Electronic Theatre Controls Express 48/96 User Manual

24/48, 48/96 and 72/144 lighting control system Version 2.0expRess

vi Express User Manual Chapter 15 Diskette functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 165Diskett

84 Express User ManualModifying fade and wait timesIf you do not assign fade and wait times to a part, Express automatically assigns it the default ti

chapter 9 playing back cuesExpress has two timed faders that allow you to play back recorded cues. Cue selection and playback can be automated, or yo

86 Express User ManualSelecting cuesThere are three ways to determine which cue from the Cue List will play back on stage next: • You can select a cue

chapter 9 playing back cues 87Timed fadersIf you like, you can use the fader sliders to take manual control of fades. For information on taking manual

88 Express User ManualCue ListThe Cue List provides a list of cues for the show, including all of the cues’ programmed attributes. In addition, the di

chapter 9 playing back cues 89Selecting and playing a cueSelecting a cue moves it to the top of the Cue List. It will not run until you press [Go]. Fo

90 Express User ManualGoEach fader has its own [Go] key. Press [Go] to play back the cue selected on the Cue List.If you have pressed [Hold] to interr

chapter 9 playing back cues 91Controlling fades manuallyExpress provides two ways to take manual control of cue playback; manual override and rate ove

92 Express User ManualRate overrideManual override allows you to control both the fade’s rate and percentage of completion. When you play back a cue u

chapter 9 playing back cues 93QuickstepQuickstep allows you to run through a show, checking all cues, without having to wait for fades. When Quickstep

vii Working with Sensor backup looks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 205Recording a backup look . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

94 Express User Manual

chapter 10 groupsExpress allows you to record frequently used combinations of channels into units called groups. You may record up to 500 groups.Once

96 Express User ManualCreating groupsYou can create groups in Stage, Blind and Fader modes.To create a group, follow these steps:Creating a group from

chapter 10 groups 97Creating a group using SoloTo create a group using some of the channels on stage, but not all, record the group using Solo. To do

98 Express User ManualDisplaying groups on stageTo view a recorded group on stage, follow these steps: Keystrokes: Action:1. Press [Stage]. Selects St

chapter 10 groups 99Working with groups in BlindThere are two group modes in Blind, Group mode and Group Editing mode. In Group mode, Express brings u

100 Express User ManualGroup Editing modeTo enter Group Editing mode and modify a recorded group, follow these steps:Note: Once you are in Group Editi

chapter 10 groups 101Modifying groupsExpress allows you to modify groups in Stage or Blind modes. In BlindFollow these steps to add channels to a grou

102 Express User ManualIn StageFollow these steps to change a group’s channel levels in Stage display mode:Keystrokes: Action:1. Press [Stage]. Select

chapter 10 groups 103Using Update to modify groups The Update feature allows you to easily record changed levels on Stage into a selected group. You m

viii Express User Manual Appendix A Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

104 Express User ManualUsing Update to change levels in a groupFollow these steps to use Update to modify channels in a group:Keystrokes: Actions:1. P

chapter 10 groups 105Deleting groupsYou must be in Stage mode to delete individual groups. To delete all groups, you can use the Clear Groups option f

106 Express User ManualUsing cues or submasters as groupsIf you wish, you can treat the channels recorded in a cue or a submaster as if they were a gr

chapter 10 groups 107Using groups to modify cues or sub-masters in BlindYou can use groups to modify cues or submasters. For example, let’s say you ha

108 Express User ManualOnlyOnly allows you to select several groups and then adjust only the channels the groups have in common. For example, say you

chapter 10 groups 109Group ListPress [Blind] [Group] [Enter] [S2], Group List, to display the Group List. The Group List displays the group number and

110 Express User Manual

chapter 11 submastersExpress provides you with 24 submasters. A submaster is a group of channels recorded at proportional levels and controlled by a s

114 Express User ManualSubmaster types Submasters can be pile-on, inhibitive or effect. Pile-on submasterA pile-on submaster consists of channels reco

chapter 11 submasters 115Submaster pagesExpress provides ten pages of submasters. A page is a block of console memory that contains one set of 24 reco

ix Cue List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 275Cue List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

116 Express User ManualSubmaster bump buttonsA bump button is located immediately below each submaster slider. The bump button’s function depends on i

chapter 11 submasters 117Recording submastersYou can create submasters in Live or Blind mode. Follow these steps to record a simple, pile-on submaster

118 Express User ManualAdding fade and dwell timesYou can add fade and dwell times to a submaster from Stage or Blind mode. To add fade times to a sub

chapter 11 submasters 119Hold dwell timeIf you record a submaster with a dwell time of Hold, the submaster fades up when you press the bump button, th

120 Express User ManualManual dwell timeIf you record a submaster with a dwell time of manual and an upfade time other than zero, the upfade starts wh

chapter 11 submasters 121Adding a rate to a submasterRate allows you to record submasters that play back faster or slower than their recorded fade tim

122 Express User ManualUsing Except to record a submaster without another submaster’s channelsExpress allows you to program a submaster containing all

chapter 11 submasters 123Creating inhibitive submasters Inhibitive submasters allow you to limit the output of a group of channels. Channel outputs ar

124 Express User ManualModifying submasters in BlindTo modify a submaster in Blind, follow these steps: Modifying submasters in StageTo modify a subma

chapter 11 submasters 125Using Update to modify submastersThe Update feature allows you to easily record changed levels on Stage into a selected subma

x Express User Manual Keypad Numbers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 284Last Page . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

126 Express User ManualLive control of a submaster’s rateIn Stage mode, selecting a submaster and pressing [S3], Rate, allows the timing of the submas

chapter 11 submasters 127Copying submasters To copy a look from one submaster to another, follow these steps: Note: You may also copy a look from a su

128 Express User ManualLoading cues or groups to submasters [Load Sub] allows you to load the contents of one or more recorded groups or cues into sub

chapter 11 submasters 129Clearing submastersYou must be in Blind or Stage display mode to clear the contents of indi-vidual submasters. This process e

130 Express User ManualSubmaster ListThe Submaster List displays a list of the submasters in your show. Each page is displayed separately, with up to

chapter 11 submasters 131Editing attributes in Submaster ListThe Submaster List allows you to edit any attributes shown on the list across a range of

132 Express User Manual

chapter 12 effectsAn effect runs steps, containing channels, in a variety of patterns called chases. An effect can be positive, with lights starting o

134 Express User ManualStepsAn effect may consist of up to 100 steps. A step is made up of elements. Elements may be either channels or groups. Each s

chapter 12 effects 135Creating stepsCreate an effect by selecting the effect type for a cue or submaster, then creating a series of steps in the Effec

xi Select Cue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 292Select Dimmer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

136 Express User Manual9. Use the keypad to enter the In time, then press [→].Prompt reads: Enter step dwell time10. Use the keypad to enter Dwell tim

chapter 12 effects 137Default element assignmentRather than assign elements to steps one at a time, you can assign a range of elements to a range of s

138 Express User ManualControlling effectsEffect steps are controlled by assigned attributes, fade times and rates. In addition, the cue or submaster

chapter 12 effects 139Assigning attributesFollow these steps to assign attributes to the effect you created in the previous example. Note: To remove a

140 Express User ManualEffect fade timesEach effect has an overall upfade, dwell and downfade time. When you create an effect cue, the times default t

chapter 12 effects 141Change downfade onlyFollow these steps to change only the effect’s downfade time. Change dwell onlyFollow these steps to change

142 Express User ManualUsing a random rateAn effect with a random rate runs at varying speeds, changing at random, within a range that you select. The

chapter 12 effects 143Modifying effectsExpress allows you to modify recorded effects by adding or deleting effect steps, changing step attributes, and

144 Express User ManualDeleting stepsYou may also delete steps from an effect. For example, to delete step 5, follow these instructions:Editing step c

chapter 12 effects 145Adding elementsTo add a channel or group to a step, follow these steps: Note: If you enter elements without using [And] or [Exce

xii Express User Manual

146 Express User ManualRunning an effect cuePlay back effects recorded as cues on the console’s A/B or C/D faders, just as you would any other cue. Th

chapter 13 subroutinesA subroutine is a cue that controls the playback of a series of recorded cues. Subroutines are similar to linked cues, except th

148 Express User ManualStepsAll subroutine steps are either cue steps or style steps. A cue step con-tains an existing recorded cue. The subroutine le

chapter 13 subroutines 149Style stepsThe following playback styles are available for subroutines. A style is assigned to a step. When the subroutine r

150 Express User ManualSubroutine attributesThe following attributes may be applied to each cue step.LevelSets an intensity level for the cue within t

chapter 13 subroutines 151Creating subroutinesEach subroutine can hold up to 100 steps. Each step lists a cue or a style.To create a subroutine, follo

152 Express User Manual10. Press [8] [→]. Sets an upfade time of eight secondsPrompt reads: Enter downfade time11. Press [→]. Sets a downfade time o

chapter 13 subroutines 153Editing a subroutineTo edit a subroutine, select the step you wish to change by pressing [S1], Step, and entering the step n

154 Express User Manual

chapter 14 macrosA macro allows you to record a series of keystrokes and later replay it with one or two keystrokes. This can simplify complex tasks t

chapter 1 introduction This manual provides instructions for installing and using ETC’s Express 24/48, Express 48/96 and Express 72/144 lighting cont

156 Express User ManualCreating macrosThere are two ways to create a macro. You can create it in Macro display mode, entering and editing keystrokes w

chapter 14 macros 157Using Macro display modeMacro display mode allows you to create or edit macros without affecting channel levels. Softkeys, [Enter

158 Express User ManualLinking macrosAny macro may end with a link to another macro. When macros are linked, the first macro runs, then the second mac

chapter 14 macros 159Using submasters in macrosSubmaster bump buttons can function in macros in three different ways: as a normal bump button; to alwa

160 Express User ManualPlaying macrosAs a macro runs, the LED in the macro’s key flashes. Only one macro may run at a time.To run macros 1 through 5,

chapter 14 macros 161Modifying macrosEditing modeIn the Macro mode display, you can edit macros in Insert or Replace modes. In Insert mode, if you hig

162 Express User ManualCopying macrosYou may want to copy a macro or use macros as building blocks for new macros. To copy contents of one macro to an

chapter 14 macros 163Sample macrosTo create these sample macros, go to Macro display mode ([Setup] [8] [Enter]), select a macro and enter the keystrok

164 Express User Manual

chapter 15 diskette functionsThis chapter includes instructions for using Express’s diskette options. Express is equipped with a 3.5-inch, high densit

2 Express User Manual Console comparison chart * On the Express 24/48, the 24 submasters are also the bottom 24 channel faders on the console. There

166 Express User ManualDiskette managementExpress’s diskette drive lets you save one show per high density 3.5-inch computer diskette. This allows you

chapter 15 diskette functions 167Formatting diskettesWarning: Formatting a diskette erases all information recorded on the dis-kette. Formatting does

168 Express User ManualRecording a show on disketteWhen you record a show to diskette, all system settings, patch settings, cues, groups, submasters,

chapter 15 diskette functions 169Reading a show from disketteWhen you read a show and system settings from a diskette and load it into memory, the new

170 Express User Manual

chapter 16 printingExpress supports parallel printers, including some laser printers. Printer installation is described on page 250 of Appendix A, Ins

172 Express User ManualPrinter optionsBefore you begin printing, verify that your printer is installed correctly and that it is turned on. For instruc

chapter 16 printing 173CuesPrint Cues prints a list of cues recorded in the currently loaded show. Cues are listed by number. Information provided inc

174 Express User ManualGroupsPrint Groups prints a list of groups recorded in the currently loaded show. Groups are listed by number. Information prov

chapter 16 printing 175SubmastersPrint Submasters prints full information about all 240 submaster memo-ries. Submasters are listed by number. Upfade,

chapter 1 introduction 3 Using the trackpad Use the Express trackpad to set rates and levels. The trackpad operates in three modes, single mode, doub

176 Express User ManualCue ListCue List prints a list of cues recorded in the currently loaded show as well as all cue attributes. Cues are listed by

chapter 16 printing 177Submaster ListPrint Submaster List prints full information about all 240 submaster mem-ories. Submasters are listed by number.

178 Express User ManualMacrosPrint Macros prints a list of macro sequences recorded in the currently loaded show. Macros are listed by number. The pri

chapter 16 printing 179PatchPrint Patch prints the current dimmer-to-channel patch. To print a full patch report, follow these steps:Channel Attribute

180 Express User ManualReal Time ProgramsPrint Real Time Programs prints a list of programs recorded in the cur-rently loaded show. The printout provi

chapter 17 clear functionsThis chapter includes instructions for using Express’s clear options. Each of the following clear functions is explained and

182 Express User ManualClear functionsEach option on the Clear Functions menu erases information regarding an Express function from the console’s memo

chapter 17 clear functions 183ShowClear Show erases all information associated with a specific show from your console’s memory. This does not include

184 Express User ManualGroupsClear Groups erases all recorded groups from a show. To erase all groups, follow these steps:SubmastersClear Submasters e

chapter 17 clear functions 185Show and PatchClear Show and Patch erases all information associated with a specific show from your console’s memory, in

4 Express User Manual Troubleshooting If you have problems with your console, please refer to the manual or the console’s Help function for instruc

186 Express User ManualReset 1-to-1 PatchReset Patch 1-to-1 resets your console’s patch to a one-to-one, patch. Thus, channel 1 is patched to dimmer 1

chapter 17 clear functions 187Real Time ProgramsClear Real Time Programs erases all program information from a show. To erase all programs, follow the

188 Express User Manual

chapter 18 accessoriesThis chapter includes instructions for working with the following Express accessories:• Remote Focus Unit (RFU)• WorklightsFor a

190 Express User ManualRemote Focus Unit (RFU)The Remote Focus Unit (RFU) is a small, portable control panel you can use from a remote location, such

chapter 18 accessories 191WorklightsExpress provides two 3-pin female XLR type connectors on top of the back panel for Littlite gooseneck worklights.

192 Express User Manual

chapter 19 sensor dimmingExpress lighting control systems may be connected to ETC Sensor dim-ming systems via the ETCLink communication network. In th

194 Express User ManualEnabling ETCLinkBefore using ETCLink functions, you must connect the system to the ETCLink network. Follow these steps to activ

chapter 19 sensor dimming 195Monitoring dimmersWhen used in conjunction with Sensor dimming equipment, the Express allows you to monitor individual di

chapter 1 introduction 5 Using this manual This manual provides instructions for using Express’s features and optional accessories. Setting up Expres

196 Express User ManualRecording dimmer loadsWhen you Record Loads, the system records load information only for the dimmers set at a level above zero

chapter 19 sensor dimming 197Checking dimmer loadsLoad Check compares the current load on selected dimmers with their recorded loads. Loads that diffe

198 Express User Manual5. Press [S4], Load Check. (You may enter specific dimmers to check.)Prompt reads: To check loads, select dimmer(s) and press E

chapter 19 sensor dimming 199Clearing dimmer loadsClear Loads allows you to clear selected dimmer loads, thus disabling dimmer monitoring for those di

200 Express User ManualLoad errorsWhen a dimmer’s load isn’t within 20 percent of its recorded load, it gen-erates a load error that appears on the Lo

chapter 19 sensor dimming 201Sensor dimming system statusThe System Status display provides information about your Sensor dim-ming system. Press [Setu

202 Express User ManualDimmer rack statusThe Rack Status display provides information about specified dimmer racks, including rack type, starting addr

chapter 19 sensor dimming 203Dimmer statusThe Dimmer Status display provides information about dimmers, including size and type, recorded load, firing

204 Express User ManualSetting and unsetting dimmersIf your console is connected to an ETC Sensor dimming system by an ETCLink network, you may use yo

chapter 19 sensor dimming 205Working with Sensor backup looksA backup look is a recording of a selected look on stage stored in the Sensor CEM. The Se

6 Express User Manual About Show About Show provides you with memory usage information regarding the currently loaded show. It tells you how many cha

206 Express User ManualError messagesETCLink provides advisory messages for a wide variety of conditions, including information regarding your dimmers

chapter 19 sensor dimming 207Disabling secondary messagesYou may prevent secondary ETCLink advisory messages from being dis-played while you are opera

208 Express User Manual

chapter 20 control interfacesExpress allows you to control your console and/or remote devices using a variety of external and timed interfaces. This c

210 Express User ManualMIDIMIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) is a digital communication pro-tocol that allows you to interconnect musical in

chapter 20 control interfaces 211Configuring ETC MIDIThe console must be configured to operate in MIDI mode. If you have any questions about this, ple

212 Express User ManualETC MIDI message formatsThe following table lists MIDI message formats used to control Express. All numbers are in Hex format.N

chapter 20 control interfaces 213MIDI Message definitionsSubmaster bump switch executionSubmasters 1 - 12 C5 - B5 #60 - #71Submasters 13 - 24 C6 - B6

214 Express User ManualMIDI Show Control (MSC)The consoles recognize the following MSC commands:•Go• Stop• Resume• FireThe consoles ignore all other c

chapter 20 control interfaces 215Configuring MIDI Show ControlEach device receiving MIDI Show Control information must be assigned a device ID. Expres

chapter 2 monitor displays Express provides a color video monitor. This display provides information regarding your show, including a cue list, the c

216 Express User ManualMSC commands received by Express Express consoles enabled for MSC accept the following MSC commands. When the console receives

chapter 20 control interfaces 217MSC commands transmitted by Express MIDI Show Control (MSC) allows the console to send the following com-mands to MID

218 Express User ManualReal time clockThe Real Time Clock allows you to program macros to run in real time, that is to run automatically at any time o

chapter 20 control interfaces 219Creating real time programsFollow these steps to create a real time program. Keystrokes: Action:1. Press [Setup]. Sel

220 Express User ManualEditing real time programsOnce you have created a real time program, you can easily make changes in the Real Time Programs disp

chapter 20 control interfaces 221Copying real time programsMoving real time programsYou may move one or more real time programs from one time slot to

222 Express User ManualRemote macrosThe Remote macro feature provides the ability to access up to 4 macros from locations up to 1000 feet from the mai

chapter 20 control interfaces 223Remote triggerThe remote trigger function allows you to program a macro to send an On or Off signal to any external d

224 Express User Manual

chapter 21 moving lightsExpress channels can control intensity, color, pan, or tilt for an automated lighting device such as a moving light or color s

8 Express User Manual Channel colorsThe colors in which channel numbers and output levels are displayed on screen provide information about the chann

226 Express User ManualLink List overviewPress [Setup] [1][1], Channel Attributes, [Enter] [S7], Link List, to reach the Link List display.When two or

chapter 21 moving lights 227Trackpad modesThe trackpad operates in three modes, single mode, double mode, and XY mode, described below. Single modeMos

228 Express User ManualSetting up a linkTo set up a link, you must assign at least one channel to the X channel list and one channel to the Y channel

chapter 21 moving lights 229Linking two moving lightsUse Link List to link the pan and tilt channels on two moving lights. This link will control the

230 Express User ManualFlipped channelsUse Flip to control moving lights. Link the channels that control the pan attribute for moving lights on opposi

chapter 21 moving lights 231To test the moving lights setup, press [Stage], select channels 4 and 14, and move both wheels together.7. Press [S7], Lin

232 Express User ManualUsing groups and Only with Link ListOnly allows you to select several groups and then adjust only the channels the groups have

chapter 21 moving lights 233Inserting a linkUse the edit features softkey [S5], Insert Link, to insert an empty link number ahead of the selected or s

234 Express User ManualMoving a linkUse [S7], Move Link, to renumber a link or a group of links. All links in a group will be renumbered sequentially.

chapter 21 moving lights 235Merging two linksIf you move a link to a space on the Link List which already contains a link, the channels in the moved l

chapter 2 monitor displays 9StageThe Stage display shows you the current levels of all active chan-nels. Up to 125 channels can appear on the display

236 Express User ManualDeleting a linkUse [S6], Delete Link, to remove a link from the Link List. All subsequent links will be renumbered.To delete a

chapter 22 two scene presetExpress provides a two scene preset function. Two scene preset allows you to change the look on stage by using the two bank

238 Express User ManualEnabling two scene modeFollow these steps to put the console in two scene preset mode. * If your console is an Express 24/48, t

chapter 22 two scene preset 239The two scene fadersWhen two scene mode is enabled, the A/B faders control the scenes. When the A and B faders are up,

240 Express User ManualTwo scene status displayWhen two scene mode is enabled, the A/B fader status display becomes the two scene status display. This

chapter 22 two scene preset 241Manual crossfadesIn a crossfade, you normally set the channel settings for one scene blind (without affecting live sett

242 Express User ManualTimed crossfadesUse the AB fader controls to run a timed crossfade from one scene to the other. Pause a timed crossfadePress [A

appendix a installationThis appendix includes instructions for installing your console and optional accessories. Chapter 3, Entering system settings,

244 Express User ManualExpress back panel5V @2.5A / 12V @1APUSH PUSHLamps 12VPower InputF 1.6ACRT DisplayThruMIDIOutInRemote MacroPar

appendix a installation 245Installing console and monitorFollow these steps to install Express and its monitor:1. Place console on a hard, stable, fla

10 Express User ManualBlindThe Blind display lets you work on cues without affecting the look on stage.❶GrandmasterCurrent Grandmaster setting, Blacko

246 Express User ManualConnecting dimmersThese instructions explain how to connect DMX512 outputs and provide DMX512 connector pinout specifications.

appendix a installation 247System configurationOnce your console is installed, you may need to reset some hardware configuration settings. The Input/O

248 Express User ManualSetting Multiplex modeIf your console is controlling an ETC Sensor dimming system that utilizes ETC’s Multiplex dimming, specif

appendix a installation 249Updating Express softwareUpdate procedureExpress software updates are distributed on diskette. Follow these steps to update

250 Express User ManualInstalling a printerExpress supports parallel printers, including most laser printers. Printer functions are described in Chapt

appendix a installation 251Installing Remote Focus Unit The Remote Focus Unit (RFU) allows you to set channel levels, check dim-mers or run cues from

252 Express User ManualInstalling MIDIConnect Express to any MIDI equipment using a standard MIDI cable.There are three round, 5-pin, DIN-type connect

appendix a installation 253ETCNetExpress supports ETCNet, a specially designed network that allows you to connect a wide variety of ETC interface devi

254 Express User ManualInstalling Remote InterfacesRemote Interfaces allow you to attach Express peripherals to your net-work. Each Remote Interface c

appendix a installation 255DIP switch and jumper settingsThe Remote Interface’s main circuit board contains one 8-switch DIP switch unit at location S

chapter 2 monitor displays 11FlexichannelIf your system has the Flexichannel feature enabled, only channels used somewhere in the show appear on the d

256 Express User ManualInstalling Remote Video InterfaceThe Remote Video Interface allows you to attach Express peripherals to your network. Each Remo

appendix a installation 257Remote Video Interface settingsThe RVI Processor Board is the lower circuit board in the Remote Video Interface (RVI). It c

258 Express User ManualRVI ETCNet DIP switch settingsIn order to enable the Remote Video Interface (RVI) for use on the ETCNet network, you must first

appendix a installation 259Installing remote unit softwareFollow these steps to upgrade software for any Remote Interfaces or Remote Video Interfaces

260 Express User ManualInstalling remote video monitorsYou may want to install additional monitors at remote locations. Install monitors by connecting

appendix a installation 261Installing remote macrosThe console provides four remote macro inputs through the 15-pin con-nector on the back panel label

262 Express User Manual

appendix b error messagesDiskette error messagesBad DiskDisk is unformatted or defective. Try formatting it. If that doesn’t work, try a different dis

264 Express User ManualETCLink errors ETCLink provides advisory messages for a wide variety of conditions, including information regarding your dimmer

appendix b error messages 265Secondary MessagesDimmer # has a load, but the recorded load is zero. Because the recorded load is zero, the Dimmer Monit

12 Express User ManualPatchThe Patch display allows you to create and modify your patch.❶Display modeCurrent display mode and time.❷Keypad prompt corn

266 Express User Manual

appendix c specificationsElectrical• Voltage input 100-240 VAC, 50-60 Hz• Maximum current 0.8 ampsInternal interfaces• Up to 1,024 DMX512 outputs• Par

268 Express User ManualDisplay functions• VGA video output• Extensive online Help displays available for all functions• Stage • Blind • Patch• Setup

appendix c specifications 269Diskette drive• 3.5-inch high-density diskette drive for show storage• One show per disk• Software updates installed thro

270 Express User Manual

appendix d referenceThis appendix lists most Express functions, keys and softkeys in alphabet-ical order. Listings include a description and instructi

272 Express User ManualAA is softkey [S2] in the Patch and ETCLink Functions displays[S2], A, allows selection of the A output of a multiplex dimmer.E

appendix d reference 273BackUse [Back] to replace the cue in the fader with the previous cue. Use [A/B Back] to flash scene B in two scene mode.Blacko

274 Express User ManualCancelCancel is softkey [S7] in the Load Management displayUse [S7], Cancel, to interrupt a Record Loads operation that has alr

appendix d reference 275CrossfadeIn a crossfade cue, channel levels that increase fade to their new level in the assigned upfade time. Channel levels

chapter 3 system settingsSystem settings allow you to customize Express for the number of dim-mers and channels in your system, set system modes and s

276 Express User ManualDelete CueDelete Cue is softkey [S6] in the Blind Cue and Blind Subroutine dis-playsPress [S6], Delete Cue, to delete the conte

appendix d reference 277Delete StepDelete Step is softkey [S6] after [S7], More Softkeys, in the Blind Effect and Blind Subroutine displaysPress [S6],

278 Express User ManualDMX512 Mode DMX512 Mode is softkey [S2] in the Input/Output Configuration dis-playUse [S2], DMX512 Mode, to set a DMX512 port

appendix d reference 279EffectExpress allows you to create up to 600 effects, each with up to 100 steps. Effects allow you to assign channels to a ser

280 Express User ManualExceptUse [Except] to exclude channels, dimmers or groups from selection or record operations.Example: [Record] [Cue] [5] [Exce

appendix d reference 281FlipFlip is softkey [S2] in the Channel Attributes displayUse [S2], Flip, to mark a channel 'flipped'. The flipped c

282 Express User ManualGroupsExpress allows you to record frequently used combinations of channels into units called groups. You may record up to 500

appendix d reference 283Hold (fader) Use the fader [Hold] to interrupt a fade. Press [Go] to resume, or [Hold] to cancel the fade execution.Example: [

284 Express User ManualInsert LinkInsert Link is softkey [S5] in the Link List displayPress [S5], Insert Link, to insert an empty link number ahead of

appendix d reference 285Left ArrowUse [←] to move through various displays, including Stage, Blind, effects, subroutines and macros.LevelUse [Level] t

Lighting control system Version 2.0 User Manual Copyright 1994-96 Electronic Theatre Controls4110M1002 Revised April 1996expRess

14 Express User ManualSetting number of dimmersOne of the first steps in configuring Express is to enter the number of dimmers in your system. Express

286 Express User ManualLoop (subroutine)A subroutine runs through steps until it reaches a Loop step. It then returns to first step, and repeats the s

appendix d reference 287More SoftkeysMore Softkeys is softkey [S7] in many displaysMove LinkMove Link is softkey [S7] in the Link List displayUse [S7]

288 Express User ManualOff Sub-BumpOff Sub-Bump is softkey [S2] after [S7], More Soitkeys, in the Macro Editing displaysUse [S5], Off Sub-Bump, in a m

appendix d reference 289Pause PrinterPause Printer is softkey [S2] in the Print Functions displayPress [S2], Pause Printer, to interrupt a print funct

290 Express User ManualPurge FlexiPurge Flexi is softkey [S1] in the System Settings displayPress [S1], Purge Flexi, to recalculate the list of channe

appendix d reference 291RateRate is softkey [S3] in the Stage, Blind and List displaysUse [S3], Rate to edit the rate for a cue, submaster, multipart

292 Express User ManualReleaseUse [Rel] to release selected, captured, and independent channels from the control of the keypad in Stage, Blind or Trac

appendix d reference 293Select GroupSelect Group is softkey [S1] in the Blind Group displayUse [S1], Select Group, to specify which group to edit or v

294 Express User ManualSetupThe Setup display allows you to access system setting information, print and disk functions, and macro editing, as well as

appendix d reference 295SortSort is softkey [S8] after [S7], More Softkeys, in the Real Time Pro-grams displayUse [S8], Sort, to reorder Real Time Pro

chapter 3 system settings 15Setting default fade timesExpress allows you to assign default upfade and downfade times to cues or to control fade times

296 Express User ManualStop Printer Stop Printer is softkey [S1] in the Print Functions displayPress [S1], Stop Printer, to cancel a print function.

appendix d reference 297Submaster bump buttonsUse a submaster bump button to drive the assigned channels to their recorded levels in the recorded fade

298 Express User ManualTrackUse [Track] to record channel levels that are to be tracked into subsequent cues.Example: [Cue] [5] [Track] [Enter] tracks

appendix d reference 299Up/Down/FollowUp/Down/Follow is softkey [S8] after [S7], More Softkeys, in the Blind Subroutine displayUse [S8], Up/Down/Follo

300 Express User Manual

appendix e softkeysThe following charts show all available softkeys on Express consoles using software version 2.0.Stage Stage 21 - Sneak 1 - Enable/D

302 Express User ManualBlind Cue Effect Effect 2 Attributes1 - Follow 1 - Step 1 - Positive/Negative2 - Cue List →Cue List2 - Step Time 2 - Alternate3

appendix e softkeys 303Print Functions Options1 - Stop Printer 1 - Disable MIDI2 - Pause Printer 2 -3 - 3 -4 - 4 -5 - 5 -6 - 6 -7 - 7 -8 - Return →Set

304 Express User Manual

indexAA 35, 272About 33About Dimmer w/ETCLink 34Channel 46Dimmer 33Show 6Accessories 189ETCLink 193Remote Focus Unit 190Add channel 85Allfade 48, 272,

16 Express User ManualSetting default LevelExpress allows you to assign a value to the [Level] key. The default value is 100 percent. You may assign [

306 Express User ManualLoads 199Macros 161, 185, 276Patch 186Real Time Programs 187Reset system 187Show 183Show and Patch 185Submasters 129, 184Clock

index 307Dimmer Status display 203DMX512 speed 248DMX512 starting number 247Error messages 206Installation 246Loads 195Monitor loads 195Monitoring 193

308 Express User ManualRandom Rate 142Record as cue 146Reverse 138Specifications 269Step element 137Step time 134Steps 134, 134–136, 144, 295Submaster

index 309Independent channels 283Inhibitive submaster 114, 123, 283Input/Output configuration 247InsertCue 68Insert Link 233, 284Insert Step 284Insert

310 Express User ManualManual 286Override cue 93Override submaster fade 126Master 19Memory 6MenuClear Functions 182Diskette Functions 165ETCLink Funct

index 311Previous 289Previous Page 8, 289Print 171Cancel printer 172Channel Attributes 179Cue list 176Cues 173Group list 176Groups 174Load Errors 200M

312 Express User ManualSet Dimmer 293System settings 13Time 23Time format 20Setup 294ShowClear 183, 185Show Labels 294Show/Suppress Labels 29Single mo

index 313Inserting step 153Jump to cue style steps 149, 284Level 298Loop style steps 149, 286Steps 148, 295Style steps 149, 296Type 298Up 299Suppress

chapter 3 system settings 17Setting default Sneak timeSneak allows you to fade or restore channel levels on stage in a specified time.The console allo

18 Express User ManualEnable/disable FlexichannelExpress’s Command display can be set to operate in full display mode or in Flexichannel mode. In full

chapter 3 system settings 19Set Master typeYou may set the Master slider to one of four control options. • DisabledMaster slider does nothing.• Grandm

20 Express User ManualSetting time formatExpress consoles allow you to display time in either 12 or 24 hour format. Follow these steps to choose your

chapter 3 system settings 21Enable/disable Bump keysExpress’s submaster bump buttons may be enabled or disabled. Express defaults to enabled.Follow th

22 Express User ManualSetting clockTo set the current time and date in your system, follow these steps:Keystrokes: Action:1. Press [Setup]. Selects Se

chapter 4 patchBefore you begin creating cues for a show you should first create your patch. The patch assigns individual dimmers to control channel n

Limited Warranty Electronic Theatre Controls (ETC) warrants to the original owner or retail customer that for a period of one year from date of deliv

24 Express User ManualSelecting one-to-one patch The one-to-one patch assigns dimmer 1 to channel 1, dimmer 2 to channel 2 and so on. If there are mor

chapter 4 patch 25Patching dimmers to channelsFollow these steps to patch a dimmer(s) to a control channel:Keystrokes: Action:1. Press [Patch]. Select

26 Express User ManualProportional patchingExpress allows you to proportionally inhibit the output of individual dimmer levels from the Patch display.

chapter 4 patch 27Unpatching individual dimmersChannel zero is not an actual control channel. It functions as a holding area in which you may store di

28 Express User ManualAssigning a profile to a dimmerDimmer profiles allow you to select one of ten output curves (profiles) and assign it to a dimmer

chapter 4 patch 29Capturing channels in Patch Express lets you select and capture channels without returning to Stage mode. This allows you to bring c

30 Express User ManualDimmer checkA dimmer check allows you to raise your dimmers to a specified level on stage, one at a time. Express allows you to

chapter 4 patch 31About[About] provides you with information about dimmers. The following pages describe the use of About Dimmer and the information a

32 Express User ManualAbout Dimmer with ETCLinkIf your console uses ETCLink to monitor dimmers in an ETC Sensor dim-ming system, the About Dimmer wind

chapter 4 patch 33Multiplexed dimmersETC’s Multiplex dimming technology can increase the capacity of your dimming system. The ETC Multiplexer converts

table of contents Chapter 1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1Conso

34 Express User ManualPatching to a Strand CD80 dimmer rackStrand CD80 dimmer racks have 48 dimmer slots. Each dimmer slot holds either two 2.4kW dimm

chapter 5 setting channel levelsSetting channel levels is the first step in recording cues, submasters and groups. Setting channel levels in Stage mod

36 Express User ManualChannel modesChannels may be in any of the following modes. Each responds differently to commands.Captured channelsCaptured chan

chapter 5 setting channel levels 37Channel Attributes displayThe Channel Attributes display allows you to assign attributes to specific channels, incl

38 Express User ManualIndependent channelsAn independent channel is not affected by the Grandmaster, Blackout, Solo, or Flash. Otherwise, independent

chapter 5 setting channel levels 39Flipped channelsThe Flip command inverts the output of the channel to which it is applied. A flipped channel output

40 Express User ManualSelecting channelsUsing the keypad to set channel levels involves two steps: selecting the channels whose levels you want to mod

chapter 5 setting channel levels 41Setting channel levelsYou assign output levels to channels using the basic format [Channel] [#] [At] [#] where the

42 Express User ManualSneakSneak is a softkey that you can use to fade channels on stage to a level you choose, in a specific time or to restore chann

chapter 5 setting channel levels 43Channel checkUse a Channel Check to check which channel controls which light. Express allows you to check channels

ii Express User Manual Chapter 4 Patch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

44 Express User ManualAbout[About] provides you with information about channels. The following pages describe the use of [About] and the information a

chapter 6 cuesThis chapter includes instructions on recording, modifying and deleting cues.After you select channels and set their intensity levels, y

46 Express User ManualCue types[Type] displays the fade type options described below. The menu that appears in Stage omits the effect and subroutine o

chapter 6 cues 47Record functionsExpress has two record functions; Record and Track. Record saves all channels as they appear on the screen (what you

48 Express User ManualCreating cuesExpress allows you to save up to 600 cues per show. A cue is a look you have created and recorded, and can replay i

chapter 6 cues 49Working with cues in Stage modeStage mode display appears on the Command display monitor. A sample Stage mode display is shown below.

50 Express User ManualRecording a cue in StageIn this cue, you will only set channel levels. Default settings will determine all other attributes of t

chapter 6 cues 51Working with cues in Blind modeBlind mode allows you to create, preview or modify cues without affect-ing the current look on stage.

52 Express User ManualRecording a cue in BlindThis example creates a cue in Blind mode. Blind allows you to work on cues without affecting the look on

chapter 6 cues 53Recording a cue with a single fade timeUnless you tell it otherwise, Express assigns default fade times to any cue you record. If you

iii Recording a cue with a wait time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57Recording cues with Link and Follow. . . . . . . . . . .

54 Express User ManualRecording a cue with split fade timesExpress allows you to record cues with different upfade and downfade times. These cues are

chapter 6 cues 55Recording a cue with a wait timeWait time is the time that elapses between when you press [Go] and when the actual fade begins. You c

56 Express User ManualRecording cues with Link and FollowWhen you record a cue, it automatically becomes part of the Cue List. The Cue List is a list

chapter 6 cues 57Follow[Follow] allows you to play a series of cues automatically. The [Follow] time indicates how long the console waits after the cu

58 Express User ManualCombining Link and Follow to create playback loopsExpress allows you to use Link and Follow to create cue playback sequences in

chapter 6 cues 59Using Link to link a macro to a cue[Link] allows you to automatically run a macro when a cue runs. If you want the macro to delay bef

60 Express User ManualRecording a cue using Solo[Solo] lets you record a cue that contains some of the channels that make up the current look, but not

chapter 6 cues 61Modifying a recorded cue liveAll the preceding examples have involved creating a new cue. In Stage, if you want to add, remove or mod

62 Express User ManualUsing Update to modify channels in a cueThe Update feature allows you to easily record changed levels on Stage into a selected c

chapter 6 cues 63Using Update to add channels to a cueNormally when you re-record a cue, you record all the channel levels cur-rently on stage. Expres

iv Express User Manual Chapter 10 Groups . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

64 Express User ManualUsing Update to modify fade rateYou may also use the Update function to record manually modified fade rates into cues.Follow the

chapter 6 cues 65Deleting cuesFollow these steps to delete a cue in Stage or Blind mode. For more information on tracking, see Chapter 7, Track, page

66 Express User ManualInserting cuesYou may want to insert a cue between recorded cues. For example, you may want to modify cue 1 slightly and insert

chapter 6 cues 67Cue ListThe Blind Cue List displays a list of the cues in your show. Up to 18 cues are displayed on screen at any time. The Cue List

68 Express User ManualEditing cue attributes in Cue ListThe Cue List allows you to edit attributes across a range of cues simulta-neously. For example

chapter 7 trackTrack record functionTrack record allows you to record cues and modify recorded cues. Addi-tionally, it allows you to designate whether

70 Express User ManualTrack recordWhen you record a series of cues, you typically record the first cue, then build the second cue from the first. Some

chapter 7 track 71Using record to create tracksIn Stage mode, the following keystrokes create the five cues illustrated below. Each cue adds channels

72 Express User ManualRecording modified cuesThe difference between Record and Track is apparent when you modify a cue or insert a new cue between two

chapter 7 track 73If you change the level in the beginning or middle of a track, you may want the change to continue through the remainder of the orig

v Chapter 12 Effects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133Steps. . . . . .

74 Express User ManualInserting cuesIf you insert a cue in this sequence, Record and Track produce different results. Record saves changes only in the

chapter 7 track 75When you insert a cue with [Track], new channels track through the cues after it until Express encounters a cue with a level previou

76 Express User ManualBlackout cues and trackingSometimes you may add a channel to a sequence of cues that has not used that channel yet. For example,

chapter 7 track 77If cue 5 is an allfade, Express records all unused channels at 00 percent. In the example below, an allfade enters 00 in channel 5,

78 Express User Manual

chapter 8 multipart cuesA multipart cue consists of up to eight parts, each of which is essentially an independent cue with its own channel levels and

80 Express User ManualRecording a multipart cueFollow these steps to record a multipart cue:Note: You do not need to re-enter the cue number for addit

chapter 8 multipart cues 81Converting a standard cue to a multipart cueIf you have already created a single-part cue, Express allows you to recon-figu

82 Express User ManualWait times in multipart cuesYou can set individual wait times of up to 99:59 minutes for each part of a multipart cue. The wait

chapter 8 multipart cues 83Adding, deleting and modifying channels Follow these steps to edit channels in a multipart cue:Note: When you initially dis