Effects application to separate channels

Question

Hi All, 
 I'm still figuring out effects, so if I'm off base here let me know. 
 The situation. 2 groups of 4 channels on two different scenic pieces. (chaser bulbs) 
 A 2 step Absolute Effect. 
 If I apply the effect to both groups at the same time, it looks like a bad steppy chase as its treating all 8 channels as part of one chase. So I apply the effect to the first group and then the second group. The chases look like they are supposed to (2 separate 4 channel chases). As soon as I hit update, the chase starts to pulse again. 
 Is it intended behavior that the chase re applies to all the channels rather than the two groups? I can see reasons for it to be both ways, but I guess I sort of assumed that with the absolute effect, the idea was that you can use it on any channel group as sections not as a whole. 
 Also while I have the attention of the group.. When using the same effect on multiple groups of channels, is it possible to change the rate for an effect only on one set of channels, or must one make a duplicate effect? 
 So lets say that three groups of channels are running effect 914. I want the upstage ones at Rate 100. Midstage at Rate 80. Down stage at 200. Or whatever. Right now as I see it, its only possible to change the rate for the entire effect in the cue. 
 
 Thanks, 
 
 -Ben

SBC · Answer

Try recording Q1 with first group of 4 chans. Then record Q2 as an auto follow with same effect applied to second group of four chans. Adjust the autofollow time as needed to reach desired result. 
 I understand adjusting the rate of an effect is global. You can copy the effect twice over and adjust the rate of each one as desired. You could also apply the effect to a submaster for each set of chans. Once the effect is on the sub, it can be modified seperately from the native effect. You can use a macro to simultaneously fire the subs.