Show Tec Sunstrip Active DMX User manual

Sunstrip Active DMX
ORDERCODE 30710

Congratulations!
You have bought a great, innovative product from Showtec.
The Showtec Sunstrip Active DMX brings excitement to any venue. Whether you want simple plug-&-play
action or a sophisticated DMX show, this product provides the effect you need.
You can rely on Showtec, for more excellent lighting products.
We design and manufacture professional light equipment for the entertainment industry.
New products are being launched regularly. We work hard to keep you, our customer, satisfied.
For more information: [email protected]
You can get some of the best quality, best priced products on the market from Showtec.
So next time, turn to Showtec for more great lighting equipment.
Always get the best -- with Showtec !
Thank you!

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Showtec
Showtec Sunstrip Active DMX™Product Guide
Warning..…...................................................................................…………………………………………..
Safety-instructions………………………………………………………………………………………….….
Operating Determinations…………………………………………………………………………………….
Rigging………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
Description..…..............................................................................……….…………………………………
Features and Overview ………………………………...….……………….………….………………….….
Backside…………………………………………………...…...….……………….…………………...….….
Installation...............................................................................…...…………………………………….…..
Installing the Lamp ........................................................………………………………………..…………
Set Up and Operation.....................................................................……..……………………………….…
One Sunstrip Active ...............................................................……………………………………..….…..
Multiple Sunstrip Active’s.............................................................…....…………………………………...
Operation Modes…...................................................………………………………………………….…….
DMX Mode……....................................……………………………………………………………………..
Chase Mode……....................................………………….………………………………………………..
Maintenance...................................................................................………..………….…….………………
Changing the Lamp........................................................................…………………….…………………
Replacing the Fuse........................................................................…………………….…………………
Troubleshooting............................................................................………………….………………….…..
No Light............................................………………….……………………………………………………..
No Response to DMX ....................................................................………………….…………………..
Product Specifications.................................................................……………….…….…………………..

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WARNING
FOR YOUR OWN SAFETY, PLEASE READ THIS USER MANUAL CAREFULLY
BEFORE YOUR INITIAL START-UP!
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.
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.
•Never use anything to cover the ground contact.
•Never run the device without lamp!
•Never ignite the lamp if the objective-lens or any housing-cover is open, as discharge lamps may
expose and emit a high ultraviolet radiation, which may cause burns.
•Never lift the fixture by holding it at the projector-head, as the mechanics may be damaged. Always
hold the fixture at the transport handles.
•Never look directly into the light source.
•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 lamp’s life.
•Do not touch the device’s housing bare-handed during its operation (housing becomes very hot).
•Do not shake the device. Avoid brute force when installing or operating the device.
•Only use device indoor, avoid contact with water or other liquids.
•Only operate the fixture after having checked that the housing is firmly closed and all screws are
tightly fastened.
CAUTION!
Keep this device away from rain and moisture!
Un
p
lu
g
mains lead before o
p
enin
g
the housin
g
!
CAUTION! Be careful with your operations.
With a dangerous voltage you can suffer
a dan
g
erous electric shock when touchin
g
the wires!

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•Only operate the device after having familiarized with its functions.
•Avoid flames and do not put close to flammable liquids or gases.
•Always replace the lamp, when it is damaged or deformed due to the heat.
•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, before cleaning or when
replacing lamp! 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 lens 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 lamps and fuses of same type and rating only.
•Allow time to cool down, before replacing lamp.
•This device falls under protection class I. Therefore it is essential to connect this device to earth.
•During the initial start-up some smoke or smell may arise. This is a normal process and does not
necessarily mean that the device is defective.
•Repairs, servicing and electric connection must be carried out by a qualified technician.
•WARRANTY: Till one year after date of purchase.
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 minimum distance between light-output and the illuminated surface must be more than 1.3 meter.
The maximum ambient temperature tamust never be exceeded.
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, lamp explosion, crash etc.
You endanger your own safety and the safety of others!
CAUTION ! EYEDAMAGES !.
Avoid looking directly into the light source.
(
meant es
p
eciall
y
for e
p
ile
p
tics
)
!

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Rigging
Please follow the European and national guidelines concerning rigging, trussing and all other safety issues.
Do not attempt the installation yourself !
Always let the installation be carried out by an authorized dealer !
Procedure:
•If the Sunstrip is lowered from the ceiling or high joists, professional trussing systems have to be
used.
•Use a clamp to mount the Sunstrip, with the mounting-bracket, to the trussing system.
•The Sunstrip must never be fixed swinging freely in the room.
•The installation must always be secured with a safety attachment, e.g. an appropriate safety net or
safety-cable.
•When rigging, derigging or servicing the Sunstrip, always make sure, that the area below the
installation place is blocked and staying in the area is forbidden.
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.
Cable Pin International
BROWN FASE L
BLUE NUL N
YELLOW/GREEN EARTH
Make sure that the device is always connected properly to the earth!

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Description of the device
Features
The Showtec Sunstrip Active DMX is a light effect with high output and great effects.
• DMX-control via standard DMX-controller
• 1, 2, 5 or 10 DMX-control channels required depending on your setup
• 16 built-in programs subject to Speed and Dimmer, except for Auto & Full
• 0-100% dimming level
• 01 –99 Chase speed adjustment
• Power Failure Memory
• Fuse Protection
• Powercon in- and output
• Mounting/Floor brackets included
• Built-in Dimmerpack
• 10x Showtec Lamp 240V/75W GU10 (82382) Included !
• Fuse T6,3A / 250V
Overview
Fig. 1
1) 10x Showtec Lamp 240V/75W GU10 (82382)
Fig. 2
2) Power Thru (Grey): This connector sends the power to the next unit (Max 20A).
3) DMX signal connector (OUT): This connector sends the DMX signal to the next unit.
4) LED Display
5) Mode Button
6) Menu Button
7) Up Button
8) Down Button
9) Power On/Off
10) Fuse; 6,3A 250V 5*20mm
11) DMX signal connector (IN): This connector accepts the DMX input signal.
12) Power Input (Blue): This connector is the input power for this unit (Max 20A).

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Installation
Installing the Lamp
The Showtec Sunstrip Active uses the 240V/75W GU10 (82382) bulb as manufactured by all popular
manufacturers. Use only the appropriate lamp for your unit. 10 Lamps included.
Note that, product versions that use other lamps, may be offered in the future. Check your product
specification label for information.
Always disconnect from electric mains power supply before changing lamps.
The lamp has to be replaced when it is damaged or deformed due to the heat.
Do not install lamps with a higher wattage! Lamps with a higher wattage generate temperatures the
device was not designed for.
Damages caused by non-observance are not subject to warranty.
Procedure :
1. Loosen the 4 screws on the front of the housing.
2. Gently remove the metal housing.
3. Read lamp instructions. Do not touch the lamp bulb glass. Push and turn the lamp Counter Clockwise and
remove the lamp. Oil on hands shortens the lamp life. (If you touch the bulb glass, wipe off the glass with
a clean, lint-free towel and rubbing alcohol.).
4. Insert the lamp pins into the small holes in the lamp socket,. Push and turn Clockwise to install the lamp.
Do the same for the remaining lamps.
5. Put the metal housing back and fasten the screws snugly.
Fig. 3

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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.
One Sunstrip Active
1. Fasten the effect light onto firm trussing (Use a 30-kg rated or stronger C-clamp fastened onto the
Sunstrip Active ). Leave at least 1 meter on all sides for air circulation.
2. Plug one end of the electric mains power cord into the IEC socket on the unit.
Then plug the other end of the cord into a proper electric power supply socket.
Multiple Sunstrip Active
1. Fasten the effect light onto firm trussing (Use a 30-kg rated or stronger C-clamp fastened onto the
Sunstrip Active). Leave at least 1 meter on all sides for air circulation.
2. Use a 3-p XLR cable to connect the Sunstrip Active’s.
The pins:
1. Earth
2. Signal -
3. Signal +
3. Link the units as shown in (figure 6), Connect a DMX signal cable from the first unit's DMX "out" socket to
the second unit's "in" socket. Repeat this process to link the second, third, and fourth units.
4. Supply electric power: Plug electric mains power cords into each unit's Blue socket, then plug the other
end of the mains power cord into proper electric power supply sockets, starting with the first unit. Do not
supply power before the whole system is set up and connected properly.
Multiple Sunstrip Active DMX Set Up
Fig. 6
Note : Link all cables before connecting electric power

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Operation Modes
The Sunstrip Active has 2 different operating modes: • 10 Channel Chaser (P)
• 1, 2, 5 or 10 Channel DMX Dimmer (A)
In DMX Mode , you can select: • DMX Address (A)
• Channel (CH)
In Chase Mode, you can select: • Chase Program (P),
Auto, Full
• Chase Dimmer (d)
• Chase Speed (SP)
DMX Mode
You can only use this mode when you are using the device as a DMX Dimmer.
This function allows you to set your device as a 1, 2, 5 or 10 Channel DMX Dimmer.
Selecting DMX Mode
DMX mode is indicated by an “A” followed by 3 digits in the LED Display.
“A” means DMX Address and shows the DMX Mode has been activated.
If the Display shows “P”, means you are in Chase Mode.
You can switch between the 2 modes by pushing the MODE Button.
Selecting Channel Mode
Channel mode is indicated by an “CH” followed by 2 digits (01, 02, 05 or 10) in
the LED Display.
You cannot use the MENU Button to select the Channel Mode, unless you have
selected the DMX Operation Mode as in Step 1.
Setting the Channel Value
Once you have activated the Channel Mode, you can push
the UP or DOWN button to change the setting from 01, 02, 05 or 10.
1) When CH:01 is shown in the display, all channels will be controlled by
one DMX Channel.
2) When CH:02 is shown in the display, Channel 1 and 2 will be controlled by
one DMX Channel, Channel 3 and 4 will be controlled by one DMX Channel, …..,
Channel 9 and 10 will be controlled by one DMX
Channel. You have a total of 5 DMX Channels available.
3) When CH:05 is shown in the display, Channel 1-5 will be controlled by one DMX Channel and
Channel 6-10 will be controlled by the other DMX Channel.
4) When CH:10 is shown in the display, each channel will be controlled by one DMX Channel.
Note : Default is CH:10; this means 10 DMX Channels, so every light is individually controllable.

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Selecting DMX Address Mode
DMX mode is indicated by an “A” followed by 3 digits (001-512) in the LED Display.
Setting the DMX Address
Once you have activated the DMX Mode, you can push the UP or DOWN button
to change the setting from 001-512.
CHASE Mode
You can only use this mode when you are using the device as a Chaser. The unit has 16 built-in programs
except for Auto and Full. You can select any of these programs to create a chase for a lightshow.
You can also control the speed at which the programs will be chasing.
Selecting the Chase Mode
Chase mode is indicated by a “P” followed by 2 digits (01-16) in the LED Display.
“P” means Chase Mode and shows the Chase Mode has been activated.
If the Chase Mode has been activated, the Chase program Mode starts and
is the Default setting.
Setting the Chase Program
Once you have activated the Chase Mode, you can push the UP or DOWN button
to change the setting from 01-16. The Chase pattern is shown by a “P”
in the display and further by 01-16, AUTO or FULL.
You can select any of these settings to run at a single time.
Selecting the Chase Speed
To adjust the Chase Speed, you must activate the Chase Speed Mode.
Press the MENU Button until the display shows “SP” followed by 2 digits.
Setting the Chase Speed
In this Mode, you can adjust the Program Chase Speed. Use the UP or DOWN
button to change the setting from 01-99. A value of 01 means the slowest chase
speed of approximately once every 30 sec. A value of 99 means the fastest chase
speed of approximately 0.1 sec.

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Selecting the Intensity (Dimming) Mode
To adjust the output intensity, you must activate the Chase Dimmer Mode.
Hold the MENU button until the display shows “d” followed by 2 digits
Setting the Intensity
Use the UP or DOWN button to change the setting from 00-100.
A value of 000 means the weakest output intensity and a value of 100 means
the highest output.
Auto
The Sunstrip will play all built-in programs, one after the other.
Full
All 10 lights on the Sunstrip will light up and stay on at 100%.

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Maintenance
The operator has to make sure that safety-relating and machine-technical installations are to be inspected
by an expert after every four years in the course of an acceptance test.
The operator has to make sure that safety-relating and machine-technical installations are to be inspected
by a skilled person once a year.
The following points have to be considered during the inspection:
1. All screws used for installing the device or parts of the device have to be tightly connected and must
not be corroded.
2. There may not be any deformations on housings, fixations and installation spots.
3. Mechanically moving parts like axles, eyes and others may not show any traces of wearing.
4. The electric power supply cables must not show any damages or material fatigue.
The Showtec Sunstrip Active requires almost no maintenance. However, you should keep the unit clean.
Otherwise, the fixture’s light-output will be significantly reduced. Disconnect the mains power supply, and
then wipe the cover with a damp cloth. Do not immerse in liquid. Do not use alcohol or solvents.
The device will require monthly cleaning with a soft brush, as smoke-fluid tends to build up residues,
reducing the light-output very quickly.
Please clean internal components once a year with a light brush and vacuum cleaner.
Keep connections clean. Disconnect electric power, and then wipe the DMX and audio connections with a
damp cloth. Make sure connections are thoroughly dry before linking equipment or supplying electric power.
Changing the Lamp
1. Disconnect mains power supply, and allow 15 minutes to cool down. Loosen the 4 screws on the front of
the housing.
2. Gently remove the metal housing.
3. Follow directions for installing a new lamp, page 6.
Replacing a Fuse
Power surges, short-circuit or inappropriate electrical power supply may cause a fuse to burn out. If the fuse
burns out, the product will not function whatsoever. If this happens, follow the directions below to do so.
1. Unplug the unit from electric power source.
2. Insert a flat-head screwdriver into the slot in the fuse cover. Turn the screwdriver to the left, at the same
time gently push a bit (Turn and Push). The fuse will come out.
3. Remove the used fuse. If brown or unclear, it is burned out.
4. Insert the replacement fuse into the holder where the old fuse was. Reinsert the fuse cover. Be sure to
use a fuse of the same type and specification. See the product specification label for details.

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Troubleshooting
No Light
This troubleshooting guide is meant to help solve simple problems. If a problem occurs, carry out the steps
below in sequence until a solution is found. Once the unit operates properly, do not carry out following
steps.
If the light effect does not operate properly, refer servicing to a technician.
Response: Suspect three potential problem areas: the power supply, the lamp, the fuse.
1. Power supply. Check that the unit is plugged into an appropriate power supply.
2. The lamp. Replace the old lamp with a new one with the same specifications. See page 6 for replacing
lamps.
3. The fuse. Replace the fuse. See page 11 for replacing the fuse.
No Response to DMX
Response: Suspect the DMX cable or connectors, a controller malfunction, a light effect DMX card
malfunction.
1. Check the DMX cable: Unplug the unit; change the DMX cable; then reconnect to electrical power. Try
your DMX control again.
2. Determine whether the controller or light effect is at fault. Does the controller operate properly with other
DMX products ? If not, take the controller in for repair. If so, take the DMX cable and the light effect to a
qualified technician.
See next page for more problem solving.

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Problem Probable cause(s) Remedy
No power to the fixture ·Check that power is switched on and
cables are plugged in.
One or more
Sunstrip are
completely dead. Primary fuse blown. ·Replace fuse.
The controller is not connected. ·Connect controller.Sunstrip reset
correctly, but all
respond
erratically or not
at all to the
controller.
3-pin XLR Out of the controller
does not match XLR Out of the
first fixture on the link (i.e. signal is
reversed).
·Install a phase reversing cable
between the controller and the first
fixture on the link.
Poor data quality
·Check data quality. If much lower
than 100 percent, the problem may
be a bad data link connection, poor
quality or broken cables, missing
termination plug, or a defective fixture
disturbing the link.
Bad data link connection
·Inspect connections and cables.
Correct poor connections. Repair or
replace damaged cables.
Data link not terminated with 120
Ohm termination plug.
·Insert termination plug in output jack
of the last fixture on the link.
Incorrect addressing of the
fixtures.
·Check address setting.
One of the fixtures is defective
and disturbs data transmission on
the link.
·Bypass one fixture at a time until
normal operation is regained: unplug
both connectors and connect them
directly together.
·Have the defective fixture serviced by
a qualified technician.
Sunstrip reset
correctly, but
some respond
erratically or not
at all to the
controller.
3-pin XLR Out on the fixtures does
not match (pins 2 and 3 reversed).
·Install a phase-reversing cable
between the fixtures or swap pin 2
and 3 in the fixture, that behaves
erratically.
The power supply settings do not
match local AC voltage and
frequency. Only connect this
device to 230V.
·Disconnect fixture. Check settings
(page 6) and correct if necessary.
No light
Lamp missing or blown ·Disconnect fixture and replace lamp.

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Product Specification
Model: Showtec Sunstrip Active
Voltage: 240V-50Hz (CE)
Power: 750W
Fuse: 6,3A / 250V
Dimensions: 1000x130x80mm (LxWxH)
Weight: 5,32 kg
Operation and Programming
Signal pin OUT: pin 1 earth, pin 2 (-), pin 3 (+)
Set Up and Addressing: Digital Display
DMX Channels: 1, 2, 5 or 10
Signal input 3-pin XLR male
Signal output 3-pin XLR female
Lamp
Allowed lamp models*:
Showtec Lamp 240V/75W GU10 (500 hr) ordercode 82382
Electro-mechanical effects
DMX-control via standard DMX-controller
Max. ambient temperature ta: 55°C; Max. housing temperature tB: 80°C
Minimum distance:
Minimum distance from flammable surfaces: 0.5m
Minimum distance to lighted object: 1.3m
*: Versions for other lamps may be produced. Please check the specification label on your product.
Design and product specifications are subject to change without prior notice.

2005 Showtec.