Fixture Manager Manual
Fixture Manager Manual
This document aims to help users learn how to use our Fixture Manager application. With this app,
you can make a 'Fixture Personality' file for DMX lights that we don't already have in our library.
A Fixture Personality file is a file that describes the behaviour of a light fixture based on its DMX
footprint.
These files can be kept locally on your hard drive or can be sent to our servers to be shared with
other users.
We have the application available for both Windows and Mac users.
Windows
Download the Fixture Manager .exe installer file from our website.
Press ‘Next’, choose a Start Menu Folder, the default location should be fine.
Press Continue.
Read through the license agreement and press Continue if you agree.
Press Install to start the installation process, you might be asked to give your password to allow for
the installation.
This window then confirms a successful installation, afterwards you can move the installer file to the
bin.
The account we use for access to our servers can be created on the InMusic Brands platform here:
https://profile.inmusicbrands.com/
All personality files created by you in the future will be connected to this account.
NOTE: Please note that this account is not connected to your iLok account which we use to manage
the software licensing of the SoundSwitch desktop application, you can use the same email account for
both.
UI Elements
• Menu Bar: This is where you find various options and settings, explained later.
• Workspace: Here, you see a list of the personality files you're working on. They are color-
coded: yellow means the fixture ID is on the Cloud, red means there's something wrong with
the personality.
• Edit section: this area will change based on the active selection in the Workspace and will
allow you to set values.
• Fixture Library: this area allows you to browse the currently selected server and search for a
specific manufacturer or fixture.
• Status Output (debug): You usually won't need to use this. It's hidden unless the
SoundSwitch support team asks you to find information in it.
• Status Bar: this area at the bottom shows the currently used user account and the status of
the currently selected server.
File Menu
New Fixture
This creates a new fixture entry in the Workspace.
Open Fixture…
This allows a user to load a fixture from file into the Workspace.
Save Workspace
This saves the status of the current Workspace.
Cloud Menu
Change User
This will allow you to switch to the InMusic Brands Profile of a different user.
NOTE: SoundSwitch does NOT GUARANTEE the correct functionality of the files on the public server.
They are to be used at your own risk, but we do understand that they can get you out of trouble.
The SoundSwitch support team will monitor the public server and periodically transfer files from
Public to Production.
NOTE: Users are not allowed to read all personalities on the Production server, as some
personalities originated from 3rd parties and the licensing does not allow us to share those files’
content.
Fixture Library
This shows/hides the Fixture Library section.
Status Output
This shows/hides the Status Output section.
Fixtures Menu
Transfer to Public Cloud
Use this option to send the personality you've selected to the public server. This is also how you upload
any changes you've made to a profile you created.
Check Fixture
Click here to check the data in the personality you've selected, making sure it's correct.
Help Menu
Under Mac this can be found under the application menu.
About
Here the user can find the version number of the application and the license information.
Documentation
Here the user can find the user manual.
This section of the UI shows the content of the currently selected server.
Production: These are official fixture personalities created by the SoundSwitch team.
Public: Public personalities are profiles made by SoundSwitch users and shared on the public
server.
Local: Local personalities are fixtures you've created using the Fixture Manager, saved in your
workspace. You'll only see fixtures here that you've personally created.
Undocking the Fixture Library: You can move the Fixture Library away from the main application
window and place it anywhere on your desktop.
Note: In the Fixtures table on the left, you'll see fixture modes. You only need to move a fixture to the
Workspace once, not for every mode. Modes are shown so you can quickly see if a particular
fixture/mode combination exists without opening it in the Workspace.
1. Clicking: You can add fixtures by clicking on them. This action puts them into the workspace.
However, to ensure that these fixtures stay in the workspace, you must click the "Save to
Workspace" button. This action locks them in place.
The window can be undocked from the main application and placed anywhere on the user’s
desktop.
2. Click on "File."
This action will generate a new, blank entry in the Workspace. The initial information you need to
provide includes:
- Manufacturer: Choose the manufacturer of the fixture from the available options.
We recommend using a detailed and descriptive model name for your fixtures. For instance, it's better
to avoid names like "HS-189" and instead opt for something like "Hybrid Spot HS-189". Additionally,
unless the manufacturer specifically uses '-' or '_', please use spaces instead of these characters in the
model name. This helps create more informative and user-friendly fixture names.
To add a mode, simply click the [+] button located on the right side. This action will automatically
select the new mode in the workspace, making it ready for further configuration.
For each mode, you need to set the 'Mode Name' and specify the number of DMX channels that the
fixture uses in that mode.
To find this information, consult the user manual or the DMX chart that came with the fixture.
Typically, these details are provided when you purchase a new fixture.
Note on Mode Naming: It's advisable to use the same mode naming convention as the manufacturer's
manual. This can be either numerical (Mode 1, Mode 2, ...) or description-based (Basic, Extended, ...).
Aligning with the manufacturer's naming convention makes it easier for other users to identify the correct
mode to select.
The 'Auto' checkbox next to the DMX channel count serves a helpful purpose. When checked, it
allows the number of DMX channels to automatically adjust as you add and define DMX channels in
a later phase. This feature simplifies the process by ensuring that the channel count stays up-to-date
without manual adjustments.
When you add a new cell to the workspace, it's automatically selected. The first thing we
recommend you do is update the cell name at the top to reflect its purpose or function.
The default attributes are initially not assigned to any DMX channels, which is indicated by both the
"Coarse" and "Fine" columns showing as 0. This setup allows for quick and flexible personality
creation. If your fixture doesn't require these default attributes, you can use the [-] button at the
bottom to remove them or the "Remove Unused" button which will remove all Attributes that do
not have a value set in the "Coarse" or "Fine" columns.
• Attribute: In this dropdown list, you can select the attribute you want to assign to the cell.
• Description: This is a text description of the attribute. Sometimes attributes have different
names for a similar function. We recommend using the name provided by the manufacturer
in the manual. If in doubt, use the same name as our attribute.
• Num Channels: This indicates the number of DMX channels used by that attribute, which
can be either 1 or 2.
• Coarse & Fine: These fields hold the DMX offset in the DMX chart. For attributes that use
only 1 DMX channel, you need to enter a value in the "Coarse" field, while the "Fine" field
remains 0.
• R start & end: These values represent the range for the attribute. Typically, it will be 0 to
255 for a single DMX channel attribute or 0 to 65535 for a dual DMX channel attribute.
• Wheel: This dropdown selection lists predefined wheels that you can use for the attribute.
After you've created a fixture personality in our software, it's important to validate it to ensure
everything is correct. This verification step is called "Fixture Verification" and can be accessed in the
Menu Bar under "Fixtures" > "Check Fixture."
If the verification process encounters an issue and doesn't succeed, the fixture entry will turn red,
and the specific reason for the failure will be displayed in the Status Output section. This helps you
quickly identify and address any problems with the fixture personality.
1. Select a fixture from the workspace: Choose the fixture you want to upload from your workspace.
2. In the menu bar, click "Fixtures": This is where you access fixture-related actions.
3. Click "Check Fixture": Before uploading, it's a good practice to check the fixture for any issues.
4. In the menu bar, click "Fixtures" again: This will allow you to access more fixture-related actions.
5. Click "Transfer to Public Cloud": This action uploads the selected fixture personality to the public
server, making it available for other users.
1. Use Files on Public Server at Your Own Risk: SoundSwitch does not guarantee the correct
functionality of files on the public server. You use them at your own risk.
2. Blocking Users for Abuse: SoundSwitch reserves the right to block users from our public server if
they are found to be abusing it. However, these users can still use their files locally.
3. Monitoring and File Transfers: The SoundSwitch support team will monitor the public server and
may periodically transfer files from the public server to the production server. Files may disappear
from the public server once they are available on the production server.
4. Removing Personalities: SoundSwitch reserves the right to remove personalities from the public
server when deemed necessary. This can be due to various reasons, including duplication of a
personality on the production server, an excessive number of copies of the same personality,
personality faults, inappropriate content, and more.
5. Backup Local Files: Users are encouraged to keep their local files and create backups.
SoundSwitch does not guarantee the integrity or availability of the server, so it's important to have
your own copies of your work.
1. Official Support Platform: You can access our official support platform at
https://support.soundswitch.com/
Here, you'll find resources and assistance to help you with any technical issues.
2. SoundSwitch Fixture Manager Facebook Group: We also have a dedicated Facebook group called
the "SoundSwitch Fixture Manager Facebook Group," which you can join here:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/soundswitchfixturegroup
While our support team does monitor this group, please note that it primarily serves as a community
platform where users can help each other. It is not an official support channel.
We're here to help you, so feel free to use these platforms to get the assistance you need, whether
it's through our official support or the helpful community on Facebook.
• Fixture: In the context of this manual, this is any DMX controllable device, such as a par can,
moving head, laser, or video server.
• Fixture Library: A collection of personality files that describe the DMX layout and
functionality of DMX fixtures for use with the SoundSwitch Desktop application.
• Personality: A file that describes the DMX layout and functionality of a DMX fixture for use
with the SoundSwitch Desktop application.
• Workspace: The area where you manage and work on personality files, color-coded to
indicate fixture status (yellow for fixtures on the Cloud, red for fixtures with issues).
• Edit Section: An area in the Workspace that changes based on the active selection and
allows you to configure values for the selected fixture.
• Status Output: A section of the user interface that displays debug information, typically used
when seeking support from the SoundSwitch team.
• Status Bar: The area at the bottom of the user interface that shows the currently used user
account and the status of the currently selected server.
• Menu Bar: The top part of the user interface where you find various options and settings,
including File, Cloud, View, Fixtures, and Help menus.
• File Menu: Contains options for creating new fixtures, opening fixtures from files, saving
fixtures, and saving the Workspace's status.
• Cloud Menu: Allows you to change users and manage fixture files on the public server, but
with a disclaimer that files on the public server are used at your own risk.
• View Menu: Handles how the application appears to the user, including options to
show/hide the Fixture Library and Status Output sections and enter full-screen mode.
• Fixtures Menu: Contains options for transferring fixtures to and from the public Cloud,
checking fixture data for correctness, and transferring all fixtures to the Cloud.
• Help Menu: Provides information about the application, including its version number and
license details, and offers access to the user manual.
• Fixture Creation: The process of defining a new fixture profile, including specifying the
manufacturer, model, modes, cells, and attributes for the fixture.
• Fixture Verification: The process of checking the correctness and integrity of a fixture profile
to ensure it works as expected.
• Fixture Personality: A file that describes the behavior of a light fixture based on its DMX
footprint, used for controlling DMX lights in the SoundSwitch software.
• DMX: A standard protocol used to control and communicate with lighting fixtures and other
devices in the entertainment industry.
• DMX Footprint: The configuration of DMX channels and their functions for a particular
lighting fixture.
• Attribute: A control point for a fixture's function that may span over one or two DMX
channels, allowing for precise control.
• Cell: A representation of different surfaces that emit light in a fixture, allowing individual
control of these surfaces.
• Manufacturer: The company that produces the lighting fixture.
• Model: The specific name or model number of the lighting fixture.
• Mode: A specific operating mode of a lighting fixture, defined by the number of DMX
channels it requires.
This guide will help you understand how to create a fixture profile for a 7-channel RGB Par Can. This
profile will allow you to control the lighting fixture through DMX. Let's go through the steps using
the "Chauvet - SlimPAR 56" as an example.
Below we have added an example we will be using the “Chauvet - SlimPAR 56”
2. Click on "File" and select "New Fixture." This action will generate a new, empty entry in the
Workspace, where you can build your fixture profile.
2. In the "Model" field, enter the complete model name of your fixture. In this instance, input
"SlimPAR 56."
2. Enter the number of channels associated with this mode. For our example, we're creating a profile
for the 7-channel mode. Enter the value "7" in the designated field.
NOTE: Please note that you can add multiple modes if your fixture supports them. Some fixtures may
have various operating modes, each requiring a different number of channels. Refer to the fixture's
manual for this information. By following these steps, you'll be able to create a fixture profile for your
RGB Par Can, such as the Chauvet SlimPAR 56, and control it effectively using DMX. Make sure to
consult the fixture's manual for accurate DMX information and any additional modes the fixture might
offer.
Note: Since this fixture only has a single control cell, you only need to create one cell for it.
2. Begin by entering the RGB values. Since each function uses just one channel, put "1" in the "Num
Channels" column.
3. Fill in the "Coarse" column with the channel value for each RGB function.
4. When encountering functions like the Color Macro on CH 4, which SoundSwitch doesn't directly
control, add it as an Attribute. In the description field for the first attribute, input "Color Macros" as
shown in the screenshot. (Please use a descriptive name when creating Attributes as this name will
be used in the Attribute Cues menu in SoundSwitch. Include the required "Number of Channels" and
"Coarse" value.
5. Continue completing the rest of the profile by filling in the necessary fields for each function.
6. Remove any default functions that aren't used or have "0" in the "Num Channels" column.
2. In the bottom left corner of the Fixture Manager Window, you'll see an output confirming
whether the fixture passes the integrity test.
3. Once the integrity check is successful, you can upload the profile to the Public Server for use.
By following these steps, you'll be able to create and validate a fixture profile effectively. Remember
to consult the fixture manual for accurate DMX data input.
Below we have added an example we will be using the “Chauvet - Intimidator Hybrid 140SR”
2. Click on "File" and select "New Fixture." This action will generate a new, empty entry in the
Workspace, where you can build your fixture profile.
2. In the "Model" field, enter the complete model name of your fixture. In this instance, input
"Intimidator Hybrid 140SR"
2. Enter the number of channels associated with this mode. For our example, we're creating a profile
for the 19-channel mode. Enter the value "19" in the designated field.
Note: Please note that you can add multiple modes if your fixture supports them. Some fixtures may
have various operating modes, each requiring a different number of channels. Refer to the fixture's
manual for this information.
By following these steps, you'll be able to create a fixture profile for your Moving Head, such as the
Chauvet Intimidator Hybrid 140SR, and control it effectively using DMX. Make sure to consult the
fixture's manual for accurate DMX information and any additional modes the fixture might offer.
1. Refer to the fixture manual to identify features like the "Color Wheel," which we'll start by
configuring.
2. Assign Colors to the Wheel by selecting the Color Cell in the Color Row and adding the color.
Include Range Start and Range End values for each Color.
2. Find the default Color Wheel Attribute and assign the channel value (e.g., channel 6) and the
previously created Color Wheel in the "Wheel" Column.
2. Both Pan and Tilt Functions need "Fine" channels. Enter "2" as the number of channels.
3. Put "1" in the "Coarse" column and "2" in the "Fine" Column.
2. For instance, to set the Strobe, choose the appropriate channel (e.g., channel 17).
3. In the left workspace pane, select the Strobe Attribute to input individual values.
4. Use the "Add" option to create entries for "Shutter Closed," "Shutter Strobe," and "Shutter Open."
2. Other functions should be set as Attributes for the Attribute Cue control in SoundSwitch.
Final Steps
1. Remove unnecessary Attributes from the profile or attributes with "0" in the "Num Channels"
column.
Following these steps, you'll accurately enter DMX data and create a comprehensive fixture profile.
Always consult the fixture manual for precise configuration details.
1. Once the fixture profile is fully completed, go to "Menu Bar > Fixtures > Check Fixture."
2. In the bottom left corner of the Fixture Manager Window, you'll see an output confirming
whether the fixture passes the integrity test.
3. Once the integrity check is successful, you can upload the profile to the Public Server for use.
By following these steps, you'll be able to create and validate a fixture profile effectively. Remember
to consult the fixture manual for accurate DMX data input.
Below we have added an example we will be using the “Chauvet - Freedom Stick”
2. Click on "File" and select "New Fixture." This action will generate a new, empty entry in the
Workspace, where you can build your fixture profile.
1. In the new entry, select the "Manufacturer" from the dropdown list. For our example, choose
"Chauvet."
2. In the "Model" field, enter the complete model name of your fixture. In this instance, input
"Freedom Stick"
1. Click on the "Add Mode" option. This step allows you to define a specific operating mode for your
fixture.
2. Enter the number of channels associated with this mode. For our example, we're creating a profile
for the 50-channel mode. Enter the value "50" in the designated field.
NOTE: Please note that you can add multiple modes if your fixture supports them. Some fixtures may
have various operating modes, each requiring a different number of channels. Refer to the fixture's
manual for this information.
By following these steps, you'll be able to create a fixture profile for your Moving Head, such as the
Chauvet Freedom Stick, and control it effectively using DMX. Make sure to consult the fixture's manual
for accurate DMX information and any additional modes the fixture might offer.
2. Check the fixture manual for details; in the 50CH mode, for instance, there are 16 controllable
cells/LEDs, so for that mode, create 16 cells.
3. Additionally, this fixture has a Master Dimmer and Strobe. To manage these functions, craft a
"MASTER" cell, ensuring its label is in uppercase as "MASTER" – a crucial format for SoundSwitch's
usage.
Note: The capitalization of "MASTER" is essential to enable SoundSwitch's recognition of this cell's
special role.
1. With individual cells in place, begin adding the required data for each cell. Along the way,
remember to eliminate any unneeded Attributes in each cell for cleaner configuration.
2. Referring to "Step 5" Now, focus on incorporating DMX data for the Master Dimmer and
Master Strobe within the established "MASTER" cell. This central cell is where the DMX
Information for these two key functions should reside.
1. Once the fixture profile is fully completed, go to "Menu Bar > Fixtures > Check Fixture."
2. In the bottom left corner of the Fixture Manager Window, you'll see an output confirming
whether the fixture passes the integrity test.
3. Once the integrity check is successful, you can upload the profile to the Public Server for use.
By following these steps, you'll be able to create and validate a fixture profile effectively. Remember
to consult the fixture manual for accurate DMX data input.