Considerations and Comparisons of Dimming Functions when Choosing stage Lights

When choosing stage lights, the consideration of the dimming function can start from aspects such as dimming consistency, accuracy and range, curve setting, stability and convenience of on-site operation. Different dimming methods have their own advantages and disadvantages, and the choice should be made based on actual needs. The following is the specific analysis:

Dimming consistency and accuracy

Dimming consistency: Digital dimmers can achieve good dimming consistency without any adjustment, and this consistency does not change over time or with environmental variations. This means that throughout the entire performance, the dimming effects of different lamps can remain highly consistent, and there will be no uneven changes in the brightness of some lamps, ensuring the uniformity and stability of the stage lighting effects.

Dimming accuracy and range: The dimming accuracy of digital dimmers can reach above 1024 levels, and the dimming range is 1% - 100%. High-precision dimming enables lighting technicians to control the changes in light brightness more delicately, meeting the precise requirements for light intensity in different scenarios. For example, when creating a warm atmosphere, the brightness of the lights can be adjusted to a lower level. And when it is necessary to highlight the key points, it can quickly increase the brightness.

Dimming curve setting

Multiple dimming curves can be set as needed. Different performance scenes have different requirements for the changes in lighting. By setting different dimming curves, the changes in lighting can be made more in line with the rhythm of the plot and the performance. For example, when presenting tense and exciting plots, rapidly changing dimming curves can be adopted to enhance the tension of the stage. When depicting romantic and warm scenes, a slowly changing dimming curve can be used to create a soft atmosphere.

Dimming stability and on-site operation

Stability: Digital dimmers have a good ability to restore their original performance under the impact of external interference, that is, they have strong robustness. During the performance, it may be affected by various electromagnetic interferences and other factors. However, digital dimmers can ensure the stability of dimming, avoid problems such as light flickering and jumping, and guarantee the smooth progress of the performance.

On-site dimming function: By inputting relevant instructions through the buttons on the full-digit dimming silicon box and the LCD display screen, the output brightness value of the output circuit can be directly set. When both the dimming console and the backup console fail, the digital dimmer can temporarily serve as a backup dimming console. Relying on the on-site dimming function, it can directly control the dimming of the on-site lamps, providing additional support for the performance.

Comparison of different dimming methods

Advanced dimming: Utilizing thyristor circuits, it features high adjustment accuracy, small size, light weight, and easy remote control, thus dominating the market. However, the front-cut dimmer is prone to generating considerable noise and is not recommended for use in demanding situations.

Rear edge dimming: There is no minimum load requirement, and better performance can be achieved on a single lighting device or a very small load. However, its cost is relatively high, and the dimming circuit is relatively complex and not easy to stabilize.

0/1-10V dimming: Simple to apply, good compatibility, high precision and excellent dimming effect. However, additional control circuits and controllers need to be added.

DALI dimming: Precise and smooth dimming, more flexible single-lamp control, bidirectional communication, strong anti-interference ability, and fault feedback. Additional control circuits and controllers also need to be added.

DMX512 dimming: Its powerful control function brings rich lighting effects to architectural lighting, night scene lighting, studios and variety show stages. However, it requires a special wiring layout and type, as well as certain programming, and the later maintenance cost is relatively high.