Avolites ART2000 T4 Operator's Manual

ART2000 T4

4 module Digital Dimming System

Operator’s Manual

software version OS3R1

Stock number 8200-0152

*82000152*

A2K-T4-V2.2 27/08/2014 11:19:00

Useful Avolites phone numbers:-

Avolites England

Sales and service* (+44) (0) 20 8965 8522

Service out of hours* (+44) (0) 831 17 8888

Fax (+44) (0) 20 8965 0290

Email [e-mail]

Website http://www.avolites.com

Distribution of Avolites products in USA:­Avolites America

Sales and service* ([phone]

Fax [phone]

*Before contacting Avolites for service enquiry please ensure that you have the
product serial number and the Software version (shown at switch on).

The latest version of this manual (MS Word 2000 & PDF) and ART2000
Software can be downloaded from the Internet.

The small print :

No Liability for Consequential Damages

Avolites has a policy of continuous product and documentation improvement. As such the
detail within this manual may not match the operation of the ART2000.

In no event shall Avolites be liable for any direct, indirect, special, incidental, or
consequential damages or loss whatsoever (including, without limitation, damages for loss of
profits, business interruption, or other pecuniary loss) arising out of the use or inability to
use the ART2000 even if Avolites Ltd. has been advised of the possibility of such damages.
Because some jurisdictions do not allow the exclusion or limitation of liability for
consequential or incidental damages, the above limitation may not apply to you.

Reprint and revision history:

First produced March 2000 by Tim Mitchell, Sabre Technology Ltd Tel: [phone]

ELDC Option Added November 2000 By J.B.Toby, Avolites Ltd

Updated for OS3 release, ELDC Portion and added tips March 2001 By J.B.Toby, Avolites Ltd

Updated for OS3R1 release, various additions By J.B.Toby, Avolites Ltd

Added heat data JBT 16/05/2013

A2K-T4-V2.2 27/08/2014 11:19:00

C O N T E N T S

1. THE ART2000 DIGITAL DIMMING SYSTEM 4

2. FEATURES OF THE ART2000 6

3. INSTALLING THE ART2000 8

4. SETTING USER OPTIONS 13

5. ELDC OPTION 22

6. ONE PHASE PER MULTIPIN OUTLET 23

7. TROUBLESHOOTING 24

8. INTRODUCTION TO DMX 27

9. SYSTEM SPECIFICATION 30

10. CONNECTOR PINOUTS 31

11. GLOSSARY OF TECHNICAL TERMS 33

12. INDEX 35

Page 4 - 1. The ART2000 digital dimming system

A2K-T4-V2.2 27/08/2014 11:19:00

INTRODUCTION

1. The ART2000 digital dimming system

This manual is designed to help you get the most out of your Avolites
ART2000 digital dimming system. Even if you hate reading manuals, read
this section because the next couple of pages contain some important
safety information which you should be aware of.

At the end of the manual there is a quick summary of how the DMX control
system works, a Glossary explaining some of the technical terms used in
the manual, and an Index which can be used to find what you need in the
manual.

1.1 What it does

The ART2000 system provides a complete solution to Dimming and Moving
Light Power distribution. You no longer need to have separate mains
distribution making set up times faster and reducing the number of
individual components needed to put a show together.

The ART2000 controls up to 48 individual channels. Four modules of a
maximum of 12 channels can be plugged in. The following module types
are currently available:

 12 channel 16Amp dimming module
 6 channel 32Amp dimming module
 3 channel 63Amp dimming module
 12 channel 16amp distribution module for powering moving lights
 12 channel 16A Relay module, to switch on/off mains under DMX

control.

Modules of the same channel count can be freely interchanged, and the
rack can be easily configured 'per job' as required.

When loaded with 16A modules the system can be fitted with a patch bay
and up to 20 Multipin outlet connectors which ensure that cabling will be
as simple and reliable as possible.. Each channel of each multipin outlet
connector can be patched to any dimmer output using the hot-patch. The
hot-patch has a lamp test indicator making faults easy to find when a
single dimmer channel powers more than one light fixture. Alternatively
direct outputs are available if a patch is not needed

The 'Load Check' indicators for each dimmer module or relay module
channel give a sure indication that a load is present and the test faders on

each dimmer channel or relay channel allow you to quickly check what’s

connected without having the use of a console.

The design incorporates full monitoring and status feedback via the backlit
LCD display. For simple events you can operate without a console by
setting up a dimmer state on the test faders, or you can record 12 internal
memories for replaying a simple show.

Other features include full DMX patch and merge (2 DMX lines), dimmer
curve and output limit selection per channel, power OK indicators, optional
volt and amp metering and optional RCB or ELDC protection.

1. The ART2000 digital dimming system - Page 5

A2K-T4-V2.2 27/08/2014 11:19:00

1.2 Important safety information

This system uses 3-phase power and can be a serious hazard to
health. This manual is however not a safety manual.

The system should be installed and operated only by a competent person.
When installing you should check local regulations regarding the
separation of lighting fixtures on different phases (see also section 6 One
Phase per multipin Outlet). If you are in any doubt as to the safe
installation of the system you should employ the services of a qualified
electrical contractor.

Do not operate the system with any dimmer modules missing because this
makes live parts accessible.

Blanking plates are available from avolites to allow modules to be removed
and the rack used. If you do want to use the system with a module

removed fit the blanking plate (Avolites part number 17-80-0129)

If Cam-lok loop-out terminals are fitted, ensure that cables or covers are
fitted to the loop-out terminals before turning on the power, as live parts
are otherwise exposed.

Before turning on the ART2000 rack, ensure that the neon power
connection lights on the control panel are correctly illuminated. These
lights will indicate most connection errors. The system may be damaged if
it is turned on with the power feed connected incorrectly.

1.3 Quick start instructions

When connecting the power feed to the system, ensure EARTH is
connected first, then NEUTRAL, then the PHASE conductors. The system
requires a 3 phase (TN-S) mains supply.

Ensure that the Bay and utility breakers are turned off and the optional
RCD breakers are turned on before you turn on the power feed.

Turn on the dimmer feed and check that the “Connection” neons are

correctly illuminated (top 5 on, bottom 2 off). Check that the voltage is
what you expect using the voltmeter. If not OK, correct the fault before
going any further.

Power up the control module by turning the rotary switch below the
Connection neons to R, Y or B to select the phase you want to feed the
electronics from (normally phase R).

You can now turn on the Bay and Utility breakers and use the ART2000
system.

To turn the system off, reverse the above procedure.

It is preferable not to use the RCB as an ON/OFF switch, as arcing may
reduce the RCB’s protecting ability.

Page 6 - 2. Features of the ART2000

A2K-T4-V2.2 27/08/2014 11:19:00

2. Features of the ART2000

This chapter gives a quick rundown on what each part of the ART2000 rack
does. If you are new to the system, read this!

Some Parts described in this manual may not
be on the system before you, this is because
the ART2000 system can be supplied from the
factory with various different options.

At the rear of the unit, near the bottom of the
rack, are the power input connections. These
can be either Cam-lok , Powerlok ,BAC,
Cee 63 or Cee 125A type connectors. Loop
output connectors may also be fitted.

Note: When connecting power to the ART2000,

always connect the EARTH first, then
the NEUTRAL, then the PHASE
conductors.

If Cam-lok loop-out connectors are fitted,
ensure that either covers or connectors are
fitted before turning on the power, as these
connectors otherwise have exposed live
terminals.

2.1 Utility power panel

Above the power input is the utility power panel. This may be fitted with
variety of single phase connectors and optional 32A 3-phase connectors.
The utility power is for feeding motors and other devices needing static
power. The circuit breakers for the utility power panel are on the front of
the rack. The 32A 3-phase connector shares the 32A breaker with the
normal 3x 16A utility outputs.

2.2 Output connectors

The rear panel mainly houses the output connectors. Depending on the
option selected these can be either multipin connectors like the Socapex
and the Harting connector or single phase direct outlets like the Cee 16A
or Cee 32A. These connectors link the ART2000 rack to the load which you
want to control.

In both cases it is best to connect these without the channel being
energized as this reduces arcing and prolongs the life of connectors

Power input

Utility panel

output connectors

2. Features of the ART2000 - Page 7

A2K-T4-V2.2 27/08/2014 11:19:00

2.3 The hot-patch panel

On top of the rack is the optional hot-patch panel. This allows you to
decide how the 48 dimmer channels are connected to the 120 output
circuits which are available on the multipin connectors. The front half of
the panel has the outputs of the modules. Module A has 4 outlets per
channel, and modules B, C and D have 2 outlets per channel.

The hotpatch is normally wired in parallel, thus each socket will have live
and neutral connected (220V). The optional series patch is labelled clearly
to be series (110V)

For the occasional 110V lamp Avolites has a custom Wieland series lead,

part number 03-13-0040

The rear half of the panel has 20 sets of six connectors, one set for each of
the multipin outlets on the rear of the rack.

At the very front of the hot-patch panel is a lamp test socket. This allows
you to test the continuity of any circuit. There is also a desk lamp socket
to allow a gooseneck lamp to be fitted so you can see what you are
patching.

2.4 Main circuit breakers

On the front of the rack, down at the
bottom, there is a 3-phase circuit
breaker for each module, and one for
the utility power. Above the circuit
breakers may be fitted an RCB for each
module. There are also three individual
circuit breakers for the utility power
sockets.

2.5 Power modules

The main part of the rack is taken up
with the 4 power modules. These are
interchangeable modules, and the
available types are:

 12x16A Dimmer module: Each

channel has a 16A C-type circuit

breaker, a control knob and a “load
present” indicator light per channel.

The indicator lights when a load is
connected to the channel, and the
channel is turned off. The control
knob allows manual control of the
channel, if the local control option is
turned on.

 6x32A Dimmer module: Each

channel has a 32A C-type circuit
breaker, and the same control and indicator features as the above 12
channel dimmer module.

 3x63A Dimmer module Each channel has a 63A C-type circuit

breaker, and the same control and indicator features as the above 12

Power modules

Hot patch panel

Control module

Circuit breakers
& RCBs

Page 8 - 3. Installing the ART2000

A2K-T4-V2.2 27/08/2014 11:19:00

channel dimmer module.

 12x16A Breaker module: Mains distribution modules provide static

power, which can be routed through the hot-patch bay and down the
multicore cables, usually used to power intelligent lighting. The module
has 12 channels of mains power, which can be manually switched using
the front circuit breakers.

Note: If the mains distribution module is fitted as module B, C or D then

24 static power outputs are available on the hot-patch panel. If it is
fitted as module A then 48 static power outputs are available.

 12x16A Contactor module: Relay modules are like mains distribution

modules but each channel can be switched on/off by DMX control. These
modules are useful if large numbers of ballasts or other special lighting

effects need to be controlled. The relay module has “load present”

indicators and control knob allowing manual control of the channel.

 Blank panel: If a bay is to be left empty fit a blanking panel to balance

the air flow inside the dimmer and prevent live parts to be exposed

Dimmer Channel Mapping

The ART2000 system allocates dimmer channels depending on the module
type fitted to the rack up to a maximum of 48 dimmer channels.

Therefore a two bay frame fitted with two 6 channel modules will use
dimmer channel 1-6 and 7-12, and the same frame fitted with 12 channel
modules will allocated channels 1-12 for the first module and 13-24 for the
next module. In the case of a breaker module preceding a dimmer module
in the rack the dimmer channel 1 will start at the first available dimmer
channel.

Module Type

Allocated channels

12 channel 16A dimmer

12

6 channel 32A dimmer

6

3 channel 63A dimmer

3

12 channel 16A contactor

12

12 channel 16A breaker

0

No Bay fitted (blanking plate)

0

2.6 Control module

At the top of the rack front is the control module. This allows you to set up
how the dimmers will work. There are also voltage and optional current
meters, with phase selector switches, and neon indicators to show if the
power is connected correctly.

The voltmeter switch allows you to measure the phase-neutral and phase­phase voltages. A rotary switch below the test neons allows you to select
which phase the electronics is powered from.

The “Display contrast” control allows you to adjust the darkness of the
display.

The “Reset” button allows you to reset the system using a small pointed

implement.

3. Installing the ART2000

This chapter contains details of how to install the ART2000 rack, either for

3. Installing the ART2000 - Page 9

A2K-T4-V2.2 27/08/2014 11:19:00

temporary or permanent operation.

3.1 Positioning the ART2000 rack

Choose a location for the rack which is as near to the power feed as
possible and allows access to the front and back of the rack. Consider how
the cables will run in from the power feed and out to the lights, and try to
avoid crossing walkways.

If you are unsure about the safety you should contacts a competent body
to advice you.

The ART2000 system is designed to operate in a maximum ambient
temperature of 40°C and can run continuously when fully loaded at 16A
per channel. The rack is fan-cooled, you must ensure there is adequate
ventilation available - if the system is running in a closed room, consider
providing external ventilation to the room (see Specifications on page 30
for cooling information). The system may shut dimmer modules down if it
cannot release the heat generated.

If you are using the system on an outdoor stage, ensure that the rack is
situated somewhere dry and clear of the ground. If you shelter the rack
with tarpaulins make sure that you do not obstruct the air vents. Black
tarpaulin is general unsuitable.

3.2 Power modules

The ART2000 system has four “bays”, in which you can fit either dimmer
modules, power distribution modules or relay switch modules. The
modules need to be of the same channel capacity (all 12 channel or all 6
channel modules). If you have a selection of ART2000 modules and need
to change the configuration of the rack by swapping modules, this is the
time to do it.

Power distribution modules are used to feed static power down the
multipin outlet, usually to run intelligent lighting. If you do not require this
facility you can replace power distribution modules with dimmer modules
and have more dimmers in the rack (if you have spare dimmer modules
available).

3.2.1 Changing power modules

 Disconnect the mains to the rack
 Unscrew the 2 M6 screws at the front of the module
 Use the handles in the front to pull it out (take care, it is quite heavy)
 Fit the new module by guiding it into the slides
 Push it home and refit the screws.

Only operate the system when all the modules are screwed in place,
otherwise the connectors may be damaged.

Note: Avoid changing modules when powered because this may cause

arcing, which will damage the connectors.

3.3 Power supply

You need to provide a three phase and neutral power supply to the

Page 10 - 3. Installing the ART2000

A2K-T4-V2.2 27/08/2014 11:19:00

ART2000 (TN-S) which is capable of delivering the amount of power
required to run all the lights which are connected to it. If the power supply
is under-rated it may trip during your show if you turn too many lights on
at once. This is obviously not a good thing to happen. Also, an overloaded
mains supply can suffer from a distorted waveform which can make it
difficult for the ART system to control your lights smoothly.

Warning: Never use mains supplied with “reduced neutral” cable sizes, as

dimmers inherently dump large currents in the neutral connection.

These kind of mains supplies are sometimes called “industrial “ and

are not suitable for dimmer applications.

When ordering or specifying a mains supply state that it is for “phase
angle controlled light dimming”

The frequency of the mains is automatically tracked by the system, which
makes the ART system suitable for use on local generator sets.

3.3.1 Connecting the power supply

 Ensure the bay and utility circuit breakers are turned off
 Before handling the power cables ensure yourself that they are

“dead”

 Connect the power supply to the Power Input terminals on the

rear of the rack (earth first, then neutral, then phases)

 If loop out terminals are fitted you can use these to connect a

second rack, provided you do not overload the supply. (Both
Powerlok and Camlok have a 400A limit).Cover unused
Camlok loop out connectors

 Turn on the power feed - do not turn on the racks yet.
 Check the connection neons on the front panel. The top 5 neons

should all be lit. The bottom 2 should not be lit. Also check any
other racks you have linked in.

 Check that the voltage of the supply is what you expected, using

the voltmeter (the voltmeter and neons are fed through the control
fuses)

 If all is OK, power up the control module by turning the rotary switch

below the neons to the red phase.

If the connection neons or voltmeter indicate a problem, DO NOT
TURN THE RACK ON until you have corrected the problem, or you
may cause serious damage to the rack and connected equipment.

When you turn on the power, the control module will start up and display
the following screen:

Line A 001 Dmx ok Line B 001 No Dmx
Status Running OK Mode Test Off

------------------------------------------

OS 3.0R1 UCode 1.0 PDE 1.0/1.2

The ART team wishes you happy dimming

Now you can then power up the system by turning on the bay and utility
circuit breakers.

3. Installing the ART2000 - Page 11

A2K-T4-V2.2 27/08/2014 11:19:00

If the display shows other messages, this may indicate that a problem has
been found. See the Troubleshooting section on page 24 for details of what
to do.

If you cannot read the display you may need to adjust the display contrast
control at the bottom right hand corner of the display.

Note: The phase selector intended usage is that it allows you to power the

electronics of a different phase in case of a phase failure. There is
normally no need to go to the yellow or blue phase.

3.4 Connections to lights

You connect the lighting rig to the ART2000 either through the multipin
connectors (Socapex or Harting) or through direct outlets on the rear
panel. There are up to 20 multipin connectors, each of which carry 6
channels (Harting-type connectors may carry 8 channels). The optional
hot-patch panel allows you to determine which dimmer channel controls
which output circuit (direct out versions do not have a hot patch).

Do not connect or disconnect the multipin connectors whilst channels are
turned on, as this may cause arcing which will damage the connectors.

Note: Only connect loads through the multipin outlets, direct outlets or

the utility outlets. DO NOT try to power any equipment directly
from the dimmer output patch on the hot-patch panel as the patch
cables do not carry an earth connection.

3.5 Control connection

Two DMX inputs (and linked outputs) are provided, these allow you to use
two consoles (such as a normal “static light” console and a moving light
console), or to have a back-up control link. Normally the system will
combine the two inputs with a highest-takes-precedence rule. It is also
possible to configure the system so that some dimmers are controlled by
one DMX input only (see section 4.5).

If you need to change the DMX start address of the system this is
described in section 4.1.

If you are linking the DMX cable on to other devices, ensure the
termination switches are set to Off. If this is the end of the DMX line, set
the termination switch to On for that DMX line. An indicator light comes on
when the termination is On.

3.6 Patching module channels to lights

If a patch is fitted you need to patch each light to a dimmer by connecting
cables on the hot-patch panel. There are two patch options series (110V)
and parallel (240V). Most patches are parallel and the following text
assumes a parallel patch

At the front of the hot patch panel are the outlets from the modules.
Module A has four outlets per channel, and modules B, C and D have two
outlets per channel.

At the back of the hot patch panel are the plugs which link to the multipin
connectors. There is a plug for each circuit on each connector. The picture
shows module channel 19 (channel 7 on module B) connected to circuit 1