I am wondering, what at the least as far as dongles and license key do I need to do testing of fixtures? I do not plan on any shows or anything like that, but I come across a lot of older fixtures and would like to test their setup and function, before adding it to my Church’s system. I much rather work these kinks out at home at my leisure rather than going into the church and spend what seems like hours working the kinks out, Do I need a license key to operate 1 or 2 fixture? Do I need the 512 dongle? I know I would need the software, which I have, but what else do I need?
Hi, the license key is not needed to operate any number of fixtures. Just be aware that without it, your lights will all blackout momentarily at random intervals to prevent you from using the software in a live show environment. This is no problem for testing, though, because it only blacks out for a second or so. Without too much disturbance, you can fully test all the features of the lights at home as long as you have a way to output the DMX from your computer. You will either a Vista Console to output the dmx or a Chroma-Q USB to DMX.
Is it possible to use a USB to DMX adaptor from another manufacturer? I checked the pricing of the Vista UD512 and it is far too expensive for me. I am doing this as a volunteer. Even the work at the church is volunteer work. There is no budget, I do however have a USB to DMX adaptor from another manufacturer. Can it be used?
Yes, I totally understand, as I am also a volunteer for a church. Unfortunately, you cannot use another manufacturer’s USB to DMX converter with Vista. The cheapest option would still be around $100 for an Art-Net to DMX converter.
I recommend finding a time at your church when you can come in and test the lights in person. If you arrive with your Vista showfile and a plan ready, it should not take too long to figure out. You could also see if it is possible to borrow the Vista hardware from your church if you are insistent on working from home.
Are you saying I can use a artnet to dmx adapter and I would be able to use it at home? Can you recommend some brands to look for? Or some some specifications to look for?
Tim Bierl
I use a Chauvet DMX-AN2. It’s a little pricey but has been rock solid once I figured out how to set it up.