Media Server

First, choose a Media Server that can be controlled via DMX, ETCNet2 (EDMX), ArtNet or sACN.

The majority of Media Servers support at least one of these protocols - some support more than one (eg Arkaos can be controlled via ETCNet2 or ArtNet.)

For example, if you using a Media Server that supports a network protocol like sACN:

• Set the Media Server IP address to 10.101.1.xxx, Subnet 255.255.0.0, Gateway 10.101.1.1
  
  • "xxx" is a number between 101 and 253 that no other computer on the network uses
• Connect the Media Server to the lighting network.
  • If you don't already have a lighting network:
  • Get a small 4 or 5-port switch and two network patch cables
  • Plug the Ion into one port of the switch, and the Media Server into any other port
• Ensure that "sACN" is enabled in both Media Server and the Ion.
  • Or if the media server uses ArtNet, ensure that is turned on instead (etc)
• Set up the media server
  
  • Set mode
  • Choose number of layers/objects etc
  • Set the DMX Universe and start address(es)
  • Any other options the server has
• Patch the Media Server in Ion across several Desk Channels.
  • Each "Layer" or "Object" will be a different console channel.
  • Patch each of these the same way as patching any moving light.

You now have control of the Media Server from Ion!

Finally, re-read the Media Server manual as they all have huge numbers of attributes.

I find them quite difficult to control - go slow, make lots of partial palettes, and keep a cribsheet of how each attribute affects the image close to hand.

Thanks for the information!  Sounds like it might be a little clunky.  Perhaps its better to just get a simple video switcher.  Anyone recomend a good media server or switcher?  Thanks!

Thanks for the information!  Sounds like it might be a little clunky.  Perhaps its better to just get a simple video switcher.  Anyone recomend a good media server or switcher?  Thanks!

If you're after 'simple' stuff - play movie clip A, play movie clip B - then maybe one of the Arkaos range of media server and 'VJ' software may suit - I think they have free demo versions so you could give them a try.

I second the reccomendation of Arkaos stuff.  It can be used very simply, or can be used for quite complex things.  VJ DMX allows the use of up to eight video layers.  We use it with great effect, and it is very simple to use. 

You will need to get a DMX to USB dongle (EntTec's USB Pro is a good unit) for use with your PC.