Zero88 SIRIUS 500 User manual

SIRIUS
500 & 250
OPERATOR'S
MANUAL

M Warnings and Disclaimers
Boring but Necessary
M Temporary Three Phase Supplies
When using a Sirius on portable or
temporary three phase supplies, ALWAYS
unplug the desk before connecting or
disconnecting the portable or temporary
supply.
M Cleaning the Sirius 500 / 250
Cleaning the paint finish on the surround of
the desk: DISCONNECT THE MAINS
SUPPLY. For best results use a soft brush
or moist sponge or cloth, and concentrated
or lightly thinned detergent. Before cleaning
moisten the surface evenly. Afterwards
wipe carefully and sparingly with water or
solvents to avoid a build-up of remainders of
detergent, which may in time prove difficult
to remove. Anti-static foam cleaner may also
be used.
APPLY WITH EXTREME CARE.
WATER/LIQUID CAUSES IRREPARABLE
DAMAGE IF IT PENETRATES THE
PAINTED SURFACE OF THE LIGHTING
CONTROL DESK, AND IS HARMFUL TO
THE ELECTRONICS. ALWAYS FOLLOW
THE MANUFACTURERS INSTRUCTIONS
ON DETERGENTS AND OTHER
CLEANERS.
M Floppy disk backups
Make two disks of all important data.
M Maintenance
Never allow the weight of the desk to rest on
the front panel controls. Place supports
under the surrounding edges.
M Use
This equipment is designed for use as a
lighting control desk only, and is unsuitable
for any other purpose. It should only be
used by, or under the supervision of, an
appropriately qualified or trained person.
M Fixture Data
Zero 88 Lighting Ltd. cannot be held
responsible for the accuracy of the fixture
data supplied with this desk, although every
effort has been made to verify the
information. Where possible manufacturers
fixture data has been used.
M For US Government Users
Embedded BIOS Version 3.1: U.S.
Government Restricted Rights Legend: This
Software is furnished with Restricted Rights.
Use, duplication, or disclosure of the
Software by the U.S. Government is subject
to restrictions as set forth in subparagraph
(c) (1) (ii) of the Rights in Technical Data
and Computer Software clause at
48 C.F.R. Sec. 252.227-7013 or in
subparagraphs (c) (1) and (2) of the
Commercial Computer Software-
Restricted Rights clause at 48 C.F.R.
Sec. 52-227-19, as applicable.
/pi/3
M Changes and Updates
Zero 88 Lighting Ltd. reserves the right to
make changes to the equipment described
in this manual without prior notice. E & OE.
M Operators Take Care!
Ergonomic instructions are detailed on
page 1-2. It is important to follow them.
M Trademarks
Trademarks that are the property of other
organisations are hereby acknowledged.
Sirius 500 & 250 Manual
Third issue - Jan 1998
Manual Stock No. 73-640-00
© Zero 88 Lighting Ltd. 1997
Software version: E002 October 1997
(Second Release)
Zero 88 Lighting Ltd.
Usk House
Llantarnam Park
Cwmbran
Gwent NP44 3HD
United Kingdom
Tel: [phone]*
Fax: [phone]
* = 24 Hr Answer Phone
e-mail: [e-mail]
web: www.zero88.com
SIRIUS
500 & 250
OPERATOR’S
MANUAL

ii

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Section One
Introduction
This Manual 1-1
Ergonomic Instructions 1-2
Overview 1-3
The Desk 1-4
External Connections 1-6
The Desk Controls 1-6
Master Controls 1-7
Section Two
Preset Mode
Introduction 2-1
Preset Controls 2-1
Turning on the Desk 2-2
Entering Presets Only Mode 2-2
Changing the Screen Display 2-2
Outputting a Scene 2-4
Fading Between Scenes 2-4
Timed Crossfades between Scenes 2-4
Flashing a Channel 2-4
Soloing Channels 2-4
Section Three
Program Mode
Introduction 3-1
Memory Controls 3-2
Memory Storage 3-3
Memory Types 3-3
Attribute Selection 3-4
Selecting Memories 3-4
Selecting Memory Numbers 3-5
Editing Times 3-5
Group Buttons 3-5
View Fixture Data 3-6
Find Function 3-6
Programming Memories
Moving Between Brightness Memories 3-7
Moving Between Colour, Beamshape and Position
Memories 3-7
Setting Up the Desk for Programming Brightness 3-7
Programming a Brightness Memory (Scene)
Using Presets 3-7
Programming a Brightness Memory (Scene)
Using 4 Wheel Drive®3-8
Reviewing a Brightness Memory 3-9
Submasters 3-10
/Piii/v3
Viewing the Content of any Submaster 3-10
Transferring to a Submaster Fader 3-10
Programming a Colour Memory
(Full Scene) 3-12
Programming a Beamshape Memory (Full Scene) 3-14
Programming a Position Memory (Full Scene) 3-16
Movement Effects 3-17
Modifying Memories
Editing a Brightness Memory 3-18
Setting up for Editing Brightness Memories 3-18
Adding a Channel to a Brightness Memory 3-18
Editing or Removing a Channel in a
Brightness Memory 3-18
Editing a Group of Channels in a
Brightness Memory 3-19
Editing an LTP Memory 3-19
Memory Removal 3-20
Programming a Zero Memory 3-20
Making a Chase Step Zero 3-20
Deleting a Memory 3-20
Blind Operation
Blind 3-21
Activating Blind 3-21
Blind Programming of a Brightness Memory
(Scene) Using Presets 3-21
Copying a Memory
Copying a Memory 3-22
Setting Up the Desk for Copying 3-22
Copying a Memory (Save As) 3-22
Copying a Memory into the Current Memory
(Copy From) 3-22
Copying Part of a Chase Memory (Save As) 3-22
Creating a Chase Memory from Other Memories
(Copy From) 3-23
Insert
Inserting a Memory 3-23
Programming Chases
Introduction 3-24
Chase Controls 3-24
Programming a Brightness Memory Chase. 3-25
Previewing a Brightness Chase 3-26
Adding or Deleting Steps in a Brightness Chase 3-27
Programming a Colour Memory (Full Chase) 3-28
Programming a Colour Memory (Partial Chase) 3-29
Programming a Beamshape Memory (Full Chase) 3-30
Programming a Beamshape Memory (Partial Chase) 3-31
Programming a Position Memory (Full Chase) 3-32
Programming a Position Memory (Partial Chase) 3-33
TABLE OF CONTENTS
7364000/Piii/v3 iii

Audio Effects
Audio Effects Programming 3-34
Effects Controls 3-34
Programming an Audio Effect Brightness Memory 3-35
Focus Submasters
Focus Submasters 3-36
Programming Focus Submasters 3-36
Hotlinks 3-36
Programming a Hotlink 3-36
Macro Buttons
Programming Macros 3-37
Programming Auxiliary Control Buttons 3-37
Playing a Macro 3-37
Section Four
CueLine Introduction
What is CueLine®? 4-1
CueLine Overview 4-2
Toolbar Buttons 4-2
CueLine Programming
Setting up to Programming CueLine 4-3
Defining Tracks 4-3
Redefining a Track 4-3
Setting Up Cues 4-4
Adding Cues 4-4
Removing a Cue 4-4
Inserting Memories 4-5
Removing a Memory 4-5
Inserting Fades/Transitions 4-6
Editing CueLine Memory Dwell Times 4-6
Editing Fades 4-6
Inserting a Blackout 4-6
Editing Blackouts 4-6
Auxiliary Track
Auxiliary Track 4-7
Adding an On State 4-7
Changing the Default Time 4-7
Saving and Running CueLine
Saving CueLine Programs 4-8
Why Multiple Tracks? 4-8
Clearing CueLine
Accessing Super User 4-9
Resetting CueLine 4-9
Section Five
Setting Up the Desk
Planning 5-1
/Piv/v3
Internal Memory Structure 5-2
Controls 5-2
Navigating SetUp 5-2
Setup: Files
Selecting SetUp Options 5-3
Saving a Show 5-3
Loading a Show 5-3
Saving Operator Fixture Data 5-4
Loading Operator Fixture Data 5-4
Copying a Disk 5-4
Printing, Saving in ASCII Format, and Loading
in ASCII Format 5-4
Formatting the Disk 5-4
SetUp: Illumination
SetUp: Illumination 5-5
SetUp: Desk SetUp
SetUp: Desk Set-Up 5-6
Assigning Fixtures 5-7
Viewing the Current Set-Up 5-7
Clear DMX Patch 5-7
Load Default Set-Up 5-8
Clear Set-Up 5-8
Modifying the Set-Up 5-9
Auto Patch DMX 5-10
Setting the DMX Address and Controls 5-11
Setting Fixture Controls 5-12
Duplicates 5-13
Adding Duplicate Fixtures 5-13
Continuing After Setting the DMX Address 5-14
Setting the Auxiliary Controls 5-15
Adding Duplicate Auxiliary Controls 5-16
Brightness Defaults 5-17
Colour Defaults 5-18
Beamshape Defaults 5-18
Position Defaults 5-18
Movement Effects 5-19
Saving the Desk Set-Up 5-19
Overview 5-20
Set-Up: Fixture Set-Up
Setting Up Fixtures 5-22
Creating a New Fixture 5-22
Editing an Existing Fixture 5-22
Creating a Variant 5-22
Deleting a User Fixture Type 5-22
Subfixtures 5-22
Entering / Modifying Parameter Data 5-22
TABLE OF CONTENTS
iv 7364000/Piv/v3

Entering Parameter Information 5-23
Parameter Details 5-24
Wheel Assignment 5-25
Control Range 5-26
Saving Fixture Data Changes 5-26
SetUp: Stage SetUp 5-26
SetUp: Fixture Control 5-26
Section Six
Run Mode
Introduction 6-1
Run Mode Controls 6-2
Running CueLine
Running CueLine 6-3
Zoom Buttons 6-3
Playback controls
Entering Run Mode 6-4
Playing Back Brightness Memories Using
the Playback Controls 6-4
Replay screen
Replay Screen 6-6
Playback Section 6-6
Brightness Submaster Section 6-6
Colour, Beamshape and Position Sections 6-7
Focus Submaster Section 6-7
Brightness Screen
Brightness Screen 6-8
Pre-viewing a Submasters Output 6-8
Brightness Submasters
Running the Show Manually 6-9
Using a Brightness Submaster Fader 6-9
Accessing a Memory on a Different Page
(Page Overlay) 6-9
Adding a Brightness Memory to a
Brightness Submaster 6-10
Running Chases on Brightness Submasters 6-10
Focus Submasters 6-11
Hotlinks 6-11
Attribute Memories
Introduction 6-12
Live Editing
Overriding a Transition Time 6-13
Modifying Position Live 6-13
Activating Topset 6-13
/Pv/V3
Section Seven
Super User
Introduction 7-1
Accessing Super User 7-1
Clear Memories 7-2
Recovery 7-3
Setting Recovery 7-3
Language Set-Up 7-3
Date and Time 7-3
Exiting Super User 7-3
Appendix Section
Technical Specification
Sirius 250 & Sirius 500
Technical Specifications A-1
Fixture List
Available Fixtures B-1
Glossary
Word List C-1
TABLE OF CONTENTS
7364000/Pv/V3 v

/Pvi/V3
TABLE OF CONTENTS
vi 7364000/Pvi/V3

Introduction
This Manual
This chapter gives an explanation of
fixtures and how they are used with the
desk, as well as an overview of the
desk, its controls and functions. The
glossary at the end defines some of the
more technical terms used in the
manual. Once the basics have been
mastered, the manual describes in
easy stages how the desk can be used
to run complete, complex shows.
Within the main text of the manual
references to controls and buttons on
the front panel appear in capital letters;
references to wording appearing in the
memory display and wheel display, or
on the monitor screen, is shown in the
text in italics.
/p1-1/3
This manual may be available in other
language options, however, the English
version remains the definitive version.
The floppy disk supplied with the desk
is NOT for general use. It is supplied
in the unlikely even of operating
system problems. Please store it
carefully as your dealer or Zero 88 may
ask you do use it in the extreme
circumstances of the desk not
operating correctly.
n Figure 1-1:
Sirius 500 Lighting Desk
n Figure 1-2: Sirius 500 desk set-up
Introduction
1
7364000/p1-1/3 1 - 1

Ergonomic Instructions
Research suggests that carrying out
repetitive tasks, possibly associated
with an unfriendly working
environment, can lead to physical
discomfort and even injury, such as
various forms of Repetitive Strain
Injury.
Please read these instructions carefully.
The Sirius 500 & 250 are designed to
be used in a seated position. The
operator must ensure that all pieces of
equipment in the operators position,
including the chair, lighting desk, and
any accessories such as a monitor,
external keyboard and mouse, are
correctly positioned, both individually
and in relation to one another.
Compliance with all local Health and
Safety Regulations must be ensured.
Take sufficient breaks to stop the body
becoming stiff and tense, and to rest
the eyes. Walk around and gently
exercise the muscles particularly in the
hands and shoulders.
N.B. If any pain is felt while using the
equipment, consult a medical
practitioner.
We recommend the following to
improve both comfort and efficiency.
/p1-2/3
Adjust the chair to the correct height,
and ensure that it provides adequate
support to the lower back. The working
surface must also be at the correct
height in relation both to the chair and
to the equipment. Forearms should be
at right angles to upper arms. Feet
should rest flat on the floor. If not, use
a footrest of suitable height for thighs
to be parallel to the floor.
The lighting control desk must be
placed in a comfortable position, as
should the external keyboard and
mouse. Ensure that all are positioned
at the same height. Forearms should
be approximately parallel to the floor.
Consciously relax the hand regularly
when using the wheels and mouse. Do
not grip the mouse too hard. If using a
mouse pad, ensure that the arm still
remains at the correct height.
If using a monitor, ensure that it is
placed at a comfortable viewing
distance, with the top of the display no
higher than eye level when seated.
Glare and bright reflections on the
screen and in the Memory and Wheel
Displays on the front panel of the desk
must be avoided. Frequently focus on
an object in the distance to move the
eyes away from the screen.
Now relax and have fun
using the Sirius Desk!
n Figure 1-3: Ensure the correct desk set-up
1
Introduction
1 - 2 7364000/p1-2/3

Overview
The Sirius 500 is a 512 channel, and
the Sirius 250 is a 256 channel lighting
desk, incorporating many of the
flexible, friendly and robust features of
the original Sirius 24 and 48 models,
but also introducing new techniques
and the latest technology.
The traditional Sirius hallmarks are all
there: Key Switch for changing
between operating modes, two
Presets, Submasters, GO button,
Memory Effects, etc., together with
new features, such as two built-in liquid
crystal displays for operator feedback,
an optional external monitor, external
keyboard and mouse, 4 Wheel Drive
®
for easy control of fixture parameters,
floppy disk backup, and much much
more.
The Sirius 500 & 250 can control all
types of fixture: a single channel fixture
(often referred to as a generic or
conventional), consisting solely of a
lamp; a multichannel fixture, such as a
generic with either a colour scroller or a
gobo rotator; or an intelligent
multichannel fixture, which covers
many types of fixture, such as a
moving mirror fixture (Cyberlight) or a
moving yoke fixture (VL5).
The Sirius 500 & 250 use two types of
control channels to regulate fixtures.
Firstly, Brightness channels control
lamps or dimmers, by means of the
channel Preset faders. The green
output lights on the desk mimic the
DMX Brightness output for that fixture.
/p1-3/3
The second type of channel controls all
non-Brightness attributes (i.e. Colour,
Beamshape, and Position) of
multichannel fixtures, using 4 Wheel
Drive
®
. This makes programming even
the most complex multichannel fixtures
simple and fast. The fixture may have
more than one channel controlling
Colour, Beamshape or Position
attributes. For example, the Colour
attribute could comprise four separate
channels - one each for cyan,
magenta, yellow and a colour wheel.
The Beamshape attribute could have a
gobo wheel, an iris and a shutter. The
individual channels comprising a
Colour, Beamshape or Position
attribute are referred to as parameters.
All fixtures must have a Brightness
channel, which is controlled by the
channel Preset faders. The Desk uses
the Brightness channel numbers as
fixture numbers. Thus the flash buttons
below the Preset faders have two
functions; they can be used both to
flash the Brightness channel, and also
to select fixtures for programming
non-Brightness attributes.
Brightness, Colour, Beamshape and
Position memories are stored in four
separate areas, one for each attribute.
A single memory can record
information about one particular
attribute for all fixtures connected to
the desk.
The desk operating system handles
Brightness and non-Brightness
memories in different ways. Brightness
memories are mixed on the DMX
output on a Highest Takes Precedence
(HTP) basis. This is the traditional way
Two Preset desks mix their outputs to
be interpreted by dimmers. The highest
(or brightest) value is the most
important, and controls the channel. In
HTP a channel value of zero turns the
dimmer off.
Non-Brightness memories are mixed
on the DMX channel on a Latest Takes
Precedence (LTP) basis. This means
that the latest value on a channel is the
most important and controls the
parameters action. In contrast to HTP,
zero is NOT off in LTP, as it is not
possible, for example, to turn a mirror
to an off position. In HTP the highest
(or brightest) value is the most
important, but in LTP all values have
the same importance. Although the
desk manages this for the operator, it
is nevertheless important to
understand this distinction when
running a show.
WARNING
Maintenance
A dimmer or fixture must always be isolated
from the mains supply before proceeding
with any maintenance, even if the channel is
set to zero.
n Figure 1-4: The Sirius 250 Lighting Control Desk
1
Introduction
7364000/p1-3/3 1 - 3

The Desk
The Sirius 500 can control up to 48
individual multichannel fixtures. The
Sirius 250 can control up to 24
Multichannel fixtures.
Throughout this introduction the figures
for the Sirius 250 are shown in
brackets after the figures for the
Sirius 500.
The desk controls the intensity of the
Brightness of the fixtures via the
PRESET faders. Over 400 (over 200
on the Sirius 250) other channels are
available to control the additional
attributes of multichannel fixtures.
These channels are allocated to
fixtures as required.
In addition to using the two traditional
48/24 channel presets, Brightness
memories can be accessed
sequentially by using the GO button, or
randomly via the four pages of twenty
(four pages of twelve on the Sirius 250)
submasters. The GO button and the
submasters can run either scene or
chase memories.
The Sirius 500 & 250 both have
Ninety-nine pages of ten memory
selection buttons for each of the
attributes (Colour, Beamshape and
Position); each memory can record a
scene or chase memory.
Ninety-nine pages of ten Focus
Submaster buttons provide combined,
instant access to Colour, Beamshape
and Position memories. Each Focus
Submaster can hold one of each of the
above. All can be scene or chase
memories.
Five MACRO buttons can be used to
record and replay a series of button
pushes.
Eight AUXILIARY buttons (four on the
Sirius 250) can be used to switch
outputs on and off, for example, house
lights or DMX smoke machines.
Both desks can operate in TWO
PRESET or WIDE mode. WIDE mode
can only be activated when the desk is
in PROGRAM or RUN mode, not in
PRESETS ONLY mode.
/p1-4/3
When in WIDE mode the Sirius 500
can control 96 fixtures and the
Sirius 250 can control 48 fixtures. Only
the first 48 (24) fixtures can be
multichannel; the second 48 (24) are
conventional (generic) only.
Displays
Programming information and the help
facility (where available) can be viewed
in the larger of the two liquid crystal
displays (called the Memory Display)
on the front panel.
The smaller of the two liquid crystal
displays (the Wheel Display) guides
the operator by indicating which
parameter can be adjusted on which
wheel. The function of the wheels is
dependent on the operating mode of
the desk and fixture data. When the
wheels are not in use, the display is
blank.
The desk has an SVGA output for use
with a standard colour computer
monitor. This enables the operator to
view the output levels and
programming information to better
effect. This speeds up the
programming and use of the desk, and
provides the operator with instant
feedback. The majority of functions are
useable without the monitor but some
become a lot easier and quicker with it.
Throughout this manual the procedure
for operating the desk using only the
Memory and Wheel Displays is
described separately from using the
desk with a monitor, which is referred
to in the MONITOR NOTES.
The arrow keys below the Memory
Display enable the operator to gain
access to a screen, select options and
scroll through the menus.
An external keyboard can be used for
text entry, memory selection and time
entry as well as duplicating the arrow
keys on the desk..
n Figure 1-5: Sample Brightness screen
1
Introduction
1 - 4 7364000/p1-4/3

Running a Show
Generally shows are one of two types.
That is either a theater style show
where most things are repeatable and
run in a fixed order - or a live band type
show, where the lighting is selected
live from a set of Pre-defined memories.
The Sirius 500 & 250 can cater for
either type of show; CueLine
®
is ideal
for running a wholly Pre-defined show.
Whereas the Submasters, Go Button
and Focus Submasters are ideal for a
live band type show.
Submasters and Focus Submasters
can be used simultaneously with
CueLine
®
.
Getting Started
When the desk is delivered, it is set up
for 48 (or 24) single channel fixtures.
Before it can be used with multichannel
fixtures, the operator must tell the desk
the fixture types that are to be used.
This is a simple procedure as the desk
is supplied with data on a range of
fixture types. The operator can also
generate new fixture files for new
fixture types or modify existing fixture
files.
The data for each fixture type is held in
a fixture file. This allows the allocation
of the fixtures various parameters to
the Brightness, Colour, Beamshape or
Position attributes and parameter
channel numbering. New fixture files
will be released as new fixtures types
become available.
Desk Set-Up
On delivery the desk defaults to all
fixtures being single channel (generic)
fixtures, with fixture 1 at DMX
channel 1, fixture 2 at DMX channel 2,
etc. With this set-up the desk operates
as a traditional 48 (24) channel
memory desk.
To modify the set-up, it is necessary for
the operator to know what fixtures are
to be controlled by the desk.
/p1-5/3
Assigning Fixtures
Select an appropriate desk channel(s)
and allocate the fixture type from a list
(see the section on Assigning Fixtures
on page 5-7). The DMX start address
can then be allocated to each fixture.
Once the fixtures have been allocated
to desk channels and a DMX start
address, a certain amount of
modification can be done.
For example, it is possible to invert Pan
and/or Tilt on individual fixtures.
Customising Fixtures
Fixture data files can be customised
allowing for example the grouping of
parameters of 4 Wheel Drive
®
to be
modified. Therefore, if the operator
never wants to use the thumb wheel,
this can be achieved. Or parameter
may be grouped in different orders.
Once customised the new fixture data
file may be allocated to a fixture. For
detailed information please see the
section on Wheel Assignment in
Fixture Set-Up on page 5-25.
CueLine®
CueLine, is a graphical method of
building and running a complete show,
allowing precise linking of differing
memory types and graphical editing of
all timing information. CueLine works
in either real time or SMPTE time
(where available), or waits for external
triggers to prompt it. The operator is in
total control, with the CueLine display
giving detailed feedback.
The beauty of this method is that it
allows a show with complex timings to
be programmed and edited easily and
quickly.
A monitor and mouse are required to
program and operate CueLine.
n Figure 1-6: Desk connections
n Figure 1-7: Part of the desk layout 1
Introduction
7364000/p1-5/3 1 - 5

External Connections
The desk has various external
connections (see Figure 1-6), some of
which are mandatory, others optional.
Connections must not be made after
the power is switched on.
Mandatory Connections
DMX Output: Twin 5 pin XLRs carrying
the same DMX data. They are fully and
independently isolated. It is suggested
that one is used for output to dimmers
and the other for output to intelligent
fixtures.
Power In: Switch selectable for working
voltage range. (See the Technical
Specification on page A-2.)
Optional Connections
Power Out: Outputs the same voltage
as received at Power In. For use only
with a computer monitor.
Video: Control cable for optional SVGA
computer monitor. 15 pin D type.
Keyboard: For an external keyboard
(US/UK 101/105 key). 5 pin DIN to
enter memory information.
Serial Mouse: Takes a Microsoft
compatible mouse. Only used in
CueLine®.
Parallel Printer: Allows connection of a
parallel printer to produce a hard copy
of memory and desk information.
Lamps: Two Litlites. Dimmable from
the desk. NOTE Unplug the litlite
before replacing a blown bulb .
MIDI IN/THRU: MIDI connections.
SMPTE: Synchronises CueLine
®
to
external equipment.
Audio Input: For sound to light.
Note
Connecting Up the Desk
Ensure that all external connections are
made to the desk before turning the desk
on. Failure to do so may result in the mouse,
external keyboard or monitor not operating
correctly. If this occurs, turn the desk off,
wait 20 seconds and turn the desk on again.
The Desk Controls
The desk is divided into the following
sections:
MASTER CONTROLS
MEMORY CONTROL FEATURES
4 WHEEL DRIVE®
EFFECTS CONTROL
CHANNEL PRESETS
CHANNEL FLASH BUTTONS
PLAYBACK
BRIGHTNESS SUBMASTERS
ATTRIBUTE MEMORY BUTTONS
FOCUS SUBMASTERS
MACRO BUTTONS
AUXILIARY CONTROL BUTTONS
/p1-6/3
nThe Master Controls provide control
over the desk’s basic operating
functions and over Master Brightness.
nThe MEMORY CONTROLS and
4 Wheel Drive®allow programming of
all Brightness, Colour, Beamshape and
Position memories. The Memory
Display and Wheel Display provide
operator feedback.
nThe EFFECTS CONTROL section
allows the use of chase and audio
effects.
nThe channel PRESETS and flash
buttons allow setting of Brightness
levels. The channel flash buttons are
also used to select fixtures for
programming.
nPlayback operates on a cue list by
means of the GO button, including
crossfade OVERRIDE, STOP and GO
PREVIOUS buttons. The GO button
allows playback of the memories in
sequential order.
nBRIGHTNESS SUBMASTER faders
allow random access to memories, i.e.
to mix and playback multiple memories
under operator control. Memories may
be transferred with fade times.
nAttribute memory buttons,
comprising COLOUR, BEAMSHAPE
and POSITION, control moving light
attributes, again allowing random
access to memories.
nThe FOCUS SUBMASTERS allow
single button access to combinations of
Colour, Beamshape and Position
memories.
nThe MACRO buttons provide a fast
way of doing repetitive button pushes
by programming a sequence of button
pushes into one button.
nAUXILIARY CONTROL buttons
can be used to switch outputs on and
off, for example, smoke machines,
house lights, etc.
1
Introduction
1 - 6 7364000/p1-6/3

Master Controls
l MAINS SWITCH
Controls the supply of power to the
desk and to the monitor connected to
the desk; situated at the rear of the
desk, its location is indicated by
POWER at the back of the front panel
near the Key Switch.
l KEY SWITCH
Selects PRESETS ONLY, PROGRAM
or RUN mode.
l GRAND MASTER
Sets the maximum level for Brightness
(HTP). It has no effect on other fixture
parameters (LTP).
l FLASH FUNCTION
Defines the use of the channel flash
and BRIGHTNESS SUBMASTER
FLASH buttons.
l FLASH MASTER
Sets the maximum level for Brightness
channels when flashed using channel
or BRIGHTNESS SUBMASTER
FLASH buttons. If set lower than the
channel output, channels will flash
down.
l BLIND MODE
Allows programming and editing
without affecting outputs. BLIND only
operates in PROGRAM.
l TOPSET
Allows the operator to force the
maximum output level for a Brightness
channel. TOPSET only operates in
RUN and cannot be used in WIDE
mode.
l DBO
Dead Black Out. Kills all desk
Brightness outputs. It has no effect on
other fixture parameters (LTP).
When activated, a warning appears on
the Monitor and the Memory Display.
/p1-7/3
Power On/Power Off
It is inadvisable to turn the desk off
immediately after programming a
memory. Turning off the power
immediately after pressing the
PROGRAM button may cause some of
the data to be lost. Instead, wait a few
seconds, then turn off the mains
switch. The desk should not be
re-powered for at least 20 seconds.
This ensures a complete reboot of the
system.
After it is switched on, there is a short
delay before the desk is fully
operational. Once ready, the Please
Wait warning disappears from the
Memory Display, and the monitor
shows the screen appropriate to the
mode indicated by the Key Switch.
Mains Switch
The mains switch is located on the rear
panel, adjacent to the Key Switch, just
above the connector for the litlite. The
switch was deliberately positioned
above the litlite connector so that a 90º
litlite will protect the desk from
accidentally being turned off, which
could happen when trying to eject the
floppy disk.
Key Switch
To enhance the security of the memory
data in the desk, the Key Switch key
can only be removed in PRESETS
ONLY and RUN mode, thus enabling
the operator to leave the desk knowing
that no-one can change the memories.
Wide Mode
The desk can be used in WIDE mode
which turns the Sirius 500 into a single
preset 96 channel desk, and the Sirius
250 into a single preset 48 channel
desk, with channel flash buttons, .
Selection of either WIDE or TWO
PRESET operation is made in
PROGRAM mode, Set-Up: Desk
Set-Up.
In TWO PRESET mode the Sirius 500
has 48 Brightness channels (24 on the
Sirius 250) and can control 48 (24)
multichannel fixtures.
In WIDE mode the desk has 96
Brightness channels (48 on the Sirius
250), of which up to 48 (24 on the
Sirius 250) may be allocated to
multichannel fixtures, and the
remaining 48 (24 on the Sirius 250)
to simple, single channel generic
fixtures.
If WIDE mode is selected, turning the
Key Switch to PRESETS ONLY
temporarily overrides the desk set-up
and the desk returns to TWO PRESET
operation.
For more details please see the
references to WIDE mode in the
chapters on Setting Up the Desk (see
pages 5-6).
Connecting Up the Desk
Ensure that all external connections
are made to the desk before turning
the desk on. Failure to do so may
result in the mouse, external keyboard
or monitor not operating correctly. If
this occurs, turn the desk off, wait
20 seconds and turn the desk on again.
DBO
Pressing the DEAD BLACK OUT
button instantly takes all Brightness
outputs to zero, without affecting any
other outputs. Therefore all mirrors, gel
strings, wheels, etc., do not return to
zero or home positions when the DBO
button is pressed.
1
Introduction
7364000/p1-7/3 1 - 7

Preset Mode
Introduction
In PRESETS ONLY all effect and
memory functions are disabled,
offering a completely manual two
preset system. The Presets are
patched to the outputs as determined
by the fixture data (see the section on
Assigning Fixtures in Desk Set-Up on
page 5-7). The Brightness channels
are active, each controlling an
individual fixture 48 on the Sirius 500
(or 24 on the Sirius 250).
At turn-on the latest takes precedence
(LTP) channels are static at their home
(default) values, as defined in the
Fixture Data Files. If these fixture
attributes have been changed in RUN
mode, on returning to PRESETS ONLY
the new value is retained.
The desk must have fixtures allocated
to the desk channels. The default is 48
(or 24) single channel generic lamps. If
any other fixture types are to be used,
the Desk Set-Up procedure must be
followed, see the section on Modifying
the Set-Up on page 5-9.
A scene can be set up on PRESET A
or B using the individual channel
faders. The MASTER A and B faders
can then be used to manually
crossfade between scenes whilst still
under the overall control of the GRAND
MASTER, or a timed crossfade can be
made using the PRESET
CROSSFADE.
The green channel lights always show
the actual output of each of the 48 (24)
Brightness channels. WIDE mode is
not available.
Preset Controls
l PRESET A AND B
Two sets of faders controlling individual
Brightness channels.
l MASTER A AND B
Set the maximum output level of
PRESET A and B.
l PRESET CROSSFADE
Sets the speed of a crossfade between
PRESETS, when the crossfade is
made by moving the MASTER A and B
faders.
l FLASH MASTER
Sets the channel output level of the
channel flash buttons.
l FLASH FUNCTION BUTTON
Modifies the function of the channel
flash buttons, enabling flashing or
soloing of a channel, as indicated by
the adjacent light. In PRESETS ONLY
mode the TEXT and SELECT functions
are disabled.
l CHANNEL FLASH BUTTONS
While pressed, individual channels go
to the level set by the FLASH MASTER.
l GREEN OUTPUT LIGHT
Mimics the output level for that
Brightness channel.
l VIEW DATA
Press and hold the VIEW DATA button
and select a fixture using channel flash
button, to see its current Patch and
output data.
l INFO
Press and hold the INFO button and
select a channel flash button to view
the TEXT INFO for that fixture.
/p2-1/3
n Figure 2-1: Master Controls
Preset MODE
2
7364000/p2-1/3 2 - 1

NOTE
MASTER A and B inverted/split dipless
crossfade
The MASTER B fader is permanently
inverted thus allowing easy split dipless
crossfading in PRESETS ONLY mode by
pushing MASTER A and MASTER B faders
up or down in tandem.
Turning on the Desk
1 Connect the DMX cable.
2 Switch on the desk using the
mains switch at the rear.
3 Ensure that the DBO button is off,
i.e. that the red light in the button
is off.
4 Set the GRAND MASTER fader to
zero (down).
5 Set the Master Faders to zero by
moving the MASTER A down and
the MASTER B up, the FLASH
MASTER to full by moving it up,
and set the PRESET
CROSSFADE to the off position
(fully anti clockwise).
6 Set the GRAND MASTER fader
full on (up).
Entering Presets Only Mode
1 Turn the Key Switch to PRESETS
ONLY.
Changing the Screen Display
When the Key Switch is turned to
PRESETS ONLY, the Memory Display
normally shows:
Presets Only
[ DESK OUTPUT ]
If this is not shown, use the [ and ]
keys to move to it, as prompted in the
Memory Display.
/p2-2/3
n Figure 2-2: Desk Output screen
n Figure 2-3: DMX Output screen
2
Preset Mode
2 - 2 7364000/p2-2/3

MONITOR NOTES
: PRESETS ONLY
Three types of information can be
accessed in this mode: desk output,
DMX output or DMX patch. The
current option is shown in the
Memory Display. Other options are
selected using the arrow keys.
Information on available options is
given in the Memory Display and the
bottom line on the monitor.
: The Key Switch Position
Is indicated in the top right-hand
corner of the screen. The three
boxes to the left show desk output,
DMX output and DMX patch.
: Current screen
The current screen (as indicated in
the top line of the monitor) is
highlighted in red while that area of
the screen is active, and changes to
green when the selected screen
becomes active.
: The Desk Output (Desk O/P)
Screen
Shows a bar graph representing the
output of the Preset section of the
desk, together with the numeric
value (See Figure 2-2).
: The DMX Output Screen
Shows each DMX address with the
DMX output value that is currently
being transmitted. (See Figure 2- 3.)
: The DMX Patch Screen
Shows each DMX address and the
fixture it is patched to (See Figure
2-4).
The information in the DMX Output
and DMX Patch screens has been
subdivided for clarity. Use the } key
to move to the selection range bar.
Use the [ and ] keys to move
between the following ranges:
1  128, 129  256, 257  384,
or 385  512.
In both DMX screens DMX data that
is changing is shown in green.
/p2-3/3
n Figure 2-4: DMX Patch screen
2
Preset Mode
7364000/p2-3/3 2 - 3

Outputting a Scene
1 Set up one scene by setting the
required levels for each channel on
the PRESET A faders, and a
different scene on PRESET B.
2 Move the MASTER A to full and
MASTER B to off, i.e. both to the
top. The effect is live on the DMX
outputs. The green output lights
above the channel flash buttons
correspond to the desks
Brightness output.
Fading Between Scenes
1 Ensure that the PRESET
CROSSFADE is switched off.
2 To crossfade to PRESET B,
simultaneously move the
MASTER A and MASTER B to the
opposite ends of their travel.
3 The operator has direct control
over the speed of the scene
change.
4 As the faders are moved, the
scene on PRESET B fades in
whilst the scene on PRESET A
fades out. The crossfade is dipless.
Timed Crossfades between Scenes
1 Set the PRESET CROSSFADE to,
say 10 seconds.
2 To initiate the crossfade, move
MASTER A and B to the opposite
ends of their travel quickly. The
outputs crossfade between the two
scenes in the selected time,
independent of the speed at which
the faders are moved. The
crossfade is dipless.
Flashing a Channel
1 Ensure that the FLASH
FUNCTION is set to FLASH. (If it
is not on, press the FLASH
FUNCTION button until it is
selected.)
2 Set the FLASH MASTER to full.
3 Press and hold an individual
channel flash button. This channel
is now added into the scene at the
level set by the FLASH MASTER
until the button is released.
4 Vary the level set by the FLASH
MASTER to see the effect.
Soloing Channels
1 Change the FLASH FUNCTION to
SOLO by pressing the FLASH
FUNCTION button until the red
SOLO light comes on.
2 Press and hold an individual
channel flash button. This time the
channel comes on to the level set
by the FLASH MASTER, with all
other outputs reduced to zero.
3 Release the channel flash button
to return the desk to its previous
state.
/p2-4/3
NOTE
Master Fader Levels
For each channel the level of the output is
determined by the channel fader, the
MASTER A or B fader, and the GRAND
MASTER, i.e. with all three set to 50%, the
total effect is 0.5 x 0.5 x 0.5, so that the
channel is output at 12.5%.
Flash Buttons
The flash buttons flash individual channels
to the level set by the FLASH MASTER.
Channels can either be flashed high or low.
Pressing more than one channel flash
button causes those channels to act
simultaneously.
Solo
Solo can be particularly useful for creating a
sudden dramatic change, such as a
lightning flash or explosion effect.
Macros
The MACRO button will not operate flash
buttons as the Macro button push action is
very fast.
MONITOR NOTES
: Brightness Display
The Brightness channel outputs are
displayed in bar graph and numerical
format (as shown in Figure 2-2, Desk
Output screen).
The numerical format of the DMX
channel output can either be shown
as percent (0-100) or as a decimal
(0-255). This is selected from within
Desk Set-Up (see the section on
Brightness Defaults on page 5-17).
: DMX patch and Output screen
Each channel is highlighted in yellow
when static, and turns green when
the output changes.
2
Preset Mode
2 - 4 7364000/p2-4/3

Program Mode
Introduction
This chapter encompasses all aspects
of programming Brightness, Colour,
Beamshape and Position attributes,
detailing step by step with how to
record memories for individual fixture
parameters.
The desk needs to know what fixtures
are being used and at which DMX
addresses. This must be carried out
following the Desk Set-Up procedure
(Assigning Fixtures) on page 5-7, prior
to commencing programming,
otherwise the desk will only control 48
(or 24 on Sirius 250) single channel
(generic) fixtures or 96 (or 48) in WIDE
mode.
The attribute selection buttons situated
to the right of the wheels (see
Figure 3-4) provide easy access to the
five most frequently used programming
options - Brightness, Colour,
Beamshape and Position attributes,
and CueLine
®
. Set-Up, DMX Output
and DMX Patch are selected using the
arrow keys.
The memories for Brightness, Colour,
Beamshape and Position are
independent of each other. The desk
holds approximately 1,000 memories of
each type. Each memory can be a
chase holding up to 99 steps. The
number of chase memories recorded
may cause the total number of
memories held to be less than 1,000.
Some Brightness channels should be
programmed first as this allows other
attribute changes to be seen.
The Brightness memories can be
programmed from PRESET A or B, or
an existing memory on a submaster.
Any memory programmed is a
combination of current Brightness
outputs.
When an attribute is selected, those
fixtures that have the attribute are
indicated by a yellow light in the
channel flash buttons, and on the
monitor. Adjusting parameters is then
simply a matter of selecting a fixture, or
group of fixtures, and adjusting the
appropriate parameter value using the
correct wheel, as indicated in the
Wheel Display and on the monitor.
/p3-1/3
Up to four parameters can be adjusted
at the same time using the 4 Wheel
Drive
®
. The actual parameter being
controlled by a wheel depends on the
fixture set-up data. The Wheel Display
indicates the name of the parameter
being controlled.
Having selected an attribute (Colour,
Beamshape or Position) and then
selected a fixture (or group of fixtures),
the first four parameters that can be
adjusted are shown on the Wheel
Display. If there are more than four
parameters available, pressing the
WHEEL GROUP button (see Figure
3-1) will display the next group of
parameters.
Each memory has several pieces of
information associated with it: the
memory number, information text typed
in by the operator, fade up and down
times, channel data and levels etc.
nFigure 3-1: Wheel Group button
Program Mode
3
7364000/p3-1/3 3 - 1