P3 Processing vs. DMX Control

Martin Professional makes some great creative video products that can add excitement and imagery to any production or architectural installations.  All the products including VDO Sceptron, Exterior Pixline, and VC grids, strips, and dots can be controlled by either DMX or via the Martin P3 system controller.

With DMX you simply address each product via RDM and then use a lighting controller or media server to map the control of the pixels.  However there are many downsides to using DMX to control pixels and display video.  These include latency, poor smoothing, steppiness, artifacts, and synchronization problems.  Although many productions can be successful when controlled by DMX, most users prefer the P3 control system for the best video playback on any of Martin's video products.

The P3 system controller allows not just easy setup and configuration of a video system, but it also processes video input exceptionally well.  With a range of products available including the P3-100, P3-200, P3-300, and P3-PC the system is totally scale-able depending on the number of pixels you wish to control.  Plus for no cost, you can use P3-PC to prepare your video mappings and use test program for setups. (See this previous post about P3-PC)


The P3 system controllers also have the ability to receive 2-way communication from each connected device.  This allows for easy identification and setup as well as thermal reporting and throttling.  The P3 system is much more than a video processor as it provides many control possibilities.  Color temperature adjustments, on-the-fly mapping changes, as well as gamma adjustments are just some of the robust features.   In addition, users can now install P3 onto Hippotizer V4 media servers from GreenHippo.  This functionality allows direct P3 control and processing to be output from the media server itself.

To fully understand the difference between using DMX and a P3 system controller check out this video that details the differences:

Martin P3 DMX Control is Awesome!

The Martin P3 processor is an amazing tool for controlling Martin creative video products such as the VDO Face 5, VDO Sceptron, and VDO Creative Pixels.  I have written about the benefits before on this blog.  A new feature adds incredible control possibilities when combined with a DMX lighting console.

In short, you can modify via DMX (or Art-Net) intensity, color, rotation and other parameters for each object within the P3 system.  Additional system-wide controls provide easy access to presets, global intensity, color temperature, and much more.  Any modifications then made via DMX override the video that is currently playing through the P3.  This allows designers to create exciting imagery directly from their lighting console.  In other words, the video elements become lighting elements or combination units that can do both video and lighting!

Once you have added fixtures to your P3 layout, click on the "DMX & Motion" button on the top bar of P3.  This will open the DMX & Motion screen.  On the left you will see a list of control types and on the right tabs for DMX, Art-Net, and K2.  To configure the DMX control you need to tell P3 what you want to control and with which DMX channels.  You can simply click and drag items from the left section to the right, but it is much easier to use the wizard.

Click on the wizard button on P3's top bar to open the "DMX Control Wizard".  You will be guided through several options to setup and configure your DMX control.  First you can select if you want to control fixtures together, individually, in groups or other options.

Next you select DMX or Art-Net input and then decide what type of control you want for each.

The next screen refers to the layout of the DMX channels and asks if you want the order to be grouped by parameters or by fixture.  I prefer fixture as it is easier to match up to default fixture libraries in most lighting consoles.

Finally, select the starting DMX address for your range and then click on "Create DMX Controls" to have P3 configure everything for you. 

 

Your DMX screen will now be filled with DMX addresses assigned to their appropriate function.  You can see the mapping of the DMX channel to a specific "Target" (fixture) and various other options for each channel.

Now just apply DMX or Art-Net to your P3 controller and you are ready to have fun from your lighting controller.

As mentioned earlier, you can also click and drag DMX options from the DMX screen.  In the screen below I have dragged over a couple of Global Controls.  These effect everything within the P3 layout.  If you right click on the "Current Value" field you will see the DMX protocol (or map) for that specific channel.  As you can see there are many options available via DMX control.

P3 processors provide an unprecedented amount of control and processing to the attached video devices.  By adding in DMX control from a lighting console, LDs are able to further modify and use video products with ease.  This ability provides additional creative possibilities not available with other systems.

Dynamic Moving Video Surfaces with Martin P3 Processors

The Martin by Harman P3 Processor is extremely powerful and invaluable for anyone working with VDO Creative Video products or VDO Face 5 panels.  I have written before about the great mapping abilities, the processing power versus DMX, and more.  

The P3 Processor system is much more than a video processor and mapping software.  In fact, P3 has the ability to dynamically re-map video elements according to their position in real time.  This is particularly useful when a production has moving elements such as trusses, set piece, video walls, or other concepts.  Imagine a video wall rotating its position as it flies above the stage.  With P3, the imagery on the wall can remain automatically correct, even thought the wall’s position and orientation are changing on stage.

This is all possible through the use of instantaneous data input to the P3 processor from a Tait Navigator or Kinesys system.  As the positional data is received, the P3 will dynamically move the referencing fixture(s) through the video input thus adapting the imagery accordingly.

Want to see this in action?  Take a look at this video for a great explanation and demonstration:

What if your show does not have the budget or ability to use the Tait Navigator or Kinesys system?  Don’t worry as the P3 Processor can still allow you to easily change the mapping layout through the use of presets. 

The Preset buttons on the bottom of the P3 screen can be used to change the layout of the VDO devices.  This way if your video elements are in a different configuration for Act I versus Act II, you can easily change as needed.  Furthermore, you can also trigger these directly from your lighting console via an Art-Net input to the P3 processor. 

Learn more about using P3 presets in this video:

Offline Prepping with P3-PC

The Martin P3-PC software is a wonderful tool that can be activated with a Martin One-Key to control up to 20,000 pixels of Martin LED products.  It is also usable as a free tool to prepare and pre-program systems that will use any of the P3 Controller products.  You can actually do quite a lot with the software without a One-Key and then simply load your configuration file into a P3 processor.

First, you need to download and install the free Windows based software from the Martin website.  Then start it up, select off-line use and start a new configuration.  The first step after naming your file is to select the minimum dot pitch that will be used in your display (you can also select a specific fixture/screen by name if you are unsure).

Next you will be asked to set the Maximum Workspace Area or the total number of pixels that will be within your control.  After making this selection and clicking Finish you will be presented with the main P3-PC screen.

I am not going to go into the full details of how to use P3-PC, for this you can follow the user manual, however it is important to know that it is very simple to use.  Basically you select your fixtures/screens from the list and drag them onto the workspace area.  You can move them about to match your set or desired layout.  There are many tools and wizards to help you add and manipulate your fixtures or screens.  In fact, you can even import an image to use in the background to help you match your desired layout.  In the image below you can see where I imported a basic DJ layout and started to layout my VDO Sceptron 10 units.

The power of being able to prepare and pre-program your video layouts on any PC is incredible!  The P3-PC system really makes the entire process easy.  In fact, when you arrive on site and connect to the actual rig, there is a simple process that lets you quickly highlight and select your fixtures so that they are instantly mapped correctly to your layout.

All the above mentioned features are available offline on the P3-PC system or directly from any P3 System Controller.  Plus remember that with the Martin One-Key you can use the P3-PC software as a full functioning controller too.  The P3 range of Video Processing Controllers are extremely powerful yet easy to use.  They work well with all previous, current, and future video products from Martin Professional.

Martin Resources for On-Line Learning

Knowledge is power and now more than ever people are craving on-line learning.  Martin lighting has as great amount of resources available to you now, and we are continuing to develop more content regularly.

The following details many ways you can learn more about Martin lighting products, gain insights and tips, and improve your knowledge of all things Martin.




Lighting Products

• Each lighting product produced by Martin includes a webpage with a product video, user manuals,  safety manuals, and photometrics.   Most of these items can be found on each product's webpage by scrolling down or clicking on the "Videos" or "Downloads" button on the right side of the page.
• Watch product videos to study the features and capabilities of each particular product.
• RTFM (Read The Freakin' Manual) to gain insights such as the DMX parameters, menu settings, and other options.
• Read the safety manual to learn how to change gobos, maintain the fixture, and follow proper safety procedures.
• Photometric charts are helpful to determine output at various distances and zoom ranges.
• Some products even have further downloads such as "Tech Notes" or "Hints and Tips."

Software Products

•  At the heart of the P3 ecosystem lies the P3 software.  This software offers an easy to use solution to map video onto Martin Creative LED and Lighting fixtures, including manipulation of the video such as scaling, rotating, mirroring and more.
• As with lighting products, the P3 product webpages contain videos and downloads as you scroll down or via the links on the right side of the page.
• In addition to the user manuals, there are many informative documents available.
• The P3-PC page even offers the software as a free download to install and use on any Windows machine.
• Many training videos for P3 software are available on this playlist: www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLSdOAU7XmkQybSXE56KFE7ZOCIL2EbNKG

• The Martin Companion is the unified firmware upload tool compatible with all Martin lighting fixtures (MAC, ERA, ELP, RUSH & Exterior).  

• When combining the hardware and software you can upload firmware to most Martin fixtures. 
• Be sure to read the user manual and tech notes to ensure you fully understand the usage and capability of this software.
• The current versions of software are automatically downloaded as you start the software, but you can also always check the versions for all products here: www.martin.com/en-US/firmware

Atmospherics

•  Martin's JEM line of atmospheric products includes a wide range of products.  Each product web page contains links to videos and downloads that provide essential information.

• All pages also include a link to a matrix that clearly defines which fluids can be used with each product.  www.martin.com/en-US/site_elements/martin-atmospheric-effect-fluid-matrix

• A YouTube playlist has been created that further demonstrates the differences between the various fluids: www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLX8PNXe5hN6MU6YPHx_iCFcDarcs0hP8G

Informative Videos

• The Martin Professional YouTube channel has a nicely organized set of playlists featuring videos broken down into various categories. www.youtube.com/user/MartinProfessional/playlists
• To find the very latest videos posted by Martin, simply look here: www.youtube.com/user/MartinProfessional/feed?activity_view=1

More Resources

• This very blog contains many articles written over the past few years with tips and tricks specific to Martin products.
• To your right in the sidebar, you can find links to the popular posts. -->
• Scroll to find a search box on the right and type in a product name to find specific information.
• The Harman Professional Solutions Insights Blog contains many postings related to Martin.

• Posts by Brad Schiller: pro.harman.com/insights/author/bschiller/
• Posts by Wouter Verlinden: pro.harman.com/insights/author/wverlinden/
• Posts by S. Kyle Davis (scroll for lighting): pro.harman.com/insights/author/kdavis/
• Posts by Lane Shannon: pro.harman.com/insights/author/lshannon/

•  Harman University

• Many on-line courses are available free of charge. traininglogin.harmanpro.com/login/
• Create a a free account and navigate in the course catalog to the Martin Lighting "On Demand" section.
• Each course contains a training video and quiz.

More Martin training and learning content is continuing to be developed.  Stay tuned to the Martin website and this blog for further information as new resources are released.

The Power of Sceptron

 

The VDO Sceptron creative video products from Martin have gained popularity on a multitude of different production types.  With the adoption of these powerful products, more accessories are becoming available too.

Currently there are thirteen different diffusers available for the VDO Sceptron range with both white and smoked options available.  The smoked versions allow the units to virtually disappear when not illuminated from within.  Several lens options also aid in direct viewing or wall washing applications.  The video below demonstrates the multitude of choices and also demonstrates the simple method to swap diffusers on VDO Sceptron units.

In addition to the actual VDO Sceptron units, there are also several P-3 video processor options to choose from.  P3-050, P3-100, P3-150, P3-200, and P3-300 are rack mount units of varying pixel output sizes that allow productions to purchase systems designed for only what is needed.  Plus, the P-3PC software provides over 20,000 pixels of control from any PC as well as diagnostic tools and layout creation abilities.  Furthermore, Hippotizer V4.0 and greater units can now have P-3PC installed internally for direct P-3 output from an industry standard media server.

This previous post describes why P-3 processors are better than using DMX to control Martin creative video products.

The multitude of possibilities with Martin creative video products continue to amaze designers around the world.  The VDO Sceptron, P-3 processors, and VC products all work together to help create interesting custom video displays and installations.

 

The Amazing Effects of the MAC Allure Series

The Martin MAC Allure Profile and MAC Allure Wash PC are truly revolutionary fixtures.  The additive mixing RGBW LED based units can operate as standard profiles and washes, but also create impressive color and intensity effects through their pixel-mappable 7-segment LED engines.

While you can create wonderful looks by directly manipulating the pixels from DMX, you also have the ability to use internal effects that are built right into the fixture.  Just like most Martin fixtures, the DMX profile includes two pairs of effects channels that you can manipulate.  Each pair includes a selection channel and a speed channel.  Choosing effects is as easy as picking one from the selection channel and then adjusting the rate with the corresponding speed channel.  The internal effects are available in both the Basic and Extended DMX modes.

In the standard effects, you will find multi-color chases, intensity chases, shape based chases, swooshes, and more.  It can be very interesting to combine a color effect with an intensity effect (and thus why there are two pairs of effect channels).



If you plan on using the "split color" effects, then you must first dial in a split color from the virtual color wheel.  For example, if you select a split color with red on top and blue on bottom and choose the "split color flip" effect then the pixels will automatically swap places.


 


Another choice is to use the "split color rotation" effect to spin the color around the central access.  Note that in the split effects, the center pixel is black to provide enhanced looks with better color separation and definition.



Alternately you can simply use intensity chases such as "Double LED Chase" to create an intensity based spinning look using your color settings.
  
Bonus tip: There is also an FX synchronization channel that allows you to offset effects between fixtures.  This is a great way to quickly make very interesting looks with multiple fixtures and internal effect.



Currently with software version 1.0.0 there are thirty-three effects, with more planned for later software versions.  See the chart below for the names and DMX values:

Of course there is also another great way to manipulate the pixels and that is with P3.  By inputting a video signal to P3 and mapping the MAC Allure fixtures accordingly, the video image will play across the pixels in your fixtures.  The video below demonstrates a great example of the possibilities:

There is even a dedicated DMX channel that allows you to crossfade between your DMX settings of the pixels and the P3 control of the pixels.  This can have very powerful results as you switch between or combine the control of the light engine.

Learn more about the MAC Allure products and view some great videos here.

https://www.martin.com/en-US/product_families/mac-allure

VDO Sceptron Creative Accessories

The first product in a brand new line of creative video products has just been released by Martin Professional.  The VDO Sceptron family of products are a series of robust and water-proof LED video "sticks" designed for the rental market.  Each one is fully pixel-level calibrated to ensure perfect color and intensity matching.

The three versions are as follows:

10 mm pixel pitch (now shipping)

20 mm pixel pitch (shipping soon)

40 mm pixel pitch (shipping soon)

Each is available in 2 different lengths (1.05 foot/320mm or 3.28 feet/1000mm) and can be controlled either from the P3 System Controller or via DMX.  If you have not seen the VDO Sceptron products yet, contact your Martin dealer as they are really cool.

But there is much more to know.  There are many different accessories available for the Sceptron units.  First is a wide variety of diffusers available in either white or smoked.  The smoked (grey) diffusers are great when you want the units to "disappear" into the set when not in use.  There are different shapes available too.  The options are: Square (included), Flat, Round, and Tube.

Round Diffuser

Furthermore there are also two lens options: A Narrow Lens for 20 mm and 40 mm units and the Asymmetric lens that fits all models.  The Asymmetric lens is great for washing a wall or part of a set and it allows the unit to be placed very close to the illuminated surface.

The VDO Sceptron units also have a range of attachment devices to allow for quick installation of creative setups.  First is the Sliding Bracket that allows addition of a clamp or half-coupler at any position within the unit.  In addition, a Linear Coupler allows fixtures to be easily linked end-to-end while the Parallel Spacer allows the units to be hung parallel to each other.  Two different models easily adjust between three spacing options: 30/40/50 mm or 60/70/80 mm.

Additionally a specialized VDO Sceptron Accessory & Test Tool is available to assist with two important functions.  On one end it has an embedded magnet that is used to activate an internal "test button" on the VDO Sceptron units.  The other end it has a point on the front to assist in removing diffusers or lenses.

Many exciting stage designs and looks can be created with the new VDO Sceptron products.  With unparalleled brightness, calibration, easy of installation, and the power of the P3 System Controller the VDO Sceptron units are the perfect choice for any production. 

Check out this video featuring Wouter Verlinden, Product Manager LED Video, as he further explains the products and possibilities:

Great New Creative Video Products from Martin!

 

Martin by Harman has just announced two new exciting creative video products.  The VDO Fatron 20 and VDO Dotron add more unique options to the VDO Sceptron line with many of the same features and qualities.



Both units can be controlled via the Martin P3 system or DMX 512.  They integrate well into video systems using the original VDO Sceptron or the VDO Face 5 panels.  Just like the Sceptron units, the VDO Fatron 20 and VDO Dotron have a multitude of different diffusers available for creative looks and varying applications.



The VDO Fatron 20 is a 20 mm pixel pitch outdoor-rated LED video batten that can be used for eye-candy, uplight, wall washing, and more.  It is fully color calibrated to ensure all Fatron units have color consistency and that they match other VDO products too.  Just like the Sceptron, the Fatron is available in two sizes: 1000 mm and 320 mm.




The VDO Dotron provides a new shape to the VDO family.  The rounded configuration of 16 pixels punctuates designs with blasts of color and imagery.  Each Dotron unit has various diffusers that easily screw on to change the look and output.  Color calibration, built-in effects, and various mounting options further the feature set of the Dotron.


Speaking of mounting options, a host of new mounts allow for easy combining of various VDO elements.  You can easily add Dotrons to any Sceptron or Fatron layout using the specialized brackets or any standard clamps. 

Martin has even developed custom flight cases for both the VDO Fatron 20 and VDO Dotron so taking the units on the road is simple.

Want to know more?  Here are some videos about the new VDO products:

 VDO Fatron 20: https://youtu.be/7Lu1lOdf-JQ

VDO Dotron: https://youtu.be/ntlmno8a8YQ

The Mighty Martin Machine

Martin by Harman has been very busy over the past year releasing a large number of new and innovative products.  Many, such as the MAC Encore series have already become industry standards used around the world on countless productions.  The Martin development team is continuing to create exciting new products, several of which will debut at LDI 2018.

Looking back over the last 365 days, it is easy to see that Martin is expanding in multiple professional lighting markets.  See below for descriptions of these newly released products.  All the products listed will also be available for demos at LDI 2018 in room N253.

Martin MAC Encore Performance
The MAC Encore Performance has raised the bar for LED-based key lighting automated luminaires.  With an emphasis on perfection, the MAC Encore Performance is widely used on Broadway, theatre, corporate events, television, and more.  With two color temperature engines to choose from, the MAC Encore is the ultimate fixture for stage and studio.

Martin MAC Encore Wash

A perfect compliment to the performance model, the MAC Encore Wash utilizes a Fresnel lens (or optional PC lens) to provide the smoothest wash possible.  The wash includes same high quality light engine, optics, and color mixing as the performance, as well as an internal barn door system.


Martin RUSH MH 10 Beam FX

This fun beam fixture produces a tight 4 degree LED beam with RGBW emitters.  Plus there is a pixel-mappable ring of RGB LEDs around the primary lens.  Added bonuses include continuous pan and tilt and detailed macro functions.


Martin RUSH MH 11 Beam

As the only new Martin lighting fixture that is not LED based, the MH 11 Beam provides an intense, narrow beam combined with fixed and rotating gobos, prism, frost, and more.


Martin RUSH BLINDER 1 WW

This focusable blinder unit utilizes 100W COB warm white LEDs with a 70 degree beam spread.  Individual control of the four LEDs allows for interesting effects or direct output.

 
Martin RUSH BATTEN 1 HEX

The RUSH BATTEN 1 HEX is is an ultra-bright 12-cell batten color + UV wash fixture with full pixel control. Featuring 12 watt RGBAW+UV 6-in-1 LEDs, it provides intense light for color, white, or blacklight applications.

Martin RUSH PAR 3 RGB

This small and light weight unit outputs a range of vibrant colors from its single lens and RGB engine.  The included magnetic lens changes the beam angle from 80 degrees to 14 degrees.


Martin RUSH PAR 4 UV

Ultraviolet effects are fun in a variety of applications and the RUSH PAR 4 UV is a perfect tool for these jobs.  The single lens unit outputs at 400nm for a pure and consistent UV look.


Martin RUSH CS Series

The RUSH CS Series is a cove lighting system based on RGB LEDs.  The various models and sizes are ideal to illuminate interior walls and other indoor spaces.  The units are available in both wide and graze options in varying lengths


Martin VDO Fatron

Achieve larger and more dynamic video mapping looks with the VDO Fatron.  The four rows of 20mm pixel pitch on this LED video batten blend perfectly with other VDO products.


Martin VDO Dotron

The VDO Dotron can be controlled by Martin P3 or via DMX to allow creative pixels to appear anywhere desired.  A wide variety of lenses and diffusers provide a wealth of different looks.


Martin JEM Glaciator Dynamic

The newest version of the industry standard for low lying fog, the JEM Glaciator Dynamic is smaller, quieter, and capable of taking low lying fog to more places.

Learn more about all these great products from Martin by Harman on the official Martin website or visit us at LDI 2018 to see these products and more!  We even have a free badge available here.