Servo - August 2016

provide additional channels (see

Figure 11). We would not be able to do many of the sequences in our show without it!

These boards come with a solderless breadboard that simplifies design prototyping. Once I verify that my circuit is working properly, I transfer it to the more permanent circuit overlay board to insure all my connections stay secure.

For those super adventurous builders looking for a complete show control solution, you might consider a DMX system. I have chosen a hybrid method with the majority of my lighting and a few key “shows” on the DMX setup. In the event that it does go down, I still have some lighting and most of the props which operate using their own independent controllers.

My primary control box is tied to my computer via a Cat5 cable and controls my floodlights. Daisy chained to this is a series of auxiliary boxes that can be utilized to control individual show sequences. These boxes can be placed next to each scene in order to minimize the amount of wiring required (refer to

Figure 12 and Figure 13).

The DIY product that I have chosen to go with is the Renard series. It is mainly a Christmas light controller and was perfected by the Christmas lighting community (see Resources). If you are interested in learning more about these systems, I suggest you visit one of the sites like diychristmas.org and introduce yourself. There is a wealth of information to get you started and plenty of willing people to answer any questions you may have.

My software of choice to run this system is free and is called Vixen (see

Resources). It may require a little extra time to learn on your part, but the cost savings over the commercially available options makes it worth it to me. If you would like to check out a similar commercially available product,

take a look at Light-O-Rama which provides not only the software but the hardware as well (see Resources).

Time to Let the Controllers Run the Show

I have only scratched the surface of the potential controller options available to you. In addition to those discussed, I have included some other alternatives with the Resources.

Our prop controllers operate out of sight and are the unsung heroes of our displays. However, the job they play can make or break the performance we have so carefully prepared.

Check out the options and find the controllers that fit your style. Your show will be better off as a result!

If you have any questions about these or have a project where you have used one, please share it with the rest of the community on the forum. You can find it at http://tinyurl.com/hu6pxtz.