Strand C21 User manual
ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY DIMMER RACKS
C21 / EC21
OPERATION GUIDE
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NOTE: The material in this manual is for information purposes only and is subject to change without notice.
Strand Lighting assumes no responsibility for any errors or omissions, which may appear in this manual. For
comments and suggestions regarding corrections and/or updates to this manual, please contact the nearest
Strand Lighting oce.
PREFACE
Thank you for choosing Strand C21 / EC21 Advanced Technology dimmer rack. We trust that the equipment will
meet all your dimming needs and will provide you with reliable service for many years.
Strand can assure you that every eort has been made to ensure that the equipment has been designed to
meet the highest professional standards and that dimmer racks and their components have been assembled,
inspected, and tested in accordance with our strict quality assurance program.
Should you encounter any problems or diculties with your dimmer racks, please contact the nearest Strand
service representative. For a complete list of Vari-Lite oces and service centers or visit our website (www.vari-
lite.com).
This manual describes the operation of for C21 / EC21 Advanced Technology dimmer racks. A separate Installa-
tion Guide provided with the dimmer racks describes how to install the dimmer racks and perform initial setup
procedures.
TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE
C21 / EC21 racks and dimmers require a minimum of maintenance and servicing.
For operation or technical assistance, please contact Vari-Lite or the local Authorized Service Center serving
your area.
DEFINITION OF TERMS
This manual uses the following terms throughout:
channel A device controlling a dimmer or group of dimmers. Historically, there is a physical con-
troller (such as a slider) for each channel. On most current control systems, channels are
numbers accessed by a numeric keypad. Each channel can control multiple dimmers.
circuit A connection device and wiring for powering a lighting fixture from a dimmer.
circuit ID A unique six-digit numeric identity which you can assign to each dimmer. The circuit ID
may be the same as the dimmer number, or may be a number used to indicate circuit
location, phase, channel number, etc. This feature is useful for tracking all circuits in the
architecture.
crossfade A fade that contains both an up-fade and a down-fade, or any fade where the levels of
one cue are replaced by the levels of another cue.
cue The process of recalling a preset from its memory location and putting the result on stage.
Preset, Memory, and cue are often used interchangeably.
curve The relationship between a control level and the actual dimmer output.
dimmer A device controlling power to a lighting fixture. Two lights on the same dimmer cannot be
separately controlled.
default The original factory settings.
DMX512 An ANSI communications protocol standard that describes a method of digital data trans-
mission between controllers, lighting equipment and accessories.
Ethernet A high-speed network based protocol used to transmit data from a lighting controller to a
dimmer rack using a single Ethernet cable.
fade A gradual change in stage levels from one set of intensities to another.
fade time The time it takes for dimmer levels to go from their current levels to the levels in the se-
lected preset, or DMX512 value. Each preset has its own fade time.
IGBT Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistor. IGBT dimmers are solid-state and operate silently with-
out the use of chokes and can handle a variety of load types. They reduce lamp filament
noise during dimming operation, are smaller, lighter, and generate far less neutral harmon-
ics than conventional dimmers. IGBT dimming technology provides superior overload and
short-circuit protection and operates at significantly higher rise/fall times regardless of
load size.
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level A numerical value used to express the “brightness” of the load on a dimmer. Usually
shown as %.
patch Historically, the process of physically connecting circuits to dimmers. Now usually refers to
electronic assignment of dimmers to channels.
phase The three phases of the mains supply to which the dimmers are connected are identified
as Line 1, Line 2, Line 3 in 230v markets and as phase A, phase B, and phase C in 120v
markets.
power module A chassis containing one, two or four dimmer or contactors. This is sometimes referred
to as a “dimmer”. However, each C21/EC21 power module can have multiple dimmers or
contactors in it, so this manual distinguishes between dimmers (individual power control
circuits) and power modules (a collection of one or more power control circuits).
preset A pre-defined setup of intensities for a set of channels, stored in memory for later replay.
preset fade time See fade time
profile The relationship between a control level and the actual dimmer output. Also known as
“dimmer law” or “curve”.
rack number A number used to uniquely identify each dimmer rack in a multiple rack system. Rack
numbers are set from the front panel of the rack processor module, and are usually set by
the installation engineer.
room An area separately defined for purposes of architectural lighting control. This is usually
a room in the traditional sense (an indoor enclosed area) or a portion of a room that can
be partitioned o. Each room may be separately and simultaneously controlled by the
system.
RPH rack processor housing
RPM rack processor module
SSR solid state relay) A power control device used in Strand dimmers that contains two silicon
control rectifiers (SCRs), control circuitry, and optical isolation circuitry.
Vision.Net A digital architectural control system for use with C21/EC21 dimmer racks.
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GENERAL
This manual describes the operation and setup of the dimmer rack. It does not contain information about
installing the rack. See the separate C21 or the EC21 Dimmer Rack Installation Manual for detailed information
concerning installation and wiring of the dimmer rack.
SPECIFICATIONS
For the latest specifications for C21 / EC21 dimmer racks and dimmer modules, refer to the product datasheets
available for download on the website at www.vari-lite.com.
RACK COMPONENTS
The C21 / EC21 dimmer rack is a listed, free standing, factory assembly of steel and aluminum construction fin-
ished in a fine textured, scratch resistant coating.
Each C21 / EC21 dimmer rack consists of a rack processor housing (RPH) with one or two rack processor
modules (RPM), a fan module, and up to 24 or 48 dimmer modules. The dimmer connectors at the back of the
rack provide for load wire connection. Main bus bars are provided for line wire connections. An earth ground
lug is provided in the rack. The dimmer connectors in the rack are polarized to prevent dimmer modules being
plugged into the dierent ampacity slots. The dimmer racks can be individually fed or bused together using an
optional busing kit.
Large dimmer racks have provision for up to 48 dimmer modules. Small dimmer racks have provisions for up
to 24 dimmer modules. Dimmer modules contain one, two or four dimmers, and dimmer module types can be
mixed within a rack in various combinations.
FIGURE 1. C21 / EC21 DIMMER RACK FULLY POPULATED
DIMMER MODULES
The power modules are the high power switching section of the C21 / EC21 dimming system. The power block
in this module is the interface between the high power AC and low power control. It is driven by low level sig-
1 RJ45 ETHERNET JACK
2 DIMMER MODULES
3 MODULE TRAYS
4 FAN MODULE
5 SIGNAL TERMINATION BOARD
6 PROCESSOR MODULE
7 FEED WIRING CHAMBER
8 3-PHASE, 4-WIRE BUS
(short circuit rating = 50KA)
module trays
9 HINGED REMOVABLE DOOR
654.0mm
(25.75 in)
AIR EXIT
AIR ENTRY
2032mm
(80.0 in)
2
3
6
OPTIONAL
FLOOR-MOUNT
VIBRATION PADS
(#1-259-0009)
SIDE VIEW
(DOOR CLOSED)
MAIN FEED
TOP VIEW
(DOOR CLOSED)
LOAD & CONTROL
WIRE ENTRY AREA
508mm x 178mm
(20 in x 7 in)
618.74mm
(24.36 in)
600mm
(23.62 in)
654.1mm
(25.75 in)
6
FRONT VIEW
(DOOR OPEN)
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1
5
7
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nals (5mA, 3-24V) and switches high level signals (up to 100A, 120/240VAC). High specification filtering, SCR
dimming, contactor non-dims, IGBT dimming, and load status reporting electronics are available as options.
Dimmers can be mixed in any combination in a rack. This lets you use the exact dimmer type needed for each
circuit.
Power modules are constructed from aluminum, folded to form three sides of the dimmer and to support the
dimmer connector and heatsink. The fourth side of the dimmer is formed by the heatsink. The top and bottom
of the dimmer are open for cooling.
A sturdy handle is provided below the circuit breakers. An optional mechanical locking bar on the dimmer tray
secures the dimmers in the rack.
FIGURE 2. DUAL DIMMER MODULE
REPORTING DIMMER MODULES
Most C21 / EC21 dimmer modules are available in load status reporting versions. Load status reporting versions
of dimmers can be mixed in any combination with standard dimmers in C21 / EC21 racks. These dimmers report
many dimmer status items back to the processor. The information can be accessed through various menu items.
The processor can then display a wide range of faults and diagnostic data.
Each Reporting dimmer module contains a temperature sensor which will shut it down if it overheats. Anything
causing overheating in the rack will cause a gradual shutdown as each Reporting dimmer module overheats.
IGBT DIMMER MODULES
C21 / EC21 IGBT electronic dimmers provide users with exceptionally quiet and ecient dimming for a wide
range of loads. Each IGBT dimmer features forward and reverse phase control operating modes suitable for
dimming incandescent and low voltage loads as well as a broad range of LED loads.
All C21 IGBT dimmers oer low insertion loss and microprocessor controlled over current and short circuit pro-
tection. Resetting the dimmer to zero percent (0%) from the control system will restore operation in the event
of a module shutdown.
WARNING: Make sure that the neutral wire is landed correctly with its corresponding load wire for proper
operation (see the C21 or EC21 Installation manual for more information). Failure to do so will cause the dimmer
module to shut down.
Since the IGBT dimmer module monitors the dimmer rack power feed at all times, it is imperative that the power
feed is clean and free of any distortion.
In the presence of poor quality power with significant mains disturbances, the IGBT dimmer module may shut
down to protect the IGBT power devices.
IGBT dimmer modules should be configured as “Sinewave” module types when configuring the C21/EC21 dim-
mer rack processor.
IGBT DIMMER MODULE SWITCH PACK
The DIP Switches located at the side of the IGBT dimmer module allow for configuration of dimmer options.
NOTE: Dual-channel modules have a separate switch pack for each channel.
Connector
Reporting PCB
(optional)
SSR or SCR Pack
Chokes
Circuit Breakers
Dimmer Wing
With Type & Rating
Handle
Chassis
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CONTROL MODE - (Factory Default ON) (Factory Default: Force FPC) Dimmer racks must be operated under
normal conditions with all dimmers configured to Force FPC. If directed by Strand Technical Support, changing
this switch to the AUTO mode position will allow the dimmer to automatically sense the load type and select
either Reverse Phase Control or Forward Phase Control, based on the load’s behavior. AUTO mode should be
used only when a load does not operate properly in the default Force FPC mode.
RPC LOCK (LED) - (Factory Default: Normal) When used in combination with CONTROL MODE = AUTO, setting
this switch to the Force RPC position locks the dimmer into reverse-phase-control only operation, which may be
required for certain LED loads. Always set this switch to Normal in all other cases.
TRANSITION CONTROL - (Factory Default Automatic) Automatic operation allows the IGBT dimmer to monitor
and adjust its transition control (up to 1000uS in 120V installations, and up to 650uS in 230V installations)
based on several operational factors. The “Fixed at 400uS” position should ALWAYS be used when the dimmer
is operating a phase-controlled electronic ballast or LED driver as its load, because these devices expect fixed
transition times for proper dimming level selection.
FULL OUTPUT VOLTAGE - (Factory Default: 120V / 240V) These switches select the RMS output voltage to be
delivered by the dimmer when the control level is 100%. Choose a non-default value if lamps of a lower voltage
rating (e.g., 115V on 120V) are used in the lighting rig.
PREHEAT - (Factory Default: Preheat Disabled) When changed to the non-default position (Preheat Enabled),
the dimmer will generate a very low voltage to the loads, when they are “o”, to keep the filaments heated,
improving response time. This feature should only be enabled on larger-wattage, incandescent lamps and only
when faster turn-on response is required.
CAUTION: It is never recommended to set the switches to Reverse Phase Control (RPC) for an entire rack of
IGBT modules.
FIGURE 3. DIP SWITCH SETTINGS
FAN MODULE
C21 / EC21 dimmer racks are cooled by one or two low-noise variable speed fans in a fan module inside the
rack. The cooling system is designed to let the rack continue functioning if any one of the fans fail. Cooling air
is pulled up through the dimmer stack and exhausted through venting at the top of the rack. These fans are for
dimmer cooling only, and can be set to fixed or variable speeds.
The fixed speed fan setting is for situations where changes in ambient noise are a problem. With this setting, the
fans are always ON when the dimmer rack is in operation.
The variable speed fan setting minimizes noise and maximizes fan life. With this setting, the fan speed is adjust-
ed so that fans reach full when 24 dimmers are at full, or equivalent (e.g., 48 dimmers at 50%). Increases in fan
speed take 1 minute with this setting, while decreases in fan speed take 5 minutes. Fans are turned OFF when
no dimmers are in use.
Fan and dimmer module choke noise may be acoustically objectionable. C21 / EC21 dimmer racks should be
installed away from performance, stage and audience areas.
O N
12 3 4 5 6
CONTROL MODE
Switch 1:
-Force FPC
-Auto (RPC/FPC)
RPC LOCK (LED)
Switch 2:
-Normal Operation
-Force RPC
TRANSITION CONTROL
Switch 3:
-Automatic
-Fixed at 400us
DIP SWITCHES
FULL OUTPUT VOLTAGE
Switches 5 & 6:
-120V (240V)
-115V (230V)
-110V (220V)
-100V (200V)
PREHEAT
Switch 4:
-Preheat Disabled
-Preheat Enabled
DEFAULT
All Switches Up (ON)
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FIGURE 4. FAN MODULE
RACK PROCESSOR HOUSING
Each C21 / EC21 dimmer rack contains a rack processor housing (RPH) with all of the control electronics for the
rack. This RPH contains the processor module(s) (RPM), control station power supplies, and control interconnec-
tion card (CIC) for the rack, and is shipped separately from the rack to minimize the possibility of damage.
This chassis can be equipped with one or two processor modules. The second processor module acts as a
backup. The configuration data from either processor can be transferred into the other processor. The currently
inactive processor always tracks the currently active processor.
FIGURE 5. RACK PROCESSOR HOUSING
RACK PROCESSOR MODULE
Each C21 / EC21 dimmer rack contains one or two rack processor modules (RPM). Each processor module has a
backlit LCD display, a 7 key keypad, and 6 LEDs to report processor module and dimmer status and allow setup
and control at the rack. In normal operation, this display normally shows the rack name and the OK message. If
there are any rack or dimmer events reported, the display will show error messages.
Pressing the < or > keys will takes you into a series of setup menus to view and set up the more frequently used
C21 / EC21 features. See Section 3, Processor Module Programming for details on accessing these functions.
All programmed data is held in battery maintained RAM for up to 6 months without power.
24 MODULE RACK
48 MODULE RAC
K
Fan Module
F
an Module
Control
Interconnection
Card (CIC)
R
ack Processor
Module (RPM)
Backup
Processor
Module
Power
Supplie
s
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FIGURE 6. RACK PROCESSOR MODULE
POWER SUPPLIES
Each C21 / EC21 dimmer rack can have up to three power supplies, depending on the accessories provided.
These power supplies are mounted on the rack processor housing.
CONTROL INTERCONNECTION CARD (CIC)
The electronics chassis also contains the control interconnection card (CIC). This is where the contractor termi-
nates all control wiring for the rack. All control terminal strips are 2-part plug-in strips so that the electronics
chassis can be easily removed from the rack.
PROCESSOR CONFIGURATION
Once you have applied power you need to make sure that the system is working correctly and the processor
modules are set properly for the installation. This step checks for any problems due to shipping or installation.
Startup
When the rack is switched ON, a number of self-tests are run. The system displays the rack name.
When the self-tests are complete the PROCESSOR OK LED on the front of the processor module will turn ON,
and the default text will show on the LCD display.
Rack 1
xxxV xxxV xxxV
xxHz
< or > to select menu
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FIGURE 7. PROCESSOR MODULE FRONT PANEL
NOTE: If the MODULE EVENT LED is ON, check the dimmer event log to see which dimmer is causing prob-
lems. If any other LED does not illuminate correctly, switch OFF the power immediately and check the installa-
tion again. If all wiring seems correct, call Strand or your local Authorized Service Center.
LED STATUS
The LEDs on the front of each rack processor module are the first level of diagnostics and provide immediate
visual status indication. The nine LEDs on the front of the rack processor housing and module indicate the fol-
lowing:
Rack Processor Housing LEDs
Phase A (green): Should be ON if PhaseA/Line 1 is OK.
Phase B (green): Should be ON if Phase B/Line 2 is OK.
Phase C (green): Should be ON if PhaseC/Line 3 is OK.
Over-Temp (red): Should be OFF. Flashing indicates an Over-Temp condition. ON indicates dimmer mod-
ule automatic Over-Temp shutdown.
Panic (red): Should be OFF. On indicates that PANIC has Been activated.
Lighthouse (blue): Blue = normal. Flashing red = error. Solid red = shutdown.
Rack Processor Module LEDs
Network Connection (green): Should be ON if there is a network signal.
DMX512 A (green): Should be ON if there is a DMX512 signal.
DMX512 B (green): Should be ON if there is a DMX512 signal.
Vision.Net (green): Flashes ON when there is a Vision.Net signal.
Module Event (red): Should be OFF. On indicates a dimmer fault
Processor OK (green): Should be ON. O indicates there is a problem.
Active Processor (green): Should be ON if self-test is OK. Indicates active processor.
Dimmer Events
If the Module Event LED is on, the LCD will show the number of dimmer events at which time the display can
be manually accessed to show a description of the event(s). Refer to the appendices section of this manual for
a description of event codes. If any other LED does not illuminate correctly, switch OFF the power immediately
and check the installation again. If the fault persists and all wiring seems correct, call Vari-Lite or your local
Authorized Service Center (www.vari-lite.com).
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After Startup
1. Check the following items to make sure they are correctly set in the processor module:
• Rack type
• Phasing
• Starting multiplex signal number and dimmer protocol
• Input Voltage
• Dimmer numbering
Other items you may wish to check at this time, depending on your system configuration, are:
• Mux patch
• Outlook patch
• Max Voltage
• Min Level
2. Switch on all load circuit breakers.
3. Connect a suitable luminaire to each outlet and check every dimmer using the SET LEVEL control facility or a
suitable control console. Investigate and correct any malfunctions you find.
NOTE: If any dimmers do not work, stop and check the slot type for the dimmer. Dimmers will not work prop-
erly if their slot type is incorrectly assigned. Make sure that all of the modules are in their correct slots, and that
the slot type for each dimmer is correctly set in the processor module.
4. Install the fan grill and door to complete the system installation.
OPERATIONAL FEATURES
RACK CONFIGURATION
The following configuration items are usually programmed during commissioning, but can also be repro-
grammed by the user.
• Rack name.
• Panic selection and configuration.
• Maximum output voltage (per dimmer): 20-250 volts (e.g. set to 105V for extended lamp life).
• Minimum level (per dimmer): 0% - 100% (e.g. set to 10% for aisle lights or large lamp preheat).
• Room and channel Patching.
• Each dimmer can be patched to any valid DMX512 address number for the standard input A (DMX512 A),
input B (DMX512 B) or network.
• Circuit ID—used by status reporting software.
• Define Preset Number or “Hold” condition on DMX512 failure.
• Define power-up preset.
• Set LCD contrast.
• Error log accessible from the processor module or status reporting software.
• Individual dimmer reporting enable/disable.
DIMMER CONFIGURATION
Configuration items associated with the dimmer module can be set from the processor module front panel.
• The output response profile can be set to Linear, Square, S-Curve, Fluo- Electric (for electronic fluorescent
ballasts), Fluo-Magnetic (for magnetic fluorescent ballasts), and Non-Dim. The two fluorescent settings
let you set the top end voltage and the bottom end cuto voltage. The Non-Dim setting lets you set the
turn-on threshold for the non-dim. Five additional user programmable profiles are available through the Set
Rack Configuration menu or from the optional status reporting software.
• Dimmer response (per dimmer): fast (30ms), normal (100ms), slow (300ms), very slow (700ms) or Glacial
(1000ms). This determines a dimmer‘s rate of response to a change in control level. Slow is usually set for
large tungsten loads to reduce filament inrush, medium or fast for small loads.
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• Dimmer control assignment (per dimmer) to the “combined” levels of Vision.Net, DMX512 A, DMX512 B,
Network or to a fixed level (0% - 99% orFull). The way in which the various input levels combine is also
determined on a per dimmer basis by setting the dimmer DMX512 mode.
• A special smoothing algorithm is applied to small level changes to maintain smooth fades with long fade
times.
CONTROL INPUTS
The Control Interconnection Card, or CIC, is the printed circuit board on which all contractor control wiring con-
nections are made. It is located on the top of the Rack Processor Housing (RPH) and contains:
• An Ethernet switch which connects to a Strand ShowNet system. This switch allows for easy connections
between dimmer racks. It also connects to the network receptacle located in the upper left rear of the dim-
mer rack.
• Two optically isolated DMX512 control inputs. Both inputs can be configured as a DMX512 input, DMX512
output. Each DMX512 input has a patch to allow overlapping or separation of any DMX512 control level.
• Dedicated Strand Lighting Vision.net architectural protocol input/output. This can be set to ‘bridge’ com-
mands to and from Vision.net-over-IP.
• Six optically isolated contact inputs, for:
PIN FUNCTION TYPE DESCRIPTION
1PANIC ON Momentary Turns Panic On
2PANIC OFF Momentary Turns Panic O
3FIRE ALARM Maintained Turns Panic On, No Override
4RESERVED Momentary Reserved for future use
5RESERVED Momentary Reserved for future use
6RESERVED Momentary Reserved for future use
7COM/GND COM/GND
8COM/GND COM/GND
• An Audio Visual Interface port. This serial input will support connection to an external A/V or show control
system that supports an RS232 serial connection.
• 96 Panic Select switches
SAFETY FEATURES
In order to minimize the impact of failures to any part of C21/EC21 dimmer racks, a number of security features,
some of which are optional, are provided.
Standard safety features for C21/EC21 dimmer racks include:
• Convection cooling of all components with fan assist.
• Module over-temperature shutdown (Reporter modules only).
• The processor module can be set to hold the last dimmer levels forever, or to fade to a specified preset in
cases of DMX512 signal failure.
• Setup data is stored in non-volatile RAM.
• 2500V optical isolation of DMX512 A and DMX512 B inputs, architectural control communication.
• All, or selected dimmers in a rack can be set to either O or full On when the external Panic button is
pressed.
• Automatic Panic on removal of processor module. In racks with two processor modules, both modules must
be removed to activate Panic.
• Password-protected menu lock.
Optional safety features for C21/EC21 dimmer racks include:
• Redundant tracking backup (requires a second processor module fitted to the rack). The backup processor
automatically tracks the master processor and takes over control of the dimmer rack on failure of the mas-
ter processor.
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VISION.NET
Vision.Net is a comprehensive family of control stations designed for architectural applications needing a
simple, flexible control solution with minimal installation and cabling costs. These control stations can access,
modify, and recall lighting levels stored in the rack processor module. Vision.Net control station features and
options include:
• Control up to 255 separate rooms, with up to 125 channels per room
• 32 preset scenes available for each room
• Manual sliders (3, 6, 9, or 15 sliders per station) for direct control of individual circuits
• Record facility for saving slider levels for future push-button recall
• Programmable fade times between 0 and 60 minutes from Vision.Net control stations
• Record lockout facility for playback-only operation
• Preset stations available from 1-button up to 8-buttons
• Audio-visual interface
• Room combine stations for room partitioning
• Photo sensor and motion sensor
PROGRAMMING THE DIMMER RACK
CONTROLS AND DISPLAYS
You can access the range of C21 / EC21 dimmer rack programmable features using the Jog Wheel and LCD dis-
play. Menus are shown in English.
FIGURE 8. RACK PROCESSOR MODULE FRONT PANEL
LOCK MENU
To avoid accidental or unauthorized use, you can lock the menu. When Lock Menu is enabled, the menu is
locked immediately. When disabled, the menu is unlocked.
To unlock the Menu:
Press the jog wheel for >10 seconds. At prompt, enter passcode to unlock the menu.
NAVIGATING THE MENU
Turning the jog wheel clockwise is considered to be a ‘forward’ motion, and counter-clockwise (anti-clockwise)
is a ‘backward’ motion. Move the jog wheel forward to advance through the menu or increase selected value.
Move the jog wheel backward to reverse through the menu or decrease a selected value.
Pressing the knob is considered to be a ‘select’ command. Selecting a menu will drill down into a sub-menu, and
selecting a value will toggle the ability to edit it. While a value is editable it will appear as red text, and when
not-editable it will appear with an underline as a cursor.
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THE MAIN MENU
The main menu lets you access all the other menus for configuring C21/EC21 dimmer racks.
To access the main menu:
From any of the status displays, Press [<] or [>]
To return to the main menu
Press [ESC]
NOTE: If no dimmer event is registered, returning from the main menu brings you back to the display from
which you called the main menu. If a dimmer event is registered you will return to the dimmer events display.
RACK IDENTITY MENU
The Rack Identity menu allows you to configure the following settings for the dimmer rack:
VIEW RACK NAME. View or edit the name of the dimmer rack in this text field. Rack name shows on
the second line of the display.
VIEW RACK LOCATION. View or edit the location of the dimmer rack in this text field.
VIEW MAIN BREAKER ID. View or edit the name or location of the main breaker in this text field.
VIEW SERIAL NUMBER. View the C21/EC21 Processor serial number. The serial number is entered by
the factory and should not be changed in the field.
VIEW DEALER INFO. View Dealer Information text field. The information for this text field is entered
within the Factory Menu section.
SET DATE. View or edit the date field. Format: MM/DD/YY
SET TIME. View or edit the time field. Format: 24-hour (HH:MM:SS)
VIEW RACK SIZE. View the rack size (slot and dimmer count). The rack size is set in the Factory Menu
section. Default: 48 slot 96 Dims
VIEW SOFTWARE VERSION. View the current software version of the rack processor.
NETWORK CONFIG MENU
The Network Config menu allows you to configure the following settings for the network settings of the dimmer
rack:
SET IP ADDRESS. Enter the IP address for the rack processor. Default IP address is 192.168.0.72.
NOTE: Every rack processor is set to this default IP address. Make sure to create a unique number for each
dimmer rack in the system prior to adding the racks to the network.
SET SUBNET MASK. Set the SubNet Mask for the rack processor. Default SubNet Mask is
255.255.255.0.
NOTE: The default subnet Mask should not be changed unless instructed to do so by Strand.
VIEW HOST NAME. View the Host Name for the processor.
NOTE: This field is the name seen on the network and is dierent than the dimmer rack name created in the
Rack Identity Menu.
SET GATEWAY IP. Set the Gateway IP address for the processor. The default Gateway IP is: 192.168.0.1.
NOTE: The default Gateway IP address should not be changed unless instructed to do so by Vari-Lite.
VIEW MAC ADDRESS. View the MAC Address assigned to the C21 and EC21 processor. The MAC
address is set at the factory is not accessible.
IP PROT SUBNET. Used to modify the active Art-Net subnet.
RACK CONFIG MENU
Rack Config Menu allows you to set the configuration of the dimmer rack.
VIEW MODULE TYPES. Review the dimmer module type assigned to the dimmer slots, 6 dimmers at a
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time.
SET MODULE TYPE. Set a single dimmer module type (based on the module part number) for each
rack slot.
SET MODULE TYPE RANGE. Set the module type (based on the module part number) for a range of
dimmer rack slots.
SET FAN CONTROL. Adjust the minimum fan speed.
SET LCD BACKLIGHT. View or edit the LCD backlight.
LOCK MENU. Enable or disable the keypad lockout.
SET PREFERRED PROCESSOR. Allows you to select which processor, main or backup, will be active.
FORCE ACTIVE PROC. Tells the Rack Mount Processor which Processor Module is currently driving
the simmer outputs.
ENABLE CABLE COMP. Enable or disable cable compensation.
ENABLE VOLTLOSS COMP. Enable or disable voltage loss compensation.
SAVE CONFIG TO USB. Save the current processor configuration as a recovery file on the USB drive.
DOWNLOAD CFG FROM USB. Restore the saved configuration file from the USB drive.
SAVE CFG TO EEPROM. Save the current processor configuration to the removable Control
Interconnection Card (CIC) EEPROM.
RESTORE EEPROM CFG. Restore the current processor configuration to the removable Control
Interconnection Card (CIC) EEPROM.
UPDATE FIRMWARE. Used to update the firmware on all processors in the system. Note that if there is
a backup main processor this will need to be updated separately.
CHANGE PASS CODE. Create a 4-digit pass code for secured menu items.
NOTE: The Default pass code of “2606” is always enabled and cannot be changed.
USER PROFILE MENU
The User Profile Menu View allows you to view and create the five user-defined dimming curves.
SET USER PROFILE. View or edit five user-defined dimmer profiles (dimming curves) that may be
applied using the Select Profiles function under the Dimmer Config menu. You can set the input and output
values for up to 100 steps for each user profile.
DIMMER CONFIG MENU
Dimmer Config Menu allows you to set the configuration the dimmer modules and the priority of the discrete
signals.
SET DIMMER PATCH. Allows you to assign ranges of dimmers to listen to net-slots at various priority
or HTP levels. The table below shows the three default patches.
DIMMERS NSLOT PRI
001 01-96 00001 01h
002 01-96 05121 02h
003 01-96 05633 03h
Column #1 Lists the number of the patch
Column #2 - Dimmers Lists the range of dimmers assigned to the patch.
Column #3 - Nslot (Netslot) Lists the start number of the range
Column #4 - Pri (Priority) Lists the priority number and if it is assigned as HTP
NOTE: By default all possible dimmers are assigned. Generally this number will reflect the actual number of
dimmers in the rack.
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DIMMER CONFIG
SET DIMMER PATCH
VIEW FULL OUTPUT V
SET FULL OUTPUT VOLTS
VIEW REGULATION MODE
SET REGULATION MODE
SET CIRCUIT NAMES
AUTONUMBER CIRCUIT ID
DIMMER DYNAMICS
VIEW RESPONSE TIMES
SET RESPONSE TIMES
VIEW PROFILES
SELECT PROFILES
VIEW CUT LEVELS
SET CUT LEVELS
VIEW MINIMUM LEVELS
SET MINIMUM LEVELS
BACKUP LOOKS
CFG BACKUP LOOKS
SET POWER-ON BACKUP
POWER-ON HOLD
SET ACTIVE LOOK
INPUT CONFIG
SET DMX A OPTIONS
OFF
IN
OUT
VIEW DMX A LABEL
SET DMX B OPTIONS
OFF
IN
OUT
VIEW DMX B LABEL
NO MUX HOLD TIME
SET PANIC OPTIONS
USE DIP SWITCH
ON REQUEST
AUTOMATIC
DISABLED
LOCAL CONTROL
SET DIMMER LEVEL
SET DIMMER LEVEL RANGE
STATUS REPORTING
VIEW LIVE STATUS
VIEW RACK STATUS
VIEW EVENT LOG
VIEW SYSTEM UP TIME
SET TEMPERATURE SCALE
CELSIUS
FARENHEIT
VISION.NET CONFIG
ENABLE BRIDGING
SET UNIQUE ID
SET AREA ID
ENABLE REFRESH
VN PATCH
FACTORY
SET PHASE CONFIG
A-B-C-A-B-C
A-A-A-C-C-C
L1-L1-L2-L2-L3-L3 (EC21 only)
SET RACK SIZE
12
24
48
SET RACK SLOT ORDER
ADJUST ZERO CROSS
VIEW SERIAL NUMBER
AA:BB:CC:DD:EE:FF
VIEW PROJECT NAME
VIEW DEALER NAME
VIEW DEALER CONTACT
VIEW DEALER EXTRA INFO
REVERT TO MFG CONFIG
REBOOT RACK
YES
NO
HIDE FACTORY MENU
VISIBLE
INVISIBLE
(requires key sequence to un-hide)
RACK IDENTITY
VIEW RACK NAME
VIEW RACK LOCATION
VIEW MAIN BREAKER ID
VIEW SERIAL NUMBER
VIEW DEALER INFO
SET DATE (MM/DD/YY)
SET TIME (HH:MM:SS)
VIEW RACK SIZE
VIEW SOFTWARE VERSION
NETWORK CONFIG
SET IP ADDRESS
SET SUBNET MASK
VIEW HOST NAME
SET GATEWAY IP
VIEW MAC ADDRESS
IP PROT SUBNET
RACK CONFIG
VIEW MODULE TYPES
SET MODULE TYPE
SET MODULE TYPE RANGE
SET FAN CONTROL
SET LCD BACKLIGHT
LOCK MENU
ENABLE
DISABLE
SET PREFERRED PROCESSOR
MAIN
BACKUP
FORCE ACTIVE PROC
ENABLE CABLE COMP
ENABLED
DISABLED
ENABLE VOLTLOSS COMP
ENABLED
DISABLED
SAVE CONFIG TO USB
DOWNLOAD CFG FROM USB
SAVE CFG TO EEPROM
RESTORE EEPROM CFG
UPDATE FIRMWARE
CHANGE PASS CODE
USER PROFILE
SET USER PROFILE
MAIN MENU
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VIEW FULL OUTPUT V. View the Maximum output voltage of the dimmers, six at a time.
SET FULL OUTPUT VOLTS. Set the Maximum output voltage for any range of dimmers in the rack.
For instance, you can set the maximum voltage lower than the rated voltage of your lamps for improved
lamp life. If you have lamps or other equipment which operate at a lower line voltage, you can set the
output from the dimmer to an appropriate voltage for the devices.
The maximum output voltage is applied to all dimmers and dimmers assigned as non-dims. It is not applied
to contactor non-dims. You cannot use contactor non- dims for devices which need a maximum output
voltage setting.
NOTE: This function sets the dimmer output voltage, not the maximum control level applied to the dimmer.
CAUTION! Be careful when using a maximum output voltage with dimmers set for PANIC. When panic is acti-
vated, full output voltage appears at the output of any dimmer or non-dim set for PANIC, regardless of how the
maximum output voltage is set.
VIEW REGULATION MODE. View the dimming curve assigned to a range of dimmers, 6 dimmers at a
time.
SET REGULATION MODE. Set the Regulation Mode for a range of dimmers. These options are:
ThReg = Thyristor dimmer regulated
ThUnr = Thyristor dimmer unregulated
N-Dim = Non-Dim
SiReg = SineWave regulated
SiUnr = SineWave unregulated
IGBT = IGBT dimmers must be configured to this setting
SET CIRCUIT NAMES. View or edit the Circuit ID number for individual dimmers.
AUTONUMBER CIRCUIT ID. Automatically assign sequential circuit ID numbers to the dimmers.
DIMMER DYNAMICS MENU
The Dimmer Dynamics Menu allows you to view and configure dimmer information.
VIEW RESPONSE TIMES. View the response times for the dimmers, six dimmers at a time.
SET RESPONSE TIMES. The response time of a dimmer is the rate at which it responds to increases or
decreases in the control level. C21 / EC21 dimmer racks provide five response times:
Fast = 30ms Slow= 300ms Glacial = 1000ms Normal = 100ms Very Slow = 700ms
These options can be applied to a single dimmer or a range of dimmers. Slow is generally used for large
lamp loads, while fast is used for smaller lamp loads that might be used in a chase eect.
NOTE: The “fast” setting, together with the accuracy of digital dimmers can cause very high inrush current.
CAUTION! Do not use “fast” for IGBT dimmers or lamps that are 5kW or higher.
VIEW PROFILES. Allow you to view the dimming curve for the dimmers, six dimmers at a time.
SELECT PROFILES. Allows you to select the dimming curve for a range of dimmers:
SqLaw = Square Law
Old SqLaw = Legacy Square Law curve
S-Crv = S-Curve
Old S-Crv = Legacy S Curve
LinPw = Linear Power
N-Dim = Non-Dim
FlEle = Fluorescent Electronic
FlMag = Fluorescent Magnetic
MarkX = Advanced Mark X Ballasts
User1 = User Defined Dimming Curve #1
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User2 = User Defined Dimming Curve #2
User3 = User Defined Dimming Curve #3
User4 = User Defined Dimming Curve #4
User5 = User Defined Dimming Curve #5
VIEW CUT LEVELS. View the Cut Levels for the output dimmers, up to 6 at a time.
SET CUT LEVELS. Set the Cut Levels for the output dimmers. Note that the cut level is the percentage
at which, below this number, the output will automatically be set to ‘0’ instead.
VIEW MINIMUM LEVELS. View the minimum dimmer output level, 6 dimmers at a time.
SET MINIMUM LEVELS. Set the minimum dimmer output level for a range of dimmers.
Set a minimum level for any or all the dimmers. This can be used for security or safety lighting in locations
where a minimum light level is required under all circumstances. This function can also be used as a preheat
for large lamps.
Minimum levels are displayed in control percentages.
NOTE: This function sets the minimum control level applied to the dimmer, not the minimum output voltage.
BACKUP LOOKS MENU
CFG BACKUP LOOKS. Configure the Looks dimmer by dimmer.
SET POWER-ON BACKUP. Configure which Look is automatically shown if there are no control
signals at power-up.
POWER-ON HOLD. Selects how long the Power-On Backup Look is enabled. Choices are O, 00:01,
00:10, 00:15, 01:00, 24:00, Forever.
SET ACTIVE LOOK. Manually activate or deactivate one of the 8 configurable Looks. Note that this will
override any incoming control signals until deactivated.
INPUT CONFIG MENU
Input Config Menu allows you to view and set the Mux A and Mux B ports.
SET DMX A OPTIONS. Set the DMX512 A port:
O = Turns the DMX512 A port o
In = Define the net-slot range for the DMX512 A port. (Default: In 5121)
Out = Define the net-slot range of output for the DMX512 B port.
VIEW DMX A LABEL. View a label for the DMX512 A port.
SET DMX B OPTIONS. Set the DMX512 B port:
O = Turns the DMX512 B port o
In = Define the net-slot range for the DMX512 B port.
Out = Define the net-slot range of output for the DMX512 B port. (Default: Out 5633)
VIEW DMX B LABEL. View a label for the DMX512 B port.
NO MUX HOLD TIME. Set the Hold Time for the last-used dimmer outputs when all input control
signals have disappeared.
SET PANIC OPTIONS. Options are Use DIP Switch, On Request, Automatic, Disabled
LOCAL CONTROL MENU
SET DIMMER LEVEL. Set an individual dimmer to INPUT or to a local level between 0% and FULL.
NOTE: Setting dimmer levels to something other than INPUT overrides the control inputs, including presets,
you can easily loose control of dimmers by forgetting to set them back to INPUT. The levels set in this menu are
remembered even when you shut down the rack.
You can use the Set Dimmer levels menu to set dimmer levels in order to record Backup Looks where there
is no conventional lighting control system.
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SET DIMMER LEVEL RANGE. Set a range of dimmers to INPUT or to a local level between 0% and
FULL.
NOTE: Setting dimmer levels to something other than INPUT overrides the control inputs, including presets,
you can easily lose control of dimmers by forgetting to set them back to INPUT. The levels set in this menu are
remembered even when you shut down the rack.
You can use the Set Dimmer levels menu to set dimmer levels in order to record Backup Looks where there
is no conventional lighting control system.
STATUS REPORTING MENU
VIEW LIVE STATUS. View the Reporting Status of reporting modules. This can show temperature,
errors, curent dimmer level, voltage, current draw and power consumption.
VIEW RACK STATUS. View the status of the Rack. This shows the three input Phase Voltages, Line
Frequency, Rack Temperature, Fan Speed and number of dimmers.
VIEW SYSTEM UP TIME. View how long the system has been up without any resets or power cycles.
SET TEMPERATURE SCALE. Select Celsius or Farenheit.
VISION.NET CONFIG MENU
ENABLE BRIDGING. Enabling this will forward packets from the dedicated Vision.net Port to Vision.
net-over-IP and vice-versa. Default is Disabled.
SET UNIQUE ID. Sets a Unique ID for this system. Default ID is 0.
SET AREA ID. Sets the Vision.net Area to which this rack listens. Default is 1.
ENABLE REFRESH. When enabled, this system will request the current state of the Vision.net system.
Default setting is O.
VN PATCH. View or Change the Vision.net room and channel patch per dimmer.
FACTORY MENU
The Factory Menu configurable options are installation-specific which, once set, are not likely to ever change.
SET PHASE CONFIG. Configure between Single Phase and Three-Phase.
A-B-C-A-B-C
A-A-A-C-C-C
L1-L1-L2-L2-L3-L3 (EC21 only)
SET RACK SLOT ORDER. Configure whether the modules are labeled Horizontally or Vertically.
ADJUST ZERO CROSS. Configure the phase shift from zero-crossing to prevent the dimmer outputs
from flashing (in microsends).
VIEW SERIAL NUMBER. Serial number format: AA:BB:CC:DD:EE:FF
VIEW PROJECT NAME. View the Project Name.
VIEW DEALER NAME. View the Dealer Name.
VIEW DEALER CONTACT. View the Dealer Contact.
VIEW DEALER EXTRA INFO. View extra Dealer Info.
REVERT TO MFG CONFIG. Resets the configuration to factory defaults.
C21 / EC21 WEB PAGES
This section provides basic information on the C21/EC21 Web Pages.
MAIN SCREEN
STATUS
Select [STATUS] to gain access to the following options:
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