Major upgrade and new dimmer pack

[Brad Weber]

Originally Posted by millamber

Please remember that 250 channels does not mean 250 dimmers.

I am assuming what you mean is that you are going from a 16 channel controller to one with 250 channels. A channel is only a control number, meaning you can have 250 different things independently controlled. One channel could be control for a single dimmer, another for pan control of a moving light, another for tilt, and so on...

I wouldn't worry about trying to fill up your new control console. Extra unused channels are like excess air; there if you need it..

They did ask about "what kind/size dimmer pack will be needed to handle this many channels" but you bring up a very good point that there may indeed be some misunderstanding.

You don't even necessarily have to have every fixture on it's own circuit. If you typically use 25-30 fixtures and max out at 75-100 then 96 circuits would likely be more than enough and you might be okay with much less than that.

Also consider that going from 16 circuits to 250 circuits would tremendously increase the power required for the dimmer rack. Unless you are sure that you can get whatever power would be needed for the dimming rack, you might want to see what power is practical to provide before deciding on how many of what capacity dimming circuits you plan to install.

[RickR]

Several local schools with new theaters have gone to all LED systems. No dimmers but a few portables.

My thoughts to the OP; The discussion here shows there are many things to consider and you may be spending over $100,000. It's worth it to hire a consultant!

[nbonora]

"
I am about to equip two theaters (a 300 seater and a 150 seater) with ONE 96 rack.
__________________
Mike Campbell"

Thank you, that is all I was looking for.

[Brad Weber]

Originally Posted by nbonora

"
I am about to equip two theaters (a 300 seater and a 150 seater) with ONE 96 rack.
__________________
Mike Campbell"

Thank you, that is all I was looking for.

I think Mike was simply providing an example of how you probably don't really need 250 dimmers and not making a specific recommendation.

It seems that you apparently chose a control console and are now basing the rest of the system on that decision. It would be more effective to assess what you actually need first, how many circuits of what capacity, what the infrastructure supports and so on and to base any subsequent decisions on that information.

[Esoteric]

Originally Posted by Brad Weber

I think Mike was simply providing an example of how you probably don't really need 250 dimmers and not making a specific recommendation.

It seems that you apparently chose a control console and are now basing the rest of the system on that decision. It would be more effective to assess what you actually need first, how many circuits of what capacity, what the infrastructure supports and so on and to base any subsequent decisions on that information.

This. And that is also a HEAVY LED installation (75+ units over the two spaces including house lights).

Mike