IES PR-6 dimmer pack Operators’ Manual v. 1.1 25-04-2002 12
7. DimSTAT
DimSTAT provides a system-wide network, and
operates on a host polling protocol where the PC
searches for connected dimmers at initiation, and
then regularly polls dimmers for data to display.
If a fault occurs, the PC’s display instantly shows the
detail, and if the fault is cleared the system resets
accordingly. Information displayed includes: DMX
start address per unit, DMX OK, line voltage, current
per channel, dimmer curve, response time, max.
setting, type of fault reported (temperature, overload
etc.), date and time of fault. It is possible to set the
dimmer curve, start address and pre-heat from
DimSTAT software on the PC.
The operation and performance of the PR-6 dimmer
pack dimmer is monitored constantly by the on-
board data processors, and this information is
available on the LCD screen of the dimmer, and
through DimSTAT. The parameters measured and
reported are:
a) DMX OK
b) DMX channel numbers
c) DMX levels
d) frequency
e) dimmer curve
f) temperature
For further information, please refer to the DimSTAT
software manual.
8. Fault finding
8.1 Reported faults
8.1.1 No load (control present but no output)
This can be reported if either a load fails (lamp
blows or fuse has failed), or the load is disconnected
in error, or a load is not connected.
8.1.2 Over temperature
If one of the dimmer channels exceeds an operating
temperature of 80°C, the dimmer will switch off and
report an overtemperature condition. This can be
caused if the ventilation is obstructed (e.g. the
dimmer is resting on the floor and is being used
continuously at full load).
8.2 First line maintenance
This check list provides initial assistance in the case
of a problem which has not been identified and
reported by the dimmer’s own software.
8.2.1 LCD display blank
Check all power supply connections. Check
module’s RCBO or MCB is on.
8.2.2 LCD display corrupted
Switch off and on again. If the fault persists, open
the module and check all connections, and that plug-
in ICs are secure in their sockets.
8.2.3 No output from one channel
Check the channel MCB. Check the control signal is
active. Check the DMX address is correct. Check
there is no ‘l’ showing on the output screen.
8.2.4 RCD trips continuously
Unplug all load plugs. If the fault persists, refer to
service technician. If the RCD holds in, replace one
plug at a time until the RCD trips again. Check the
circuit (cables, plugs and sockets, distribution, lights)
for a loose terminals, a phase to neutral short, a
phase to earth short or a neutral to earth short and
correct where necessary.
8.2.5 Dimmer output is full on all the time
Disconnect the DMX cable to isolate control. If the
dimmer is still on, check a) the MANual level has not
been set to 100%; b) the dimmer curve has not been
set to ‘Inverted’; c) the MIN level is at zero. If the
dimmer is still on refer to a service technician.
If the dimmer switches off when the DMX cable is
removed, check that both NON-DIM mode
selections (dimmer curve and Channel Configuration
I/O) are set to OFF. If either or both these functions
are set ON, the dimmer will be operating in Non-Dim
mode.
8.2.6 Dimmers work, but DimSTAT doesn’t
recognise all or some dimmers
Check the DMX network to ensure 2-pair cable is
used and correctly connected throughout. If a DMX
booster/isolator unit is used in the network, check
that it supports bi-directional data on pins 4 and 5.
