DiyLightAnimation
Hardware => Lynx Express => Topic started by: RJ on August 23, 2008,
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OK, I have decided to call the new dimmer the Lynx Express. So I am posting a little about what I am creating.
The Lynx Express is a 16 channel all in one controller like the Lynx but using the standard phase angle dimming with some advancements built in. The dimmer will be based loosely on the Freestyle and will fit in the same case. While based off the Freestyle the device will use much a more powerful controller to allow me to make the dimming absolutely smooth. From level 1 to level 256 you will have the exact same output change like the Lynx could do.
It will have the SSR's on board. It will have the wireless connector to plug the wireless board into so it will be wireless ready.
The difference is it will be programmable from your computer for not only start channel, using the configuration software I will provide there will be no jumper for programming you just use the software to do it. It will also have the ability to do something I call light normalization.
As we all know LED's and incandescent lights do not dim on the same curve. They come on at different points and their brightness curves do not match very well. But even inside of these different types each brand sometimes dim different also. I have a number of different Led's and they all have differences although slight.
My new setup allows you select the type of lights you have on each controller when you program it and then have it use this custom curve to make every light in your show come on the same amount at level 1 and max out at level 256. And be at 50% output at level 127, etc. It will do this not on a few points in the curve but on each of the 256 levels to make them match exactly.
This is what I call light normalizing. Like audio normalizing when you make all your MP3's play at the same loudness so one is not blowing your ears off and the next can hardly be heard.
The benefit to you will be you can just program your show with out regards for what is on what channel and the results should look much closer to what it looks like on the adjustable preview in vixen.
The first question everyone will have is "Will I have to sit down and make the curve data for my lights" and the answer is no. I have created a device to create these curves for us that will make them all match. The Configuration Software will have a drop down menu to choose the correct lights. If none matches your lights well, you can mail me one of your sets and I will run them on the device to create a curve and post the updated curve definition file to DLA. Then you update your configuration software by downloading this file and it will include it for you to use.
I then mail your lights back and you have what you need. In a short time span we can most likely have ever type of light in there you could commonly see.
You also can manually modify one for something special in the ini file.
The Second question will be “When will they be ready?” I am just know laying out the board for the prototypes and there is still some work left on the firmware tweaking at it. So I do not know if we will squeeze a coop in before Christmas or not, but we will be beta testing this year for sure.
My intention once the express is out and any bugs get worked out is to change the Freestyle to use the new chip and firmware so the newer ones of them have the same abilities.
Then I believe this will be the last dimmer in the Lynx line. I have lots of new things to do, but not more dimmers. The Freestyle, Express, and SSR4 will give me the line up I feel I need for dimmers. The rest is all add on items like wireless, Ledtriks II, Robolight, ETC.
The cost of the Express is projected without case at $50 on a qty 50 coop and about $60 on single one time order.
I believe this will take the light DIY’ers to the next level. Or then again maybe I am off my rocker as normal and this is a terrible idea!
RJ
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I believe this will take the light DIY’ers to the next level. Or then again maybe I am off my rocker as normal and this is a terrible idea!
RJ
Uh, no. You're right on the money. As always.
Thanks RJ.
\dmc
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This sounds great RJ. A couple of questions. Will the main board have the RJ45 plug for DMX and some type of header to add the wireless later? How's the wireless coming? Will the older Freestyles be upgradeable to this new chip and control?
You are doing us a great service and we very much appreciate all your hard work (fun)!
Ron
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WOW RJ! How do you come up with this stuff?
Sounds really cool and I cant wait to have one of my own! :D
Kyle ;D ;D
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AMAZING !!!
It is unbelievable the things you come up with.
Plz, sign me up as a beta tester...
Thanks for all that you do.
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This sounds great RJ. A couple of questions. Will the main board have the RJ45 plug for DMX and some type of header to add the wireless later? How's the wireless coming? Will the older Freestyles be upgradeable to this new chip and control?
You are doing us a great service and we very much appreciate all your hard work (fun)!
Ron
Yes the main board will have two RJ45's "DMX IN" and "DMX OUT".
Yes there will be a header on the board to plug the Wireless module into.
The wireless is the same place it was a week ago as I have been out of town. I will only say that I have not yet hit any roadblocks that will prevent me from doing as I have said.
I belive we can make a small pcb a little bigger than the new pic that will hot wire the pins to the right places and let you use your Current Freestyles with the new chip and firmware. You will pull your old pic and plug this upgrade module into the current pic socket. Remember all the connections are there they just need to hook to a different pin on the new pic and the module would have the correct clock on it to overcome the different clock speed also.
Think of it as a bolt on supercharger for your Freestyle. ;D
"WOW RJ! How do you come up with this stuff?"
Not amazing at all, it is looking at what I think I need. Dimming curves have been around forever but they normally use the square law which would not do us any good to match lights as they still would vary. I am taking one step farther by making a system to balance the lights natural curve to the dimmer so we get a flat response from all of out lights. No need to adjust your seqencing to the the light type on a channel by channel. We can match the controller to the lights to get you the same response on all your lights. Then you can tell from the previewer what your lights will really look like.
To keep from being a shocker I will let you in on the next step I will do once it is working. I plan to create firmware that will allow you to set it on a channel by channel basis. This way you can have a sting of leds on channel #1 and minis on channel #2 and they will match. But I wanted to take one step first and then the next. It will not require different hardware just the firmware changed to do it. The Pic I am using has the resources to make it happen.
RJ
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AMAZING !!!
It is unbelievable the things you come up with.
Plz, sign me up as a beta tester...
Thanks for all that you do.
I know it might be a while, but I would be happy to be a beta tester too!
Kyle ;D ;D
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RJ, this is fantastic! I don't even have my boards for 2008 yet, and already I'm starting to fantasize about 2009!
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I would be willing to test and provide some funds for Beta boards if needed
Thanks for all the work RJ
Bill
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Great Job RJ!
I like the Line up. And as always your thinking of the hardware that is already out, and how to keep it from being outdated. As to the name Express, that seems apt, considering that your plane is an Express isn't it?
Shawn ;D
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Great Job RJ!
I like the Line up. And as always your thinking of the hardware that is already out, and how to keep it from being outdated. As to the name Express, that seems apt, considering that your plane is an Express isn't it?
Shawn ;D
Yes it is, but I was more thinking down the lines of the all in ones are quick and neat to put out. No cat5 to run to the ssr's and you don't need to build ssr's for it. So that is where I am coming from. But I am sure the planes name made me think of it first.
RJ
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Great Job RJ!
I like the Line up. And as always your thinking of the hardware that is already out, and how to keep it from being outdated. As to the name Express, that seems apt, considering that your plane is an Express isn't it?
Shawn ;D
Yes it is, but I was more thinking down the lines of the all in ones are quick and neat to put out. No cat5 to run to the ssr's and you don't need to build ssr's for it. So that is where I am coming from. But I am sure the planes name made me think of it first.
RJ
Cool
So a turbo prop SSR8 is in the works then :D
oops,
I also the love the LE (lynx Express) ideas.
you are keeping this a fun ride,
Many thanks RJ
Rick R.
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Ok after working the design some more during layout I came up with some more savings in the parts so the current layout the part cost for the express looks like this.
1 - $47.74
25 - $39.24
50 - $35.38
100 - $32.25
250 - $30.48
1000 - $28.47
With a pcb cost of about $8 we could do the Express with a coop for 50 of them for about $43.38 or $2.71 a channel complete for dimming.
If you want the optional channel led's it will add just a little in parts cost. (16 leds)
I will be pushing ahead on this now as I need at least three for my show this year. It will priority #1 at this point.
RJ
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Ok after working the design some more during layout I came up with some more savings in the parts so the current layout the part cost for the express looks like this.
1 - $47.74
25 - $39.24
50 - $35.38
100 - $32.25
250 - $30.48
1000 - $28.47
With a pcb cost of about $8 we could do the Express with a coop for 50 of them for about $43.38 or $2.71 a channel complete for dimming.
If you want the optional channel led's it will add just a little in parts cost. (16 leds)
I will be pushing ahead on this now as I need at least three for my show this year. It will priority #1 at this point.
RJ
Ok RJ that does it. I have to send you my medical bills.
The Doctor has double the price to put my jaw back in its correct place (again).
That is just crazy numbers for the Express..
Full speed ahead (wait that is boat talk)
Flaps down, full throttle?? (I am not really a plane person :D)
Take care and many thanks RJ
Rick R.
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RJ... go for it!
As my only dimmers are the SSR16's I have on order, I'm beginning to get a little worried that they are not going to see the light of day (or make light at night) anytime soon in light - ok i'll stop now - of the situation with our inactive friend. The Lynx Express would be a godsend if that is the case.
Should I be worried?
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Ok after working the design some more during layout I came up with some more savings in the parts so the current layout the part cost for the express looks like this.
1 - $47.74
25 - $39.24
50 - $35.38
100 - $32.25
250 - $30.48
1000 - $28.47
With a pcb cost of about $8 we could do the Express with a coop for 50 of them for about $43.38 or $2.71 a channel complete for dimming.
If you want the optional channel led's it will add just a little in parts cost. (16 leds)
I will be pushing ahead on this now as I need at least three for my show this year. It will priority #1 at this point.
RJ
Ok RJ that does it. I have to send you my medical bills.
The Doctor has double the price to put my jaw back in its correct place (again).
That is just crazy numbers for the Express..
Full speed ahead (wait that is boat talk)
Flaps down, full throttle?? (I am not really a plane person :D)
Take care and many thanks RJ
Rick R.
Yes I can tell rick as Flaps down full throttle would be to go slow. Flaps up Full Throttle would be to go fast as well as empty my wallet faster. As in 19 gallons an hour @ $5.45 a gallon = $103.55 and hour. But man we would be getting it!
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RJ... go for it!
As my only dimmers are the SSR16's I have on order, I'm beginning to get a little worried that they are not going to see the light of day (or make light at night) anytime soon in light - ok i'll stop now - of the situation with our inactive friend. The Lynx Express would be a godsend if that is the case.
Should I be worried?
Never worry about Blinky it is all for fun and believe me it all comes together in the end. you should have seen me last year. I designed all new equipment to put a show on my first year and did 216 channels including a 2 ledtriks, robolights. If I can pull that off you got no problems. Keep the faith and hang in there.
RJ
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RJ, are you at the point that you need beta testers or do you feel the design is solid? Because if Bill and the SSR16 COOP "fall through" due to uncontrollable things. This might be a good replacement.
Ben
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RJ, are you at the point that you need beta testers or do you feel the design is solid? Because if Bill and the SSR16 COOP "fall through" due to uncontrollable things. This might be a good replacement.
Ben
It would be just the Co-Op that would "fall through" as I cannot controll access to the PCB files
Bill
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RJ, are you at the point that you need beta testers or do you feel the design is solid? Because if Bill and the SSR16 COOP "fall through" due to uncontrollable things. This might be a good replacement.
Ben
It would be just the Co-Op that would "fall through" as I cannot controll access to the PCB files
Bill
Bill is correct the SSR16 is not going away I would expect. This is just a bump in the road. The coop is closed but when Phil gets things taken care of I would expect it to get back on track and a new coop to get started.
RJ
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Sorry, I did not to mean it a fault of you Bill, let me rephrase. The Tiger SSR16 is no meant for me due to time restraints ;)
Ben
RJ, are you at the point that you need beta testers or do you feel the design is solid? Because if Bill and the SSR16 COOP "fall through" due to uncontrollable things. This might be a good replacement.
Ben
It would be just the Co-Op that would "fall through" as I cannot controll access to the PCB files
Bill
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RJ l'd be willing to Beta test 10 of these. Let me know what you need me to do.
Ben
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Heres a picture of the Layout of the Express at this point. I have not tried to make it small but instead stayed with the same PCB size and mounting as the Freestyle. It has optional Led's for each channel that will dim with their Channel.
As you can see it is just a 16 channel Pic dimmer with on board SSR. There is nothing really special about the hardware except the pic and the extra goodie above it, a 64K flash memory chip to allow the dimming curves, etc to be stored. The Pic is a 16 bit pic and The firmware is very different to allow it to do the new abilities. The hardpart of this setup is the Firmware but it is coming along well. Allong with the firmware I am having to create the Software that programs the unit.
RJ
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Heres a picture of the Layout of the Express at this point. I have ot tried to make it small but instead stayed with the same PCB size and mounting as the Freestyle. It has optional Led's for each channel that will dim with their Channel.
RJ
I love it RJ!!! So when does the 802.11 wireless come out? ;)
Ben
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Nice!
So, when does the Co-op start? ;D
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will there be any way to back port some of these advanced features to the other devices like the ssr4 so it can have channel based leveling?
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will there be any way to back port some of these advanced features to the other devices like the ssr4 so it can have channel based leveling?
Just my guess (I could be very wrong) but I would think the SSR4 is too tight to add that big pic chip to. In the first post of this thread RJ mentions updating the FreeStyle once the Lynx Express is out.
Rick R.
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He mentioned a daughter board that would replace the current chip on the Freestyle. Thus making the upgrade possible. Couldn't the same process be applied to the SSR4?
Larry
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Very Nice RJ
Bill
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He mentioned a daughter board that would replace the current chip on the Freestyle. Thus making the upgrade possible. Couldn't the same process be applied to the SSR4?
Larry
It might be. It would be done just like the Freestyle with the little module that plugs into the pic socket but might have to be attached into the case lid with a small cable to the socket. We shall se once it is complete. One giant leap at a time! LOL
RJ
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Giant leaps are allowed and seem to happen here way too often.
Larry
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Giant leaps are allowed and seem to happen here way too often.
Larry
No problem we can slow it down!
RJ
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Giant leaps are allowed and seem to happen here way too often.
Larry
No problem we can slow it down!
RJ
What?????
No way, having too much fun
Rick R.
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After much thought about what I am after with the Express I decided to go ahead and add the second option I wanted on it. Now first this is optional, it is not required but this will be most likely the last dimmer I do for a while so I want something I am proud to stick my name on.
As you already know their is the option to have an Led for each channel so you can test and see the channels trigger as on the 595 boards for example. They will dim with the channels. This option cost about $2 for the 16 Led's.
Then I thought about how I need to add a power indicator on the Express. But what I really wanted was a way to tell what channel the board is programmed to instead of writing it down or not knowing and having to reprogram it just to know what channel it is programmed to.
So I added 3 LED digits to the board and the driver for it. This way once the board is boots up the start channel is always displayed so you know it is powered up and the channel. It will also show when you are in program mode. And it opens other possibilitys with just firmware changes to use it for diagnostics etc in the future.
This option is a pricey one at about $5 but I will have it on mine as I see it being worth it.
The nice part is you can build it with or without either or both options, your choice.
RJ
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Looks REALLY cool! This really opens up a whole new world! I have a question about the Triac's. Is there enough room there for heat sinks or are you figuring they wont be necessary? Just havent seen them aligned that direction and made me wonder.
--Greg
Just curious more than anything.
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Keep on keepin' on RJ... it's all good! Better to think it through now than "woulda shoulda coulda..."
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Hi RJ,
Looking Awesome
One question: The hole pattern for the fuse is different then your other designs. I am assuming you are using a different fuse holder. Right?
Many thanks
Can't wait to have some Express to play with.
Rick R.
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Hi RJ,
Looking Awesome
One question: The hole pattern for the fuse is different then your other designs. I am assuming you are using a different fuse holder. Right?
Many thanks
Can't wait to have some Express to play with.
Rick R.
looks like it might be for a little higher Amp fuse? 15A?
Ben
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Hi RJ,
Looking Awesome
One question: The hole pattern for the fuse is different then your other designs. I am assuming you are using a different fuse holder. Right?
Many thanks
Can't wait to have some Express to play with.
Rick R.
It's the same Fuse setup I used on the Lynx. It is a little larger but room was no problem. Yes it is 20 amps as thay is what the load will be limited to with the single power cord inlet.
Looks REALLY cool! This really opens up a whole new world! I have a question about the Triac's. Is there enough room there for heat sinks or are you figuring they wont be necessary? Just havent seen them aligned that direction and made me wonder.
--Greg
Just curious more than anything.
At this level with a 2 amp limit per channel no heats sinks will be needed. This is the common for commerical units like LOR is to allow 2 amps on these triac with out heat sink and I have operated them that way. This is 600 minis a channel or about 5000 Leds per channel so I think that is acceptable. If you tried to run 2 amps on them all this would be 32 amps so I feel it is plenty.
RJ
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id be in for aleast 10 of these if not more if the coop starts next year. my budget is well maxed out this year.
danny
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I have the firmware mostly done. The exception is the program mode to write the start channel and the dimming curves.
I went ahead while I was at it and made it handle multiple curves per controller. This lets you run different types of lights on a Express and associate that channel to the correct curve for the lights you have attached to it. I set the express up to handle four different curves at the same time. This means you can use four different types of lights on a express with their own curve.
My plan is in the programming software you will have four curves with pull downs to choose which curve that slot uses.
Then you have a drop down for each channel with the four choices you made available.
I attached a pic of something I threw together to show kinda what I am thinking.
RJ
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Hi RJ,
That looks Great!!!
and Very COOL!!
btw: Many thanks for spending all of this time working on another dimmer. I for one really appreciate all that you do for all of us.
Thanks
Rick R.
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That curve selection program looks to be readily adapatable for RGB LEDs ;D
One more addin - a hue vs RGB table >:D
Larry
P.S. Absolutely Excllent RJ... (hm I just may have to jump on the bandwagon here)
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I don't know how you do it all RJ... but all you do is ab-fab!
Thanks for all your time and effort on behalf of us mere mortals!
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Very nice RJ
Bill
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I noticed it said C9 replacement, this controller works with the C9 replacements?! Cool. I have wanted to get those to dim for a while.
Ben
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OK,
Time for an update. I have made some very good progress with the Express Firmware. I have it dimming on multiple curves at this point. At least its on board LEDS. I will have parts tommorrow to do more hardware testing.
But the big news is the changes! after some arm twisting by Todd! .. just kidding Todd, I was asked to rethink my choice on the max current limits of the express and to punch them up to a commercial level. So as you can see in the picture of the updated PCB we now have two AC inputs and the triac's have been rearrainged to allow a big heatsink to be installed. This will allow the Express to use up to 2 20 amp feeds and the new max rating to be 40 amps! with a per channel rating of 4 amps per channel. This is 1200 minis per channel or about 10,000 LED's per channel! I did install some jumper points to allow you to make it a single feed. This will limit you to 20 amps. and 2 amps per channel. you will not need a heatsink for this. the choice again will be yours.
RJ
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It just continues to get better! It looks great, RJ.
Are you using the same triacs, just requiring a heatsink for the full 4 amps?
Ron
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Mmmmmmm more power
Bill
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It just continues to get better! It looks great, RJ.
Are you using the same triacs, just requiring a heatsink for the full 4 amps?
Ron
Yes, they are rated for 6 amps so with a good heatsink we will be in safe operating range.
RJ
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Sounds great RJ. The option for single or dual power looks fantastic.
Ron
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Out of 22 Pm's this evening when I got home. Three were from people pointing out that I might need to think about what it takes to handle 40 amps of current. One said I should use a trace calculator.
I can only guess that this is because when I am showing the picture of the front of the express people think they are looking at load carrying traces and that I have undersized them.
I have attached a picture of the back of the layout to hopeful remove the concerns. I use the same rules when every I layout a high voltage design. These come from the UL standards for trace clearances and the ANSI recommended minimums for trace sizing. These are very conservative as in most standards the 20 amp of one side would call for about 350 mils , ANSI asks for 429 mils, mine are 450 mils. This is considered at a allowable temperature rise of only 10 deg C (again conservative). UL calls for the traces separation to be 47 mils and this is the limit I used.
For the 4 amp max traces on the channel feeds most would accept 31 mils, ANSI asks for 39 mils, I used 60 mils.
The large traces in the image are the only current carrying traces on the PCB.
I feel the design is begin done with a very conservative eye. I hope this helps put any concerns to rest.
But if anyone has input they think I am overlooking feel free to PM me. Hopeful like this I can show it is OK, and if not you could help me prevent a problem.
I want to thank the three that PM me to warn me of the serious requirements of copper a current that high would require.
RJ
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Yeah but what about the middle layer?
what are you hiding there LOL
RIck R.
(P.S. there is really no need to response to this)
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This board is looking very good. Is there a chance to help with Beta testing or helping out with the firmware?
Sincerely,
Brent
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This board is looking very good. Is there a chance to help with Beta testing or helping out with the firmware?
Sincerely,
Brent
Unless the size of the beta test goes up or someone who is setup as a beta tester drops out I do not have any openings. This does not mean you want get to test one this year. But the first protos are lined up to the beta guys. If anyone drops out I will look throught the list of people how have also posted and start at the top and work down. (only fair way)
RJ
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I understand, Of course that makes sense. Any chance that the express will be finished before the end of September, since it has gone into Beta?
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It is still being designed and prototyped. It has not gone to beta. It will most likely be September before it goes to beta.
RJ
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It is still being designed and prototyped. It has not gone to beta. It will most likely be September before it goes to beta.
RJ
As most of you (except Rick!) could figure out I meant October not September. Sorry been working long hours he and at the real Job!
RJ
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It is still being designed and prototyped. It has not gone to beta. It will most likely be September before it goes to beta.
RJ
As most of you (except Rick!) could figure out I meant October not September. Sorry been working long hours he and at the real Job!
RJ
Huh?? What???
What did I do ?
Oh wait....
You mean the PRIVATE MESSAGE that I sent you. Yeah I was having fun with you but I did it in a way where you could of just made a change to the post.
I am sorry for upsetting you RJ.
Please accept my apology
Rick R.
P.S. Get some sleep
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Hey Rick!, Gotcha!
I have to get back at you once in a while! I ain't mad, just giving you some static back. LOL
RJ
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Hey Rick!, Gotcha!
I have to get back at you once in a while! I ain't mad, just giving you some static back. LOL
RJ
Hi RJ,
Sorry just a bit off today. A co-worker died this morning after fighting cancer for 2 months.
Cheers
Rick R.
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Sorry to hear it, I know how hard it can be. I also lost a computer tech that worked for me a few years back and sometimes you just do not know how the people you work with impact your life until they are not there anymore. I will keep you and their family in my thoughts.
RJ
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RJ,
Do they have you on alert just in case Ike turns and pulls a Charlie?
I know that you are the prepared type but if you need anything give a shout out.
Shawn
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Thanks, we are watching it very closely. I and the rest of the senior staff have been on the state EOC and Fema conference calls twice a day to stay briefed.
RJ
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Thanks, we are watching it very closely. I and the rest of the senior staff have been on the state EOC and Fema conference calls twice a day to stay briefed.
RJ
If you need help moving things let me know, I can really clean a house good ;) >:D
Ben
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Good progress continues. I have the 7 segment interface working and it now starts up with its name "Lynx Express" and then goes to the start channel to allow you to see this. now I am creating the firmware to allow the programming of start channel and curves. This includes the computer software to do so. once these are done I will hook up the triacs and 120 volt feed to test the AC side of things. Once this is done I can order PCB's for it.
I have also decieded to add a manual mode to set start channel programming. So from the push buttons on the board you can also set it without a computer or it even hooked up. This will mean the only thing you will have to use software for is to program the curves into it and setup which channel uses which curve. You will be able to do it all from the computer.
RJ
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Good progress continues. I have the 7 segment interface working and it now starts up with its name "Lynx Express" and then goes to the start channel to allow you to see this. now I am creating the firmware to allow the programming of start channel and curves. This includes the computer software to do so. once these are done I will hook up the triacs and 120 volt feed to test the AC side of things. Once this is done I can order PCB's for it.
I have also decieded to add a manual mode to set start channel programming. So from the push buttons on the board you can also set it without a computer or it even hooked up. This will mean the only thing you will have to use software for is to program the curves into it and setup which channel uses which curve. You will be able to do it all from the computer.
RJ
As always awesome work RJ
Bill
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A little video to show where the Express is headed.
http://media.putfile.com/express-demo
RJ
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Looks great RJ.
Todd
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Yawn!!
Just another cool example of your talents and drive to get things done and done right.
Btw: WAY COOL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Thanks again Professor
Rick R.
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Agreed, RJ, it looks great. The channel selection option looks really slick and is a welcomed addition.
You mentioned SSRs in your video. Is that just for testing purposes (my guess)? I thought the SSR function was an integrated part of the Lynx Express.
Ron
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Looks great RJ.
Todd
ditto!! I like that paper cover ;) Driving me nuts, I don't like secrets :p That is so cool! I think you are the coolest lighting guy out there. You do all this for us and what do we do, tell you why we can't get it to work :p
Ben
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AMAZING!!!
Nice work Mr. Jordan
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Very nice RJ
Bill
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You're putting a lot of thought into this RJ. The Lynx Express is gonna be light-years ahead of anything else. Can't wait for you to trash the paper cover so we can see what other tricks you have up your Santa suit sleeve!
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Agreed, RJ, it looks great. The channel selection option looks really slick and is a welcomed addition.
You mentioned SSRs in your video. Is that just for testing purposes (my guess)? I thought the SSR function was an integrated part of the Lynx Express.
Ron
I just meant the triac and opto, etc to get a SSR circuit added to the protoboard when I said SSR. They are intregrated to the unit.
Thanks Guys!
RJ
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This stuff just keeps getting better and better.
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This stuff just keeps getting better and better.
What stuff?
Lynx Express stuff?
Lynx Espresso stuff :D
LE Stuff
oh RJ is stuff from dinner :D
Sorry my chat matters are slipping over to the forums
Rick R.
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^ ...and to think I added to it with a slip of my left hand ring finger!
You chatters are quick to pounce!
Rick's manners (??) aside, the Lynx eXpress really is gonna be fine RJ!
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^ ...and to think I added to it with a slip of my left hand ring finger!
You chatters are quick to pounce!
Rick's manners (??) aside, the Lynx eXpress really is gonna be fine RJ!
Smile John you are on DLA Camera
Yeah I don't get it either
Rick R.
(maybe he met candid camera??)
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Rick, I think it is time to change meds again!
RJ
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I really do like the manual channel selector.
I am glad you are looking at a couple of different options for cost. Will that make the board itself more expensive? Or are the parts seperated by the options?
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I really do like the manual channel selector.
I am glad you are looking at a couple of different options for cost. Will that make the board itself more expensive? Or are the parts seperated by the options?
The 16 regular onboard channel led's are an option that adds about $2. The segmented LEDS display is an option also and will add about $7 - $8. So decked out the options add $10 to the unit.
I believe the $10 to be worth it, but then again that is why they are options, to allow you to choose. The display will make programming them much easier and nicer.
RJ
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I have the Express dimming lights. I have tested minis, cheap 1/2 wave leds and full wave leds on it so far. All look good so far. I will be looking over the pcb layout this weekend and ordering pcb's for it.
RJ
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Ok I am in for a pound now! the Proto pcb's are on order so I either did good or channel 49 won't work! Oh wait it's only 16 channels! LOL
I have to take a break from it for about a week while I get the SSR4's all built so I can try and have a show this year.
It is a full blown dimmer at this point and the beta guys will have a useable dimmer out of the door. I just need to get the PC software written and a few extra lines in the firmware to add the ability to upload curves to the unit and set the set start address and channel assignments via the computer. Currently the on board channel selection is the only way. I estimate it will take me about a week to two of work to finish up these items. So if all goes well we may be able to sneak a small coop in before there is no time to build. (no promises.)
RJ
RJ
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Hi RJ,
Thats great news.
Thank you for your continuing efforts
You have my permission for a cold one today.
Take care
Rick R.
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... if all goes well we may be able to sneak a small coop in before there is no time to build. (no promises.)
I love a good sneak!
...and I promise not to tell.
Kudos for all you do RJ ...with godspeed!
John
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Nice work RJ
Many thanks.
I too still need to assemble some SSR4's so I know a little of your pain.
So much to do so little time.
I would like to volunteer to run the 1st Lynx Express Co-Op if we find that we have the time.
Bill
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^ good on ya Bill... You're amazing!
Have a cup of Lynx Espresso on me.
John
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Ok it's time for some motivational Eye Candy!
Lynx Express Proto with no Chips and no Triacs as I have to make the heatsink up. Should be testing in a few days.
Builds well there were nothing that did not fit like "Butter!" Now if it works! ;D
Soon, very Soon I hope to post that it is ALIVE! and working.
RJ
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RJ... In a word, Beautiful!
You did it... I'm salivating like Pavlov's dog :P
...like there's any doubt it will work!
John
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Excellent Work RJ
Bill
;D
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Great looking board RJ,
Nice work as always
Rick R.
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Looks great RJ! I really like the onboard programming!
Kyle ;D ;D
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but will it play Beethovan's Fifth?
(Still waiting on that Blinky-Flashy video)....... -drumming fingers-
-nope.... still not there-
Oh well. Tomorrow
Larry
(P.S. RJ.. Lookin' good)
Question: Will the wireless option be available for the Beta testers or will that be a February expansion?
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The board looks great RJ. Looks like a very easy layout to work with, very well thought out.
Ron
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The Board is up and running with out the Traics and heatsink. So can't check AC yet but the rest is A ok it appears. So I think the beta guys might have got boards worth buying.
Heat sink and triacs will get install tommorrow evening and maybe if all goes good I can show video tommorrow of the unit operational. Now just three more for me to build. ;D
Not a bad build really. It took me about 3 hours to assemble my first so I am betting 2 hours on them. So if you are a rookie maybe 4 hours? Got to start a manual on the next one.
RJ
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Can't wait for the coop on this one ;D
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When will another be available?
Victor
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When will another be available?
Victor
Some time in 2009
All coops for 2008 are pretty much done once the ssr4 coop is sent out.
Rick R.
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Howdy,
I got a handful of PCBs from RJ to keep me busy until COOP season opens. Naturally, I took them to work to show 'em off a bit and to get some nerdvana feedback going. We have quite a mixture of folks. Most are from a technical entertainment background, but there are a few engineers that just love playing with toys. We produce some seriously complicated life safety equipment that's based around a slew of custom boards and some amazing custom software.
They've been universally amazed at the brilliance and intelligence of RJ's designs, especially the guy who came from a lighting heavy background. When I tell them the cost of the parts and the capabilities of the final product, they're even more amazed! It's quite a compliment, for sure.
Hopefully, a few of them will be popping up on here in the future.
Great job, RJ and looking forward to seeing what's next!
Jason
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Good progress continues. I have the 7 segment interface working and it now starts up with its name "Lynx Express" and then goes to the start channel to allow you to see this. now I am creating the firmware to allow the programming of start channel and curves. This includes the computer software to do so. once these are done I will hook up the triacs and 120 volt feed to test the AC side of things. Once this is done I can order PCB's for it.
I have also decieded to add a manual mode to set start channel programming. So from the push buttons on the board you can also set it without a computer or it even hooked up. This will mean the only thing you will have to use software for is to program the curves into it and setup which channel uses which curve. You will be able to do it all from the computer.
RJ
RJ, I just finished buiding my first LE and plugged it in (no blue smoke), however I don't have my dongle ready yet and just wanted to test the LE manually - but I can't seem to find the instructions on doing that without the Dongle and computer hooked up. Can you (or someone) help?
Thanks,
davel295
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Easy as pie!
with it booted up push the Mode button twice to get to "TST" then push the Select button to select the test function. It should run through a display test and then it should turn all channels on one at a time. then blink them all and end with two leds on .. ZC & Done. The DMX light won't be on as you have no DMX going to it with the computer not hooked up.
Let us know how you make out.
RJ
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Thanks, appears that my efforts were worth it - all 16 led's lit up, blinked twice, leaving just #2 & #4 lit up. Thanks again for your help. I'll soon have BLINKY.
davel295
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Sounds Like you already DO!!!! ;D
RJ
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wow, great info... lot's to read through though, lol. i have a lot to learn.
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^ I was just about to say the same thing ;). Ton's of info to look over here, but it's all so interesting! RJ, your work on the Express is amazing! It looks awesome!
Mike
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Hey nice work RJ
Many thanks.
I too still need to assemble some SSR4's so I know a little of your pain.
So much to do so little time.
I would like to volunteer to run the 1st Lynx Express Co-Op if we find that we have the time.
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You missed the boat on the first and second COOP! You can volunteer for the third... if you are ready to sort parts until your fingers are purple!
<la..
Charles
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wasn't that just the second - FOR 2010????
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Sounds Very Cool R J
Thanks for this valuable info...
I would like to keep in touch with this forum to get this wonderful info..
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And the board looks great RJ. Looks like a very easy layout to work with, very well thought out.
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Hi,
Im a newbee to this forum but not the light annimation world. I found the link for the parts list from mouser my only question is where can i buy the pcb and heatsink from thanks alot bill
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This late in the year, you'll have a hard time finding any. Bill has a list of available PCB's, but he has already stated he is out of the LE PCB's, so your best bet is to put a WTB in the sale/trade area. Sorry,
Bill
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Hope this is not a dumb question but is the lynx express an AC controller (ala LOR but dyi) or a DMX controller with the addition of a dongle?
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It ia an AC 16 channel DMX controller with light normalization.You will need a dongle to make DMX.If you use LOR S2 you could use there iDMW to run the LE.
Shaun
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It ia an AC 16 channel DMX controller with light normalization.You will need a dongle to make DMX.If you use LOR S2 you could use there iDMW to run the LE.
Shaun
Yes,
There are quite a few of us that use S2 with an IDMX to run LE's.
Ian
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Ive got two of the express and need another one. Succesfull halloween show last night. My first show ever. Where do I look for another Express.
John
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Ive got two of the express and need another one. Succesfull halloween show last night. My first show ever. Where do I look for another Express.
John
Hi John
You got a few options.
1 - Wait until next Feb for another coop
2 - Order a pcb/heat sink from the DLA store and then order the parts from mouser.
3 - See if anyone is willing to sale you a kit
Rick R.
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Hey all,
Just finishing up building an etherdongle and an Express v5. Can someone explain exactly how the wireless card works? Can I run a cable from my dongle to the first Express and then set that unit as a transmitter to the next Express? Reading the wiki it appears you have to use a separate wireless transmitter. I'm just curious how that works. =)
Thanks for your time
Kenny
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The wireless cards in the LE (Express) are receive only. You would need a TX/RX unit set in transmit mode connected to the ETD (Etherdongle) to send the signal to the LE. There is a jumper on the LE that sets it for wired or wireless operation. One thing that the LE can do is be the first unit in the wired string of components. When in wireless mode, the wired input and first wired output are disabled but the second wired output still works and can be used to connect other devices to the wireless system. Please keep in mind that both the LE and the wireless system is DMX only and the standard output of the ETD is PixelNet so if you are using an ETD, make sure that you flash it with the optional DMX firmware.
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What is the difference between a LE 5.0 and a LE 5.1?
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The 5.1 version of the PCB has the attachment holes relocated to align with mounting bosses in the currently available CG-1500 enclosure.
/Don
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Yes you need the transmitter. All of my LEs have the wireless option installed. I run a wire from my active hub to the transmitter and control all the LEs. I also have a USB dongle and a second transmitter that I can use for testing. Works great and I have no cables in my yard going to LEs.