Episode 39 – How Do You Create A “Show Network”




The Learn Stage Lighting Podcast show

Summary: In this week’s Episode we discuss the Basic Overview of creating a Show Network. I’ll go over the basics of networking and what you need to get started.<br> If you have been listening for a while I would sincerely appreciate if you would take a moment to rate the Podcast and be sure to share what you’ve learned from the show!<br> <a href="https://www.learnstagelighting.com/itunes">Rate/Review on iTunes</a><br> Lighting News! (1:45)<br> Last week I was attending the LDI Conference is considered the “Big One” of the Year in Las Vegas.<br> In the future, I am excited to announce that I will be creating videos showing the new products, interviews, and so much more. With that, be sure to Subscribe to my <a href="http://LearnStageLighting.com/Youtube">YouTube Channel</a> for the latest videos.<br> Main Segment (3:00)<br> Two Episode’s ago we discussed using a computer for Lighting. In general, a Windows PC will be used for any lighting software. In case you missed this Episode be sure to check it out.<br> <a href="https://www.learnstagelighting.com/episode-37-what-computer-do-i-need-for-lighting/">Episode 37 – What Computer Do I Need for Lighting?</a><br> Why Even Use Networking in Lighting?<br> You may want to consider using Networking for a couple of reasons in Lighting.<br> One of the main reasons to use networking is to set up a Back-Up Console that follows what your Main Console does. In any unforeseen circumstances, you may never know what may happen.<br> Another reason for using Networking is for <a href="https://www.learnstagelighting.com/art-net-sacn/">networked DMX</a>. As technology and functions become more complex the need for Network and cables are becoming more standard.<br> If you plan on working in Lighting, Audio, or Video you may want to seriously consider working with networking because it’s becoming a very necessary skill.<br> What Do I Need to Network?<br> Since you’ll be working with Consoles, you may quickly realize you will need to Network it. Output Hardware (“nodes”), Pixel Controllers, and Even Lights themselves!<br> Just getting started with Networking you only need a Network Cable to connect the devices, set up the IP Address, and Subnet Mask to set the range.<br> What Kind of Networking Gear Do I Need?<br> Getting started you only need a few items to get started. At the basic level, all you need is an “unmanaged switch”. For what we do in the lighting world this is really what you need.<br> You have an optional “access point” for wireless control. Ideally, it’s very ideal to have this option.<br> A consumer “router” combines both of these with “routing”, which basically connects smaller networks to bigger networks.<br> If you are starting small I would recommend using a Router and hook up all of your equipment through there.<br> What Type of Networking Signal Should I Use?<br> The two most common are Art-net and sACN. My personal preference is using sACN because it is easier to configure and set up.<br> Art-net = No internet or other protocols<br> sACN = Other protocols can run on the same line<br> Console Nets = varies, but required for backup console tracking functionality.<br> But the best way to get started is to review your equipment and find the best preference it prefers to work with.<br> Closing (20:17)<br> This is a very Basic Overview of Networking but if you would like to dive deeper I would recommend checking out <a href="https://lp.learnstagelighting.com/learn-stage-lighting-labs/">Learn Stage Lighting Labs</a> for our Action Plan: Networking for the Lighting Person.<br> I do recommend checking out my YouTube Video <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OwzVgKEMs0Q">What are Art-Net and sCAN</a>?<br> Be sure to tune In next week as I tackle questions from Listeners just like you. If you have a question be sure to <a href="https://www.learnstagelighting."></a>