What is the light console?

The Lighting Console (or Lighting Control Desk) is a core control device used to control lighting equipment in scenes such as stage, performance, and construction. By sending signals (such as DMX512, Art-Net, sACN and other protocols) to adjust the luminance, color, movement, effect and other parameters, to achieve complex lighting scenes and dynamic changes.

1. The core function of the lighting console

Control lamps: adjust conventional lights, LED lights, shaking head lights, laser lights, smoke machines, etc.

Programming scene: Store and call the light cue (scene) to achieve automatic changes.

Effects engine: Generates dynamic lighting effects (such as stroboscopic, color gradient, pixel mapping).

Timeline control: Accurately synchronize light changes with music, video (for theater, concerts).

Multi-device collaboration: Support multi-console networking or remote control (such as iPad control).

2. The working principle of the lighting console

Signal output: The console sends the control signal via DMX line, network (Art-Net/sACN) or wireless.

Luminaire response: After the luminaire receives the signal, adjust the brightness, color, position and other parameters.

Programming and execution:

Manual control: real-time adjustment by push rod, knob, button.

Automatic run: Perform pre-programmed light shows (Cue List, Timecode).

3. Common control protocols

DMX512: The most basic wired light control protocol (512 channels /Universe).

Art-Net/sACN: Based on network (LAN/Wi-Fi), supports more channels.

RDM: Remote device management to monitor luminaire status.

DALI: Mainly used for architectural lighting.