Philips Varilite VLX, VARILITE VLX3 User Manual

VARI❋LITE® is a trademark owned by Genlyte Thomas Group LLC and is registered in the United States and
other countries.

VL500™ (and the individual product designations), VL1000™ (and the individual product designations),
VL2000™, VL2201™, VL2202™, VL2400™ (and the in div idu al p r od uct desi gnatio ns), VL2500™, VL3000™,

VL3500™, VLX™, Series VLX™, Series 500
DICHRO❋TUNE™, VARI❋IMAGE™, VARI❋BRITE™

™

, Series 1000™, Series 2000™, Series 3000™,

and the Vari-Lite Asterisk are also trademarks

owned by Genlyte Thomas Group LLC.
All other brand or product names which may be mentioned in this manual are trademarks or registered trademarks

of their respective companies or organizations.

VLX™ Wash Luminaire User’s Manual

The information furnished in this manual is for informational use only and is subject to change without notice.
Please check www.vari-lite.com for latest version. Vari-Lite assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or
inaccuracies that may appear in this manual. All information and graphics are property of Vari-Li te, a Philips group
company, 10911 Petal Street Dallas, Texas 75238 USA.

Version as of: 15 April 2010
Part number: 02.9690.0001 A

VLX™ Wash Luminaire User’s Manual

©2009 - 2010 Vari-Lite, a Philips group company. All Rights Reserved.

How To Obtain Warranty Service

A copy of the Vari-Lite Limited Warranty was included in the shipping package for this
VARI ❋LITE® product.

To obtain w arranty service, please contact customer service at 1-877-VARI-LITE (1-877-827-4548),
[phone], or [e-mail] and request a Return Material Authorization
(RMA) for warranty service. You will need to provide the model and serial number of the item being
returned, a description of the problem or failure and the name of the registered user or organization. If
available, you should have your sales invoice to establish the date of sale as the beginning of the
warranty period.

Once you obtain the RMA, pack the unit in a secure shipping container or in its original packing box.
Be sure to clearly indicate the RMA number on all packing lists, correspondence, and shipping labels.
If available, please include a copy of your invoice (as proof of purchase) in the shipping container.
With the RMA number written legibly on or near the shipping address label, return the unit, freight
prepaid, to:

Vari-Lite
Attention: Warranty Service (RMA#___________)
10911 Petal Street
Dallas, Texas 75238 USA

FOREWORD

As stated in the warranty, it is required that the shipment be insured and FOB our service center.

02.9690.0001 A 15 April 2010 i

VARI❋LITE® - VLX™ WASH LUMINAIRE USER’S MANUAL

Compliance Notice

FCC

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device
pursuant to Part 15 of FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against
harmful interference when this equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This equipment
generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance
with Vari-Lite system, service, and safety guidelines, may cause harmful interference to radio
communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful
interference, in which case the user will be required to correct the interference at his/her own expense.

Declaration of Conformity

We declare, under our sole responsibility, that this product complies with the relevant clauses of the
following standards and harmonized documents:

Safety

EN 60598-1:2000 Luminaire Safety Standard, General Requirements
EN 60598-2-17:1989/A2: 1991 Specification for Luminaires for Stage and Studio Lighting

EMC

EN61000-6-2: 2001, Immunity Standard for industrial environments
EN61000-6-4: 2001, Emission Standard for industrial environments

W e certify that the product conforms to the protectio n requirements of council di rectives: Low Voltage
Directive 2006/95/EC and 89/336/EEC (EMC). Equipment referred to in this declaration of
conformity was first manufactured in 2009 in compliance with these standards.

ii 15 April 2010 02.9690 .0001 A

Safety Notice

It is extremely important to read ALL safety information and instructions provided in this manual and
any accompanying documentation before installing and operating the products described herein. Heed
all cautions and warnings during installation and use of this product.

Safety symbols used throughout this manual are as follows:

GENERAL INFORMATION PERTAINING TO PROTECTION AGAINST ELECTRICAL SHOCK,
FIRE, EXPOSURE TO EXCESSIVE UV RADIATION, AND INJURY TO PERSONS CAN BE
FOUND BELOW.

WARNING:
INSTRUCTIONS FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST FIRE

1. VARI❋LITE® luminaires have been designed for use with specific lamp types. The VLX™
Wash Luminaire uses special LED devices. Installing another type of light sources may be
hazardous and will void your warranty.

2. Luminaires may be mounted on any type of surface as long as mounting instructions are followed.
See instructions detailed in this manual.

3. Note distance requirement from combustible materials or illuminated objects for VARI❋LITE®
luminaires.

FOREWORD

CAUTION advising of potential damage to product.

WARNING advising of potential injury or death to persons.

WARNING:
INSTRUCTIONS FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST ELECTRICAL SHOCK

1. VARI❋LITE® luminaires are designed for dry locations only. Exposure to rain or moisture may
damage luminaire.

2. Disconnect power before servicing any VARI❋LITE® equipment.

3. Servicing to be performed by qualified personnel only.

02.9690.0001 A 15 April 2010 iii

VARI❋LITE® - VLX™ WASH LUMINAIRE USER’S MANUAL

WARNING:
INSTRUCTIONS FOR CONTINUED PROTECTION AGAINST EXCESSIVE EXPOSURE
TO UV RADIATION

1. Many VARI❋LITE® luminaires use a lamp that produces UV radiation. DO NOT look directly at
lamp.

2. It is hazardous to operate luminaires without lens or shield. Shields, lenses, or ultraviolet screens
shall be changed if they have become visibly damaged to such an extent that their effectiveness is
impaired. For example, by cracks or deep scratches.

WARNING:
INSTRUCTIONS FOR PROTECTION AGAINST INJURY TO PERSONS

1. Exterior surfaces of the luminaire will be hot during operation. Use appropriate safety equipment
(gloves, eye protection, etc.) when handling and adjusting hot equipment and components.

2. Luminaires will have a hot lamp when operating. Disconnect power and allow lamp to cool before
replacing.

3. Arc lamps emit ultraviolet radiation which can cause serious skin burn and eye inflammation.
Additionally, arc lamps operate under high pressure at very high temperatures. Should the lamp
break, there can exist a danger of personal injury and/or fire from broken lamp particles being
discharged.

4. Wear eye protection when relamping.

5. Appropriate safety equipment (gloves, eye protection) should be used when handling damaged
lamps.

6. If lamp is touched with bare hands, clean lamp with denatured alcohol and wipe with lint-free
cloth before installing or powering up the luminaire.

7. The lamp shall be changed if it has become damaged or thermally deformed.

WARNING:
RF INTERFERENCE

1. This is a Class A product. In a domestic environment this product may cause radio interference, in
which case, the user may be required to take adequate measures.

ARC LAMP CHARACTERISTIC CONSIDERATIONS

1. Arc lamps require a period of time to relight after a power interruption or a severe voltage dip. In
some cases, lamp will automatically relight after it has cooled depending on Lamp Power-Up State
configuration setting.

2. Burning position is Universal.

iv 15 April 2010 02.9 690.0001 A

Sicherheitshinweise

Es ist äußerst wichtig, ALLE Sicherheitsinformationen und -hinweise in diesem Handbuch und dem
beiliegenden Informationsmaterial zu lesen, bevor Sie die hierin beschriebenen Produkte installieren
bzw. bedienen. Halten Sie bei der Installation und dem Einsatz dieses Produkts alle Warnhinweise und
Vorsichtsmaßnahmen ein.

Folgende Sicherheitssymbole werden in diesem Handbuch verwendet:

VORSICHT - weist auf möglichen Produktschaden hin.

WARNUNG - weist auf mögliche Körperverletzung und Lebensbedrohung hin.

NACHSTEHEND FINDEN SIE ALLGEMEINE HINWEISE ÜBER
SICHERHEITSVORKEHRUNGEN GEGEN ELEKTROSCHOCK, FEUER, ÜBERHÖHTE UV­STRAHLUNG UND KÖRPERVERLETZUNGEN.

WARNUNG:
HINWEISE ZUM FEUERSCHUTZ

1. VARI❋LITE®-Scheinwerfer sind ausschließlich für den Einsatz mit bestimmten Lampentyps.
Achten Sie auf den Lampentyp (LED), bevor Sie die jeweiligen Lampen ersetzen. Die Installation
eines anderen Lampentyps kann gefährlich sein.

2. Scheinwerfer können auf jeder beliebigen Oberfläche montiert werden, solange Sie die
Montageanweisungen befolgen. Detaillierte Hinweise finden Sie in diesem Handbuch.

3. Beachten Sie die Einhaltung des erforderlichen Sicherheitsabstandes der VARI❋LITE®-
Scheinwerfer von brennbarem Material oder beleuchteten Objekten.

FOREWORD

WARNUNG:
HINWEISE ZUM SCHUTZ GEGEN ELEKTROSCHOCK

1. VARI❋LITE®-Scheinwerfer eignen sich ausschließlich für trockene Standorte. Regen oder
Feuchtigkeit können die Scheinwerfer beschädigen.

2. Unterbrechen Sie die Stromzufuhr, bevor Sie mit der Arbeit an VARI❋LITE®-Geräten beginnen.

3. Die Geräte sollten nur von qualifiziertem Personal gewartet werden.

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VARI❋LITE® - VLX™ WASH LUMINAIRE USER’S MANUAL

WARNUNG:
HINWEISE ZUM SCHUTZ GEGEN ÜBERHÖHTE UV-STRAHLUNG

1. Viele VARI❋LITE®-Scheinwerfer verwenden die Lampentyp, der UV-Strahlen abgibt.
SCHAUEN SIE NICHT direkt in die Lampe.

2. Es ist gefährlich, Leuchten ohne Linsen oder Blenden zu bedienen. Blenden, Linse n oder
Ultraviolettschirme müssen ausgetauscht werden, sofern deren Schutzwirkung durch sichtbare
Beschädigung (z. B. Sprünge oder Schrammen) eingeschränkt ist.

WARNUNG:
HINWEISE ZUM SCHUTZ GEGEN KÖRPERVERLETZUNGEN

1. Bei Betrieb sind die Außenflächen der Scheinwerfer heiß. Verwenden Sie bei der Bedienung von
aufgeheizter Apparatur die jeweils geeignete Sicherheitsausrüstung (Handschuhe, Augenschutz
etc.).

2. Bei Betrieb der Scheinwerfer ist die Lampe heiß. Unterbrechen Sie die Stromzufuhr und lassen Sie
die Lampe abkühlen, wenn Sie diese austauschen.

3. Bogenlampen senden ultraviolette Strahlen aus, die Hautverbrennungen und Augenentzündungen
verursachen können. Der Betrieb von Bogenlampen erfolgt unter Hochdruck und bei hohen
Temperaturen. Sollte die Lampe zerbrechen, besteht die Gefahr von Körperverletzung bzw. von
Feuer, das von Lampenteilen ausgelöst werden kann.

4. Tragen Sie beim Austausch der Lampen einen Augenschutz.

5. Die geeignete Sicherheitsausrüstung (Handschuhe, Augenschutz) sollte beim Umgang mit
beschädigten Lampen verwendet werden.

6. Wenn die Lampe mit bloßen Händen berührt wird, reinigen Sie sie mit denaturiertem Alkohol und
einem flusenfreien Tuch, bevor Sie die Scheinwerfer installieren oder in Betrieb nehmen.

7. Wenn die Lampe beschädigt oder durch Hitzeeinwirkung deformiert ist, muß diese ausgetauscht
werden.

WARNUNG:
HF-INTERFERENZ

1. Es handelt sich um ein Produkt der Klasse A. In einer Wohnumgebung kann das Produkt Hochfre­quenzstörungen verursachen. In diesem Fall müssen eventuell geeignete Maßnahmen getroffen
werden.

BESONDERHEITEN VON BOGENLAMPEN

1. Bogenlampen benötigen eine gewisse Zeitdauer, um nach einem Stromausfall oder einem
Spannungsgefälle wieder aufzuleuchten. In einigen Fällen wird die Lampe nach Abkühlung
automatisch wieder aufleuchten, je nach der Systemkonfigurationseinstellung des Lampenein­schaltungsstatus.

2. Die Brennposition ist Universal.

vi 15 April 2010 02.9 690.0001 A

Notes de sécurité

Avant de procéder à l’installation des produits décrits dans ce guide et de les mettre en marche, il est
extrêmement important de lire TOUS les renseignements et TOUTES les directives de sécurité
contenues dans ce guide ainsi que toute documentation jointe. Tenir compte de tous les avertissements
et suivre toutes les précautions pendant l’installation et l’utilisation de cet appareil.

Les symboles de sécurité utilisés dans ce guide sont les suivants :

ATTENTION Ce symbole annonce que l’appareil risque d’être endommagé.

AVERTISSEMENT Ce symbole annonce qu’il y a risque d’accident grave ou même fatal.

CETTE SECTION CONTIENT DES INFORMATIONS GÉNÉRALES POUR SE PROTÉGER
CONTRE LES DÉCHARGES ÉLECTRIQUES , LES INCENDIES, L’EXPOSITION EXCESSIVE
AUX RAYONS UV ET TOUT AUTRE ACCIDENT POUVANT ENTRAÎNER DES BLESSURES.

FOREWORD

AVERTISSEMENT:
DIRECTIVES POUR SE PROTÉGER CONTRE LES INCENDIES

1. Les luminaires VARI❋LITE® ont été conçus pour être utilisés uniquement avec certaines type de
lampes. Vérifier le type de lampe (LED) avant de remplacer les lampes. L’installation d’un autre
type de lampe peut poser un danger.

2. Les luminaires peuvent être fixés sur tout type de surface tant que les directives de montage sont
respectées. Voir les explications détaillées dans ce guide.

3. Vérifier la distance à respecter entre les matériaux combustibles ou les objets illuminés et les
luminaires VARI❋LITE®.

AVERTISSEMENT:
DIRECTIVES POUR SE PROTÉGER CONTRE LES DÉCHARGES ÉLECTRIQUES

1. Les luminaires VARI❋LITE® sont conçus pour une utilisation au sec uniquement. Une
exposition à la pluie et à l’humidité risque d’endommager le luminaire.

2. Débrancher l’appareil avant de procéder à la révision de tout matériel VARI❋LITE®.

3. Les révisions doivent être effectuées uniquement par des personnes qualifiées.

02.9690.0001 A 15 April 2010 vii

VARI❋LITE® - VLX™ WASH LUMINAIRE USER’S MANUAL

AVERTISSEMENT:
DIRECTIVES POUR SE PROTÉGER CONTRE UNE EXPOSITION EXCESSIVE AUX
RAYONS UV

1. Plusieurs luminaires VARI❋LITE® utilisent une lampe qui produit des rayons UV. NE PAS fixer
son regard sur la lampe.

2. L’utilisation des luminaires sans lentille ou blindage pose des risques. Tous blindages, lentilles ou
écrans ultraviolet visiblement endommagés au point que leur efficacité en est affectée doivent être
remplacés, par exemple s’il y a des fissures ou de profondes rayures.

AVERTISSEMENT:
DIRECTIVES POUR SE PROTÉGER CONTRE LES ACCIDENTS POUVANT ENTRAÎNER
DES BLESSURES

1. Les surfaces externes du luminaire deviennent brûlantes quand l’appareil est en marche. Pour
manœuvrer ou ajuster des appareils brûlants et leurs composants, se protéger suffisamment (gants,
protection pour les yeux, etc.).

2. La lampe du luminaire est brûlante lorqu’il est en marche. Débrancher le courant et attendre que la
lampe ait refroidi avant de la remplacer.

3. Les lampes à arc émettent des rayons ultraviolets pouvant causer de graves brûlures sur la peau et
une inflammation des yeux. De plus, les lampes à arc fonctionnent sous haute tension à de très
hautes températures. Si la lampe se casse, les particules de la lampe cassée peuvent causer
blessures et/ou incendie en s’éparpillant.

4. Se protéger les yeux pour remplacer la lampe.

5. Utiliser des appareils de protection appropriés (gants, protection des yeux) pour manier des lampes
endommagées.

6. Si la lampe a été touchée avec des mains nues, la nettoyer avec de l’alcool dénaturé et l’essuyer
avec un chiffon non-pelucheux avant d’installer ou de brancher le luminaire.

7. Si la lampe a été endommagée ou a reçu une déformation thermique, elle doit être remplacée.

AVERTISSEMENT:
INTERFÉRENCE RF

1. Cet appareil est de Classe A. Dans un environnement domestique, cet appareil peut causer des
interférences radio, et si c’est le cas, l’utilisateur peut avoir à prendre des mesures adéquates.

CONSIDÉRATIONS DES CARACTÉRISTIQUES DE LAMPES À ARC

1. Après une interruption de courant ou une baisse importante de voltage, les lampes à arc mettent du
temps avant de se rallumer. Dans certains cas, la lampe se rallumera automatiquemet après s’être
refroidie. Cela dépend de la manière dont le système est réglé pour le statut de mise en marche de
la lampe.

2. La position Brûler est Universelle.

viii 15 April 2010 02.9690 .0001 A

Aviso sobre Seguridad

Es muy importante leer TODA la in formación e instrucciones sobre seguridad que se indica en este
manual así como en los documentos adjuntos antes de instalar y operar los productos descritos. Se
debe prestar atención a todos los avisos y advertencias durante la instalación y uso de este producto.

Los símbolos de seguridad usados en este manual son los siguientes:

CUIDADO, indica posibles daños al producto.

ADVERTENCIA, indica posibles lesiones o muerte a las personas.

LA INFORMACIÓN GENERAL RELACIONADA A LA PROTECCIÓN CONTRAGOLPES DE
CORRIENTE ELÉCTRICA, INCENDIO, EXPOSICIÓN EXCESIVA A RADIACIÓN ULTRA
VIOLETA Y LESIONES A LAS PERSONAS SE PUEDE ENCONTRAR SEGUIDAMENTE:

ADVERTENCIA:
INSTRUCCIONES PARA PROTECCIÓN CONTINUA CONTRA INCENDIO

1. Las luminarias VARI❋LITE® han sido diseñadas para ser usadas solamente con algunas
lámparas. T ome nota del tipo de lámpara (LED) antes de reemplazarla. Instalación de otro tipo de
lámpara puede ser peligroso.

2. Las luminarias se pueden instalar en cualquier tipo de superficie siempre que se sigan las
instrucciones de instalación. Vea las instrucciones detalladas en este manual.

3. Tome nota de los requerimientos de distancia de materiales combustibles u objetos iluminados
para las luminarias VARI❋LITE®.

FOREWORD

ADVERTENCIA:
INSTRUCCIONES PARA PROTECCIÓN CONTINUA CONTRA CHOQUE ELÉCTRICO

1. Las luminarias VARI❋LITE® están diseñadas solamente para lugares secos. La exposición a la
lluvia o humedad pueden dañar la luminaria.

2. Desconecte la energía antes de dar servicio a cualquier equipo de VARI❋LITE®.

3. El servicio debe ser realizado solamente por personal calificado .

02.9690.0001 A 15 April 2010 ix

VARI❋LITE® - VLX™ WASH LUMINAIRE USER’S MANUAL

ADVERTENCIA:
INSTRUCCIONES PARA PROTECCIÓN CONTINUA CONTRA LA EXPOSICIÓN
EXCESIVA DE RADIACIÓN ULTRA VIOLETA

1. Muchas luminarias VARI❋LITE® usan un tipo de lámpara que produce radiación UV. NO mire
directamente a la lámpara.

2. Es peligroso operar luminarias sin lentes o protectores. Debe cambiar los protectores, lentes o
pantallas ultravioletas si se aprecia que han sido dañadas, y que su efectividad pudiera estar
deteriorada. Por ejemplo, si tuvieran rajaduras o raspaduras profundas.

ADVERTENCIA:
INSTRUCCIONES PARA PROTECCIÓN CONTRA LESIONES DE PERSONAS

1. Las superficies exteriores de las luminarias están calientes durante su operación. Use un equipo de
seguridad apropiado (guantes, protección para los ojos, etc.) cuando haga ajustes en el equipo y
componentes que están calientes.

2. Cuando las luminarias están en operación la lámpara estará muy caliente. Desconecte la energía y
deje que la lámpara se enfríe antes de reemplazarla.

3. Las lámparas de arco emiten radiaciones ultravioletas que pueden ocasionar serias quemaduras a la
piel e inflamación a los ojos. Además, las lámparas de arco operan a alta presión y muy alta
temperatura. Si la lámpara se rompe, puede existir el peligro de lesiones al personal o un incendio
ocasionado por las partículas de la lámpara rota que se caen.

4. Use protección para los ojos cuando vuelve a colocar una lámpara nueva.

5. Use un equipo de seguridad apropiado (guantes, protección para los ojos, etc.) cuando trabaje con
lámparas dañadas.

6. Si toca la lámpara con las manos, limpie la lámpara con alcohol desnaturalizado y con tela sin
pelusas antes de instalar o volver a conectar la luminaria.

7. Cambie la lámpara si está dañada o deformada termicamente.

ADVERTENCIA:
INTERFERENCIA RF

1. Este es un producto de Clase A. En el ambiente de la casa este producto puede ocasionar
radiointerferencia, en cuyo caso, el usuario debe tomar las medidas adecuadas.

CONSIDERACIONES SOBRE LAS CARACTERÍSTICAS DE LA LÁMPARA DE ARCO

1. Las lámparas de arco requieren un período de tiempo para volver a iluminarse después de una
interrupción de energía o de una severa caída de voltaje. En algunos casos, la lámpara se volverá a
iluminar en forma automática después que se ha enfriado dependiendo de la configuración del
sistema de energía de la lámpara.

2. La posición de encendido es universal.

x 15 April 2010 02.9690 .0001 A

FOREWORD

02.9690.0001 A 15 April 2010 xi

VARI❋LITE® - VLX™ WASH LUMINAIRE USER’S MANUAL

xii 15 April 2010 02.9690 .0001 A

Table of Contents

Introduction

About This Manual ...................................................... ............................................................. 1

Additional Documentation........................................................................................................ 1

Text Conventions .................................................................................................. .... ................ 2

Customer Service...................................................................................................................... 2

Chapter 1. Description

Features

Standard Features.............................................................. ........................................................ 4

Components

Included Items.................................................................................................. ..... .... ................ 5

Replacement Items/Accessories................................................................................................ 5

Luminaire Overview............................................................................... ..... .... ......................... 6

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Chapter 2. Installation

Power and Data Cabling Requirements

AC Power................................................................................................................................ 10

Current vs. Voltage............................................................................................................ 11

Data Cables........................................................................... ..... ............................................. 12

Recommended Cable Types/Manufacturers...................................................................... 13

Male Termination Connector ............................................................................................ 13

Installation Procedures

Hanging the Luminaire ........................................................................................................... 14

Floor Mounting the Luminaire................................................................................................ 17

Connecting Data and Power.................................................................................................... 17

Powering Up

Power Up and Configuration Procedure........................................................................ ..... .... 18

Addressing

Program Starting Address....................................................................................................... 19

Chapter 3. Operation

DMX Operation

Channel Mapping.................................................................................................................... 22

Control Channel Functions..................................................................................................... 24

VLX Operational Modes (from Control Channel Settings):............................................. 25

DMX Mapping

Color & Intensity Control....................................................................................................... 26

Color Mixing..................................................................................................................... 26

Color Time Control ........................................................................................................... 27

LED Intensity Control....................................................................................................... 27

02.9690.0001 A 15 April 2010 xiii

VARI❋LITE® - VLX™ WASH LUMINAIRE USER’S MANUAL

Intensity Time Control ...................................................................................................... 28

Beam Control..................................................................................................................... 28

Strobe................................................................................................................................. 28

Beam Spreader................................................................................................................... 28

Beam Time ........................................................................................................................ 29

Luminaire Movement.............................................................................................................. 30

Luminaire Pan ................................................................................................................... 30

Luminaire Tilt...................................................................... .... .......................................... 30

Focus Time........................................................................................................................ 30

Luminaire Timing

Timing Channel Information............................... .................................................................... 31

Updating Software

USB Download and Programming ......................................................................................... 40

Transferring Software From Luminaire to Luminaire ............................................................ 41

Chapter 4. Menu System

Menu Operation

What Is the Menu System? ..................................................................................................... 44

Controls Operation.................................................................................................................. 44

Default State...................................................................................................................... 46

Menu Functions

Menu System Overview.......................................................................................................... 47

Menu System Function Chart ............................................................. .... ................................ 48

Menu Function Definitions..................................................................................................... 51

Appendix A. Troubleshooting and Maintenance

Troubleshooting

Error Messages........................................................................................................................ 56

Troubleshooting Guide............................................................................................................ 58

Routine Maintenance

Introduction............................................................................................................................. 60

Special Cleaning and Care Instructions.................................................................................. 60

Front Lens Removal and Cleaning.......................................................................................... 61

Beam Spreader Removal for Fixed Beam Applications......................................................... 65

Cooling System Heatsink Cleaning Procedure....................................................................... 69

Appendix B. Technical Specifications

VLX™ Wash Luminaire....................................................................................... .... .............. 73

xiv 15 April 2010 02.9690 .0001 A

Introduction

About This Manual

This manual provides necessary information regarding safety, installation, operation and routine
maintenance for the VARI❋LITE® VLX™ Wash Luminaire. Familiarizing yourself with this
information will help you to get the most out of your luminaire.

WARNING: It is important to read ALL accompanying safety and installation instructions to avoid
damage to the product and potential injury to yourself or others.

This manual covers the following models:

VLX™ Wash Luminaire 20.9690.0001 Seven x 120W RGBW LEDs

VLX™ Wash Luminaire, White 20.9690.0001.02 Seven x 120W RGBW LEDs

INTRODUCTION : ABOUT THIS MANUAL

Model Part Number Source

Additional Documentation

A service manual, for Authorized VARI❋LITE® Service Centers and technicians, of the VLX™
Wash Luminaire is available in electronic (PDF) format:

• VLX™ Wash Luminaire Service Manual (02.9690.0010)

- Testing, Troubleshooting, Component Replacement and Illustrated Parts Breakdown.

Note: Performing maintenance procedures may void the product warranty. Refer to the Vari-Lite
Limited Warranty card included in the product shipping package for more information.

Note: The VLX™ Wash Luminaire requires very little routine maintenance, but has special cleaning
instructions unlike other fixtures. Please refer to “Special Cleaning and Care Instructions” on page 60
for complete cleaning and handling requirements.

For more information regarding DMX512 systems, refer to the following document available from
United States Institute for Theatre Technology, Inc. (USITT):

• Digital Data Transmission Standard for Dimmers & Controllers plus AMX 192 Analog Multiplex
Data Transmission Standard for Dimmers & Controllers. (A copy of Recommended Practice for
DMX512 is included.)

USITT Inc.
6443 Ridings Road
Syracuse, New York 132 06-1111 USA
Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone] / www.usitt.org

02.9690.0001 A 15 April 2010 1

VARI❋LITE® - VLX™ WASH LUMINAIRE USER’S MANUAL

Text Conventions

The following styles and meanings are used throughout this manual:

Style Meaning

[Button] Front panel button. Example: Press [Enter] or [ESC]

(Escape).

[Up] / [Down] / [Left] / [Right]
Arrows

MENU LCD Menu Display read-out. Example: Press [Up] / [Down]

Press either [Up] or [Down] or [Left] or [Right] arrow
button at Menu Display.

/ [Left] / [Right] arrows until LAMP appears.

Customer Service

Our Goal

At Vari-Lite, we are committed to providing you the highest quality in customer service. Our
comprehensive resources are available to help your business succeed and ensure you get the full
benefit of being a Vari-Lite customer. Whether your needs are telephone troubleshooting assistance,
product training or technical service, our full-time staff of experienced professionals are on-hand to
provide support.

How to Reach Us

For assistance in your area, call the dealer from which your product was purchased. or Contact an
Authorized VARI❋LITE® Service Center or Contact the Vari-Lite Customer Service Department,
9am - 6pm CST Monday through Friday, at the following:

phone: 1-877-VARI-LITE (1-877-827-4548) or [phone]

email: [e-mail]

Additional Resources

For additional resources and documentation, please visit our website at www.vari-lite.com and follow
the Support link.

2 15 April 2010 02.9690 .0001 A

CHAPTER 1.

Description

This chapter contains descriptions of luminaire features and components, along with a list of
accessories that are available.

• Features

• Components

02.9690.0001 A 15 April 2010 3

VARI❋LITE® - VLX™ WASH LUMINAIRE USER’S MANUAL

Features

Standard Features

All VLX™ Wash Luminaires have the following standard feature s:

• Seven, 120-watt replaceable custom RGBW chipsets. Each chip set contains high density red,
green, blue, and white LED emitters.

• Manufacturer rated life (LED chip sets), in excess of 10,000 hours (at full RGBW).

• Light output of approximately 14,000 lumens (white light).

• Patented optical zoom system with continuous variable field angle from approximately 23

• Zoom module is easily removable for a fixed field angle of 22

o

.

o

to 58

• High-speed strobe with multi user-selectable effects.

• Smooth pan and tilt operation through time-controlled continuous motion by way of a pair of
three-phase stepper motor systems.

•540

o

Pan and 270o Tilt with 0.3o resolution.

Note: Detailed specification are available on the Vari-Lite web site at www.vari-lite.com and in

“Technical Specifications” on page 73 in this manual.

o

.

4 15 April 2010 02.9690 .0001 A

Components

Included Items

The following illustration shows all items included with the luminaire:

Included Items

Unpack & Quick

Start Sheet

Warranty Card Product Registration Card

TM

Wash Luminaire

VLX

CD ROM (User’s Manual)

Neutrik PowerCon®

AC Input Connector*

DESCRIPTION : COMPONENTS

1

Vari-Lite Customer Service

Product Support Sheet

Vari-Lite QA Certificate

*Unit supplied with AC input connector only. Users will need
to supply and build an AC input cable using this connector.

Mounting Brackets

TM

VLX

Wash Luminaire

Figure 1-1: VLX™ Wash Luminaire Packing List

Replacement Items/Accessories

The following optional and/or replacement items can be ordered directly from your Authorized
VARI ❋LITE® Dealer. (Please order by Vari-Lite part number.)

Vari-Lite P/N Accessory

22.9620.0194 Safety Cable Assembly

23.9623.0177 XLR DMX Terminator

28.8500.0054 USB Luminaire Programming Kit (Includes USB Upload Cable,
Programming Kit CD ROM, Carry Bag, and Instructions)*

55.6840.0001 Truss Hook, Mega-Clamp, Round and Square

55.6841.0001 Truss Hook, Mega-Claw for 2” Round Tube

Note: * For more information on the USB Luminaire Programming Kit, please see “USB Download

and Programming” on page 40.

02.9690.0001 A 15 April 2010 5

VARI❋LITE® - VLX™ WASH LUMINAIRE USER’S MANUAL

Luminaire Overview

The following illustration shows the external luminaire components and controls.

Head Assembly

Houses light source
lens and LED PCB
assemblies.

Front Lens Assembly

Upper Enclosure Assembly

Houses LED power supply
connections and menu display.

Pan & Tilt Lock Operation

Backcap Assembly

Provides access to light
source and LED cooling

assemblies.

Yoke Assembly

Houses Master Control
Board (MCB) and power

supply.

Menu Display

Used to input manual commands,
program, test, set defaults, and
access internal status information.

(See detail below)

Lock Engage

To lock pan or tilt (restricts movement).

The VLX™ Wash Luminaire has
separate Pan and Tilt locks. When the
luminaire is in use, both the Pan and Tilt
locks must be disengaged to allow free
movement of the luminaire head and
yoke assemblies.

Lock Disengage

To unlock pan or tilt (allows free movement).

Figure 1-2: VLX™ Wash Luminaire External Components and Controls

6 15 April 2010 02.9690 .0001 A

Luminaire Overview (continued)

Upper Enclosure Menu

LCD Display

Displays all Data and Luminaire Settings

DESCRIPTION : COMPONENTS

1

Status LEDs

Power State, Data
Transmit, Data
Receive, Data Error

POWER

TX

ENTER

Enter Button

To Select or Change a
Setting or Data Value

Upper Enclosure Connections

DMX Input

Connection to DMX Controls

RX

ERROR

ESC

Escape (ESC)

To Exit or Go to Previous Menu Item

Arrow Keys (Left/Right/Up/Down)

To Menu Navigate Menu Options and make Data
Selections

DMX Through

Passes DMX to Other Luminaires

Figure 1-3: VLX™ Wash Luminaire External Components and Controls

02.9690.0001 A 15 April 2010 7

AC Power Input

100 - 240VAC 50/60Hz

VARI❋LITE® - VLX™ WASH LUMINAIRE USER’S MANUAL

Notes

8 15 April 2010 02.9690 .0001 A

CHAPTER 2.

Installation

This chapter contains instructions for installation of the luminaire. It includes connectin g power
and data, along with instructions for powering up the luminaire for the first time and addressing
it within your system.

• Power and Data Cabling Requirements

• Installation Procedures

• Powering Up

• Addressing

WARNING: DO NOT connect or disconnect energized power cable at fixture (under load). Turn

off circuit breaker (or completely de-energize circuit) before connecting or disconnecting power
cable at fixture. Power is only removed from the fixture by disconnecting power cable from
source or turning off source circuit breaker.

02.9690.0001 A 15 April 2010 9

VARI❋LITE® - VLX™ WASH LUMINAIRE USER’S MANUAL

Power and Data Cabling Requirements

AC Power

WARNING: DO NOT connect to three-phase Delta service in countries with 240 volt power.

WARNING: DO NOT connect or disconnect energized power cable at fixture (under load). Turn off

circuit breaker (or completely de-energize circuit) before connecting or disconnecting power cable at
fixture. Power is only removed from the fixture by disconnecting power cable from source or turning
off source circuit breaker.

The luminaire requires standard AC power distribution from 100-240 VAC, 50/60 Hz in order to
power all internal electronics and motors. It is equipped with a 3-pole Neutrik® PowerCon® locking
connector (with contacts for line, neutral, and premating safety grounds) for the purpose of AC input.

Wire* Connection

Green/Yellow AC Ground

Blue AC Neutral

Brown AC Line

*International (Harmonized) Standard

Note: The mating Neutrik PowerCon® connector is supplied, however, you will need to purchase or
construct a cable appropriate for your application.

3-Pole Neutrik PowerCon Locking

Connector for AC Input Power

Neutrik PowerCon
Connector (supplied)

10 15 April 2010 02.9 690.0001 A

Figure 2-1: Power Connector

INSTALLATION : POWER AND DATA CABLING REQUIREMENTS

Current vs. Voltage

The following tables provide the luminaire’s current draw at specific voltages.

Table 2-1: VLX Wash Luminaire - Current vs. Voltage*

Voltage (VAC) @ 60Hz Current (A)

100 9.0
110 8.2
120 7.5
130 6.9
140 6.4
150 6.0
160 5.6
170 5.3
180 5.0
190 4.7
200 4.5
210 4.3
220 4.1
230 3.9
240 3.8

2

*Currents given are worst case with all motors sequencing.

02.9690.0001 A 15 April 2010 11

VARI❋LITE® - VLX™ WASH LUMINAIRE USER’S MANUAL

Data Cables

The VLX™ Wash Luminaire is equipped with two, 5-pin XLR connectors for DATA IN and DATA
THRU (out) applications. DATA IN requires a 5-pin, female XLR connector and DATA THRU
requires a 5-pin, male XLR connector. When purchasing or constructing data cables, it is important
that not only the correct cable type be used, but also quality cable to ensure a reliable DMX512 system.
Your cabling should meet the following USITT DMX specification requirements:

• Suitable for use with EIA485 (RS485) operation at 250k baud.

• Characteristic impedance 85-150 ohms, nominally 120 ohms.

• Low capacitance.

• Two twisted pairs.

• Foil and braid shielded.

• 24 AWG minimum gauge for runs up to 1000 feet (300m).

• 22 AWG minimum gauge for runs up to 1640 feet (500m).

Note: Microphone type cables and other general purpose, two-core audio or signal cables are not
suitable for use with DMX512.

The XLR 5-pin connectors should be wired as follows:

Pin/Wire Code to XLR Connectors

Data Thru

Cable Pinout

1

2

Male Conn

4

3

Pin 1

Foil &

Braided

Shield

5

Pin 2

1st

conductor

of 1st

twisted

pair

Data (-)

Pin 3

2nd

conductor

of 1st

twisted

pair

Data (+)

Pin 4

1st

conductor

of 2nd

twisted

pair

Data (-)

Pin 5

2nd

conductor

of 2nd

twisted

pair

Data (+)

Data In

Cable Pinout

5

4

Female Conn

2

3

1

Note: Refer to the USITT Recommended Practice for DMX512 guide for additional information
regarding DMX512 systems. How to obtain a copy is detailed in “Additional Documentation” on

page 1.

12 15 April 2010 02.9 690.0001 A

INSTALLATION : POWER AND DATA CABLING REQUIREMENTS

2

Recommended Cable Types/Manufacturers

These are only a few of the suitable cable types. Any quality EIA485, twisted pair, 120 ohm, shielded
cable will also work.

Table 2-2: Recommended Cable Types

Type Pairs

1215A 2 150 PVC 26 IBM Type 6 Office cable 75
1269A 2 100 PTFE 22 (Solid) High Temp, Plenum cable 200

8102 2 100 PVC 24 UL2919 80
8132 2 120 PVC 28 UL2919 80

8162 2 100 PVC 24 UL2493 60
82729 2 100 PTFE 24 High Temp, Plenum cable 200
88102 2 100 PTFE 24 High Temp, Plenum cable 200
89696 2 100 PTFE 22 High Temp, Plenum cable 200
89729 2 100 PTFE 24 High Temp, Plenum cable 200
89855 2 100 PTFE 22 High Temp, Plenum cable 200

9729 2 100 PVC 24 UL2493 60

9804 2 100 PVC 28 UL2960 60

9829 2 100 PVC 24 UL2919 80

9842 2 120 PVC 24 UL2919 80

PC224P 2 110 Polyure-

PC224T 2 110 PVC 22 UL2464 105
PC226T 3 110 PVC 22 UL2464

ZΩ

∗

Jacket AWG Use Temp (F)

Belden Cables

Proplex Cables

22 Heavy Duty and Portable 105

thane

* Characteristic Impedance

Male Termination Connector

A male XLR termination connector is required at the last luminaire (or
“far end of the line”) to prevent signal reflections. Signal reflections may
cancel out the signal at certain line lengths, resulting in errors. The
terminator is also necessary for software downloads and running tests on
multiple luminaires.

To construct your own connector, you will need the

following components:

• 5-pin, male XLR connector.

• Two 1/4W 5% 120 ohm resistors.

Note: A male termination connector is also available as an accessory from Vari-Lite. See

“Replacement Items/Accessories” on page 5.

02.9690.0001 A 15 April 2010 13

1

2

Solder resistors across
pins 2 & 3, and 4 & 5

5

4

3