. Make sure
that all loads are within the pre-determined limits of the supporting structure.
CAUTION
Restrict the access under the work area during rigging and/or derigging.
To mount the device, follow the steps below:
01) Use a clamp to attach the device to the supporting structure, as shown in Fig. 06. Make sure that the
device cannot move freely.
02) Secure the device with a secondary suspension, for example a safety cable. Make sure that the
secondary suspension can hold 10 times the weight of the device. If possible, the secondary
suspension should be attached to a supporting structure independent of the primary suspension. Put
the safety cable around the mounting bracket (00), as shown in Fig. 06.

13
Solar FL-280
Product code: 46200
Fig. 06
Angle Adjustment
You can adjust the angle of the device with the 2 adjustment screws (03).
01) Turn the adjustment screws (03) counterclockwise to release them.
02) Tilt the device at the desired angle (see Fig. 07).
03) Turn the adjustment screws (03) clockwise to tighten them. Make sure that the device cannot move
freely after the adjustment screws (03) are tightened.
Fig. 07

14
Solar FL-280
Product code: 46200
Connecting to Power Supply
DANGER
Electric shock caused by short-circuit
The device accepts AC mains power at 100–240 V and 50/60 Hz. Do not supply power at any other
voltage or frequency to the device.
This device falls under IEC protection class I. Make sure that the device is always electrically connected
to the ground (earth).
Before connecting the device to the socket-outlet:
●Make sure that the power supply matches the input voltage specified on the information label on
the device.
●Make sure that the socket-outlet has ground (earth) connection.
Connect the device to the socket-outlet with the power plug. Do not connect the device to a dimmer
circuit, as this may damage the device.
Power Linking of Multiple Devices
This device supports power linking. Power can be relayed to another device via the power OUT
connector. Note that the input and the output connectors have different designs: one type cannot be
connected to the other.
Power linking of multiple devices must be carried out only by instructed or skilled persons.
WARNING
Incorrect power linking may lead to overload of the electrical circuit and result in serious
injuries and damage of property.
To prevent overload of the electrical circuit, when power linking multiple devices:
●Use cables with sufficient current-carrying capacity. The power cable supplied with the device is not
suitable for power linking of multiple devices.
●Make sure that the total current draw of the device and all connected devices does not exceed the
rated capacity of the power cables and the circuit breaker.
●Do not link more devices on one power link than the maximum recommended number.
Maximum recommended number of devices:
●at 100–120 V: 6 devices Solar FL-280
●at 200–240 V: 12 devices Solar FL-280

15
Solar FL-280
Product code: 46200
5. Setup
Warnings and Precautions
Attention
Connect all data cables before supplying power.
Disconnect power supply before connecting or disconnecting data cables.
Stand-alone Setup
When the Solar FL-280 is not connected to a controller or to other devices, it functions as a stand-alone
device. It can be operated manually.
For more information about the control modes, refer to 6.2. Control Modes on page 18.
DMX Connection
DMX-512 Protocol
You need a DMX serial data link to run light shows of one or more devices using a DMX-512 controller or
to run synchronized shows of two or more devices set in a master/slave operating mode.
The Solar FL-280 has 5-pin DMX signal IN and OUT connectors.
The pin assignment is as follows: pin 1 (ground), pin 2 (-), pin 3 (+), pin 4 (NC), pin 5 (NC).
Devices on a serial data link must be daisy-chained in a single line. The number of devices that you can
control on one data link is limited by the combined number of the DMX channels of the connected
devices and the 512 channels available in one DMX universe.
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 must use a DMX optically isolated
splitter/booster, otherwise this may result in deterioration of the DMX signal.
Note:
●Maximum recommended DMX data link distance: 300 m
●Maximum recommended number of devices on a DMX data link: 32 devices

16
Solar FL-280
Product code: 46200
DMX Cables
Shielded twisted-pair cables with 5-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. 09.
Fig. 09

17
Solar FL-280
Product code: 46200
DMX Linking
To connect multiple devices on one DMX data link, follow the steps below:
Use a 3-pin DMX cable to connect the DMX OUT connector of the lighting controller to the DMX IN
connector of the first device.
02) Connect the first device’s DMX OUT connector to the second device’s DMX IN connector with a
3-pin DMX cable.
03) Repeat step 2 to connect all devices in a daisy-chain as shown in Fig. 11.
04) Connect a DMX terminator (120 Ω resistor) to the DMX OUT connector of the last device on the data
link.
Fig. 11
DMX Addressing
In a setup with multiple devices, make sure that you set the DMX starting address of each device
correctly. The Solar FL-280 has 3 personalities: 1, 2 and 4 channels.
If you want to connect multiple devices on one data link and use them in 10-channel mode, for
example, follow the steps below:
Set the starting address of the 1st device on the data link to 1 (001).
02) Set the starting address of the 2nd device on the data link to 5 (005), as 1 + 4 = 5.
03) Set the starting address of the 3rd device on the data link to 9 (009) as 5 + 4 = 9.
04) Continue assigning the starting addresses of the remaining devices by adding each time 10 to the
previous number.
Make sure that you do not have any overlapping channels in order to control each Solar FL-280 correctly.
If two or more devices are addressed similarly, they will work similarly.

18
Solar FL-280
Product code: 46200
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 professional use as a light effect. It is suitable only for indoor installation. This
device is not suitable for households and for general lighting.
Any other use, not mentioned under intended use, is regarded as non-intended and incorrect use.
Attention
Power supply
Before connecting the device to the power supply, make sure that the current, voltage and frequency
match the input voltage, current and frequency specified on the information label on the device.
Control Modes
The Solar FL-280 can be operated with a DMX controller, or without a DMX controller as a stand-alone
device.
The Solar FL-280 supports the following control modes:
●Stand-alone: Manual operation mode
●DMX-512: 1, 2 and 4 channels

19
Solar FL-280
Product code: 46200
Control Panel
A) LCD display
B) UP button
C) DOWN button
D) MENU button
E) ENTER button
Fig. 12
●Use the MENU button to exit the current submenu, to return to the main menu and to return to the
start screen.
●Use the UP/DOWN buttons to navigate through the menus or to increase/decrease numeric values.
●Use the ENTER button to open the desired menu, to confirm your choice or to set the currently
selected value.
Start-up
Upon start-up the display will show the following screen:
Immediately afterwards the display will show the start screen. The start screen provides information about
the current control mode of the device:
DMX control mode with DMX starting address 001
4 Channel mode is active
Note: If no button is pressed, after 20 seconds of inactivity the display will return to the start
screen and after 10 more seconds it will turn off. Press any button to turn the display on.