Slide 1

Computer Control

The Gig

Slide 2

What features in the program can help us run the lighting & smoke effects?

The computer is good at controlling effects for a band

It is fast

It can switch lots of outputs on/off

It has a memory that can save sequences of programmes

Slide 3

What lighting effects are there?

Teacher resource 6.1

What other effects are there?

How could a computer control these effects?

Slide 4

Here are two simple sequences

Start

Output 3 on 1 off

Output 2 on 3 off

Output 1 on 2 off

Slide 5

If we combine them, the flowchart becomes complex and we have to re-write boxes-

Start

Output 3 on 1 off

Output 2 on 3 off

Output 1 on 2 off

Output 1 on 3 off

Output 2 on 1 off

Output 3 on 2 off

Slide 6

Today you will:

Use flow chart symbols

Use precise control words

Structure instructions in sequence

Use a sub-routine to make your programs more efficient

Create a sequence for a light show

Slide 7

By using a sub-routine, we can build short programs that can be re-used…

Sub 1(lighttc)

Output 1 on 3 off

Output 2 on 1 off

Output 3 on 2 off

Stop

Sub 2(drum fl)

Turn Output 3 on

Turn Output 3 off

Stop

Start

Sub 1(lighttc) x 3

Sub 2(drum fl) x 2

Sub 1(lighttc) x 3

Sub 2(drum fl) x 1

Slide 8

What is a simulation?

A simulation is a special type of computer model which mimics a real life situation

Slide 9

Where are simulations used?

They are often used to train people how to deal with situations that are too dangerous, expensive or difficult to practise for real. They can also be used for games

Pilots train in fight simulators

Astronauts use simulators to mimic conditions in space

Seismologists use simulations to predict the effects of earthquakes

Slide 10

Advantages of simulations

Cheaper than doing it for real

No equipment is damaged

People are not in danger

If there is something wrong with the model things can be changed quickly and cheaply

Slide 11

Limitations of simulations

The results of the simulations are only as good as the model

No simulation can take into account every situation that can happen in real life

Slide 12

Using a simulation to create light sequence for a gig

The expense of creating a light show on a stage means that you MUST design your system first

The best way to do this is by using control software to mimic the real thing so if you make a mistake it can be edited easily