Difference between CTB16KD CTB16PC

[gizmomkr]

Looking over some of the DIY parts, Is there any technical difference between the CTB16KD & CTB16PC - other than heatsink options.

I have read several times over that this the "original Planet Christmas" version - Does it take the latest LOR firmware ? is it still DMX compadible ? (those are the only thing that really matter to me)

Just wondering if there are any technical differences.

Thanks.

[Jeff Sand]

The "D" versions are the deluxe boards, and are the same ones found in the Showtime products (LOR1600W, LOR1602W). The two major differences in features are:

- Switches to set the unit ID without going through software. If you are going to use lots of controllers, you want this IMHO
- Ability to act as a show controller (play back a show - without music - directly from firmware without having a computer attached). This is called "standalone mode"

And also the heatsink/capacity difference you already mentioned. I think the terminal strips (where you plug in the cords) may also be a little different, but I'm not sure.

[-klb-]

The PC versions use 1/4 inch spade lugs, while the CTB16D uses screw terminals. The board layout around the connections is different also, with the CTB16D terminals along the bottom, and the PC terminals lined up along the triacs, allowing for a narrower board.

The firmware has a lot in common between the two boards, and currently they implement the same light control features in firmware. The discrepancies are only 2 trigger inputs on the PC version, compared to 3 on the CTB16D, the ability to store a few minutes of animation sequence on the CTB16D, and I was thinking there was a third, but I can't remember what it would be right now.

Accepting DMX, fading shimmer and twinkle, and support for trigger inputs exist on both.

I've got 30 controllers in a city park display, and another dozen at home, and aside from 2, they are all the PC controllers.

One more difference that may be significant in your case. The 1602W is UL listed. None of the other LOR controllers are. If that matters, your selection is limited.

[Denny]

The 1602 is also rated at 40 amps while the PC is 30 amps. Also, to clarify, the CTB16DK is not UL rated since it is a kit. However, it is the same board that is factory assembled in the 1602W in the case. This is the only one that is UL approved.