User manual

ChamSys Ltd www.chamsys.co.uk
MagicQ User Manual 108 Version 1.3.0.0
17.3 Using text and bitmap FX on Grids
The bitmaps and text are controlled using bitmap layers – each layer is controlled like a normal moving
light – i.e. it is patched as a virtual personality (generic bitmap.hed). The personality has channels to
select the bitmap or text, channels for X, Y position and size, rotate and master levels for red, green and
blue. Multiple layers can be used to mix between the layers using add, subtract, min, max or invert
colour mix modes.
First, patch one or more generic bitmaps. Each bitmap layer uses 32 channels from the output channels.
Once patched these channels can not be used for controlling real lights. It is best to patch generic
bitmap layers to unused universes or to free spaces in the universes you are using.
17.4 Setting a base level for the bitmap
In order to use the bitmap and text FX there must first be a base level set for each of the heads in the
grid. Select all of the fixtures and then program a Cue with all of the levels (Blue, Green and Red) at
zero level. This Cue must be active on a Playback for the bitmap/text FX to be enabled onto the grid.
The level recorded, will be used as the base level to which the bitmap / text FX is added. Generally it is
best to record a base level of zero.
This feature can be used to enable different parts of the grids. Only the parts of the grid that have a base
level controlled by an active Playback will output. If you use this as part of a Chase to sequentially
output different parts of the grid then make sure you set the “Rel Old Chans” option in the Cue Stack
for each of the chase steps.
17.5 Using bitmaps
Select the bitmap layer and press LOCATE to set the bitmap layer to its defaults.
The Beam parameters of the Bitmap layer will default to Bitmap Page 1 and Bitmap 1. Use the
encoders to select different Bitmaps.
The Bitmap generator contains a library of standard bitmap patterns on Bitmap Page 0. These patterns
are automatically sized to the size of your grid.