LIGHTING CONTROL DESK
OPERATOR MANUAL
DEC 2001
Software Version 0.85
L.S.C. Lighting Systems (Aust) Pty Ltd
A.B.N. 090 801 675
7 University Place, Clayton,
Victoria, 3168 Australia
Tel: +61 3 9561 5255
Fax: +61 3 9561 5277
Email: info@lsclighting.com.au
Web site: www.lsclighting.com.au
maXim BASIC QUICK REFERENCE
To see the type of object recorded in each memory, press and hold either [page red bank] or [page blue bank].
The playback flash/assign buttons in that bank containing Scenes will light, playbacks containing Chases flash
quickly, playbacks containing Stacks flash slowly and empty playbacks are not lit.
When you press [edit] or [assign copy] or any [record] button, all Playback flash/assign buttons flash twice, then
show their contents as above. If you change pages whilst in “edit”, “assign copy” or “record” modes, the
contents of each page is shown.
RECORD A SCENE
To record the current output as a Scene, press
[record scene]
[F/A] (scene number) (any of the red bank or blue bank flash/assign buttons).
GRAB THE OUTPUT IN GRAB MASTER (S & M models only)
To record the current output into the Grab master, press
[record scene],
[F/A] (grab master)
RECORD A CHASE
To record a Chase in the current page, press
[record chase]
[F/A] (chase number) (any of the red bank or blue bank flash/assign buttons) (or the grab F/A button on S & M models
only).
Each step of a chase consists of a either a previously recorded scene or a snapshot of the maXim output.
• To add a scene as a step, press
[F/A] (scene number) (any of the red bank or blue bank flash/assign buttons).
• To record a snapshot (of the current maXim output) as a step press
[record scene]
• Continue to add steps as above.
When all steps have been recorded, complete the chase by pressing
[record chase].
PLAYBACK A SCENE OR CHASE
If the scene or chase was recorded on the red bank, press [mode, red bank] until the “scene” LED lights. If necessary,
select the page containing the scene using [page, red bank]. Fade up the red Playback containing the scene or chase
and also fade up the red master.
If the scene or chase was recorded on the blue bank, select the page containing the scene or chase using [page, blue
bank]. Fade up the blue Playback containing the scene or chase and also fade up the blue master.
CONTROLLING A SCENE OR CHASE
The [select] button is used to take control of a playback. The recorded memory is not changed, only the way that it is
currently being played back.
Press [select], [F/A] (playback to control). Repeatedly press [function] to cycle though the parameters that you can
control. When finished, press [select] again to de-select it. You can save the changes to memory. If you do not save the
changes they will be retained in the playback until you load a different page onto the playback. The changes will then be
discarded.
The [edit] button is used to permanently change the parameters of a memory. The changes are also seen live on the
playback. To edit a memory, press [edit], [page] (optional) [F/A] (memory to edit). Repeatedly press [function] to cycle
though the parameters that you can edit. When finished, press[edit] to de select it. Changes are automatically saved.
CHASE MODES
To change the settings of a chase press either ,
[select] or [edit] (see above for differences)
[F/A] (Chase number)
To control the RATE, rotate the edit wheel.
To change the FADE between steps, press [function] until “in” & “out” LEDs light, then rotate the edit wheel.
To change the MODE or DIRECTION use the 3 buttons below the Edit wheel as described below.
BUTTONS ACTION
[step/stop] STOPS a running chase.
STEPS a stopped chase (in the direction indicated by the flashing [>] or [<] direction button).
[>] (Forward) Changes the DIRECTION of a reverse running chase (runs it forward).
Changes the DIRECTION of a STOPPED reverse chase (prepares it to run or step forward).
STARTS a stopped forward chase.
[<] (Reverse) Changes the DIRECTION of a forward running chase (runs it reverse).
Changes the DIRECTION of a STOPPED forward chase (prepares it to run or step reverse).
STARTS a stopped reverse chase.
Hold [>], Tap [<] Selects BOUNCE mode.
[>] Deselects Bounce mode (runs forward).
[<] Deselects Bounce mode (runs reverse).
Hold [Step/stop], Tap [>] Selects SINGLE SHOT mode.
[>] If [>] is flashing, it runs a Single Shot in the forward direction.
If [<] is flashing, it snaps the chase to the first step and flashes [>] in preparation to running a
forward single shot.
[<] If [<] is flashing, it runs a Single Shot in the reverse direction.
If [>] is flashing, it snaps the chase to the last step and flashes [<] in preparation to running a
reverse single shot.
Hold [Step/stop], Tap [>] De-selects single shot mode and enters stop mode.
Hold [>], Tap [<] also De-selects single shot and enters Bounce mode.
When finished, press [select] or [edit] (to de-select it).
RECORD A STACK
To record a stack, press
[record stack]
[page] (optional) (select a page in either the red or blue banks)
[F/A] (stack number) (any of the red bank or blue bank flash/assign buttons) (or the grab F/A button on S & M models
only).
Each step of a stack consists of a either a previously recorded scene, chase or a snapshot of the maXim output.
To add a scene or chase as a step press
[page] (optional)
[F/A] (scene or chase number) (any of the red bank or blue bank flash/assign buttons)..
The fade times from the scene will be used for the step in the stack.
To record a snapshot (of the current maXim output) as a step press
[record scene].
As each step is added, you can repeatedly press [function] to set the fade IN time, fade OUT time and LINK time
(automatically links to next step after link time expires).
Pressing [function] again shows the current step number and allows you to record the next step.
Continue to record steps as above.
When all steps have been recorded, complete the stack by pressing
[record stack].
PLAYBACK A STACK
Stacks can only be played back on the stack master.
To assign a stack to the stack master, press
[assign]
[page] (optional) (select the page in either the red or blue banks containing the stack)
[F/A] (stack number) (red or blue banks)
[stack flash]
Fade up the stack master to reveal the first step.
INITIATING A CROSSFADE
To crossfade from the current step to the next step, press
[ >] (forward).
While the crossfade is in progress, the > (forward) button flashes for the duration of the IN fade and the < (reverse) button
flashes for the duration of the OUT fade.
STOPPING A CROSSFADE
To stop a crossfade in progress press
[step/stop].
The > (forward) button, < (reverse) button and step/stop buttons all flash.
RESTARTING A STOPPED CROSSFADE
To start a stopped crossfade in the forward direction press [>] (forward).
The crossfade can also be momentarily re-started by holding down [step/stop].
REVERSING A STOPPED CROSSFADE
To start a stopped crossfade in the reverse direction press [<] (reverse).
CROSSFADING TO THE PREVIOUS STEP
To crossfade from the current step to the previous step, press
< (reverse).
You may only crossfade back one step but you may step back to any step.
STEPPING A STACK
To instantly step (snap) a stack in the forward direction hold [step/stop], tap [>] (forward)
To instantly step (snap) a stack in the reverse direction hold [step/stop], tap [<] (reverse)
CLEARING THE STACK MASTER
To clear the stack master press
[remove]
[stack flash]
[yes]
LSC Lighting Systems (Aust) Pty. Ltd. Page 1 of 66
CONTENTS
QUICK REFERENCE _______________ IFC
1.0 INTRODUCTION __________________ 2
1.1 MODEL RANGE_____________________2
1.2 FEATURES ________________________2
1.3 SPECIFICATIONS ___________________3
1.4 OPTIONS __________________________3
1.5 CARING FOR YOUR maXim___________3
1.6 LABELING YOUR maXim _____________4
1.7 BUTTONSTROKE TERMINOLOGY _____4
1.8 SOFTWARE________________________4
2.0 GETTING CONNECTED ____________ 5
2.1 POWER INPUT _____________________5
2.2 DIGITAL OUTPUTS (DMX 512/1990) ____5
2.3 VIDEO MONITOR ___________________5
2.4 SWITCHING ON_____________________5
3.0 FRONT PANEL LAYOUT ___________ 6
3.1 FADERS AND MASTERS _____________7
3.2 RECORDING AND EDITING__________10
4.0 MODES OF OPERATION __________ 12
4.1 OVERVIEW _______________________12
4.2 PRESET MODE ____________________12
4.3 WIDE MODE ______________________13
4.4 SCENE MODE _____________________13
5.0 QUICKSTART TUTORIAL _________ 15
5.1 RESET ___________________________15
5.2 CONTROLLING LIGHTS _____________15
5.3 RECORDING A SCENE______________16
5.4 REPLAYING A SCENE ______________17
5.5 RECORDING A CHASE______________18
5.6 REPLAYING A CHASE ______________18
5.7 RECORDING A STACK______________19
5.8 REPLAYING A STACK_______________19
6.0 MEMORY STRUCTURE ___________ 20
6.1 MODE/PAGE FREEZE_______________22
7.0 FADE TIMES & CHANNELS________ 23
7.1 OVERVIEW _______________________23
7.2 CHANNELS FADE TIMES____________23
7.3 MASTERS FADE TIMES _____________23
7.4 PLAYBACK FADE TIMES ____________23
7.5 STACK FADE TIMES________________24
7.6 CHANNEL CAPACITY_______________24
8.0 SCENES _______________________ 25
8.1 OVERVIEW _______________________25
8.2 SCENE RECORDING _______________25
8.3 SCENE PLAYBACK_________________27
8.4 EDITING A SCENE _________________28
8.5 COPYING A SCENE ________________29
8.6 REMOVING (DELETING) A SCENE ____29
9.0 CHASES_______________________ 31
9.1 OVERVIEW _______________________31
9.2 CHASE RECORDING _______________ 31
9.3 CHASE PLAYBACK_________________ 33
9.4 EDITING A CHASE _________________ 36
9.5 COPYING A CHASE ________________ 37
9.6 REMOVING (DELETING) A CHASE ____ 37
10.0 GRAB MASTER (S & M Models) __ 38
10.1 OVERVIEW ______________________38
10.2 GRAB AS A GRAB MASTER_________ 38
10.3 GRAB AS A SCENE MASTER _______ 38
10.4 GRAB AS A CHASE MASTER _______ 39
10.5 GRAB AS A MEMORY______________ 39
11.0 STACKS ______________________ 40
11.1 OVERVIEW ______________________40
11.2 STACK RECORDING ______________ 40
11.3 STACK PLAYBACK ________________42
11.4 EDITING A STACK ________________ 44
11.5 COPYING A STACK _______________ 46
11.6 REMOVING (DELETING) A STACK ___ 46
11.7 CLEARING THE STACK MASTER ____ 46
12.0 FLASH _______________________ 47
12.1 OVERVIEW ______________________47
12.2 ADD/SOLO MODE_________________ 47
12.3 FLASH LEVEL ____________________ 47
13.0 PATCH _______________________ 48
13.1 OVERVIEW ______________________48
13.2 ACTIVATE THE PATCH ____________48
12.3 BYPASS THE PATCH ______________ 48
13.4 PATCHING_______________________ 48
14.0 PATPAD ______________________ 50
15.0 SOUND TO LIGHT (STL)_________ 51
16.0 UTILITIES_____________________ 52
16.1 DISK OPERATIONS _______________ 52
16.2 RESET __________________________ 52
16.3 SETUP __________________________ 53
16.4 VIDEO __________________________ 54
16.5 DIAGNOSTICS____________________ 55
16.6 SOFTWARE UPDATES_____________56
17.0 REAR PANEL__________________ 60
18.0 APPENDIX A: DMX 512__________ 61
18.1 DMX512/1990 ____________________ 61
18.2 DMX UNIVERSES _________________ 61
18.3 DMX512 APPLICATIONS ___________ 61
19.0 APPENDIX B: TERMINOLOGY____ 63
20.0 INDEX________________________ 65
maXim Operator Manual Introduction
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1.0 INTRODUCTION
The maXim is a powerful yet easy to use lighting control desk that is suited to a wide range of
applications. It is available in 5 models.
1.1 MODEL RANGE
This manual covers all 5 models of the maXim.
maXim S (Small) maXim M (Medium)
maXim L (Large) maXim XL (Extra Large) maXim XXL (Extra Extra Large)
The maXim S and M are very similar, varying only in their number of faders and memory. They also
have a Grab master.
The maXim L, XL and XXL also vary in their number of faders and memory but also have varying
numbers of dedicated blue playbacks. They do not have a Grab Master, but instead have a Master
for their blue playbacks.
• At any point in this manual where the model affects the specification, the text will describe
the maXim S followed by the other models in brackets.
For example,
“The Yellow bank has faders for channels 1 to 12 (24, 36, 48, 60)”.
• Any reference in this manual to the ”blue bank, blue pages or blue playbacks” does not
apply to the maXim S and M models.
• Any reference in this manual to the ”grab master” does not apply to the maXim L, XL and
XXL models.
1.2 FEATURES
The maXim incorporates the following features;
• Manual faders for all channels with associated Flash buttons.
• Red, Yellow and Blue (or Stack) masters with associated Flash buttons.
• “Preset”, “Wide” and “Scene” modes of operation.
maXim Operator Manual Introduction
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• 2 banks of 9 pages of Non volatile memory.
• Separate In (up) and Out (down) fade times (0 to 999 seconds).
• Extensive Recording and Editing facilities for Scenes, Chases and Stacks.
• Scene Fade Times can be derived from the Time Faders or from Memory.
• Dedicated Stack Playback module.
• Electronic labelling of all scenes, chases, stacks and stack steps.
• Fully proportional Softpatch.
• Flash level control, with associated Add or Solo mode button.
• Page freeze retains active output when pages or modes are changed.
• User prompts are scrolled on the display and active buttons flash to make operations simple.
• Different languages are available.
• Multi display SVGA colour video output (optional on S and M models).
• DMX 512/1990 output signal. 2 Universes on larger models.
• Power supply is auto selecting, 90−260 volts.
1.3 SPECIFICATIONS
S M L XL XXL
DMX512 Output Channels
512 512 1024 1024 1024
Fader Channels (Wide Mode)
24 48 72 96 120
Fader Channels (Preset Mode)
12 24 36 48 60
Red Playbacks (Scene Mode)
12 24 36 48 60
Pages of Red memory
9 9 9 9 9
Blue Playbacks
N/A N/A 6 18 30
Pages of Blue memory
N/A N/A 9 9 9
Grab Master
1 1 N/A N/A N/A
Maximum number of Scenes *
108 216 378 594 810
Maximum Fade times
>16min >16min >16min >16min >16min
Maximum number of Chases*
108 216 378 594 810
Steps per chase
250 250 250 250 250
Chase speed (Beats Per Minute)
0-999 0-999 0-999 0-999 0-999
Maximum number of Stacks *
13 25 36 48 60
Steps per Stack*
500 500 500 500 500
SVGA Colour Video output
Optional Optional Standard Standard Standard
PATPAD Moving light module
N/A N/A Optional Optional Optional
3.5” Floppy Disk
Optional Optional Standard Standard Standard
Dimensions Height(mm)
155 155 200 200 200
Width (mm)
464 710 831 1047 1264
Depth (mm)
380 380 520 520 520
Weight – packed (kgs)
9.0 13.0 26.0 32.0 38.0
*Subject to memory availability and whether memory Expansion Module is fitted.
1.4 OPTIONS
• MAXLITE 12” Gooseneck desk light (2 required for L, XL & XXL maXims) .
• MAX/V Video and Disk Drive add-on pack for maXim S and M models.
• MAX/P PATPAD moving light module. Not available for maXim S and M models.
• MAX/M Memory Expansion Module.
• Dustcover Sizes available for all models.
• Flightcase Custom flightcases for all models are available to house the maXim, 12V
gooseneck lamps, manual, power lead and floppy disks.
1.5 CARING FOR YOUR MAXIM
The maXim is manufactured from quality components and will give many years of service if you
take some basic precautions.
maXim Operator Manual Introduction
LSC Lighting Systems (Aust) Pty. Ltd. Page 4 of 66
• Do not allow any liquids or foreign objects to enter the maXim. If any liquids are spilt onto the
maXim, the inside should be cleaned and dried as soon as possible. Only suitably qualified
personnel should remove the covers and perform any such maintenance.
• Do not apply excessive force to any of the controls. Spare parts and service are available from
your LSC agent, but prevention is better than cure.
• When connecting any devices to the maXim, make sure that all connections are correct before
switching on the power. If any doubt exists, obtain the assistance of qualified personnel.
• If your maXim is to be used "on the road", you should use it (optional) flight case to protect the
desk. Transport the maXim with all faders in the fully down position. This gives the faders
maximum protection from damage.
• When your maXim is not in use, protect it with its (optional) dust cover.
• If the surface of your maXim becomes soiled, clean it with a damp cloth. Do not use any
powerful solvents. An alcohol swab may be used to remove any gum from labelling tape (below).
1.6 LABELING YOUR MAXIM
Areas are provided below the faders for you to write identifying labels. To prevent permanent
marking of your maXim, LSC recommends that you write place strips of “write on” tape in these
areas.
1.7 BUTTONSTROKE TERMINOLOGY
Certain buttonstroke terminology is used throughout this manual to describe the particular
operations being undertaken. Any text enclosed in these symbols, [ ] , refers to when that particular
button needs to be pressed.
For example; Press [record scene], means to press the record scene button.
Flash/assign buttons are often abbreviated to F/A. If the button to be pressed is a Flash/Assign
button (of which there are many) then it will be identified by naming it as follows;
[Flash/assign] (Name) or the shortened version, [F/A] (Name).
Any information that appears on the LED display is printed in “quotes”.
SECONDARY FUNCTIONS
• Some F/A buttons have secondary functions that are activated by holding down the function
button and tapping the F/A button. These secondary functions are printed on the front panel
below their F/A buttons.
• Some flash buttons have hidden secondary functions that are activated by holding down the
[function] button and tapping the [ok] button. These secondary functions are not labelled but are
described in the “Diagnostics” section of the “UTILITIES” chapter.
• The buttons below the Edit wheel have secondary functions in that they are used to answer
either “Yes”, “No” or “OK” to questions that appear on the display when you are performing
certain actions. They are typically used to confirm or abort the action that you have selected.
1.8 SOFTWARE
LSC has a policy of continuous improvement of its products. As the maXim is a computerised
lighting desk, its software is subject to this policy as new features are added and existing features
improved.
The software version of your maXim is momentarily displayed on the LED display when the maXim
is switched on. The software can be upgraded from a personal computer and the latest version can
be downloaded from the LSC website. See the “UTILITIES” chapter for details.
All Trademarks referred to in this manual are the registered names of their respective owners.
Whilst every care is taken in the preparation of this manual, LSC takes no responsibility for any
errors or omissions.
The operating software of the maXim and the contents of this manual are copyright of LSC Lighting
Systems Aust © 2001.
maXim Operator Manual Getting Connected
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2.0 GETTING CONNECTED
2.1 POWER INPUT
An IEC mains input socket is located on the rear panel and a mains power lead is provided. The
maXim has a universal power supply that will operate on voltages between 90 volts and 260 volts
with a frequency range from 47 to 63 HZ.
Plug the mains lead into the MAINS INPUT socket and connect it to a source of mains power.
2.2 DIGITAL OUTPUTS (DMX 512/1990)
The maXim S and M models have a single DMX 512 connector and the L, XL and XXL have two
DMX 512 connectors, one for “Universe 1 DMX channels” and the second for “Universe 2 DMX
channels”. Connect a DMX data cable from the Universe 1 DMX512 output of the maXim to the
DMX512 input of your equipment (dimmers, moving fixtures etc) and set the required channel
address on your equipment. Universe 2 is used for complex setups involving more than 512
channels.
Note: DMX512/1990 together with some typical setups and address settings are described in
“Appendix A” at the end of this manual.
2.3 VIDEO MONITOR
Connect a SVGA (or better) computer monitor to the 15 pin VIDEO connector on the rear of the
maXim. Video is an option on the S and M models. See “VIDEO” in the “UTILITIES” chapter for
details.
2.4 SWITCHING ON
At this point, with the mains power and DMX connected, the maXim is ready to be operated. Simply
switch on the “POWER” switch located near the mains input connector. The maXim will commence
its start up procedures. After briefly displaying the opening message, the maXim will commence
operating in exactly the same state that it was in when it was last switched off. All the scenes,
stacks, chases, patches etc will be as they were.
Hint; If you are starting a new lighting session, LSC recommends that you perform a “TOTAL RESET”
of the maXim. This will ERASE all previously recorded memories and will prevent you being confused
by previous recordings and settings. If you need to keep your memories, save them to disk (optional
on S & M models) before resetting. See the “QUICKSTART TUTORIAL” or “UTILITIES” chapters for
details.
You are now ready to start controlling your lights as described in the “QUICKSTART TUTORIAL”
chapter, but before you do, the next chapter gives you a guided tour of the front panel controls of
the maXim.
NOTE: In the event of a short loss of mains power (a “brown out”) the maXim will continue to operate
for a few seconds due to the storage capacity of its internal power supply. When you switch off your
maXim you will hear a click followed a few seconds later by another click. The maXim keeps
operating until the second click is heard.
When the maXim is switched on, it will resume operating in the same state as it was when it was
switched off.
maXim Operator Manual Layout
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3.0 FRONT PANEL LAYOUT
There are 5 maXim models (S, M, L, XL, XXL) with 2 similar panel layouts, S & M and L, XL & XXL.
maXim M
maXim L
1348888413557910112
2861212131414131516157
17
maXim Operator Manual Layout
LSC Lighting Systems (Aust) Pty. Ltd. Page 7 of 66
The front panel of the maXim can be divided into two areas;
• Faders and mastering.
• Recording and editing.
Many of the buttons listed below perform more than one function. The current function depends
upon what the operator is doing at the time. Each of these different functions is described under the
relevant button below.
3.1 FADERS AND MASTERS
1. Yellow Bank Faders
Control the levels of channels 1 to 12 (24, 36, 48, 60) respectively.
2. Yellow Bank Master
• Controls the overall level of the Yellow bank faders.
• In WIDE mode, it controls the overall level of the single wide preset consisting of the Yellow bank
faders and the Red bank faders.
3. Mode Red Bank button
Selects the current function for the RED bank faders. The choices are;
• preset.
• wide.
• scene (playback).
4. Red Bank Faders
The Red bank of faders has different functions depending upon the current “MODE” as selected by
the mode red bank button.
• PRESET mode. The Red bank of faders control the levels of channels 1 to 12 (24, 36, 48, 60). A
duplicate of the Yellow bank.
• WIDE mode. The Red bank of faders control the levels of channels 13 (25, 37, 49, 61) to 24 (48,
72, 96, 120).
• SCENE mode. The Red bank of faders become PLAYBACKS. Each Playback can control the
level of a recorded Scene or Chase or it may be empty (does nothing). There are 9 pages of
memory for the red playbacks and the function of each playback depends upon the contents of
the currently selected red page. You determine what each red page contains when you record
(or copy) scenes, chases or stacks into them. Although stacks can be recorded on the red bank,
they can only be played back on the stack master.
5. Red Master
• In PRESET mode, it controls the overall level of the Red bank.
• In WIDE mode it has no function.
• In SCENE mode it controls the overall level of the Red playbacks (Scenes or Chases).
6. Blue Playbacks (L,XL & XXL)
The blue bank of faders are dedicated PLAYBACKS. Each Playback can control the level of a
recorded Scene or Chase or it may be empty (does nothing). There are 9 pages of memory for the
blue playbacks and the function of each playback depends upon the contents of the currently
selected blue page. You determine what each blue page contains when you record (or copy)
scenes, chases or stacks into them. Although stacks can be recorded on the blue bank, they can
only be played back on the stack master.
7. Blue Master
It controls the overall level of the Blue playbacks (Scenes or Chases).
8. Flash/Assign [F/A] Buttons
Below each fader in the fader section is a FLASH/ASSIGN button with an integral red indicator LED.
As their name implies, these are multi purpose buttons.
They may be used to:
• FLASH (or bump) the contents of their particular fader, be it a channel, chase or a scene. (See
also FLASH level and ADD/SOLO button below).
maXim Operator Manual Layout
LSC Lighting Systems (Aust) Pty. Ltd. Page 8 of 66
• Provide a NUMERIC SELECTION function. When the “number” of a channel, scene, stack,
chase, etc needs to be entered, the appropriate Flash/Assign button “number” is pressed. To
assist you in making a selection, valid buttons will flash when an entry is required.
• In conjunction with the FUNCTION button, select various secondary functions such as PATCH,
SETUP, etc as indicated below the F/A buttons.
• Provide alpha numeric entry when typing names.
Button Numbering
Between each fader in the Yellow bank and its associated F/A button is a number that indicates the
channel that the fader and F/A button control. (Letters of the alphabet are also printed and are used
when entering names).
Between each fader in the Red bank and its associated F/A button are two numbers;
• The LARGER font indicates the channel number of the fader and F/A button when in PRESET
mode.
• The SMALLER font indicates the channel number of the fader and F/A button when in WIDE mode.
• The LARGER font also indicates the number of a particular SCENE, STACK or CHASE.
• The SMALLER font also indicates channel numbers when editing scenes or chase or stack steps,
when viewing channel levels on the FLASH/ASSIGN button LED indicators (refer below) or when
patching.
The LED indicators in each F/A button are also multi purpose.
R CHANNEL LEVEL INDICATORS
The brightness of each indicator is proportional to the level of its channel. The red bank indicates
the level of the channel numbers printed in the SMALLER font.
• In normal operation, they indicate the level of their particular channel at the output of the maXim.
• In edit mode they indicate the level of their particular channel in the Scene, Grab or Step of a
Chase or Stack that is being edited.
R VALID ENTRY BUTTON INDICATORS:
When you are required to make a numeric entry or Secondary Function selection, only valid buttons
will be active and their LED indicators will light to indicate to you that an entry is required.
R FADE IN PROGRESS INDICATORS:
The indicator for each Playback flashes slowly whilst a timed fade is in progress.
9. Masters flash/assign Buttons
Used to FLASH (bump) the contents of their particular master. (See also FLASH level and
ADD/SOLO button below). The brightness of their LED indicators shows the level of the master at
the output of the maXim. It also will flash slowly whilst a timed fade is in progress.
10. Grab Master (S and M only)
Controls the overall level of the contents of the Grab master. This may be a Grab, a Scene or a
Chase. The Grab master can also be used as a memory location for a stack.
11. Grab flash/assign Button (S and M)
Flash's (or bumps) the contents of the Grab master. (See also FLASH level and ADD/SOLO button
below). In conjunction with the RECORD SCENE button, it performs the “GRAB” function, or selects
the grab master when required for other various functions. The brightness of its LED indicator
shows the level of the Grab master at the output of the maXim. It also will flash slowly whilst a timed
fade is in progress.
12. IN and OUT Time Faders
Control the IN and OUT fade times of the masters. They may also be individually assigned to control
the IN or OUT fade times of any scene or step of a stack. The current time setting of each fader is
shown on the display when its fader is moved or presses of the FUNCTION button will toggle
through the two time settings.
13. Flash Level Control
Sets the level to which any Channels, Playbacks, or Masters will be flashed when their respective
Flash/Assign button is pressed.
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14. ADD/SOLO button
Toggles the Add/Solo mode between “Add” and “Solo” as shown by a red indicator in the Add/Solo
button which flashes in SOLO mode.
• In ADD mode, when a FLASH/ASSIGN button is pressed, the channels that are being flashed will
come on (at the level of the FLASH level master), and normal output is not affected.
• In SOLO mode, when a FLASH/ASSIGN button is pressed, the channels that are being flashed
will come on (at the level of the FLASH level master), and the normal output of the maXim will be
blacked out, leaving only the channels that are being flashed on stage.
Note: Multiple Flash/Assign buttons may be pressed at the one time.
15. Page Red Bank Button and Display
• In SCENE mode it is used to select the current page (1 to 9) of red memory that is loaded into
the red bank of playbacks.
• When recording, editing or copying scenes, stacks or chases, it is used to select the required red
page (1 to 9) for the scene, stack or chase.
Repeated presses of the Page button will step through the pages.
To directly select a page;
Hold [page red bank] then quickly tap [F/A] (red 1 to 9).
The displays shows the red page number as selected by the “page red bank” button.
16. Page Blue Bank Button and Display
• Used to select the current page (1 to 9) of blue memory that is loaded into the blue bank of
playbacks.
• When recording, editing or copying scenes, stacks or chases, it is used to select the required
blue page (1 to 9) for the scene, stack or chase.
Repeated presses of the Page button will step through the pages.
To directly select a page;
Hold [page blue bank] then quickly tap [F/A] (blue 1 to 9).
The displays shows the blue page number as selected by the “page blue bank” button.
Hint: The maXim can show the types of object recorded in each page. If you press and hold either
[page red bank] or [page blue bank], playback flash/assign buttons in that bank containing Scenes
will light, playbacks containing Chases flash quickly, playbacks containing Stacks flash slowly and
empty playbacks are not lit.
17. Notes area / PATPAD (OPTIONAL)
Use this area for writing notes. The optional PATPAD is fitted in this area (L, XL & XXL models).
18. Stack Master
It controls the overall level of the stack playback.
19. Stack Flash
It is a multi purpose button and can be used to;
• Select the stack master when assigning, editing or copying a stack.
• FLASH (bump) the contents of the stack master. (See also FLASH level and
ADD/SOLO button).
The brightness of its LED shows the level of the master at the output of the maXim.
20. > (Stack)
It starts a crossfade from the current step to the next step. In conjunction with the step/stop
button (below) it steps (snaps) a stack in the forward direction.
21. < (Stack)
It starts a crossfade from the current step to the previous step. Only one reverse crossfade is
allowed. In conjunction with the step/stop button (below) it steps (snaps) a stack in the
reverse direction.
22. step/stop (Stack)
It stops a crossfade. It momentarily runs a stopped crossfade when held down. In conjunction with the > and < buttons it
steps (snaps) a stack in the either direction.
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3.2 RECORDING AND EDITING
23. Dot Matrix Display and LEDS
The display is used to scroll messages and prompts and to show names and numbers. The small
labelled LEDS beside the display are used to define the numbers shown on it. For example;
• If the CHAN LED is lit, then the number displayed is a channel number.
• If the LEVEL LED is lit, then the number displayed is a channel level.
Comprehensive information (including these messages) are also shown on the video output.
24. Record Scene Button
Used to select RECORD SCENE mode or to record a snapshot of the output of the maXim as a
step in a stack or a chase or into the Grab master.
25. Record Chase Button
Used to select RECORD CHASE mode and to complete the recording of a chase when all the
desired steps have been added.
26. Record Stack Button
Used to select RECORD STACK mode and to complete the recording of a stack when all the
desired steps have been added.
27. Assign Copy Button
Used to:
• Assign a stack to the stack master.
• Copy scenes, chases or stacks from one memory location to other.
• Copy scenes, chases or stacks to or from the Grab master. (S & M models).
• Copy a Snapshot from the Grab master to a memory. (S & M models).
28. Select button
Used to take control of a playback. The recorded memory is not changed, only the way that it is
currently being played back. Press [select], [F/A] (playback to control). Repeatedly press [function]
to cycle though the parameters that you can control as indicated by the LEDs beside the display.
When finished, press [select] again to de-select it. You are asked if you want to save your changes
to memory. To do so press [yes]. If you do not save the changes (press [no]), they will be retained in
the playback until you load a different page onto the playback. The changes will then be discarded
from the playback.
HINT: If you do not want to save your changes to memory, as a shortcut press [select] twice. This is
the same as pressing [select], [no].
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29. EDIT button
When pressed, it selects Edit mode. You may then choose to Edit any Scene, Chase, Stack, the
contents of the Grab master or the Patch (if previously selected via the function button)
30. REMOVE button
Used to:
• Remove steps from stacks or chases.
• Remove the contents of the Stack and Grab masters.
• Delete all patches.
• Remove characters from names.
31. ADD button
Used to:
• Insert steps in a stack or chase when editing.
• Add a 1 to 1 patch
• Insert spaces in names
32. FUNCTION button
• When pressed during normal operations, it causes the display to momentarily show the current
time IN or OUT settings of the time faders, whilst it is held down. Subsequent presses will toggle
between the two time settings.
• When editing, it toggles through the various parameters that can be changed as indicated on the
LEDs above the function button.
• It accesses the secondary functions such as reset, disk or patch etc as indicated below the
yellow and red bank [F/A] buttons. To perform secondary functions, press and hold [FUNCTION]
then tap [F/A] (secondary function).
33. Edit Wheel
Continuously rotatable in either direction and can be used to:
• Set fade and link times and chase rate and crossfade when recording or editing.
• Adjust the level of channels when editing.
• Adjust Sound To Light parameters.
• Select DMX address numbers when patching.
• Select characters for names.
34. Edit Wheel indicator
Lights when the Edit Wheel is active.
35. > (Yes) button
• Runs a chase in the FORWARD direction.
• Steps a stack forward when editing.
• Increments through the DMX address numbers when patching.
• Answers “YES” to a request from the maXim.
36. < (No) button
• Runs a chase in the REVERSE direction.
• Steps a stack backwards when editing.
• Decrements through the DMX address numbers when patching.
• Answers “NO” to a request from the maXim.
37. STEP STOP (OK) button
• Used to STOP a chase or STEP a stopped chase.
• Answers “ok” to a request from the maXim.
Note: Combinations of buttons 35, 36 and 37 are used to set and control various chase modes such as
bounce and single shot. See the “CHASE” chapter or the “BASIC QUICK REFERENCE” for details.
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4.0 MODES OF OPERATION
4.1 OVERVIEW
The maXim has several banks of faders.
• The Yellow bank controls the levels of channels 1 to 12 (24, 36, 48, 60)
• The Red bank has different functions depending upon the current “red mode” of the maXim as
selected by the mode red bank button. These modes are;
• PRESET mode. The Red bank controls the levels of channels 1 to 12 (24, 36, 48, 60). (A
duplicate of the Yellow bank).
• WIDE mode. The Red bank controls the levels of channels 13 (25, 37, 49, 61) to 24 (48, 72,
96, 120).
• SCENE mode. The Red bank faders become PLAYBACKS and control the levels of Scenes
or Chases.
• The Blue bank has dedicated Playbacks and control the levels of Scenes or Chases.
You may freely change red modes at any time during your operation of the maXim and the current
red mode is always shown by the “LED” MODE indicators beside the mode red bank button.
Each mode has its particular advantage for different types of operations.
4.2 PRESET MODE
Selecting wide mode only changes the operation of the red bank. The red bank becomes a
duplicate of the yellow bank. These two identical banks (Yellow and Red) provide duplicate faders
for channels. The output of each bank is controlled by its own master.
RED
ADD/SOLO
YELLOW BANK
RED BANK
MASTERS
YELLOW
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
CHANNELS 1-12
CHANNELS 1-12
OUTPUT
Simplified block diagram of a maXim S in PRESET mode.
You create a lighting look by fading up your required channels on one of the colour coded banks
and fading up the same colour master. By keeping the other master faded down, another look can
be preset on the duplicate set of channel faders without the channels being revealed on stage. At
the appropriate time, the new look is revealed by fading up its master whilst the first look is faded
down with its master. The next look may now be prepared on the bank that has just been faded
down.
The fade times of the masters are set by the IN and OUT time faders.
ADVANTAGE
This simple mode of operating is most useful in unrehearsed situations where the next “look” needs
to be created “on the fly”. The channel faders provide instant “hands on” control of any channel
level.
DISADVANTAGE
Only half of the possible channels can be controlled and any look that needs to be used at a later
time must be manually reproduced with the channel faders.
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4.3 WIDE MODE
Selecting wide mode only changes the operation of the red bank. The red bank becomes a set of
channel faders for the higher numbered channels. Wide mode utilises both the red and yellow
banks as a single wide bank of 24 (48, 72, 96, 120) channels. The yellow faders control the low
numbered channels and the red faders control the high numbered channels. There is an individual
fader for every channel. The yellow master controls the total output of this single (wide) bank.
RED
GRAB
ADD/SOLO
YELLOW BANK
RED BANK
MASTERS
YELLOW
1
2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24
CHANNELS 1-12
CHANNELS 13-24
OUTPUT
Simplified block diagram of a maXim S in Wide mode.
As in Preset mode, you can “balance” the look that you are creating by adjusting the intensities of
the individual channels with their channel faders. You may fade this “look” up and down with the
Yellow master and of course, you may use the In and OUT time faders to set the fade times.
ADVANTAGE
You have access to all of the channels that are available on the maXim. This is most useful when
you are RECORDING scenes as you can utilise all channels to create your scenes. (See “Scene
Mode” below).
DISADVANTAGE
You do not have a second bank on which to create the next look. You can perform crossfades to
another “look” by utilising the Grab master as a “phantom” bank (see the “GRAB MASTER” chapter
for details) or by recording scenes on the Blue playbacks.
4.4 SCENE MODE
Selecting Scene mode only changes the operation of the red bank. In Scene mode the faders of the
red fader bank become Playbacks containing scenes or chases.
RED
GRAB
ADD/SOLO
YELLOW BANK
RED BANK
MASTERS
YELLOW
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
1 2
3
4 5 6 7
8
9 10 11
12
PLAYBACKS 1 - 12
CHANNELS 1 - 12
OUTPUT
Simplified block diagram of a maXim S in SCENE mode.
Scenes, stacks and chases can be recorded or edited whilst operating in any of the three modes
but the Red bank may only be used to replay scenes and chases in Scene mode.
ADVANTAGE
During rehearsal (in any mode), each lighting look can be created and “recorded” into a Scene,
(with its own IN and OUT fade times if required). During the performance (in scene mode), the
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Playback containing each scene is simply faded up when required. The maXim remembers (in non
volatile memory) all the channels and their levels together with the fade times for all of the scenes.
You may also use the Red Playbacks to play chases that you have recorded.
The maXim L, XL and XXL models all have dedicated blue playbacks that are always available,
irrespective of the mode of the red bank.
To simplify the playback of a show, you can record all of your looks into a stack. A stack is a
recorded list of steps that are to be replayed in order. Each step in a stack consists of either a
scene, a chase or a snapshot. Stepping from one step to the next is a Dipless Crossfade and is
usually executed manually but can be automatic. Up to 500 steps may be recorded in each stack.
If all the lighting cues in a "show" have been recorded into a "stack", then the entire show may be
performed on the stack master by simply pressing the forward " > " key for each lighting cue.
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5.0 QUICKSTART TUTORIAL
It is assumed that you have your maXim connected and turned on as described earlier and that you
are familiar with basic lighting terminology. If not, then terminology is explained in Appendix B.
5.1 RESET
When the maXim is switched on, it displays an initial message on the display and then configures
itself exactly as it was when it was last switched off. All the scenes, chases, patches, mode etc will
be exactly as they were.
Note: This feature is extremely useful in the case of unexpected power failures. As soon as the power
is restored, you may immediately continue with your show.
When you start a new lighting session (a new show) it is preferable to perform a TOTAL RESET
of the maXim so that you are not confused by any previous recordings or settings that may have
been made. A TOTAL RESET will erase everything that has been “RECORDED” into the maXim
and select Preset mode. If the current recordings are needed in the future, you should save them
onto a floppy disk (optional on S and M models) before resetting.
To perform a TOTAL reset;
Press and hold [FUNCTION], tap, [F/A] (RESET).
Release [FUNCTION]
The display asks you, “System Reset ?”. Press [NO].
The display asks you, “Total Reset ?”. Press [YES].
The display asks you, “Do it ?”. Press [YES].
All memories are erased, the opening message scrolls through and Preset mode is selected.
See “RESET” in the “UTILITIES” chapter for details on System and Total resets.
5.2 CONTROLLING LIGHTS
CREATING A “LOOK” ON STAGE
Place every fader on the maXim to its lower limit. Now fade up the Yellow master to maximum (top).
Fade up channel 1 on the Yellow fader bank. The fixture(s) connected to dimmer output 1 fades up
on stage. Fade up channel 3 on the Yellow bank and the fixture(s) connected to dimmer output 3
come on. You can “balance” the look that you are creating by adjusting the intensities of the
individual channels. This is done by setting the positions of the individual channel faders of the
yellow bank. The brightness of the red indicator in each channels F/A button also gives you a visual
indication of that channels intensity. You have now created your first lighting “look”. You can control
the overall level of this look with the Yellow master.
PRESETTING THE NEXT LOOK
The next look can now be “preset” on the Red bank which in “Preset mode” provides a duplicate set
of channel faders. The Red master is in the faded down position so any channels that are faded up
on the Red bank will not be revealed on stage. Fade up channels 2 and 5 on the Red bank and set
them to the levels that you desire.
CROSSFADING TO THE NEXT LOOK
To perform a crossfade from the Yellow bank to the Red bank, simply fade UP (in) the Red master
and, at the same time, fade DOWN (out) the Yellow master. Channels 2 and 5 will fade up on stage
whilst channels 1 and 3 will fade down.
As the Yellow master is now down, the next look may be preset on the Yellow channel faders
without being revealed on stage. On the Yellow bank, fade down channels 1 and 3 and fade up
channels 4 and 7. Crossfade to this new look by fading UP the Yellow master and fading DOWN
the Red master.
In this manner, whilst one bank is faded UP, a new look can be created on the bank that is faded
DOWN and then the crossfade to the next look is performed with the Red and Yellow masters. The
entire show may be performed by fading between the varying looks on the red bank and the yellow
bank.
Hint: You can obtain different effects by simply varying the timing of your IN fades and OUT fades. If
you fade IN fully before commencing your OUT fade, you will have a period where both looks are on
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at the same time. If you fully fade OUT before commencing your IN fade, then the stage will dip to
black between the two looks. The most pleasing crossfades are often accomplished by starting with
the IN fade, then commencing the OUT fade when the incoming look is just starting to become visible
on stage.
TIMED FADES BETWEEN BANKS
The fades that you have been performing on the Red and Yellow masters have been “manual”
fades. That is, they have directly followed the actual positions of the Red and Yellow masters. The
speed that you move the fader determines the time of the fade. This is because the IN and OUT
time faders were set to 0 seconds. You can accurately control the IN time and the OUT time of
these fades by using the IN and OUT time faders to set the required durations. By default, the IN
and OUT time faders control the fade times of the Bank masters. Fixed fade times may also be set
via the [select] button.
When a Master is moved in an upward direction, the fade will always progress toward the current
position of that Master at a rate determined by the IN time. When a Master is moved in a downward
direction, the fade will always progress toward the current position of that Master at a rate
determined by the OUT time. If the IN time is set to say 5 seconds, and a Master is quickly faded
from fully down to fully up, then the actual fade up will take 5 seconds. If you do not bring the
Master fully up, then the fade will only fade up to the level of the Master and then stop. If the Master
was only faded up half way, and the IN time was set to 5 seconds, then the fade up would reach
the Masters position and stop in 2.5 seconds.
The manual fades that you performed earlier were achieved by simply setting the IN and OUT time
faders to a time of 0 seconds. At 0 seconds, the fades will instantly follow the position of the Bank
masters.
When a Time fader is moved, the display automatically shows its setting.
Set the IN time fader to 3 seconds and the OUT time fader to 5 seconds.
Hint: To check the current time settings of the Time faders, press the [FUNCTION] button. When
pressed during normal operations, it causes the display to momentarily show the current time IN or
OUT settings of the time faders whilst it is held down. Subsequent presses will toggle between the
two time settings.
Quickly perform a crossfade between the Red and Yellow masters. The INcoming bank fades up in
3 seconds whilst the OUTgoing bank fades down in 5 seconds.
Notice that the LED's in the F/A buttons for the Red and Yellow masters flash whilst the crossfade
is occurring. The flashing indicates that a timed fade is in progress.
Note: Bank masters, Playbacks and the Grab master all flash their FLASH/ASSIGN buttons when they
have a timed fades in progress. This flashing is especially useful when a LONG fade time is being
executed, because the physical position of a master does not necessarily represent the actual level of
the masters output. If you have some unexplained output from the maXim, check to see if any
master's FLASH/ASSIGN button is flashing, indicating that a timed fade is in progress.
All of the “looks” that you have created have been made on a “one off” basis. That is, they have not
been recorded into the memory of the maXim. If you needed to re-use a look that you had
previously created, then you need to take a note all of the channels and their respective levels
together with the fade times (if any), and then manually setup the faders for the look and fade
times.
The maXim allows you to “RECORD”, (also known as “store” or “program” on other manufacturers
desks), any of the looks and fade times that you create. When you record a look it is known as a
Scene and it may be replayed from memory.
5.3 RECORDING A SCENE
Scenes are created on the maXim by establishing the lighting look that you require on the OUTPUT
and then recording this look into the memory in a selected bank (red or blue), page (1 to 9) and
scene number (1 to 12, 24, 36 ,48, 60).
Note; Recording a scene in a different page of memory is not covered in this “QUICKSTART
TUTORIAL”. See the “MEMORY STRUCTURE” and “SCENES” chapters for details.
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