Programming and Control of Lighting Systems
Expert-defined terms from the Professional Certificate in Immersive Theatre Lighting Design course at Stanmore School of Business. Free to read, free to share, paired with a professional course.
**AC Power (Alternating Current Power)** #
**AC Power (Alternating Current Power)**
AC Power, or Alternating Current Power, refers to the type of electrical power t… #
In an AC power system, the direction of the electrical current is constantly changing, flowing back and forth in a wave-like pattern. This is in contrast to Direct Current (DC) power, in which the electrical current flows in one direction only.
The voltage of an AC power system is measured in units of volts, and it indicate… #
The amperes, or amps, of an AC power system indicate the amount of electrical current that is flowing through the system. The wattage of an AC power system indicates the rate at which electrical energy is being used or produced.
In the context of lighting systems, AC power is used to supply the electrical cu… #
It is important to ensure that the AC power supply is properly designed and installed, in order to ensure that the lighting system is able to operate safely and effectively.
**Chases** #
**Chases**
In lighting design, a chase refers to a sequence of lighting actions that are re… #
A chase may involve a series of steps, in which the lighting fixtures are turned on and off in a specific order, or it may involve more complex patterns, such as fading or cross-fading between different colors or levels of intensity.
Chases are often used to create dynamic and engaging lighting effects, such as s… #
They can also be used to highlight specific areas or objects, or to create a sense of rhythm or pace.
To create a chase, the lighting designer must first determine the desired patter… #
This may involve creating a detailed script or storyboard, outlining the timing and placement of each step in the chase. Once the pattern has been determined, the lighting designer can use a lighting control console to program the chase, specifying the timing and intensity of each step in the sequence.
**Color Temperature** #
**Color Temperature**
Color temperature is a measure of the color of light, expressed in units of Kelv… #
It is a way of describing the relative warmth or coolness of a light source, based on its spectrum of colors.
White light, which is the type of light that is produced by the sun, has a color… #
Warm white light, which has a yellow or orange tint, has a lower color temperature, typically in the range of 2500-3000K. Cool white light, which has a blue or purple tint, has a higher color temperature, typically in the range of 5000-6500K.
In lighting design, color temperature is an important consideration, as it can a… #
Warm white light is often used to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere, while cool white light is used to create a bright and energetic atmosphere.
**Console** #
**Console**
A console is a device that is used to control lighting systems #
It typically consists of a hardware interface, such as a touch screen or a set of buttons and knobs, and a software program that allows the user to create and execute lighting sequences.
Lighting control consoles are used to control a wide variety of lighting systems… #
They typically use a protocol called DMX (Digital MultipleX) to communicate with the lighting fixtures and control their functions.
There are many different types of consoles available, ranging from simple, stand… #
Some consoles are designed for use by professional lighting designers, while others are more suitable for use by amateurs or hobbyists.
**Cues** #
**Cues**
In lighting design, a cue is a specific lighting state or action that is trigger… #
Cues are used to control the timing and sequence of lighting changes, and they can be triggered manually or automatically.
For example, a lighting designer might create a cue that turns on all the lights… #
The cues can be triggered manually by the lighting operator, or they can be triggered automatically by a timing device or a sensor.
Cues are an essential part of lighting design, as they allow the lighting design… #
They can be created and edited using a lighting control console, and they can be stored and recalled for later use.
**Dimming** #
**Dimming**
Dimming is the process of reducing the brightness of a light source #
It is typically accomplished using a device called a dimmer, which is connected between the power source and the light fixture.
Dimming is an important consideration in lighting design, as it allows the light… #
It can also be used to save energy, as it allows the lighting designer to reduce the power consumption of the lighting fixtures when they are not needed at full brightness.
There are many different types of dimmers available, including rotary dimmers, s… #
Each type of dimmer has its own characteristics and capabilities, and the choice of dimmer will depend on the specific requirements of the lighting design.
**DMX (Digital MultipleX)** #
**DMX (Digital MultipleX)**
DMX (Digital MultipleX) is a protocol that is used to control lighting systems #
It is a standardized system that allows different lighting fixtures and devices to communicate with each other, using a common language and set of rules.
DMX512 is the most common version of DMX, and it allows up to 512 channels of co… #
A DMX universe is a single stream of data that is transmitted over a DMX cable, and it can be used to control up to 512 lighting fixtures or devices.
DMX controllers are devices that are used to generate and transmit DMX signals,… #
DMX cables are used to transmit the DMX signals from the controller to the lighting fixtures and devices.
**Fixture** #
**Fixture**
A fixture is a device that is used to produce and direct light #
It typically consists of a housing, a light source, and a set of optical components, such as lenses or reflectors, that are used to shape and control the light.
Fixtures are an essential part of lighting design, as they allow the lighting de… #
There are many different types of fixtures available, including spotlights, floodlights, and area lights, and they can be used for a wide variety of applications, including stage lighting, architectural lighting, and entertainment lighting.
**Focus** #
**Focus**
Focus is the process of adjusting the position and alignment of a lighting fixtu… #
It involves adjusting the angle and direction of the light, as well as the intensity and color, in order to create a specific mood or atmosphere.
Focusing is an important part of lighting design, as it allows the lighting desi… #
It is typically done using a focusing tool, such as a handheld mirror or a specialized focusing device, and it requires a careful and methodical approach in order to achieve the desired results.
**Gels** #
**Gels**
Gels are thin sheets of colored plastic or glass that are used to change the col… #
They are typically placed in front of a lighting fixture, in a device called a gel frame, in order to filter the light and alter its color.
Gels are an essential part of lighting design, as they allow the lighting design… #
They are available in a wide range of colors and densities, and they can be used to create subtle changes in color or to create bold and dramatic effects.
**Intensity** #
**Intensity**
Intensity is a measure of the brightness #
Intensity is a measure of the brightness