Unpacking:Thank you for purchasing the Mega Flash DMX™ by
American DJ®. Every Mega Flash DMX™ has been thoroughly tested
and has been shipped in perfect operating condition. Carefully check
the shipping carton for damage that may have occurred during shipping. If the carton appears to be damaged, carefully inspect your unit
for damage and be sure all accessories necessary to operate the unit
have arrived intact. In the event damage has been found or parts are
missing, please contact our customer support number for further
instructions. Please do not return this unit to your dealer without first
contacting customer support at the number listed below.
Introduction: To optimize the performance of this product, please
read these operating instructions carefully to familiarize yourself with
the basic operations of this unit. The Mega Flash DMX™ is a 800 watt
strobe, that has a flash rate range of 1 to 15 flashes per second. Up
to 16 units may be linked together and controlled by single controller.
The units’ intensity, and flash rate can be manually adjusted using the
dipswitches.
Customer Support: American DJ® provides a toll free customer sup-
port line, to provide set up help and to answer any question should you
encounter problems during your set up or initial operation. You may
also visit us on the web at www.americandj.com for any comments
or suggestions. For service related issue please contact American
DJ®. Service Hours are Monday through Friday 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Pacific Standard Time.
Voice: (800) 322-6337
Fax: (323) 582-2610
E-mail: support@americandj..com
To purchase parts online visit http://parts.americandj.com
2/05
User Instructions
American DJ®
4295 Charter Street
Los Angeles Ca. 90058
www.americandj.com
Warning! To prevent or reduce the risk of electrical shock or fire, do
not expose this unit to rain or moisture.
Caution! There are no user serviceable parts inside this unit. Do not
attempt any repairs yourself, doing so will void your manufactures warranty.
Please recycle the shipping carton when ever possible.
American DJ® - www.americandj.com - Mega Flash DMX™ Instruction Manual Page 2
Mega Flash DMX™ Features
Mega Flash DMX™ Safety Warnings
• Bright 800 Watt Lamp ZB-800
• Adjustable Flash Rate, and Intenstiy Rate
• Flash Rate range of 1 to 15 Flashes per Second
• Thermostat Protection
• Large coverage area
• Easy lamp Replacement
• Built-In Adjustable Hanging Yoke
Mega Flash DMX™ Warranty Registration
The Mega Flash DMX™ carries a one year (365 days) limited warranty. Please fill out the enclosed warranty card to validate your purchase. All returned service items whether under warranty or not, must
be freight pre-paid and accompany a return authorization (R.A.)
number. The R.A. number must be clearly written on the outside of the
return package. A brief description of the problem as well as the R.A.
number must also be written down on a piece of paper and included
in the shipping container. If the unit is under warranty, you must pro
vide a copy of your proof of purchase invoice. You may obtain a R.A.
number by contacting customer support at (800) 322-6337.
Mega Flash DMX™ Cleaning Instructions
Due to fog residue, smoke, and dust cleaning the fixture should be
carried out periodically to optimize light output.
1. Use normal glass cleaner and a soft cloth to wipe down the out side casing every 20 days.
2. Use normal glass cleaner with a soft cloth to wipe down the inside
reflector and lens every 30-60 days.
3. Always be sure to dry all parts completely before plugging the
unit back in.
4. Frequent cleaning the unit will extend lamp life and ensure the fix tures reliability.
Cleaning frequency depends on the environment in which the fixture
operates (I.e. smoke, fog residue, dust, dew). In heavy use we rec
ommend cleaning on a monthly basis. Periodic cleaning will ensure
longevity, and crisp beam output.
Safety Issues: This unit may blow a fuse if the maximum allotted load
of 15 amps is reached. If the fuse needs replacement, always replace
the fuse with same exact type that was remove, unless otherwise
instructed by an authorized American DJ® service technician. Use of a
different type fuse from that which is recommended may cause fire or
electric shock and will void the manufactures warranty.
• To reduce the risk of electrical shock or fire, do not expose this unit
rain or moisture.
• Do not spill water or other liquids into or on to your unit.
• Do not attempt to remove or break off the ground prong from the
electrical cord. This prong is used to reduce the risk of electrical
shock and fire in case of an internal short. Do not attempt to oper ate this unit if the power cord has been frayed or broken.
• Disconnect
from main power before making any type of connection.
• Do not remove the cover under any conditions. There are no user
serviceable parts inside.
-
• Always be sure to mount this unit in an area that will allow proper
ventilation. Allow about 6” (15cm) between this device and a wall.
• Do not attempt to operate this unit, if it becomes damaged.
• This unit is intended for indoor use only, use of this product out doors voids all warranties.
• During long periods of non-use, disconnect the unit’s main power.
• Always mount this unit in safe and stable matter.
• Power cords should be routed so they are not likely to be walked
on, pinched by items placed upon or against them.
• Cleaning -The fixture should be cleaned only as recommended by
the manufacturer. See page 3 for cleaning details.
• Heat -The appliance should be situated away from heat sources
such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other appliances
(including amplifiers) that produce heat.
• The fixture should be serviced by qualified service personnel when:
A. The power-supply cord or the plug has been damaged.
-
B. Objects have fallen, or liquid has been spilled into the unit.
C. The unit has been exposed to rain or water.
D. The unit does not appear to operate normally or exhibits a
marked change in performance.
Power Supply: Before plugging your unit in, be sure the source volt-
age in your area matches the required voltage for your American DJ®
Mega Flash DMX.™ The American DJ® Mega Flash DMX
Because line voltage may vary from venue to venue, you should be
sure your unit voltages matches the wall outlet voltage before attempting to operate you fixture.
DMX-512: DMX is short for Digital Multiplex. This is a universal pro-
tocol used as a form of communication between intelligent fixtures
and controllers. A DMX controller sends DMX data instructions from
the controller to the fixture. DMX data is sent as serial data that trav
els from fixture to fixture via the DATA “IN” and DATA “OUT” XLR ter
minals located on all DMX fixtures (most controllers only have a DATA
“OUT” terminal).
DMX Linking: DMX is a language allowing all makes and models of
different manufactures to be linked together and operate from a single controller, as long as all fixtures and the controller are DMX com
pliant. To ensure proper DMX data transmission, when using several
DMX fixtures try to use the shortest cable path possible. The order
in which fixtures are connected in a DMX line does not influence the
DMX addressing. For example; a fixture assigned a DMX address of 1
may be placed anywhere in a DMX line, at the beginning, at the end,
or anywhere in the middle. When a fixture is assigned a DMX address
of 1, the DMX controller knows to send DATA assigned to address 1
to that unit, no matter where it is located in the DMX chain.
Dipswitches in DMX mode: This unit uses dipswitches to assign a
DMX address. Each dipswitch represents a binary value.
Dipswitch 1 address equals 1
Dipswitch 2 address equals 2
Dipswitch 3 address equals 4
Dipswitch 4 address equals 8
Dipswitch 5 address equals 16
Dipswitch 6 address equals 32
Dipswitch 7 address equals 64
Dipswitch 8 address equals 128
Dipswitch 9 address equals 256
Dipswitch 10 - Some units omit dipswitch 10. When a unit does
include dipswitch #10, it is usually used for special functions such as
Assigning DMX Address: Each dipswitch has a preset value. A spe
cific DMX address is set by combining the dipswitches that sum your
desired value. For example: To achieve a DMX address of 7, combine
dipswitches 1, 2, and 3. Since dipswitch 1 has a value of 1, dipswitch
2 has a value of 2, and dipswitch 3 has a value of 4, the combination
of the three create a DMX value of 7. (See example below).
Set DMX address 1: Set DMX address 7:
Dip-switches # 1 = 1 Dip-switches # 1 = 1
-
-
2 = 2
3 = 4
= 7
Data Cable (DMX Cable) Requirements (For DMX
and Master/Slave Operation): The Mega Flash
DMX™ can be controlled via DMX-512 protocol.
The Mega Flash DMX™ is a two channel DMX
unit. The DMX address is set on the side panel of
the Mega Flash DMX™ Your unit and your DMX
controller require a standard 3-pin XLR connector for data input and data output (Figure 1). If you
Figure 1
are making your own cables, be sure to use standard two conductor
shielded cable (This cable may be purchased at almost all pro sound
and lighting stores). Your cables should be made with a male and
female XLR connector on either end of the cable. Also remember that
DMX cable must be daisy chained and can not be split.
Notice: Be sure to follow figures two and three when making your own
cables. Do not use the ground lug on the XLR connector. Do not connect the cable’s shield conductor to the ground lug or allow the shield
conductor to come in contact with the XLR’s outer casing. Grounding
the shield could cause a short circuit and erratic behavior.
Terminatio n reduc es signal errors and
avo ids signal transmis sio n prob lem s
and interference. It is always advisable
to connect a DMX terminal, (Resistance
120 Ohm 1/4 W) between PIN 2 (DMX-)
and PIN 3 (DMX +) of the last fixture.
Mega Flash DMX™ DMX Set Up
Mega Flash DMX™ Operating Instructions
XLR Male Socket
1 Ground
Figure 3
2 Cold
3 Hot
XLR Female Socket
2 Cold
1 Ground
3 Hot
XLR Pin Configuration
Pin 1 = Ground
Pin 2 = Data Compliment (negative)
Pin 3 = Data True (positive)
Power Supply: This unit is available only in 120v. Before plugging
your unit in be sure the source voltage in your area matches the
required voltage for your
American DJ® Mega Flash DMX.™
General Operation: This fixture is designed to operate as a stand
alone, sound-active unit, or in a Master/Slave configuration. It can
also operate via DMX controller. The Mega Flash DMX™ is ready to
be plugged in out of the box.
Special Note: Line Termination.
used, you may need to use a terminator on the last unit to avoid erratic
behavior. A terminator is a 90-120 ohm 1/4 watt resistor which is connected between pins 2 and 3 of a male XLR connector (DATA + and
DATA -). This unit is inserted in the female XLR socket of the last unit
in your daisy chain to terminate the line. Using a cable terminator (ADJ
part number Z-DMX/T) will decrease the possibilities of erratic behavior.
When longer runs of cable are
Duty Cycle:
Because the Mega Flash DMX™ can be used for continuous output
(ie while simulating lightning), it can build up intense heat. Due to the
build up of intense heat the unit should not run for 15 minutes con
tinuously. After 15 minutes of continuous use, allow the unit to cool
for about fifteen minutes, this will greatly increase the lamp life and
insure product longevity.
Operating Modes:
Stand Alone and Sound Active Modes:
To run the strobe in stand alone mode, dipswitches #9 and #10 must
Figure 4
5-Pin XLR DMX Connectors.
Some manufactures use 5-pin XLR
connectors for DATA transmission in place of 3-pin. 5-pin XLR fixtures
may be implemented in a 3-pin XLR DMX line. When inserting standard 5-pin XLR connectors in to a 3-pin line a cable adaptor must be
used, these adaptors are readily available at most electric stores. The
chart below details a proper cable conversion.
Conductor5-Pin XLR Male (In)3-Pin XLR Female (Out)
Ground/Shield
Data Compliment (- signal)
Data True (+ signal)
Not Used
Not Used
Pin 1
Pin 2
Pin 3
Pin 1
Pin 2
Pin 3
Pin 4 - Do Not Use
Pin 5 - Do Not Use
be in the “off” position. In stand alone mode the unit will function
as a normal strobe light. Rate (speed), and intensity (brightness),
are set directly on the unit. Note that these settings are made using
the knobs on the back of the unit. Once the settings are made they
can only be changed by physically adjusting the knobs on the unit.
Be aware of this if you plan on installing your strobe in a permanent
application, if your are not satisfied with your settings you will have to
physically remove the unit and adjust the knobs.
In sound active mode, dipswitch #9 must be in the “on” postion. The
dimming will still be control
led by the knob on the back of the unit.
But the beat of the music will control the flash speed. Note that these
settings are made using the knobs on the back of the unit. Once the
settings are made they can only be changed by physically adjusting
the knobs on the unit. Be aware of this if you plan on installing your
strobe in a permanent application, if your are not satisfied with your
settings you will have to physically remove the unit and adjust the
knobs.
Universal DMX Control: This mode allows you to use a universal
DMX-512 controller such as the Elation
® DMX Operator™ or Show
-
Mega Flash DMX™ Operating Instructions
Mega Flash DMX™ Fuse and Lamp Replacement
Designer.™
1. To control your fixture in DMX mode, follow the set-up procedures
on pages 5-6 as well as the set-up procedures included with
your DMX controller.
2. For longer cable runs (more than a 100 feet) use a terminator on
the last fixture.
3. Assign your desired address to the unit, and “flip” dipswitch #10
to the “on” postion.
4. The
trols the flash sp
DMX controller to activate the various built-in patterns.
Mega Flash DMX™ uses two DMX channels. Channel 1 con
eed and chanel 2 controls the dimmer. Use your
See the
bottom of this page for the DMX traits.
5. For help operating in DMX mode consult the manual included
with your DMX controller.
NOTE: If running in Master/Slave address configuration while using a
DMX controller, follow the DMX address chart on page 12.
Mega Flash DMX™ DMX Traits
Channel Value Function
1 0 - 255 FLASH SPEED
2 0 - 255 FLASH DIMMING
Lamp Warning! Strobe lamps are filled with xenon
gas. This lamp is highly susceptible to damage if
improperly handled. Never touch the lamp with your
bare fingers as the oil from your hands will shorten
lamp life. Also, never move the fixture until the lamps
have had ample time to cool. Remember, lamps are
not covered under warranty conditions.
Caution:Always replace with the exact same type lamp and fuse,
unless otherwise specified by an authorized American DJ
Replace with anything other than the specified part can damage your
unit and will void your manufactures warranty.
® technician.
Warning! Allow the lamp to discharge all current. Allow the
unit 24hrs. to discharge before changing the lamp. Stored
current can cause a very severe shock.
Warning:
ue to blow either one, STOP using the unit. Contact customer support
for further instructions, you may have to return the unit for servicing.
Continuing to use the unit may cause serious damage.
If after you have replaced the lamp or fuse and you contin-
Fuse Replacement:Disconnect the unit’s main power supply.
Insert a standard flat head screw driver in to the fuse holder hous
ing (located on the rear of the unit). Turn the screwdriver in a coun
ter-clockwise direction to remove the fuse holder. Remove the old
fuse and discard it, replace the fuse with the same type. Insert the
fuse holder back into it’s housing and turn in a clockwise direction to
secure the holder in place.
Lamp Replacement:Caution! Never open the unit when in use.
Always disconnect the main power and allow the fixture ample time
to cool before attempting to replace the lamp. Lamp replacement has
been made simple by incorporating a remove tray that is retained by a
single thumb screws. Again, please remember to always replace with
the exact same type lamp.
1. Be sure to follow the proper procedures when handling halogen
lamps. Never touch the new lamp with your bare fingers.
2. Unscrew and remove the four phillips screws located on the front
cover of the unit.
OOOOOXOOOXX X X X X X
OOOOOOOOXX XXX XX X
OXOXOOXXOOX XX XOO
XOXXOOOXOXX O X O X O
O X X X X
X O X O X
O X X O X
X X X O X
O O O X X
X O O X X
X X O X X
O O X X X
X O X X X
O X O X X
X O O O X
O O X X O
X O X X O
O X X X O
X X X X O
O O O O X
O X O O X
X X O O X
O O X O X
X X X O O
O O O O O
X O O O O
O X O O O
X X O O O
O O X O O
X O X O O
O X X O O
O O O X O
X O O X O
O X O X O
X X O X O
X X X X X
DMX A d d ress
DMX A d d ress
DMX Address Quick Reference Chart
Dip S w i tch P o s i t i on
Dip S w i tch P o s i t i on
The center numbers of this chart (1-511) represent a DMX address .
The "X "'s a nd "O"'s along the top a nd side of the cha rt repres ent dip
switch pois tion ("X " for off and "O" for on). Find your des ired DMX
addre s s from the center cha rt. Identify the pos ition for dip switches 15 from the c hart on the left and dip s witches 6-9 from the c hart on
the top. Adjus t the dip s witches on your fixture to match the position
settings of the chart. F or fixtures with 10 dip s witches; dip switch 10
is reserved for s pecial functions.
2
Mega Flash DMX™ DMX Address Chart
3. Located on each side of the lamp are white ceramic wire con-
nection blocks.
4. The ceramic block on the left side has one lamp wire connected
to the bottom of it, they are secured by one phillips screw each.
On the right side there are two lamp wires connected to the bot tom of the ceramic block.
5. NOTICE: When you disconnect the lamp wires to replace the
lamp, you will have to remember which wire went where. They
must be connected the same.
6. Push out the metal tabs on each side of the lamp, and pull out
the lamp as you do this. Replace the lamp with an exact match.
Connect the three wires to the ceramic blocks as they were when
you disconnected them. Reassemble in reverse order.
This chart list the DMX dipswitch setting for DMX address 1 through
511. Follow the instructions below to configure fixture dipswitches
with your desired DMX address.
Mega Flash DMX™ Warranty Mega Flash DMX™ Notes
1-YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY
A. American DJ® hereby warrants, to the original purchaser, American DJ® products to be
free of manufacturing defects in material and workmanship for a period of one year (365
days) from the date of purchase. This warranty shall be valid only if the product is purchased
within the United States of America, including possessions and territories. It is the owner’s
responsibility to establish the date and place of purchase by acceptable evidence, at the
time service is sought.
B. For warranty service, send the product only to the American DJ
® factory. All shipping
charges must be pre-paid. If the requested repairs or service (including parts replacement)
are within the terms of this warranty, American DJ® will pay return shipping charges only
to a designated point within the United States. If the entire instrument is sent, it must be
shipped in its original package. No accessories should be shipped with the product. If any
accessories are shipped with the product, American DJ® shall have no liability whatsoever
for loss of or damage to any such accessories, nor for the safe return thereof.
C. This warranty is void if the serial number has been altered or removed; if the product is
modified in any manner which American DJ
® concludes, after inspection, affects the reli-
ability of the product; if the product has been repaired or serviced by anyone other than
the American DJ
® factory unless prior written authorization was issued to purchaser by
American DJ®; if the product is damaged because not properly maintained as set forth in
the instruction manual.
D. This is not a service contract, and this warranty does not include maintenance, cleaning
or periodic check-up. During the period specified above, American DJ
® will replace defec-
tive parts at its expense, and will absorb all expenses for warranty service and repair labor
by reason of defects in material or workmanship. The sole responsibility of American DJ®
under this warranty shall be limited to the repair of the product, or replacement thereof,
including parts, at the sole discretion of American DJ®. All products covered by this warranty were manufactured after January 1, 1990, and bear identifying marks to that effect.
E. American DJ
® reserves the right to make changes in design and/or improvements upon
its products without any obligation to include these changes in any products theretofore
manufactured.
F. No warranty, whether expressed or implied, is given or made with respect to any acces
sory supplied with products described above. Except to the extent prohibited by applicable
law, all implied warranties made by American DJ
® in connection with this product, includ-
ing warranties of merchantability or fitness, are limited in duration to the warranty period
set forth above. And no warranties, whether expressed or implied, including warranties of
merchantability or fitness, shall apply to this product after said period has expired. The
consumer’s and or Dealer’s sole remedy shall be such repair or replacement as is expressly
provided above; and under no circumstances shall American DJ® be liable for any loss or
damage, direct or consequential, arising out of the use of, or inability to use, this product.
G. This warranty is the only written warranty applicable to American DJ® Products and
supersedes all prior warranties and written descriptions of warranty terms and conditions
heretofore published.