Stage Lighting: Automated Fixtures

Automated fixtures, or “intelligent lighting” for the stage are different than traditional, stationary illumination fixtures because they can perform complicated effects and create spectacular scenes. Of course, it may be more appropriate to call it 'obedient' lighting because the performance of this type of lighting is really the result of the skills of the programmer or lighting operator.

An automated light is designed to replace multiple stationery lights. Depending on the venue and application, automated luminaires can be a great addition to traditional lights. When programmed effectively, they can alter the 'personality' of the light. In fact, these lights can be pre-programmed and played back whenever needed. In addition, they can be controlled live if the operator has been well trained. Intelligent lights are used mostly in theatres, concerts and nightclubs, and are grouped into two categories: 'active' and 'passive'

Passive use of intelligent lights involves performing tasks which would otherwise require many traditional lights. In this format, you could have six to eight moving heads create a textured blue 'night' effect on the stage floor. Upon your direction, the moving heads could change to a red 'fire' effect or anything else the show requires. Of course, traditional lights could be used for this too, but with the automated kind, you reduce the number of lights needed.

You can also use automated lights to perform tasks that would be impossible with standard lights, or require a human. If you want a bunch of white beams focused on the stage, you would need a human operator seated directly above the stage with a followspot. Or – you could use intelligent lights to do it for you, at less cost and in a safer environment.

The Latest Technology

In terms of control, moving heads are usually manipulated using the DMX protocol. Each fixture is assigned a block of DMX "channels" in one of the venue's DMX "universes". The central lighting desk transmits data on these channels which the intelligent fixture interprets as value settings for each of its many variables, including color, pattern, focus, prism, pan (horizontal swing), tilt (vertical swing), rotation speed, and animation.

Next, is the use of Ethernet cable, which the latest moving heads feature. Some of the most modern fixtures use RJ-45 or Ethernet cabling for data transfer. Why do we need this? Increased bandwidth is almost required to control increasingly complicated effects.

About Angstrom Lighting
Angstrom Lighting is a full-service lighting and special effects supplier serving the entertainment industry since 1977.  The company rents, sells and services lighting equipment for corporate and special events, theatre, trade shows, schools, churches, architectural applications and film.  The company also offers production design, installation, consultation services & educational programs and has collaborated with such noted clients as the Hollywood Bowl, Hollywood & Highland, Morongo Casino, Thinkwell Design & Production, American Girl Place and Los Angeles International Airports.  Angstrom Lighting is a member of ESTA, USITT, the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce, the California Chamber of Commerce, and the Better Business Bureau, including the BBB Online program protecting e-commerce. 

Angstrom Lighting offers the best stage lighting, theater or theatrical lighting, concert lighting, dj lighting, video lighting, party lighting, event lighting and lighting rental fixtures, lighting supplies, lighting equipment, lighting design and lighting education in the industry.

Angstrom Lighting is located in Hollywood, California; additional information can be found at http://www.angstromlighting.com

Click Here to see Additional Angstrom Lighting Articles

Click Here to see Angstrom's full line of products