Blizzard Lighting COBZilla RGB User Manual

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Blizzard Lighting, LLC

www.blizzardlighting.com

Wisconsin, USA

COB RGB 5X5 PIXEL MATRIX

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

COBZilla™ COB RGB 5X5 Pixel Matrix 1

1. Getting Started 3

What’s In The Box? 3 Getting It Out Of The Box 3 Powering Up! 3 Getting A Hold Of Us 3 Safety Instructions (Don’t Stick Your Hand In The Toaster!) 4

2. Meet The COBZilla™ COB RGB 5X5 Pixel Matrix 5

Features 5 DMX Quick Reference 5-6 The COBZilla™ COB RGB 5X5 Pixel Matrix Pin-up Picture 7

3. Setup 8

Fuse Replacement 8 Connecting A Bunch Of COBZilla™ COB RGB 5X5 Pixel Matrix 8 Data/DMX Cables 8 Cable Connectors 9 3-Pin??? 5-Pin??? Huh? 9 Take It To The Next Level: Setting up DMX Control 9 Fixture Linking (Master/Slave Mode) 10 Mounting/Rigging 10

4. Operating Adjustments 11

Navigating The Control Panel 11 Control Panel Menu Structure 12 DMX Mode 13 Master/Slave Mode 13 Sound Active Mode 13 Standalone (Program) Mode 13 DMX Channel Values In-Depth 14-15 Troubleshooting 16

5. Appendix 17

A Quick DMX Lesson 17 Keeping Your COBZilla™ COB RGB 5X5 Pixel Matrix New 18 Returns (Gasp!) 18 Shipping Issues 18 Tech Specs 19

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1. GETTING STARTED

What’s In The Box?

• 1 x COBZilla™ COB RGB 5X5 Pixel Matrix

• This Lovely User Manual

• An Ever So Needed IEC Power Cord

• 8mm Hex Wrench

Getting It Out Of The Box

Congratulations on purchasing one of the newest, brightest, most impressive panels on the market! Now that you’ve got your COBZilla™ COB RGB 5X5 Pixel Matrix (or hopefully, COBZillas™!), you should carefully unpack the box and check the contents to ensure that all parts are present and in good condition. If anything looks as if it has been damaged in transit, notify the shipper immediately and keep the packing material for inspection.

Again, please save the carton and all packing materials. If a xture must be returned to the factory, it is important that the xture be returned in the original factory box and pack-

ing.

Powering Up!

All xtures must be powered directly off a switched circuit and cannot be run off a rheostat (variable resistor) or dimmer circuit, even if the rheostat or dimmer channel is used solely for a 0% to 100% switch.

AC Voltage Switch - Not all xtures have a voltage select switch, so please verify that the xture you receive is suitable for your local power supply. See the label on the xture or refer to the xture’s specications chart for more information. A xture’s listed current rating is its average current draw under normal conditions. Check the xture or device

carefully to make sure that if a voltage selection switch exists that it is set to the correct line voltage you will use.

Warning! Verify that the voltage select switch on your unit matches the line volt-

age applied. Damage to your xture may result if the line voltage applied does not match the voltage indicated on the voltage selector switch. All xtures must

be connected to circuits with a suitable Ground (Earthing).

Getting A Hold Of Us

If something is wrong, just give us a call or send an email. We’ll be happy to help, honest.

Blizzard Lighting N16 W23390 Stoneridge Dr. Suite E Waukesha, WI 53188 www.blizzardlighting.com 414-395-8365 Email: support@blizzardlighting.com

Disclaimer: The information and specications contained in this document are subject

to change without notice. Blizzard Lighting™ assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions that may appear in this user manual. Blizzard Lighting™ reserves the right to update the existing document or to create a new document to correct any errors or omissions at any time. You can download the latest version of this document from www. blizzardlighting.com.

Author: Date: Last Edited: Date:

J. Henry 01/02/2014 J. Henry 01/15/2014

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SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

• Please keep this User Guide for future use. If you sell the unit to someone else, be sure that they also receive this User Guide.

• ALWAYS make sure that you are connecting to the proper voltage, and that the line voltage you are connecting to is not higher than that stated on the de-

cal or rear panel of the xture.

• This product is intended for indoor use only.

• To prevent risk of re or shock, do not expose xture to rain or moisture.

• Make sure there are no ammable materials close to the unit while operating.

• The unit must be installed in a location with adequate ventilation, at least

20in (50cm) from adjacent surfaces. Be sure that no ventilation slots are

blocked.

• ALWAYS disconnect from the power source before servicing or replacing fuse and be sure to replace with same fuse size and type.

• ALWAYS secure xture using a safety chain. NEVER carry the xture by its

cord. Use its carrying handles.

• DO NOT operate at ambient temperatures higher than 104°F (40°C).

• In the event of a serious operating problem, stop using the unit immediately. NEVER try to repair the unit by yourself. Repairs carried out by unskilled people can lead to damage or malfunction. Please contact the nearest authorized technical assistance center. Always use the same type spare parts.

• NEVER connect the device to a dimmer pack.

• Make sure the power cord is never crimped or damaged.

• Never disconnect the power cord by pulling or tugging on the cord.

• Avoid direct eye exposure to the light source while it is on.

Caution! There are no user serviceable parts inside the unit. Do not open the housing or attempt any repairs yourself. In the unlikely event your unit may require service, please contact Blizzard Lighting at support@blizzardlighting.com.

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2. MEET THE COBZilla™ COB RGB 5X5 Pixel Matrix

CONTROL FEATURES

• 25 individually controllable COB (Chip-On Board) RGB LED’s

• Variable electronic strobe

• Variable electronic dimmer

• Built-in automated programs via master/slave

• Sound Active via DMX

• Easy to use 4 button LCD Control Panel

ADDITIONAL FEATURES

• Very Rugged and well-built (yea, it works out alot)

• Lux: 12,100 @ 1m, 4,600 @ 2m

• Light source: 25 x 9 watt 3-in-1 COB LED’s

• PowerCon™ Compatible Power In/Out

• 1/2-turn cofn-lock xture link brackets

• 3-pin & 5-pin DMX In/Out

DMX Quick Reference (3-Channel Mode)

Channel What It Does

1 Built-in Programs

2 Program Speed

3 Strobe

DMX Quick Reference (5-Channel Mode)

Channel What It Does

1 Red 0%-100%

2 Green 0%-100%

3 Blue 0%-100%

4 Master Dimmer 0%-100%

5 Strobe

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DMX Quick Reference (75-Channel Mode)

Individual Pixel Control Dimmer 0%-100%

CH 1 CH 2 CH 3 CH 4 CH 5 CH 6

Pixel 1 Red Pixel 1 Blue Pixel 1 Green Pixel 2 Red Pixel 2 Blue Pixel 2 Green

CH 7 CH 8 CH 9 CH 10 CH 11 CH 12

Pixel 3 Red Pixel 3 Blue Pixel 3 Green Pixel 4 Red Pixel 4 Blue Pixel 4 Green

CH 13 CH 14 CH 15 CH 16 CH 17 CH 18

Pixel 5 Red Pixel 5 Blue Pixel 5 Green Pixel 6 Red Pixel 6 Blue Pixel 6 Green

CH 19 CH 20 CH 21 CH 22 CH 23 CH 24

Pixel 7 Red Pixel 7 Blue Pixel 7 Pixel 8 Red Pixel 8 Blue Pixel 8 Green

CH 25 CH 26 CH 27 CH 28 CH 29 CH 30

Pixel 9 Red Pixel 9 Blue Pixel 9 Green Pixel 10 Red Pixel 10 Blue Pixel 10 Green

CH 31 CH 32 CH 33 CH 34 CH 35 CH 36

Pixel 11 Red Pixel 11 Blue Pixel 11 Green Pixel 12 Red Pixel 12 Blue Pixel 12 Green

CH 37 CH 38 CH 39 CH 40 CH 41 CH 42

Pixel 13 Red Pixel 13 Blue Pixel 13 Green Pixel 14 Red Pixel 14 Blue Pixel 14 Green

CH 43 CH 44 CH 45 CH 46 CH 47 CH 48

Pixel 15 Red Pixel 15 Blue Pixel 15 Green Pixel 16 Red Pixel 16 Blue Pixel 16 Green

CH 49 CH 50 CH 51 CH 52 CH 53 CH 54

Pixel 17 Red Pixel 17 Blue Pixel 17 Green Pixel 18 Red Pixel 18 Blue Pixel 18 Green

CH 55 CH 56 CH 57 CH 58 CH 59 CH 60

Pixel 19 Red Pixel 19 Blue Pixel 19 Green Pixel 20 Red Pixel 20 Blue Pixel 20 Green

CH 61 CH 62 CH 63 CH 64 CH 65 CH 66

Pixel 21 Red Pixel 21 Blue Pixel 21 Green Pixel 22 Red Pixel 22 Blue Pixel 22 Green

CH 67 CH 68 CH 69 CH 70 CH 71 CH 72

Pixel 23 Red Pixel 23 Blue Pixel 23 Green Pixel 24 Red Pixel 24 Blue Pixel 24 Green

CH 73 CH 74 CH 75

Pixel 25 Red Pixel 25 Blue Pixel 25

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Figure 1: The COBZilla™ COB RGB 5X5 Pixel Matrix Pin-Up Picture

25 High Power RGB COB LED’s

Tough Steel Enclosure

Figure 2: The Rear Connections

PowerCon Compatible Power IN/Power Out

3-pin DMX In /

DMX Out

LED Control Panel

Mounting Brackets

Safety Cable Attachment Point

1/2-Turn Cofn-Lock Connectors

5-pin DMX In /

DMX Out

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3. SETUP

Fuse Replacement

CAUTION! The COBZilla™ COB RGB 5X5 Pixel Matrix utilizes a high-

output switch-mode power supply with an internal fuse. Under normal operating conditions, the fuse should not require replacement. The

fuse is eld replaceable, however it is an advanced procedure suited to qualied individuals. Should your COBZilla™ COB RGB 5X5 Pixel

Matrix™ fuse require replacement, please contact Blizzard Lighting for instructions, or to return your unit for service.

Connecting A Bunch of COBZilla™ COB RGB 5X5 Pixel Matrix Fixtures

You will need a serial data link to run light shows using a DMX-512 controller or to run shows on two or more xtures set to sync in master/slave operating mode. The combined number of channels required by all the xtures on a serial data link determines the number of xtures the data link can support.

Fixtures on a serial data link must be daisy chained in one single line.

Also, connecting more than 32 xtures on one serial data link without

the use of a DMX optically-isolated splitter may result in deterioration of the digital DMX signal. The maximum recommended cable-run distance is 500 meters (1640

ft). The maximum recommended number of xtures on a serial data link is 32 xtures.

Data/DMX Cabling

To link xtures together you’ll need data cables. You should use data-

grade cables that can carry a high quality signal and are less prone to electromagnetic interference.

For instance, Belden© 9841 meets the specications for EIA RS-485

applications. Standard microphone cables will “probably” be OK, but note that they cannot transmit DMX data as reliably over long distances. In any event, the cable should have the following characteristics:

2-conductor twisted pair plus a shield

Maximum capacitance between conductors – 30 pF/ft. Maximum capacitance between conductor & shield – 55 pF/ft. Maximum resistance of 20 ohms / 1000 ft. Nominal impedance 100 – 140 ohms

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Cable Connectors

Cables must have a male XLR connector on one end and a female XLR connector on the other end. (Duh!)

CAUTION: Do not allow contact between the common and the x- ture’s chassis ground. Grounding the common can cause a ground

loop, and your xture may perform erratically. Test cables with an

ohm meter to verify correct polarity and to make sure the pins are not grounded or shorted to the shield or each other.

3-Pin??? 5-Pin??? Huh?!?

If you use a controller with a 5 pin DMX output connector, you will need to use a 5 pin to 3 pin adapter. They are widely available over the internet and from specialty retailers If you’d like to build your own, the chart below details a proper cable conversion:

Conductor 3-Pin Female

(Output)

5-Pin Male (Input)

Ground/Shield Pin 1 Pin 1

DMX Data (-) Pin 2 Pin 2

DMX Data (+) Pin 3 Pin 3

Not Used. No Connection. No Connection.

Take It To The Next Level: Setting Up DMX Control

Step 1: Connect the male connector of the

DMX cable to the female connector (output) on the controller.

Step 2: Connect the female connector of the DMX cable to the rst xture’s male connector (input). Note: It doesn’t matter which

xture address is the rst one connected. We recommend connecting the xtures in

terms of their proximity to the controller,

rather than connecting the lowest xture number rst, and so on.

Step 3: Connect other xtures in the chain

from output to input as above. Place a DMX

terminator on the output of the nal xture

to ensure best communication.

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Fixture Linking (Master/Slave Mode)

1. Connect the (male) 3 pin connector side of the DMX cable to the output (female) 3 pin connector of

the rst xture.

2. Connect the end of the cable coming from the

rst xture which will have a (female) 3 pin connector to the input connector of the next xture con-

sisting of a (male) 3 pin connector. Then, proceed to connect from the output as stated above to the

input of the following xture and so on.

A quick note: Often, the setup for MasterSlave and Standalone operation requires that

the rst xture in the

chain be initialized for this purpose via either settings in the control panel or DIP-switches.

Secondarily, the xtures

that follow may also require a slave setting.

Check the “Operating Adjustments” section in this manual for com-

plete instructions for this type of setup and conguration.

Mounting & Rigging

This xture may be mounted in any SAFE position provided there is

enough room for ventilation.

It is important never to obstruct the fan or vents pathway. Mount the

xture using a suitable “C” or “O” type clamp. The clamp should be rated to hold at least 10x the xture’s weight to ensure structural sta-

bility. Do not mount to surfaces with unknown strength, and ensure

properly “rated” rigging is used when mounting xutres overhead.

Adjust the angle of the xture by loosening both knobs and tilting the xture. After nding the desired position, retighten both knobs.

• When selecting installation location, take into consideration lamp replacement access (if applicable) and routine maintenance.

• Safety cables MUST ALWAYS be used.

• Never mount in places where the xture will be exposed to rain,

high humidity, extreme temperature changes or restricted ventilation.

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4. OPERATING ADJUSTMENTS

The Control Panel

All the goodies and different modes possible with the COBZilla™ COB RGB 5X5 Pixel Matrix are accessed by using the control panel on the

rear of the xture. There are 4 control buttons below the LED display

which allow you to navigate through the various control panel menus.

<MODE>

Is used to navigate to the previous higher-level menu item.

<SETUP>

Scrolls through individual menu options

<UP>

Scrolls through menu items and numbers in Ascending order.

<DOWN>

Scrolls through menu items and numbers in Descending order.

The Control Panel LED Display shows the menu items you select from the menu map on page #11. When a menu function is selected, the

display will show immediately the rst available option for the selected

menu function. To select a menu item, press <MODE>.

Press the <MODE> button repeatedly until you reach the desired menu function. Use the <SETUP> button to navigate the menu options. Press the <MODE> button to select the menu function currently displayed, or to enable a menu option. To return to the previous option or menu without changing the value, press the <MODE> button.

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Control Panel Menu Structure

Main Function

What it looks like

Selection What It Does...

DMX Address/ Channel

DMX address: 001 channels: 03, 05, 75 CHs

<MODE>

<SETUP>

Sets the DMX address <UP> or <DOWN> to select address

Change channel mode 03, 05, or 75 channels

Slave Mode

SLAVE MODE ======================

<MODE> Sets the unit to run in slave

mode

Sound Active Mode

SOUND TRIGGER sensitivity 00-31

<MODE>

<SETUP>

Sound Active Mode

Change sensitivity 00-31

Static Mode

STATIC COLOR R255 G255 B255

<MODE>

<SETUP>

Individual Color Mode

Use <UP> or <DOWN> to select each color setting

Built-In Programs

RUN PROGRAM: 01-19 SP: 001-100 FS: 000-100

<MODE>

<SETUP>

Built-In Program Mode

Speed Selection / Strobe Setting (001-100) Use <UP> or <DOWN> to select each setting

Auto Programs

AUTO times: 001-100 SP: 001-100 FS: 001-100

<MODE>

<SETUP>

Auto Program Mode (Use <UP> or <DOWN> to select each program (001-100)

Speed Selection / Strobe Setting (001-100) Use <UP> or <DOWN> to select each setting

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DMX Mode

Allows the unit to be controlled by any universal DMX controller. If you are unfamiliar with DMX, please read the DMX Primer on page #16.

The COBZilla™ COB RGB 5X5 Pixel Matrix is capable of operating with 3, 5, or 75 DMX channels. To select the channel mode that you desire,

1:) Press the <MODE> button to select DMX address: 001 on the LED

Readout.

2:) Then press the <SETUP> button to select channel mode,

channels: 03, 05, 75 CHs. Use the <UP> or <DOWN> to select desired channel.

Auto, Master/Slave, Sound Active & Static Color Modes:

Allows a single or Master/Slaved units to run factory installed programs at user selectable speeds.

1.) To set the xture to one of the Built-in Programs,

select RUN PROGRAM: 01-19 using the <MODE> button. Select desired

program by using the <UP> and <DOWN> buttons

2.) To set the program and Strobe setting, select SP: 001-100 FS: 000-100

using the <SETUP> button then the <UP> and <DOWN> buttons to choose desired program/strobe function. Press the <MODE> button to switch between settings.

3:) To use Auto Mode, Press the <MODE> button to reach

AUTO times: 001-100. Use the <UP> and <DOWN> buttons

to choose desired program

4:) To set the program speed and Strobe setting,

select SP: 001-100 FS: 000-100 using the <SETUP> button then the

<UP> and <DOWN> buttons to choose desired program/strobe function. Press the <MODE> button to switch between settings.

Master/Slave Mode:

1:) Each xture is a master by default. To set the xture as a slave, use the

<MODE> button to reach SLAVE MODE

======================

2.) Press the <MODE> button to exit out of the menu.

Sound Active Mode:

1.) To use sound active mode, select SOUND TRIGGER by pressing <MODE>.

2.) Press the <SETUP> button to change the sensitivity 00-31 by using the

<UP> and <DOWN> buttons.

3.) Press the <MODE> button to exit sound trigger mode.

Color Static Mode:

1.) Press the <MODE> button to reach STATIC COLOR. 2:) Then press the <SETUP> button to set the color R255 G255 B255.

By using the <UP> and <DOWN> buttons, this allows you to

change each value. (000-255)

3.) Press the <MODE> button to exit static color mode.

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DMX Values In-Depth (3-Channel Mode)

Channel Channel Value Does...

000 001 <-> 012 013 <-> 025 026 <-> 038 039 <-> 051 052 <-> 064 065 <-> 077 078 <-> 090 091 <-> 103 104 <-> 116 117 <-> 129 130 <-> 142 143 <-> 155 156 <-> 168 169 <-> 181 182 <-> 194 195 <-> 207 208 <-> 220 221 <-> 233 234 <-> 255

Built-in Programs

Off Program 1 Program 2 Program 3 Program 4 Program 5 Program 6 Program 7 Program 8 Program 9 Program 10 Program 11 Program 12 Program 13 Program 14 Program 15 Program 16 Program 17 Program 18 Sound Active

000 <-> 233

234 <-> 255

Speed of Program

Sensativity for Sound Active Mode

000 <-> 233

234 <-> 255

Strobe Rate

No function in Sound Active Mode

DMX Values In-Depth (5-Channel Mode)

Channel Channel Value Does...

1 000 <-> 255 Red Dimmer 0%-100%

2 000 <-> 255 Green Dimmer 0%-100%

3 000 <-> 255 Blue Dimmer 0%-100%

4 000 <-> 255 Master Dimmer 0%-100%

5 000 <-> 255 Strobe Rate 0%-100%

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DMX Values In-Depth (75-Channel Mode)

Channel Channel Value What It Does...

1-3 000 <-> 255 Pixel 1 Individual Red/Green/Blue Dimmers 0%-100%

4-6 000 <-> 255 Pixel 2 Individual Red/Green/Blue Dimmers 0%-100%

7-9 000 <-> 255 Pixel 3 Individual Red/Green/Blue Dimmers 0%-100%

10-12 000 <-> 255 Pixel 4 Individual Red/Green/Blue Dimmers 0%-100%

13-15 000 <-> 255 Pixel 5 Individual Red/Green/Blue Dimmers 0%-100%

16-18 000 <-> 255 Pixel 6 Individual Red/Green/Blue Dimmers 0%-100%

19-21 000 <-> 255 Pixel 7 Individual Red/Green/Blue Dimmers 0%-100%

22-24 000 <-> 255 Pixel 8 Individual Red/Green/Blue Dimmers 0%-100%

25-27 000 <-> 255 Pixel 9 Individual Red/Green/Blue Dimmers 0%-100%

28-30 000 <-> 255 Pixel 10 Individual Red/Green/Blue Dimmers 0%-100%

31-33 000 <-> 255 Pixel 11 Individual Red/Green/Blue Dimmers 0%-100%

34-36 000 <-> 255 Pixel 12 Individual Red/Green/Blue Dimmers 0%-100%

37-39 000 <-> 255 Pixel 13 Individual Red/Green/Blue Dimmers 0%-100%

40-42 000 <-> 255 Pixel 14 Individual Red/Green/Blue Dimmers 0%-100%

43-45 000 <-> 255 Pixel 15 Individual Red/Green/Blue Dimmers 0%-100%

46-48 000 <-> 255 Pixel 16 Individual Red/Green/Blue Dimmers 0%-100%

49-51 000 <-> 255 Pixel 17 Individual Red/Green/Blue Dimmers 0%-100%

52-54 000 <-> 255 Pixel 18 Individual Red/Green/Blue Dimmers 0%-100%

55-57 000 <-> 255 Pixel 19 Individual Red/Green/Blue Dimmers 0%-100%

58-60 000 <-> 255 Pixel 20 Individual Red/Green/Blue Dimmers 0%-100%

61-63 000 <-> 255 Pixel 21 Individual Red/Green/Blue Dimmers 0%-100%

64-66 000 <-> 255 Pixel 22 Individual Red/Green/Blue Dimmers 0%-100%

67-69 000 <-> 255 Pixel 23 Individual Red/Green/Blue Dimmers 0%-100%

70-72 000 <-> 255 Pixel 24 Individual Red/Green/Blue Dimmers 0%-100%

73-75 000 <-> 255 Pixel 25 Individual Red/Green/Blue Dimmers 0%-100%

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Troubleshooting

Symptom Solution

Fixture AutoShut Off

Check the fan in the xture. If it is stopped or moving

slower than normal, the unit may have shut itself off due to

high heat. This is to protect the xture from overheating.

Clear the fan of obstructions, or return the unit for service.

Beam is Dim Check optical system and clean excess dust/grime. Also

ensure that the 220V/110V switch is in the correct position, if applicable.

No Light Output Check to ensure xture is operating under correct mode, IE

sound active/auto/DMX/Etc., if applicable. Contact service for more information.

Chase Speed Too Fast/Slow

Check to ensure proper setup of speed adjustment.

No Power Check fuse, AC cord and circuit for malfunction.

Blown Fuse Check AC cord and circuit for damage, verify that moving

parts are not restricted and that unit’s ventilation is not obstructed

Slow Movement Verify that 220V/110V switch is in the correct position, if

applicable. Also check that speed channels are set appropriately.

No Response to Audio

Verify that the xture is in “Sound Active” mode. Adjust Audio Sensitivity, If Applicable.

Fixture Not Responding / Responding Erraticly

Make sure all connectors are seated properly and securely. Use Only DMX Cables. Install a Terminator. Check all cables for defects.

Reset xture(s).

Intermittant Lamp

Check lamp for properly installation. Relamp, lamp may have reached end of life.

Remote Doesn’t Work

Verify remote control cable is installed properly and securely. Verify remote is correct type (CA-9 or other as applicable.)

Fixture Moving On Its Own

Verify proper mode of operation. Is the xture in “Auto”

mode?

If your problem isn’t listed, or if problems persist,

please contact support: support@blizzardlighting.com.

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5. APPENDIX

A Quick Lesson On DMX

DMX (aka DMX-512) was created in 1986 by the United States Institute for Theatre Technology (USITT) as a standardized method for connecting lighting consoles to lighting

dimmer modules. It was revised in 1990 and again in 2000 to allow more exibility. The

Entertainment Services and Technology Association (ESTA) has since assumed control over the DMX512 standard. It has also been approved and recognized for ANSI standard clas-

sication.

DMX covers (and is an abbreviation for) Digital MultipleXed signals. It is the most common communications standard used by lighting and related stage equipment.

DMX provides up to 512 control “channels” per data link. Each of these channels was originally intended to control lamp dimmer levels. You can think of it as 512 faders on a lighting console, connected to 512 light bulbs. Each slider’s position is sent over the data link as an 8-bit number having a value between 0 and 255. The value 0 corresponds to the light bulb being completely off while 255 corresponds to the light bulb being fully on.

DMX data is transmitted at 250,000 bits per second using the RS-485 transmission standard over two wires. As with microphone cables, a grounded cable shield is used to prevent interference with other signals.

There are ve pins on a DMX connector: a wire for ground (cable shield), two wires for

“Primary” communication which goes from a DMX source to a DMX receiver, and two wires for a “Secondary” communication which goes from a DMX receiver back to a DMX source. Generally, the “Secondary” channel is not used so data ows only from sources to receivers. Hence, most of us are most familiar with DMX-512 as being employer over typical

3-pin “mic cables,” although this does not conform to the dened standard.

DMX is connected using a daisy-chain conguration where the source connects to the input of the rst device, the output of the rst device connects to the input of the next device,

and so on. The standard allows for up to 32 devices on a single DMX link.

Each receiving device typically has a means for setting the “starting channel number” that

it will respond to. For example, if two 6-channel xtures are used, the rst xture might

be set to start at channel 1 so it would respond to DMX channels 1 through 6, and the next

xture would be set to start at channel 7 so it would respond to channels 7 through 12.

The greatest strength of the DMX communications protocol is that it is very simple and robust. It involves transmitting a reset condition (indicating the start of a new “packet”), a start code, and up to 512 bytes of data. Data packets are transmitted continuously. As

soon as one packet is nished, another can begin with no delay if desired (usually another

follows within 1 ms). If nothing is changing (i.e. no lamp levels change) the same data will be sent out over and over again. This is a great feature of DMX -- if for some reason the

data is not interpreted the rst time around, it will be re-sent shortly.

Not all 512 channels need to be output per packet, and in fact, it is very uncommon to nd

all 512 used. The fewer channels are used, the higher the “refresh” rate. It is possible to get DMX refreshes at around 1000 times per second if only 24 channels are being transmitted. If all 512 channels are being transmitted, the refresh rate is around 44 times per second.

In summary, since its design and evolution in the 1980’s DMX has become the standard

for lighting control. It is exible, robust, and scalable, and its ability to control everything

from dimmer packs to moving lights to foggers to lasers makes it an indispensible tool for any lighting designer or lighting performer.

Page 18

Keeping Your COBZilla™ COB RGB 5X5 Pixel Matrix As Good As New

The xture you’ve received is a rugged, tough piece of pro lighting equipment, and as long as you take care of it, it will take care of you. That said, like anything, you’ll need to take care of it if you want it to operate as designed.

You should absolutely keep the xture clean, especially if you are using it in an

environment with a lot of dust, fog, haze, wild animals, wild teenagers or spilled drinks.

Cleaning the optics routinely with a suitable glass cleaner will greatly improve the quality of light output. Keeping the fans free of dust and debris will keep

the xture running cool and prevent damage from overheating.

In transit, keep the xtures in cases. You wouldn’t throw a prized guitar,

drumset, or other piece of expensive gear into a gear trailer without a case, and similarly, you shouldn’t even think about doing it with your shiny new light

xtures.

Common sense and taking care of your xtures will be the single biggest thing

you can do to keep them running at peak performance and let you worry about designing a great light show, putting on a great concert, or maximizing your client’s satistfaction and “wow factor.” That’s what it’s all about, after all!

Returns (Gasp!)

We’ve taken a lot of precautions to make sure you never even have to worry about sending a defective unit back, or sending a unit in for service. But, like any complex piece of equipment designed and built by humans, once in a while,

something doesn’t go as planned. If you nd yourself with a xture that isn’t behaving like a good little xture should, you’ll need to obtain a Return Authori-

zation (RA).

Don’t worry, this is easy. Just send an email to support@blizzardlighting.com, and we’ll issue you an RA. Then, you’ll need to send the unit to us using a trackable, pre-paid freight method. We suggest using USPS Priority or UPS.

Make sure you carefully pack the xture for transit, and whenever possible, use

the original box & packing for shipping.

When returning your xture for service, be sure to include the following:

1.) Your contact information (Name, Address, Phone Number, Email address).

2.) The RA# issued to you

3.) A brief description of the problem/symptoms.

We will, at our discretion, repair or replace the xture. Please remember that

any shipping damage which occurs in transit to us is the customer’s responsibility, so pack it well!

Shipping Issues

Damage incurred in shipping is the responsibility of the shipper, and must be reported to the carrier immediately upon receipt of the items. Claims must be made within seven (7) days of receipt.

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Tech Specs!

Weight & Dimensions

Length 17.75 inches (451 mm)

Depth 6 inches (152.4 mm)

Height 17.75 inches (451 mm)

Weight 25.45 lbs (11.56 kg)

Power

Operating Voltage 100-240V AC, 50-60 Hertz

Fuse 3A 250V

Power Consumption

2400W

.69A Inrush, 2.43A Max. Operating

Power Factor: .99

Light Source

COB (Chip-On-Board) LED 25x 9W 700ma, 50,000 hours.

Optical

Beam Angle 55 degrees

Luminous Intensity 12,100 Lux @ 1m

4,600 Lux @ 2m

Thermal

Max. Operating Temp. 104 degrees F (40 degrees C) ambient

Control

Protocol USITT DMX-512

DMX Channels 3/5/75

Input 3-Pin XLR Male / 5-Pin XLR Male

Output 3-Pin XLR Female / 5-Pin XLR Female

Other Operating Modes

Auto, Master/Slave, Sound Active, Static Color Mode

WATCH OUT! It’s Godzilla!!! WAIT~ No, IT’S.... COBZilla™ COB RGB

The COBZilla™ COB RGB 5X5 Pixel Matrix has such power and beauty, no other matrix’s can compare! This light will make your guests stare in amazement, much like Godzilla!

Warranty

2-year limited warranty, does not cover malfunction caused by damage to LED’s.

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Enjoy your product!

Our sincerest thanks for your purchase!

--The team @ Blizzard Lighting

Blizzard Lighting COBZilla RGB User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual