Using the Autoprepare function, DMXControl 3 automatically prepares devices within a Cuelist for an upcoming lighting scene in which the device will be used.
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In the current version of DMXControl 3, the autoprepare function is not yet completely error-free, so its use is subject to certain conditions. For devices used in a cuelist with the autoprepare function enabled, an initial defined base state must be established, where dimmers and shutters are explicitly set to off. |
Overview
The Autoprepare function eliminates the need to manually prepare Devices. A typical example is moving heads that project onto different areas or create various lighting effects within a Cuelist. Before being ready for a new lighting scene, the moving head usually needs to complete the following tasks:
- Move to the desired position,
- Select the correct gobo,
- Choose the new color, or
- Adjust the focus for the next gobo combination.
Ideally, these and other tasks should be completed before turning on the dimmer. Otherwise, when the scene fades in, the moving head may travel across the entire stage, scroll through all gobos and colors, and only then reach the intended state—an unsightly effect.
The Autoprepare function prevents this "aimless movement" by automatically detecting when a device is turned off and when it will be needed for a subsequent lighting scene. While the device is off and before it is required for the next scene, DMXControl 3 prepares it for the upcoming Cue. Without Autoprepare, you would need to create two Cues:
- A first cue where all settings except the dimmer are saved, allowing the moving head to get into position.
- A second cue to turn on the dimmer.
Key Features
The Autoprepare function is disabled by default because it causes devices to move "as if by magic" without explicit user input. To avoid confusion, you must manually enable the Autoprepare function in the cuelist settings to use it.
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The autoprepare function can only manage preparatory actions within a Cuelist and only if the triggers "follow", "wait", "rtc", or "timecode" are used. Therefore, it is only worthwhile if you have a predefined timeline with more than ten cues in a cuelist, such as for a theater play, a musical, or a light show. |
Usage
Enabling and Disabling the Function
The Autoprepare function can be enabled and disabled on multiple levels.
| Activation Level | Default Value | Note |
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| Cuelist | "disabled" | Enables or disables Autoprepare for the entire cuelist. |
| Cue | "enabled" | Allows individual cues to be excluded from Autoprepare. |
| Device | "enabled" | Defines whether each device function should be considered by Autoprepare. This setting applies to the entire project. |