DMX/ArtNet Lighting @ DMA.space

**This is an old revision of the document!**

DMX/ArtNet Lighting @ DMA.space

We have an installation of several multicolored lighting and stage effects equipment on a string of DMX universes, controlled over ArtNet.

This is a project largely coordinated by @null, and has features on our intranet when accessed from the space.

Only one person can be controlling the ArtNet lights at a given time; this is through pulling a ticket from the lighting queue.

How to request control of the lights

[TODO.]

How to release control

[TODO.]

Panic Button (In case of "Seizure Mode")

[TODO: How to do it; and how to forcibly and quickly bringdown lights if the Button doesn't work.]

Location of The Button

If The Button doesn't work

Unplug power from the ArtNet controller in the A/V rack. [TODO: Describe]

The lights should now either shut off, or be stopped on a fixed color or pattern.

If shutting down the controller doesn't stop them: Pull the [TODO] breaker in the breaker panel IF AND ONLY IF the lights continue flickering after pulling the controller power.

When to use it

Press the button when:

  1. There are people in the space other than yourself
  2. The lights begin flickering rapidly, and cannot be brought to control.

Or:

  • If the lighting setup overheats, or they are causing smoke or fire.
  • If DMX or ArtNet controlled hardware makes Concerning Sounds.

WTF? (Why The Flickering??)

If two or more devices on the lighting network are interfering, fighting or conflicting with one another, they may send wildly differing lighting control commands at line speed, causing high-intensity flashing.

We have protocols and measures in place to prevent this possibility from occurring, but bugs, errors and miscommunications can occur, leading to a need to Panic Shutdown the DMX lighting system.