Expression - ETC

Expression
The Moving Lights (ML) Module - Installation instructions
The ML Module provides the encoder and pagebutton controls that are standard features on the Expression
3 and Insight 3 consoles. This hardware option is available for Expression 2 family consoles (Expression
2x, Concept 2x, Insight 2x, Insight 2 and Impression 2). A mouse or other pointing device may be
attached to the ML Module for added convenience.
Optional bracket mounting
The ML Module can be used freestanding on any flat surface adjacent to the console or it can be firmly
attached to the console. If you choose to attach the ML Module to the console, follow the procedure
below before connecting any cables to it. The bracket and all fasteners you need are included in the ML
Module kit. If not mounting the ML Module to the console, skip to Electrical connections below.
CAUTION: The mounting hardware is not designed to fully support the ML Module. Never allow it to
protrude unsupported beyond the edge of the surface on which the console rests.
Mount the module to the console with reference to the instructions and illustration below:
1. Secure the mounting bracket to the base of the ML Module using the three flat-head screws.
2. Loosen the two rollers knobs at the bottom corners of the facepanel.
3. Lift the lower edge of the facepanel to rotate it upward, exposing the inside of the chassis.
4. With the module resting on the table, line up the right edge of the ML Module with the right edge of
the facepanel (not the chassis).
5. Fasten the mounting bracket to
the console using four
thumbscrews inserted
through two chassis
vent slots from the
inside and connecting
to PEM nuts on the
mounting bracket. For
earlier model Expression
family consoles,
use the bracket PEM nuts
at X. For later model
Expression family consoles,
use the bracket PEM nuts at Y.
6. Tighten the thumbscrews
securely, making sure the ML
Module rests on the same surface
Z
as the console.
X
7. Lower the facepanel carefully and
secure it to the chassis with the bottom
roller knobs.
4131L1001 Revised 4/98
DC Input
9V
300 mA
Y
Mouse
RS232

Electrical connections
Never make or break electrical connections with the console power on. With console power off, connect
the ML Module cable to the console port labeled Digitizer/Serial. Since they share the same port, you
cannot use the ML Module and a digitizer at the same time.
Plug one end of the ML Module’s power cord into the labeled receptacle Z at one end of the Module.
Plug the power supply on the cord into a wall outlet or power strip. A power strip is especially convenient
if it has its own on/off switch because both the console and ML Module power supply can be plugged
into it and powered on or off together.
Software enabling
Enable the ML Module (and simultaneously disable the Designer's Worksheet function) with the following
procedure:
1. Switch on the console power.
2. Press [Setup] [6], Option Settings, [Enter] to go to the Options Settings menu.
3. Press [1][2], External Port, [Enter].
4. Press [2] [Enter] to enable the ML Module.
NOTE: If you later decide you want to use the Designer's Worksheet function rather than the ML
Module, you must a) connect a digitizer in place of the ML Module to the Digitizer/Serial port, and b)
enable the digitizer by pressing [1] in step 4 of the procedure above.
Pointing device installation
You may attach any Microsoft-compatible type of pointing device to the ML Module, including a mouse,
trackball or trackpad.
Switch off the console and the ML Module. Cable the pointing device to the RS232 port located on an
end panel of the ML Module (see the illustration on the other side).
Device check
Operation
The pointing device should be ready for use when the console and module are switched on. Verify normal
operation by patching fixtures as explained under Working with Moving Lights in the Expression User
Manual Supplement, page 16. Movement of the pointing device should control pan and tilt levels; its
buttons should step through fixture selections in the Fixture Box window. If the device doesn’t function
normally, proceed as follows:
1. Verify that the pointing device is Microsoft compatible.
2. Verify that the pointing device works normally in another system, such as in a computer.
3. If steps 1 and 2 don’t correct the problem, call ETC Technical Services at 800-775-4382.
Power supply
See the Expression User Manual Supplement for information about how to use the ML Module and
associated pointing device with the console.
The ML Module is powered by a plug-in external supply rated at 9 volts DC (unregulated) and 300 mA. If
replacing the power supply, make sure the connector is polarized negative on the inside and positive on
the outside. Also, the connector must have a 2.1 mm inside diameter and a 5.5 mm outside diameter.
4131L1001 Revised 4/98