OmniSistem Q Scan User Manual
Q-Scan PC/DMX
Professional Scanning and Graphics System
For Q-Series Beam Projectors
and other
Beam aperture devices with a standard ¾” module mount.
OPERATIONS MANUAL
Laser Radiation can emit from this product only when attached to a laser source.
This product conforms with 21 CFR 1040 CDRH
WARNING
Read and follow ALL instructions
Carefully before operating this system
Manufactured for OmniSistem Lights and Effects
7819 South 196
253-395-9500 Phone – 253-395-9494 Fax
th
Street, Kent Washington 98032
www.omnisistem.com
Table of Contents
Section 1.0 = Introduction – Q-Scan PC/DMX
Section 2.0 = System Orientation – Q-Scan PC/DMX
Section 3.0 = DMX-512 Operation – Q-Scan PC/DMX
Section 4.0 = Sound Activation – Q-Scan PC/DMX
Section 5.0 = Q-Link Software – Q-Scan PC
Section 6.0 = Q-Link Start-up – Q-Scan PC
Section 7.0 = Q-Link – Q-Scan PC (General)
Section 8.0 = Q-Link – Q-Scan PC - Visual Interface (Working within Q-Link PC Software)
Section 9.0 = Q-Link – Q-Scan PC – Theory
Section 10.0 = Q-Link – Quick Start
Section 11.0 = Q-Link – Q-Scan PC/DMX-512 – Modes
Section 11.1 = Q-Link – Q-Scan PC/DMX-512 – Mode 1 Circle Patterns
Section 11.2 = Q-Link – Q-Scan PC/DMX-512 – Mode 2 Line Patterns
Section 11.3 = Q-Link – Q-Scan PC/DMX-512 – Mode 3 Spiral Patterns (Lissajou)
Section 11.4 = Q-Link – Q-Scan PC/DMX-512 – Mode 4 Waves Horizontal
Section 11.5 = Q-Link – Q-Scan PC/DMX-512 – Mode 5 Fans Horizontal
Section 11.6 = Q-Link – Q-Scan PC/DMX-512 – Mode 6 Fans Vertical
Section 11.7 = Q-Link – Q-Scan PC/DMX-512 – Mode 7 Beams Series
Section 11.8 = Q-Link – Q-Scan PC/DMX-512 – Mode 8 Beams Random
Section 11.9 = Q-Link – Q-Scan PC/DMX-512 – Mode 9 Sound Beams
Section 11.10 = Q-Link – Q-Scan PC/DMX-512 – Mode 10 Sound Beams
Section 11.11 = Q-Link – Q-Scan PC/DMX-512 – Mode 11 Sound Tunnels
Section 11.12 = Q-Link – Q-Scan PC/DMX-512 – Mode 12 Sound Graphics
Section 11.13 = Q-Link – Q-Scan PC/DMX-512 – Mode 13 Custom
Section 11.14 = Q-Link – Q-Scan PC/DMX-512 – Mode 14 Text
Section 11.15 = Q-Link – Q-Scan PC/DMX-512 – Mode 15 Specials
Section 11.16 = Q-Link – Q-Scan PC/DMX-512 – Mode 16 Scenes
Section 12 = Q-Link – Q-Scan PC/DMX-512 – Text Editor
Section 13 = Q-Link – Q-Scan PC – PRESET PAGE FUNCTIONS
Section 14 = Q-Link – Q-Scan PC – Scripting Function
Section 15 = Q-Link – Q-Scan PC – Sound Graphics Editor
Section 16 = Q-Link – Q-Scan PC – Scene Mode
Section 17 = Q-Link – Q-Scan PC/DMX-512 – DMX Control Table
Section 18 = Q-Link – Q-Scan PC/DMX-512 – DMX 512 Addressing
Section 19 = Q-Link – Q-Scan PC – SIKA Cable
Section 20 = Q-Link – Q-Scan PC/DMX – Installation and Alignment;
Section 21 = Q-Link – Q-Scan PC/DMX 512 – Safety
(Graphics and Animations)
Congratulations on purchasing one of the most versatile laser projection systems available in today’s laser
industry. Keeping with the tradition of Quality the “Q” in Q-Scan says the same. From the housing and
mounting designs, the Q-Link software, Lightspeed
®
animations, and the variety of scan projections the Q-
Scan exceeds all expectations for a compact low cost scan and graphics system.
The Q-Scan was designed to bridge the gap between expensive laser graphics equipment and low cost
scanning technology and succeeded with smashing success.
Features include:
1. Real-time math patterns
2. Beams
3. Fans
4. Tunnels
5. Lightspeed
®
Graphics and Animations
6. Instant text (Position able and Reversible)
7. Beam blanking
8. Closed loop scanners
9. Multi-tasking software
10. Sound control of most modes and aspects
11. DMX-512 control using just 8 DMX channels
12. PC control via 9-pin RS232 serial
13. PC control via 25-pin Digital parallel
14. Remote Keypad control
15. Small package size
16. Low power consumption
Q-Scan Unit Size= 6.5" wide, 5.5" tall, 5.5" deep
Manufactured in a rigid piece metal housing with extruded faceplate.
Back panel configuration:
• 9 Pin RS232 connector
• 25 Pin Parallel digital input connector
• Dual XRL DMX in and through connector jacks
• Power plug for external power pack (5-pin) or 120/240 AC universal (3-pin)
• Select switch for internal Mic enables on position 10 of dipswitch
• 9 position dip switch for DMX-512 base addressing (1=LSB, 9=MSB)
• Microphone hole for local sound input
• Standard Audio mono input jack
• Sound sensitivity adjustment
• LED on indicates unit ready and flashing indicates DMX input receive is active
Dipswitches
The dipswitches located on the back of the Q-Scan do 3 jobs:
1. If powered up as all zeros then a broken circle appears for calibration.
2. Addresses 1 to 511 for the DMX base address uses switches 1-9.
3. Dip Switch 10, if set on, disables the internal microphone.
Note: If Audio and Mic are both used then sound adjust controls balance.
DMX functions selected via the base address:
MODE: DECIMAL:
Circle Patterns 0>7
Line Patterns 8>15
Spiral Patterns 16>23
Waves Horizontal 24>31
Fan Horizontal 32>39
Fan Vertical 40>47
Beams Series 48>55
Beams Random 56>63
Sound Graphics 64>71
Sound Beams 72>79
Customs 80>87
Sound Tunnels 88>95
Stored Text 96>103
Sound Fans 104>111
Specials 112>119
Scenes 120>127
Text line1 128>135
Text line2 136>143
Text line3 144>151
Text line4 152>159
Text line5 160>167
Text line6 168>175
Text line7 176>183
Text line8 184>191
Edit line1 192>199
Edit line2 200>207
Edit line3 208>215
Edit line4 216>223
Edit line5 224>231
Edit line6 232>239
Edit line7 240>247
Edit line8 248>255
DMX use is 8 channels (base => base+7) and base can be from 1 to 503.
See QSCAN MODES section for more details about the various modes.
See the DMX Control Table for more DMX details of base+1 to base+7 controls.
Text edit lines 1-8 accesses 8 lines of text, 80 characters each.
Text is edited by selecting the text line 1-8 (DMX base=192+8 per line).
Use fader base+1 to select the character position 1-80 to change.
Use fader base+2 to select a symbol, number, or letter for that position.
Place character 255 (square block) at end of line for termination. This will erase any text that appears to the
right of the text block.
Moving mode (base+0) away from text edit locks the changes into place.
The sound sense adjustment (uses a small flat screwdriver):
Full Clockwise = Max Microphone sensitivity, no audio input at jack.
Full Counter Clockwise = Max Audio input sensitivity, no Microphone.
In between these extremes a balance can be set.
Note: The audio input jack accepts standard audio. Peak input is 10 volts.
Note: You may use Sound Graphic #1 to adjust sound sensitivity. This is a graphic laser version of a sound
meter.
Quick-Link (Q-link) PC program for Windows(95/98/2000 and ME):
The Quick-Link PC program supports all the DMX features, except DMX text edit because text is entered via
the keyboard for instant or future use. The Quick-Link program allows access to all facets of the Q-Scan pl us
instant call up of many presets, one click access to almost everything and 6 faders for base+1 to base+6
controls with auto-ramping or sound control assignments.
Q-Link additionally supports:
1) Timeline scripting of presets or real time hands on control.
2) Built-in graphics editor for creating custom beams, fans and simple graphics.
3) Low-res high speed animations from a memory module or from a PC.
This program was designed for best look using 800x600 resolution High color or 24M color and Large Icons.
PC DESKTOP SHORTCUTS:
This program expects the Home Directory Name be passed to it when activated.
Using the STARTUP MENU always works. Using a shortcut will work if it is created correctly. A sign that the
shortcut is wrong is that the .INI files may appear on the desktop. If so, delete them.
Creating a shortcut:
Using the “My Computer” ICON find the directory (FOLDER) where you installed this program. Within that
folder select (one-click) the primary program such as "Qlink.EXE" (not Qlink.ico). Then select from that
window's file menu the create shortcut option. After that a
This type of shortcut changes the directory to the HOME directory where the file resides before activating
the program.
On activation, quickly move the mouse to the edge of the screen, off of the application. The helper window
will display the current directory and it should match the directory name where you installed this program.
COM PORT SETUP:
On First activation you will need to select an active comport for the PC.
This Program will Automatically disable some choices because they are already in use, such as with a
Mouse or Modem.
Make sure the Laser unit is powered up, ready and communication cables are secure.
Click
If you are given several choices then try each for one that might work.
After each choice click TEST and watch the Helper window for a few seconds.
If Com = OK message appears then communication setup is complete so click APPLY and this setting will
remain in effect until changed using SETCOM.
If Com = Fail message appears on all choices then double check all connections, etc.
When all else fails then the following information may help:
Many PC's use Com1 as a Mouse input and Com2 as Modem input.
Most PC's have 2 comports. In some cases the Modem has it's own comport and the 2nd comport is
remapped to Com3 or Com4, and sometimes the extra comport is simply disabl ed at the hardware level.
If you are given no choices or the choices given don't work then your 2nd comport may be disabled at the
hardware level.
You may need to use CMOS setup to enable and re-map your 2nd comport for use as Com3 or Com4. This
can be tricky to do and if done incorrectly may result in system hang-ups or conflicts, so seek expert advice
from the Manufacturer or your local Guru
If you want to try anyway, then you have been WARNED! OmniSistem Lights and Effects or Laserworks
®
accepts no liability if you reconfigure your computer incorrectly.
You should check and note the hardware settings defined by Windows:
Click My Computer
Click Control Panel
Click System
Click Device Manager
Write down the com#-serial ports, mouse and modem assignments.
Restart the computer.
At power up hold down the DEL key (on most systems) to enter CMOS SETUP.
Locate a menu about HARDWARE or PERIPHERALS. Find Serial 2 (or 1).
WRITE DOWN THE CURRENT SETTINGS IN CASE YOU NEED TO RESTORE THEM !!!!
If one is disabled then see if it can be changed to AUTO.
These are the most common address definitions:
com1 = 3F8
com2 = 2F8
com3 = 3E8
com4 = 2E8
If you can figure out which one is the Mouse port. DON’T CHANGE IT.
You are trying to enable or move the com port that is NOT assigned to the MOUSE to a vacant position
while avoiding conflict with a modem.
AUTO will usually do the trick except when Phantom Modems are installed.
After making a change and you are sure the only change may be the modem assignment, then exit the
setup program (use F10) normally to save your new configuration. Test if the Laser responds now and the
mouse still works. If you had a modem, try it too. If
Some Systems may work anyway (sort-of) so see if a system conflict may exist back at the "Device
Manager" under Modem or any other devices that may use a comport.
If all else fails...Return the CMOS SETUP to the original values and call the manufacturer. They will be the
most help in re-mapping a com port through the CMOS SETUP screens.
NOTE: Some systems get much more complex with other devices using the com ports besides the mouse
and modem. If you have such then maybe the Manufacturers can help resolve a system conflict. You may
have to buy an A/B switch to select what you want and when
Mode is a generic term that means "To perform an assigned job or task".
To perform a specific task requires the task to be defined and additional parameters (if any) be presented
prior to starting that task.
The function of this program is to provide the user (you) with a simple interface to send these task
commands to the laser unit and supply or modify any additional parameters that may be needed.
Your system supports a huge variety of laser effects such as:
• Volumetric Effects.
Graphic patterns generated using pure math in real time such as circles, sta rs and spirals.
• Overhead Fans.
Mid-air flat laser light sheets create ceiling effects such as laser sky*.
• Overhead Beams.
Mid-air laser beams that spray and dance with the music.
• Tunnel Effects.
Tunnels can be viewed overhead or on screen with good results but are be st viewed from inside the tunnel.
Export only – It is against CDRH regulations 21 CFR 1040 to emit laser >0.39mW into humans.
• True Laser Sky*
Produces a flattened sine wave that imitates a false laser ceiling or the surface of the ocean when fog is
introduced to the effect.
• Text.
Simple laser text messages are projected on a flat surface to be read by the audience.
• Animations
Still pictures and moving pictures such as cartoons are projected. Q-Scan features Lightspeed® Design
Group Animations.
Note: Most modes support sound influence. Enabling the MIC option for a fader replaces that fader value with
sound sensitivity.
You are presented with a set of buttons and faders in a manner that is easy to use and easy on the eyes.
The 3 buttons at the top left are used somewhat often, followed by a general helper display, followed by less
often used setup and configuration buttons.
On/Off
The On and Off buttons are used to enable or suspend laser output. The Off button also suspends the Auto
Ramp so that you can select a starting position without fighting the ramp function.
Sync
The Sync button is used to start all variables at the same time like a starter gun is used to start all runners at
the same time.
Modes
The next row of Brown buttons, from left to right and down the right side, that select specific MODES of
operation. Click Modes button in the help menu for more detailed information.
Horizontal Faders
The center is usually a set of 6 faders with labeled definitions to their left. These faders allow you to adjust
several variables that modify the laser presentation.
Each fader has an AUTO and MIC override.
When AUTO is enabled the fader is slowly ramped up and down for slow morp hs of that variable.
When MIC is enabled the fader is disabled and that variable is replaced by the audio input located on the
Laser Unit.
Below the faders is 4 Quick Text windows. Simply click on the text window and enter you own text. Then,
when ready, click SHOW TEXT to put that text on laser display. Click Text button in the help menu for more
detailed information.
Below the Text section are EDIT, SELECT# and FAST PAD.
The Edit button activates a simple graphics editor allowing you to design your own Custom graphics. Click
Editor button in the help menu for more detailed information.
The Select1 through Select8 buttons simply force the top fader to a fixed position that for those modes
where the top fader has only eight options.
The Fast Pad button enables a small black window. When the mouse is inside this window, the 2nd and 3rd
faders are forced (fast) to a setting relative to the x/y coordinates inside the window.
The Bottom sections are Page and Record. Click on Pages button in the help menu for more detailed
information.
The very bottom has a blue bar for scripting a show. It basically allows you to record a series of mode
configurations and play them back in a timed sequence. Click Scripts button in the help menu for more
detailed information.
FADERS:
Faders have several active parts to them.
The End Tabs have a small arrow and, if mouse clicked, move the fader by one notch in the direction
indicated. If Mouse button is held down over these then the fader will creep quickly in the direction indicated.
The Center TAB element can be grabbed and dragged using the mouse button. Only when released does
the fader actually adopt the new value setting.
The Travel Bar can be mouse clicked to jump the fader in larger increments than the End Tabs.
Note: You may Mouse Click a fader and then use left & right arrows on your keyboard to change that fader.
PRESETS:
The select buttons 1 to 8 simply set fader #1 to 1 of 8 choices for those modes that have only 8 choices.
You may also set fader #1 AUTO active and the 8 available choices will be activated one at a time for a few
seconds each.
It is often easier to operate a system when the theory behind it has been detailed.
Scanning
The Display Unit has 3 scanning mirrors.
The first mirror is used for blanking (shutting the laser on and off) by re-directing the Laser beam away from
the next 2 mirrors.
The second mirror sweeps the beam up and down (only) on to the 3rd mirror.
The third mirror sweeps the beam from left to right (only) and out the front glass window.
At any given moment, only a bright laser dot is actually projected. The apparent continuity or lines drawn are
due to persistence of vision. The darker the viewing area, the wider the pupils of your eyes can become
thus allowing more light to enter and increasing your persistence of vision.
Laser light, by nature, can imprint your eyes better than ordinary light allowing a much more vivid display.
A bright viewing area and/or slow moving laser beam will cause a flickering image to be perceived.
The Q-Scan has 4 basic operations:
1. First are patterns generated using math. You control the math function using one of the first 8 mode
buttons and the math variables using the 6 faders.
2. Second are graphical generators where faders may affect display speed or sound sensitivity.
3. Third is text generation that converts text to graphical output using an internal font embedded within
the display unit.
4. Fourth are animations and still pictures using vector graphics.
The user interface can be DMX-512 or this PC interface that uses RS232. This PC Interface allows full use
of all available features and the ability to custom design your own graphics.
The DMX-512 interface allows access to most display features and a simple text editor.
Custom Text and Graphics are uploaded to the Laser Unit from this program using the XFER commands.
The Laser Unit can store 8 text lines up to 80 characters each and 8 Custom graphics with up to 44 points
each.
DMX-512 is a standard used in the lighting industry to control stage lighting and other stage effects.
This PC program doesn't do any actual math, it is only used to plug numbers into the Laser Units memory
and to provide some simple controls.
The main advantage of this program is the custom graphics editor and rapid access to an almost unlimited
number of presets stored on your hard drive.
First, make sure the com port (Page 4) is set and communications validated.
Make certain Beam 10 is projecting on your Q-Beam or the appropriate beam that the Q-Scan is mounted
onto on another type of Beam Rail Projector.
Click on PAGE 1
Click on (optional)
Click on
(optional)
Click on
(optional)
If Laser Unit has warmed up for 30 seconds then you should see a laser circle. If you do not refer to section
in manual titled Alignment of Q-Scan to Beam Port.
VERY ****IMPORTANT**** NOTE:
Math modes are *NOT* visible if faders 5 or 6 (Chop Freq & Chop Duty) are zero.
Note: Clicking any Brown Mode button automatically sends the ON and SYNC command.
(0) DMX Digital Value DMX Controller Fader 1
Generates patterns based on the circle.
A circle is created when 2 waves (sine) of identical height (amplitude) and speed (frequen cy) are mixed with
one of them given a 25% head start.
One wave is used to control left/right (X-axis) and the other wave is used for up/down (Y-axis).
The 1st fader controls the resulting circle's overall size.
The 2nd fader controls the speed of the first wave (X-frequency).
The 3rd fader controls the speed of the second wave (Y-frequency).
The 4th fader controls the head start percentage of the first wave (Phase).
The 5th fader controls the laser On/Off speed (Chop Frequency).
The 6th fader controls the laser On versus Off percentage (Chop Duty).
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