Vari Lite VLX3 User manual

All other brand or product names which may be mentioned in this manual are trademarks or registered trademarks
of their respective companies or organizations.
VLX3 Wash Luminaire User’s Manual
The information furnished in this manual is for informational use only and is subject to change without notice.
Please check www.vari-lite.com for latest version. Vari-Lite assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or
inaccuracies that may appear in this manual. All information and graphics are property of Vari-Lite, a Philips group
company, 10911 Petal Street Dallas, Texas 75238 USA.
Version as of: 17 December 2012
Part number: 02.9703.0001 A
VLX3 Wash Luminaire User’s Manual
©2012 Vari-Lite, a Philips group company. All Rights Reserved.

FOREWORD
02.9703.0001 A 17 December 2012 i
How To Obtain Warranty Service
A copy of the Vari-Lite Limited Warranty was included in the shipping package for this VARI❋LITE
product.
To obtain warranty service, please contact customer service at 1-877-VARI-LITE (1-877-827-4548),
[phone], or entertainment.ser[email protected] and request a Return Material Authorization
(RMA) for warranty service. You will need to provide the model and serial number of the item being
returned, a description of the problem or failure and the name of the registered user or organization. If
available, you should have your sales invoice to establish the date of sale as the beginning of the
warranty period.
Once you obtain the RMA, pack the unit in a secure shipping container or in its original packing box.
Be sure to clearly indicate the RMA number on all packing lists, correspondence, and shipping labels.
If available, please include a copy of your invoice (as proof of purchase) in the shipping container.
With the RMA number written legibly on or near the shipping address label, return the unit, freight
prepaid, to:
Vari-Lite
Attention: Warranty Service (RMA#___________)
10911 Petal Street
Dallas, Texas 75238 USA
As stated in the warranty, it is required that the shipment be insured and FOB our service center.

VARI❋LITE - VLX3 WASH LUMINAIRE USER’SMANUAL
ii 17 December 2012 02.9703.0001 A
Compliance Notice
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device
pursuant to Part 15 of FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against
harmful interference when this equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This equipment
generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance
with Vari-Lite system, service, and safety guidelines, may cause harmful interference to radio
communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful
interference, in which case the user will be required to correct the interference at his/her own expense.
Declaration of Conformity
We declare, under our sole responsibility, declare under our responsibility for the products named
herein are in conformity with the essential requirement of the following European Directives and
harmonized standards:
Low Voltage Directive (LVD), 2006/95/EC
EN 60598-2 17:1984+A1:1987+A2:1990 used in conjunction with 60598-1:2008/A11:2009
Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive (EMC), 2004/108/EC
EN 55022:2010
EN 55024:2010
Restriction of the use of certain Hazardous Substances in electrical and electronic
equipment Directive (RoHS), 2011/65/EC
EN 50581:2012
Equipment referred to in this declaration of conformity was first manufactured in 2011 in compliance
with these standards.
FCC

FOREWORD
02.9703.0001 A 17 December 2012 iii
Safety Notice
It is extremely important to read ALL safety information and instructions provided in this manual and
any accompanying documentation before installing and operating the products described herein. Heed
all cautions and warnings during installation and use of this product.
Safety symbols used throughout this manual are as follows:
GENERAL INFORMATION PERTAINING TO PROTECTION AGAINST ELECTRICAL SHOCK,
FIRE, EXPOSURE TO EXCESSIVE UV RADIATION, AND INJURY TO PERSONS CAN BE
FOUND BELOW.
WARNING:
INSTRUCTIONS FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST FIRE
1. VARI❋LITE luminaires have been designed for use with specific lamp types. The VLX3 Wash
Luminaire uses special LED devices. Installing another type of light sources may be hazardous
and will void your warranty.
2. Luminaires may be mounted on any type of surface as long as mounting instructions are followed.
See instructions detailed in this manual.
3. Note distance requirement from combustible materials or illuminated objects for VARI❋LITE
luminaires.
WARNING:
INSTRUCTIONS FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST ELECTRICAL SHOCK
1. VARI❋LITE luminaires are designed for dry locations only. Exposure to rain or moisture may
damage luminaire.
2. Disconnect power before servicing any VARI❋LITE equipment.
3. Servicing to be performed by qualified personnel only.
CAUTION advising of potential damage to product.
WARNING advising of potential injury or death to persons.

VARI❋LITE - VLX3 WASH LUMINAIRE USER’SMANUAL
iv 17 December 2012 02.9703.0001 A
WARNING:
INSTRUCTIONS FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST EXCESSIVE EXPOSURE
TO UV RADIATION
1. Many VARI❋LITE luminaires use a lamp that produces UV radiation. DO NOT look directly at
lamp.
2. It is hazardous to operate luminaires without lens or shield. Shields, lenses, or ultraviolet screens
shall be changed if they have become visibly damaged to such an extent that their effectiveness is
impaired. For example, by cracks or deep scratches.
WARNING:
RF INTERFERENCE
1. This is a Class A product. In a domestic environment this product may cause radio interference, in
which case, the user may be required to take adequate measures.

FOREWORD
02.9703.0001 A 17 December 2012 v
Sicherheitshinweise
Es ist äußerst wichtig, ALLE Sicherheitsinformationen und -hinweise in diesem Handbuch und dem
beiliegenden Informationsmaterial zu lesen, bevor Sie die hierin beschriebenen Produkte installieren
bzw. bedienen. Halten Sie bei der Installation und dem Einsatz dieses Produkts alle Warnhinweise und
Vorsichtsmaßnahmen ein.
Folgende Sicherheitssymbole werden in diesem Handbuch verwendet:
NACHSTEHEND FINDEN SIE ALLGEMEINE HINWEISE ÜBER
SICHERHEITSVORKEHRUNGEN GEGEN ELEKTROSCHOCK, FEUER, ÜBERHÖHTE UV-
STRAHLUNG UND KÖRPERVERLETZUNGEN.
WARNUNG:
HINWEISE ZUM FEUERSCHUTZ
1. VARI❋LITE -Scheinwerfer sind ausschließlich für den Einsatz mit bestimmten Lampentyps.
Achten Sie auf den Lampentyp (LED), bevor Sie die jeweiligen Lampen ersetzen. Die Installation
eines anderen Lampentyps kann gefährlich sein.
2. Scheinwerfer können auf jeder beliebigen Oberfläche montiert werden, solange Sie die
Montageanweisungen befolgen. Detaillierte Hinweise finden Sie in diesem Handbuch.
3. Beachten Sie die Einhaltung des erforderlichen Sicherheitsabstandes der VARI❋LITE -
Scheinwerfer von brennbarem Material oder beleuchteten Objekten.
WARNUNG:
HINWEISE ZUM SCHUTZ GEGEN ELEKTROSCHOCK
1. VARI❋LITE -Scheinwerfer eignen sich ausschließlich für trockene Standorte. Regen oder
Feuchtigkeit können die Scheinwerfer beschädigen.
2. Unterbrechen Sie die Stromzufuhr, bevor Sie mit der Arbeit an VARI❋LITE -Geräten beginnen.
3. Die Geräte sollten nur von qualifiziertem Personal gewartet werden.
VORSICHT - weist auf möglichen Produktschaden hin.
WARNUNG - weist auf mögliche Körperverletzung und Lebensbedrohung hin.

VARI❋LITE - VLX3 WASH LUMINAIRE USER’SMANUAL
vi 17 December 2012 02.9703.0001 A
WARNUNG:
HINWEISE ZUM SCHUTZ GEGEN ÜBERHÖHTE UV-STRAHLUNG
1. Viele VARI❋LITE -Scheinwerfer verwenden die Lampentyp, der UV-Strahlen abgibt.
SCHAUEN SIE NICHT direkt in die Lampe.
2. Es ist gefährlich, Leuchten ohne Linsen oder Blenden zu bedienen. Blenden, Linsen oder
Ultraviolettschirme müssen ausgetauscht werden, sofern deren Schutzwirkung durch sichtbare
Beschädigung (z. B. Sprünge oder Schrammen) eingeschränkt ist.
WARNUNG:
HF-INTERFERENZ
1. Es handelt sich um ein Produkt der Klasse A. In einer Wohnumgebung kann das Produkt Hochfre-
quenzstörungen verursachen. In diesem Fall müssen eventuell geeignete Maßnahmen getroffen
werden.

FOREWORD
02.9703.0001 A 17 December 2012 vii
Notes de sécurité
Avant de procéder à l’installation des produits décrits dans ce guide et de les mettre en marche, il est
extrêmement important de lire TOUS les renseignements et TOUTES les directives de sécurité
contenues dans ce guide ainsi que toute documentation jointe. Tenir compte de tous les avertissements
et suivre toutes les précautions pendant l’installation et l’utilisation de cet appareil.
Les symboles de sécurité utilisés dans ce guide sont les suivants :
CETTE SECTION CONTIENT DES INFORMATIONS GÉNÉRALES POUR SE PROTÉGER
CONTRE LES DÉCHARGES ÉLECTRIQUES , LES INCENDIES, L’EXPOSITION EXCESSIVE
AUX RAYONS UV ET TOUT AUTRE ACCIDENT POUVANT ENTRAÎNER DES BLESSURES.
AVERTISSEMENT:
DIRECTIVES POUR SE PROTÉGER CONTRE LES INCENDIES
1. Les luminaires VARI❋LITE ont été conçus pour être utilisés uniquement avec certaines type de
lampes. Vérifier le type de lampe (LED) avant de remplacer les lampes. L’installation d’un autre
type de lampe peut poser un danger.
2. Les luminaires peuvent être fixés sur tout type de surface tant que les directives de montage sont
respectées. Voir les explications détaillées dans ce guide.
3. Vérifier la distance à respecter entre les matériaux combustibles ou les objets illuminés et les
luminaires VARI❋LITE .
AVERTISSEMENT:
DIRECTIVES POUR SE PROTÉGER CONTRE LES DÉCHARGES ÉLECTRIQUES
1. Les luminaires VARI❋LITE sont conçus pour une utilisation au sec uniquement. Une exposition à
la pluie et à l’humidité risque d’endommager le luminaire.
2. Débrancher l’appareil avant de procéder à la révision de tout matériel VARI❋LITE .
3. Les révisions doivent être effectuées uniquement par des personnes qualifiées.
ATTENTION Ce symbole annonce que l’appareil risque d’être endommagé.
AVERTISSEMENT Ce symbole annonce qu’il y a risque d’accident grave ou même fatal.

VARI❋LITE - VLX3 WASH LUMINAIRE USER’SMANUAL
viii 17 December 2012 02.9703.0001 A
AVERTISSEMENT:
DIRECTIVES POUR SE PROTÉGER CONTRE UNE EXPOSITION EXCESSIVE AUX
RAYONS UV
1. Plusieurs luminaires VARI❋LITE utilisent une lampe qui produit des rayons UV. NE PAS fixer
son regard sur la lampe.
2. L’utilisation des luminaires sans lentille ou blindage pose des risques. Tous blindages, lentilles ou
écrans ultraviolet visiblement endommagés au point que leur efficacité en est affectée doivent être
remplacés, par exemple s’il y a des fissures ou de profondes rayures.
AVERTISSEMENT:
INTERFÉRENCE RF
1. Cet appareil est de Classe A. Dans un environnement domestique, cet appareil peut causer des
interférences radio, et si c’est le cas, l’utilisateur peut avoir à prendre des mesures adéquates.

FOREWORD
02.9703.0001 A 17 December 2012 ix
Aviso sobre Seguridad
Es muy importante leer TODA la información e instrucciones sobre seguridad que se indica en este
manual así como en los documentos adjuntos antes de instalar y operar los productos descritos. Se
debe prestar atención a todos los avisos y advertencias durante la instalación y uso de este producto.
Los símbolos de seguridad usados en este manual son los siguientes:
LA INFORMACIÓN GENERAL RELACIONADA A LA PROTECCIÓN CONTRAGOLPES DE
CORRIENTE ELÉCTRICA, INCENDIO, EXPOSICIÓN EXCESIVA A RADIACIÓN ULTRA
VIOLETA Y LESIONES A LAS PERSONAS SE PUEDE ENCONTRAR SEGUIDAMENTE:
ADVERTENCIA:
INSTRUCCIONES PARA PROTECCIÓN CONTINUA CONTRA INCENDIO
1. Las luminarias VARI❋LITE han sido diseñadas para ser usadas solamente con algunas lámparas.
Tome nota del tipo de lámpara (LED) antes de reemplazarla. Instalación de otro tipo de lámpara
puede ser peligroso.
2. Las luminarias se pueden instalar en cualquier tipo de superficie siempre que se sigan las
instrucciones de instalación. Vea las instrucciones detalladas en este manual.
3. Tome nota de los requerimientos de distancia de materiales combustibles u objetos iluminados
para las luminarias VARI❋LITE .
ADVERTENCIA:
INSTRUCCIONES PARA PROTECCIÓN CONTINUA CONTRA CHOQUE ELÉCTRICO
1. Las luminarias VARI❋LITE están diseñadas solamente para lugares secos. La exposición a la
lluvia o humedad pueden dañar la luminaria.
2. Desconecte la energía antes de dar servicio a cualquier equipo de VARI❋LITE .
3. El servicio debe ser realizado solamente por personal calificado.
CUIDADO,indica posibles daños al producto.
ADVERTENCIA, indica posibles lesiones o muerte a las personas.

VARI❋LITE - VLX3 WASH LUMINAIRE USER’SMANUAL
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ADVERTENCIA:
INSTRUCCIONES PARA PROTECCIÓN CONTINUA CONTRA LA EXPOSICIÓN
EXCESIVA DE RADIACIÓN ULTRA VIOLETA
1. Muchas luminarias VARI❋LITE usan un tipo de lámpara que produce radiación UV. NO mire
directamente a la lámpara.
2. Es peligroso operar luminarias sin lentes o protectores. Debe cambiar los protectores, lentes o
pantallas ultravioletas si se aprecia que han sido dañadas, y que su efectividad pudiera estar
deteriorada. Por ejemplo, si tuvieran rajaduras o raspaduras profundas.
ADVERTENCIA:
INTERFERENCIA RF
1. Este es un producto de Clase A. En el ambiente de la casa este producto puede ocasionar
radiointerferencia, en cuyo caso, el usuario debe tomar las medidas adecuadas.

FOREWORD
02.9703.0001 A 17 December 2012 xi

VARI❋LITE - VLX3 WASH LUMINAIRE USER’SMANUAL
xii 17 December 2012 02.9703.0001 A

TABLE OF CONTENTS
02.9703.0001 A 17 December 2012 xiii
Table of Contents
Introduction
About This Manual ................................................................................................................... 1
Additional Documentation........................................................................................................ 1
Text Conventions ...................................................................................................................... 2
Customer Service ...................................................................................................................... 2
Chapter 1. Description
Features
Standard Features...................................................................................................................... 4
Components
Included Items........................................................................................................................... 5
Replacement Items/Accessories................................................................................................ 6
Luminaire Overview ................................................................................................................. 7
Chapter 2. Installation
Power and Data Cabling Requirements
AC Power................................................................................................................................ 10
Current vs. Voltage............................................................................................................ 11
Data Cables ............................................................................................................................. 12
Recommended Cable Types/Manufacturers...................................................................... 13
Male Termination Connector ............................................................................................ 13
Installation Procedures
Hanging the Luminaire ........................................................................................................... 14
Floor Mounting the Luminaire................................................................................................ 17
Connecting Data and Power.................................................................................................... 17
Powering Up
Power Up and Configuration Procedure ................................................................................. 18
Addressing
Program Starting Address ....................................................................................................... 19
Chapter 3. Operation
DMX Operation
Channel Mapping.................................................................................................................... 22
DMX Mode 1 Channel Mapping (Normal Operational Mode)......................................... 22
DMX Mode 2 Channel Mapping (Enhanced Operational Mode)..................................... 25
DMX Mode 3 Channel Mapping (Individual LED Engine Control) ................................ 29
DMX Mode 4 Channel Mapping (Enhanced Individual LED Engine Control) ............... 33
Control Channel Functions ..................................................................................................... 38
VLX3 Wash Luminaire Operational Modes (from Control Channel Settings) ................ 41
LED Field Adjustment

VARI❋LITE®- VLX3 WASH LUMINAIRE USER’SMANUAL
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Manual Color Adjustment....................................................................................................... 43
Manual Color Adjustment Through the Luminaire Menu System.................................... 43
Manual Color Adjustment Through a Control Console .................................................... 44
Luminaire Timing
Timing Channel Information................................................................................................... 45
Updating Software
USB Download and Programming ......................................................................................... 54
Transferring Software From Luminaire to Luminaire ............................................................ 55
Chapter 4. Menu System
Menu Operation
What is the Menu System?...................................................................................................... 58
Controls Operation.................................................................................................................. 58
Default State ...................................................................................................................... 60
Menu Button Shortcuts...................................................................................................... 60
Menu Functions
Menu System Overview.......................................................................................................... 61
Menu System Function Chart ................................................................................................. 62
Menu Function Definitions..................................................................................................... 65
Appendix A. Troubleshooting and Maintenance
Troubleshooting
Error Messages........................................................................................................................ 70
Troubleshooting Guide............................................................................................................ 72
Routine Maintenance
Introduction............................................................................................................................. 74
Special Cleaning and Care Instructions .................................................................................. 74
Shipping / Transportation........................................................................................................ 74
Cooling System Heatsink Cleaning Procedure ....................................................................... 75
Appendix B. Technical Specifications
VLX3 Wash Luminaire........................................................................................................... 77

INTRODUCTION : ABOUT THIS MANUAL
02.9703.0001 A 17 December 2012 1
Introduction
About This Manual
This manual provides necessary information regarding safety, installation, operation and routine
maintenance for the VARI❋LITE VLX3 Wash Luminaire. Familiarizing yourself with this
information will help you to get the most out of your luminaire.
WARNING: It is important to read ALL accompanying safety and installation instructions to avoid
damage to the product and potential injury to yourself or others.
This manual covers the following models:
Additional Documentation
A service manual, only for Authorized VARI❋LITE Service Centers and technicians, of the VLX3
Wash Luminaire is available in electronic (PDF) format:
• VLX3 Wash Luminaire Service Manual (02.9690.0010)
- Testing, Troubleshooting, Component Replacement and Illustrated Parts Breakdown.
Note: Performing maintenance procedures may void the product warranty. Refer to the Vari-Lite
Limited Warranty card included in the product shipping package for more information.
Note: The VLX3 Wash Luminaire requires very little routine maintenance, but has special cleaning
instructions unlike other fixtures. Please refer to “Special Cleaning and Care Instructions” on page 74
for complete cleaning and handling requirements.
For more information regarding DMX512 systems, refer to the following document available from
United States Institute for Theatre Technology, Inc. (USITT):
• Digital Data Transmission Standard for Dimmers & Controllers plus AMX 192 Analog Multiplex
Data Transmission Standard for Dimmers & Controllers. (A copy of Recommended Practice for
DMX512 is included.)
USITT Inc.
6443 Ridings Road
Syracuse, New York 13206-1111 USA
Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone] / www.usitt.org
Model Part Number Source
VLX3 Wash Luminaire 20.9703.0001 3 x 120W RGBW LEDs
VLX3 Wash Luminaire, White 20.9703.0001.02 3 x 120W RGBW LEDs

VARI❋LITE - VLX3 WASH LUMINAIRE USER’SMANUAL
2 17 December 2012 02.9703.0001 A
Text Conventions
The following styles and meanings are used throughout this manual:
Customer Service
Our Goal
At Vari-Lite, we are committed to providing you the highest quality in customer service. Our
comprehensive resources are available to help your business succeed and ensure you get the full
benefit of being a Vari-Lite customer. Whether your needs are telephone troubleshooting assistance,
product training or technical service, our full-time staff of experienced professionals are on-hand to
provide support.
How to Reach Us
For assistance in your area, call the dealer from which your product was purchased. or Contact an
Authorized VARI❋LITE Service Center or Contact the Vari-Lite Customer Service Department, 9am
- 6pm CST Monday through Friday, at the following:
phone: 1-877-VARI-LITE (1-877-827-4548) or [phone]
email: [email protected]
Additional Resources
For additional resources and documentation, please visit our website at www.vari-lite.com and follow
the Support link.
Style Meaning
[Button] Front panel button. Example: Press [Enter] or [ESC]
(Escape).
[Up] / [Down] / [Left] / [Right]
Arrows
Press either [Up] or [Down] or [Left] or [Right] arrow
button at Menu Display.
MENU LCD Menu Display read-out. Example: Press [Up] / [Down]
/ [Left] / [Right] arrows until LAMP appears.

02.9703.0001 A 17 December 2012 3
CHAPTER 1.
Description
This chapter contains descriptions of luminaire features and components, along with a list of
accessories that are available.
• Features
• Components

VARI❋LITE - VLX3 WASH LUMINAIRE USER’SMANUAL
4 17 December 2012 02.9703.0001 A
Features
Standard Features
All VLX3 Wash Luminaires have the following standard features:
• Three, 120-watt replaceable custom RGBW chipsets. Each chip set contains high density red,
green, blue, and white LED emitters.
• Manufacturer rated life (LED chip sets), in excess of 10,000 hours (at full RGBW).
• Light output of approximately 6,000 lumens (white light).
• Beam size control is achieved by the use of an optical zoom system that provides continuously
variable field angle from approximately 15° to 55°.
• High-speed strobe with individual cell control and built-in effects.
• Smooth pan and tilt operation through time-controlled continuous motion by way of a pair of
three-phase stepper motor systems.
•540
oPan and 240oTilt with 0.3oresolution.
Note: Detailed specification are available on the Vari-Lite web site at www.vari-lite.com and in
“Technical Specifications” on page 77 in this manual.