Noob jumping in headfirst :)

[TheJackal]

So I downloaded the trial software and, yes, I'm already hooked. I'm sure as time goes on I'll have some more questions. I also downloaded some sequences and some came with the corresponding music. Here come the questions. I'll be starting with 16 channels (I know I'll go up in time).

Software: I’ve been watching the tutorials and am getting more and more excited. We bought our house last October, so by the time we painted, etc I just put up a few lights. This year, a few more. So, next year I’m taking the plunge.

When I installed the program, I chose a folder to default the songs and sequences to. Now I want to change it. I just can’t find the correct options to do this.

Is there a way to see the songwaves at the same time as creating a sequence?

Something like this:

I know it takes time to create a sequence, which is not a problem. Simple but time consuming an accurate description?

MP3 or .wav? Is it preference or does one do better with LOR?

Hardware:

The 'Typical Setup' page shows there is a converter between the laptop and controller, but I don't see it listed as part of the Residential Series CTP16PC-ReadyToGO package. I also don't see it listed for sale…….is it needed?

Any tricks on storing so many strings? I don’t mean space, I have that. I mean keeping strings untangled, etc.

A typical mini-light (Walmart type) 100 bulb, 21.1 foot string uses .37 amps and each controller output can handle 2 amps(?). So, theoretically (or reality?) each output can handle 5 of these strings (5x.37=1.85amps) and the entire controller can have 80 – 100 bulb strings (5x16) for a total of 29.6 amps (16x1.85), 1680 feet and 8000 lights. LED’s change everything since a 23 foot string with 70 bulbs uses only .04 amps. Which computes to 50 strings/output x 16 = 800 strings x 70 bulbs/string = 56000 bulbs. Adding a heatsink on each would quadruple those numbers?

The math works, but would this be feasible or even recommended?

If I wanted to hook up flood lights, are there any preferred by anyone that uses them? They would obviously need to be within the limits of the controller.

I was considering pig tailing off my breaker box (I don't have any extra breakers). What size breaker would be recommended if it was dedicated? Currently my garage runs off a 20amp breaker, which also powers my koi pond. Anytime I use my compressor, I need to shut off the pumps or I trip the breaker. However, my table saw and miter saw don’t. So, I’m not sure if the lights may or may not trip the breaker. If I did decide to add on down the line, I'm afraid the breaker couldn't andle the load.

I’m looking to start this way:

Laptop

Residential Series CTP16PC-ReadyToGO package

As many lights as Walmart has on sale (considering spending more for the LED’s)

500’-1000’ SPT wire with vampire plugs

[dusty72]

Hello! and Merry Christmas,

As a 16 channel newbie myself I will let the more experienced answer the big questions, there is a ton of knowledge and wisdom here, and the search is awesome, but I do know I learn something everyday about my software and hardware.

Skipping to the bottom of the list, what about the listening part? Outside speakers and amp or fm transmitter ( or like me both) just a thought for you.......

Also look at some of the vendors here for led's ( they understand our needs and are having some sales that are impressive coming up soon.)

As for the spt wire and vamp plugs( that's the only way to go). my life became alot easier after following that idea!

And of course...... Welcome to the fun

[scubado]

Go to view at the top left and select waveform and select the option you want. I mostly use MP3. Some songs will be variable bit rate which is not good, the timings won't line up the longer the play period. Use Audicity to convert to fixed bit rate. Do a search to learn more about it.

The RS485 adapter is part of the Starter package. Since you already know you're getting more controllers, get the Advanced license. It's cheaper doing the upgrade up front than doing it later.

I just wrap the strings around my hand and use a plastic bag to keep them seperated in a tub.

Each channel handles 8 amps, each bank of 8 handles 15 amps. If you have the two sides bridged, then 15 amps total for controller. Look on Ebay for led floodlights, as is, they probably won't fade, converting them to DC is better. There are vendors here that sell led floods and spots as well. I make my own.

Stores are pretty much picked over or completely out of lights already. Online vendors have their pre-sales going on now. Do a search on half wave and full wave leds.

Welcome to the addiction!

Edited December 24, 2012 by scubado

[jlowe]

To fill in some more blanks:

Sequencing is pretty straightforward, but so is putting a paintbrush on a canvas. There are tips, tricks, styles, and (I think) an art to it. I know I still have a ways to go.

Mp3s:

Like previously stated, make sure you use constant bit rate. Also, use a program like mp3gain to get all your songs at a similar volume level.

Also, like said, you need an fm transmitter.

Light storage:

The ball method seems to work for me. A bigger issue is organization of power/data distribution from year to year.

Load:

5 strings per channel? Maybe the controller can handle that load, but you must also consider the gauge of wire on the light strings.

If you have your controller wired with both power connections, then in theory, each bank of 8 could pull 15 amps. But they would need to be connected onto two 15 amp circuits or one 30.

I personally would be weary of running so close to limits, but I use LEDs, so I'll let someone else speak to that.

Floods:

I use some DIY floods that are led and color changing. Traditional floods could quickly reach your limits. You may want to research your options.

Electrical:

Pig tailing would likely violate code. Have you looked into getting slimline breakers so that you could add a new circuit?

If your garage circuit already is close to overload, I'm pretty sure pulling 15 more amps will trip it every time.

What is the electrical coming in your home? You may need to upgrade or work with an electrician on balancing your needs.

You could also run extension cables from home circuits that don't have much load. But, you would have to consider GFCI protection...

Go with 1000 feet of spt2. You will go through 500 in no time.

Look at other animated lighting forums for more ideas, group buys of materials, etc.

Good luck!

Edited December 24, 2012 by jlowe

[scubado]

If you have your controller wired with both power connections, then in theory, each bank of 8 could pull 15 amps. But they would need to be connected onto two 15 amp circuits or one 30.

This statement is wrong. Two 15 amps circuits is correct. One 30 amp circuit is wrong! The chances of something going wrong is slim since the boards have fuses. But installing heavy wire, recepticle for 30A and breaker is money seriously wasted! This is the second time I've had to point this out to a member. Please do not suggest this again.

[jlowe]

This statement is wrong. Two 15 amps circuits is correct. One 30 amp circuit is wrong! The chances of something going wrong is slim since the boards have fuses. But installing heavy wire, recepticle for 30A and breaker is money seriously wasted! This is the second time I've had to point this out to a member. Please do not suggest this again.

I didn't mean someone should go install a 30 amp circuit just for running a controller. But I see how what I did say was a little off the cuff and could lead to confusion.

You are correct. Two 15 or 20 amp circuits would be the most likely scenario for anyone. I had no intention to muddy the waters.

[scubado]

Unfortunately one new member actually did install 30A circuits for X controllers, that's why I had to say something.

[TheJackal]

Thanks for all the responses. I'm pretty sure I can handle the sequencing/music and design part of it. I just don't want to overload and start tripping breakers. I went through that with my compressor.

Skipping to the bottom of the list, what about the listening part? Outside speakers and amp or fm transmitter ( or like me both) just a thought for you.......

I need to get a receiver/amp for my garage anyway. So, getting one I can hook my laptop to would serve dual purpose.

Go to view at the top left and select waveform and select the option you want. I mostly use MP3. Some songs will be variable bit rate which is not good, the timings won't line up the longer the play period. Use Audicity to convert to fixed bit rate. Do a search to learn more about it. The RS485 adapter is part of the Starter package. Since you already know you're getting more controllers, get the Advanced license. It's cheaper doing the upgrade up front than doing it later. I just wrap the strings around my hand and use a plastic bag to keep them seperated in a tub. Each channel handles 8 amps, each bank of 8 handles 15 amps. If you have the two sides bridged, then 15 amps total for controller. Look on Ebay for led floodlights, as is, they probably won't fade, converting them to DC is better. There are vendors here that sell led floods and spots as well. I make my own. Stores are pretty much picked over or completely out of lights already. Online vendors have their pre-sales going on now. Do a search on half wave and full wave leds. Welcome to the addiction!

There it was. I thought I went through all the options. Guess I missed it.

I didn't see the adapter listed, I just needed to check.

I was going to get the Advanced license

I'll look into the floodlight options. Not sure I'll have enough channels anyway....for now.

We went out food shopping and stopped at a few stores. Their either all gone (as you said) or packed away. Its all good.I've been looking around. Its not like I have to buy them right this minute anyway. I'm thinking I might stick to incandescent for now, we're still paying off a wedding.

Mp3s: Like previously stated, make sure you use constant bit rate. Also, use a program like mp3gain to get all your songs at a similar volume level. Load: 5 strings per channel? Maybe the controller can handle that load, but you must also consider the gauge of wire on the light strings. If you have your controller wired with both power connections, then in theory, each bank of 8 could pull 15 amps. But they would need to be connected onto two 15 amp circuits or one 30. I personally would be weary of running so close to limits, but I use LEDs, so I'll let someone else speak to that. Floods: I use some DIY floods that are led and color changing. Traditional floods could quickly reach your limits. You may want to research your options. Electrical: Pig tailing would likely violate code. Have you looked into getting slimline breakers so that you could add a new circuit? If your garage circuit already is close to overload, I'm pretty sure pulling 15 more amps will trip it every time.

I would prefer using MP3, since that's what my songs on my hard drive are anyway. I do have a bunch of AAC songs I need to convert. Any preference on HZ and bitrate? I tried converting one and when I asked LOR to bring up the waveform, it gave a an error that it can't convert.

The electrical numbers are theoretical. I wouldn't go near the limits unles I had to for a specific channel. This is an older house (1973) and the previous owner was a bad DIY'er and screwed up the wiring in the kitchen and garage. Running a new line would serve dual purpose (LOR and my other toys), so its not ideal, but just an option.

I didn't mean someone should go install a 30 amp circuit just for running a controller. But I see how what I did say was a little off the cuff and could lead to confusion. You are correct. Two 15 or 20 amp circuits would be the most likely scenario for anyone. I had no intention to muddy the waters.

I'll check my options with an electrition.