In theatrical productions, lighting is not just a background but a full-fledged character that emphasizes the mood, guides the audience through the action, and helps actors ‘tell’ the story. Let’s consider how to assemble a ‘smart’ lighting system based on the Sundrax GigaJet20 Pro for a dramatic or musical performance.
1. Stage Architecture
- Actor Tracking. Using a system like BlackTrax or Mo-Sys, we attach beacons to the performers’ costumes and transmit their coordinates via RTTrPL.
- Conversion to DMX. The GigaJet20 Pro receives RTTrPL packets via Ethernet or through an SFP module and converts them to DMX512. Inside, there is a built-in, 3-port gigabit switch, an optical media converter, and up to 20 galvanically isolated DMX channels. entertainment.sundrax.com
- Console Control. The console (for example, grandMA3 or Hog 4) can directly ‘see’ the tracking universe via Art-Net/sACN or read a copy of the signal from one of the GigaJet’s DMX outputs.
2. Fiber Optic Network
Fiber optics are indispensable in theater: they are not susceptible to interference from makeup lamps and theatrical pyrotechnics, and they allow lines to be laid up to 10 kilometers without repeaters. In the GigaJet, a single-mode SFP module is installed. Then, a second one is added as a backup. However, in case of a break in the main path, the automatic ‘backup’ switches the stream to the reserve channel.
3. Quick Start and Fine-Tuning
- Web Interface. Enter the IP, activate PoE (to power accessories), and set the secondary Master IP for reliable connection.
- Universe Mapping. Assign the RTTrPL universe in PRIORITY mode so that tracking signals are not ‘suppressed’ by the console’s faders.
- Merging Modes. AUTO-merge or HTP-merge provide natural blending of tracking coordinates and the operator’s Art-Net commands.
- Ports. Allocate outputs 1–12 for moving heads, and 13–20 for static spotlights, profile lights, and effect strobes.
4. Integration into Theater Software
- First, register a new universe for RTTrPL in the console software.
- Second, create ‘Pan/Tilt’ and ‘Intensity’ palettes for quick switching to ‘follow-spot’ mode.
- Third, write a macro where, upon activation of a zone on stage, the corresponding spotlight receives the command to ‘follow the beacon’.
5. Practical Example
For example, in the drama Romeo and Juliet, an actress in a ballet tutu steps onto the balcony. Then, tracking system sends her coordinates, the GigaJet instantly converts them to DMX, and the spotlight smoothly follows her, maintaining the correct angle and intensity until she returns behind the curtain.
6. Increasing Reliability
- Duplicate power supply: PoE + powerCON TRUE1 network connector.
- For major premieres, connect two GigaJets in a master-slave configuration. However, if one fails, the second takes over the load.
This solution turns theatrical lighting into a precise tool for the director. In the end, scenes come to life, and technical risks are minimized.