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[Gus Housen]

I am looking for some kind of options for using a spare laptop for a lighting contoller for shows. I would like some kind of reliable usb/firewire etc interface and software. Something that I can learn and then if i like it get something better but not too different( if thats even possible) Mostly to run conventional pars and Led pars and bars may be a moving head.

Can anyone suggest something inexpensive that i should look @?

[Carey Hoffman]

I am looking for some kind of options for using a spare laptop for a lighting contoller for shows. I would like some kind of reliable usb/firewire etc interface and software. Something that I can learn and then if i like it get something better but not too different( if thats even possible) Mostly to run conventional pars and Led pars and bars may be a moving head.

Can anyone suggest something inexpensive that i should look @?

Gus,  I have used a program called QLC for a couple of years, with a USB interface by Enttec.  The software is free, and the interface was really pretty reasonable.  I set it up in a club system that uses Trackspots, LED panels, LED PARS, and some ColorPros.  It's not a bad solution for under $300!

[Kyle Clark]

I am looking for some kind of options for using a spare laptop for a lighting contoller for shows. I would like some kind of reliable usb/firewire etc interface and software. Something that I can learn and then if i like it get something better but not too different( if thats even possible) Mostly to run conventional pars and Led pars and bars may be a moving head.

Can anyone suggest something inexpensive that i should look @?

Add DMXIS by enttec to your list of ones to check out.

[James Feenstra]

chamsys magic q pc + enttec dongle = 1 universe of lighting for under $100

[Gus Housen]

Add DMXIS by enttec to your list of ones to check out.

DMXIS looks pretty sweet

Looking for more suggestions

[alan hamilton]

I am looking for some kind of options for using a spare laptop for a lighting contoller for shows. I would like some kind of reliable usb/firewire etc interface and software. Something that I can learn and then if i like it get something better but not too different( if thats even possible) Mostly to run conventional pars and Led pars and bars may be a moving head.

Can anyone suggest something inexpensive that i should look @?

Chamsys (free download)
It works well with the Enttec dongle (I have the Enttec Pro). No real limitations as long as you only use one universe.

They also have their own USB dongle you can buy. For dirt cheap (around 20.00) they have a time limited dongle (it'll work for I think 5 hrs and then you need to restart the software). For 100.00 or so dollars they have the unlimited time version.

The thing is with the Chamsys it's basically like you're at their console. Don't expect it to be like operating some Windows based software controller with right clicks and sub menus.... Using the mouse is just like if your fingers were pushing buttons and turning knobs on the actual hardware.

If you've ran a Hog console then the Chamsys learning curve won't be tough at all. If you've only really worked with dual scene analog consoles or PC based DJ type lighting software then expect to have some questions and a learning curve to go through. Especially if you don't have anybody with Hog (or Chamsys) experience to lean on to help you understand some concepts.

I've messed with Freestyler software and it's OK for what it is. It's certainly easier to get a grasp on if you don't understand Hog syntax. But learning the Chamsys Magic Q software will pay dividends not only in how powerful the software is for your light show, but because once you know the Chamsys stuff the learning curve for running into a Hog console at a gig down the road won't be hard at all.

Chamsys also has wings that can be added so you have real handles and buttons....

Good luck Gus

[Thomas Bishop]

I also use MagicQ with their $100 dongle.

[Bill Bluell]

I also use MagicQ with their $100 dongle.

Id like to know where you found the dongle for around 100.00 . I cant seem to find one for that price

[Rob Spence]

You buy it from Chamsys.



Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Thomas Bishop]

http://chamsys.co.uk/magicdmx

I have three of them so I can send out multiple rigs and/or run multiple universes/systems on one gig.

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