Arri Smarttrack User Manual

smartrack
USER MANUAL
Electronic Theatre Controls Ltd.

5 Victoria Industrial Estate, Victoria Road
London W3 6UU, England
(+44) 181 896 1000 FAX (+44) 181 896 2000
Copyright 1995 Electronic Theatre Controls Ltd.
2000M1001 Specifications subject to change. Revised 8/95
smartrack
User Manual
Introduction – Please read this first
Thank you for choosing ETC Smartrack digital dimmers. We are
sure that you will be pleased with Smartrack, and wish you a
long and happy association with our company and its products.
We at ETC have done everything we can to ensure that your

new dimming system will function perfectly, will be easy to
install, and will give you many years of reliable service.
This manual contains detailed instructions for installing, using

and maintaining ETC Smartrack dimmers. Please follow them
carefully, to guarantee best results. Neither ETC Ltd nor its
distributors can accept any liability whatsoever arising from the
guidelines in this manual not being followed.
page i
Smartrack User Manual ETC Ltd
Table of contents
1. Digital dimming explained ...................................................1
2. About Smartrack ..................................................................2
2.1 Mechanical............................................................................2
2.2 Electrical................................................................................4
2.3 Filtering .................................................................................4
2.3.1 Standard risetime choke ..........................................................4
2.3.2 High risetime choke ................................................................5
2.4 Rack control ...........................................................................5
2.4.1 Dimmer profile .......................................................................5
2.4.2 Response speed......................................................................5
2.4.3 Dimmer test ............................................................................6
2.4.4 Reference voltage ...................................................................6
2.5 Thermal management ..............................................................6
3. Getting Started – What’s in the box ......................................8
3.1. Smartrack ..............................................................................8
3.1.1 Rack .....................................................................................8
3.1.2 Power assemblies ...................................................................9
4. Installation .........................................................................10
4.1. Environmental considerations .................................................10
4.2. Planning and marking out ......................................................10
4.2.1 Marking out a wall ...............................................................11
4.2.2 Planning an island installation ................................................12
4.3. Wall fixings .........................................................................12
4.4. Assembly and mounting.........................................................12
4.5. Power wiring........................................................................14
4.5.1 Standard Smartrack ..............................................................16
4.5.2 Connecting single and bi-phase systems ..................................17
4.5.3 Connecting Delta systems ......................................................17
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Version 1.2 Smartrack User Manual
4.5.4 Cascading a stack of Smartracks ...........................................17

4.6. Load wiring..........................................................................19
4.6.1 Installing load wires ..............................................................19
4.7. Identifying and testing power and load wiring..........................19
4.8. Signal wiring .......................................................................20
4.9. Power assemblies .................................................................21
4.9.1 Installation ...........................................................................21
4.9.2 Connecting load wiring .........................................................21
4.9.3 Connecting power wiring – RCD option fitted...........................23
4.9.4 Connecting power wiring – without RCD option .......................25
4.9.5 The power assembly signal looms ...........................................25
4.10 Smartrack door ....................................................................27
4.10.1 Mounting the door ................................................................27
4.10.2 Connecting earth and power wiring........................................27
4.10.3 Smartrack CPU jumper settings ...............................................27
4.10.4 Connecting power assembly signal looms................................28
4.10.5 Connecting DMX input/output wiring ......................................29
4.10.6 Fitting blanking plates ...........................................................29
4.10.7 Closing the door...................................................................29
4.10.8 Fitting dimmer number strips ..................................................30
5. Commissioning and configuration.......................................31
5.1. Switching on ........................................................................31
5.2. Power and signal indicators ...................................................31
5.3. Modular Smartrack dimmer level indicators..............................32
5.4. Battery supported memory .....................................................33
5.5. Using offline mode................................................................33
5.5.1 Verifying rms line voltage in offline mode ................................34
5.5.2 Setting the output voltage range in offline mode .......................34
5.6. Testing dimmer circuits with the rotary potentiometer .................35
5.7. DMX control.........................................................................35
5.7.1 Terminating the DMX line.......................................................36
page iii
5.7.2 Good/bad data ...................................................................36

5.7.3 Setting the rack address ........................................................36
5.7.4 Large installations .................................................................37
5.7.5 Testing dimmers with DMX .....................................................37
5.8. Dimmer profiles ....................................................................37
5.8.1 What is a profile?.................................................................37
5.8.2 Smartrack standard profiles ...................................................38
5.8.3 Dimmer and console set profiles .............................................39
5.8.4 Setting profiles .....................................................................39
5.9. Response speed....................................................................40
5.9.1 Setting response speed..........................................................41
5.10 Important note – Exiting from user interface mode .....................41
6. Smartrack operational summary ........................................42
6.1. Accessing the control panel....................................................42
6.2. Address setting.....................................................................43
6.3. Dimmer mode ......................................................................43
6.3.1 Testing dimmers at levels .......................................................43
6.3.2 Profile mode.........................................................................44
6.3.3 Speed mode ........................................................................44
6.4. Offline mode........................................................................45
6.4.1 Checking line voltage............................................................46
6.4.2 Setting the output voltage scale ..............................................46
6.4.3 Clearing configuration settings ...............................................46
7. Routine maintenance..........................................................47
7.1. Torque settings .....................................................................47 ...
7.2. Cleaning .............................................................................47
7.3. Inspecting dimmer module connectors .....................................48
7.4. Control fuse ratings ...............................................................48
7.5. Battery replacement ..............................................................48
page iv
8. Technical support ...............................................................49

8.1. Who to call..........................................................................49
8.2. What to tell them ..................................................................49
9. Accessories and options .....................................................50
9.1 RCD protection .....................................................................50
9.2 Single phase adapter kit ........................................................50
9.3 Spare numbering sheets ........................................................51
9.4 Load terminal extender kits.....................................................51
10. Spare parts ........................................................................52
page v
Notes:
page vi
smartrack
USER MANUAL
1. Digital dimming explained

There are good reasons why users of professional dimming equipment are now only
willing to accept true digital dimming equipment, such as ETC Smartrack and
Smartpack. They are:
● Accuracy – digital dimmers are able to regulate output levels to reproduce precisely
recorded intensities, even when mains power is fluctuating.
● Reliability – with fewer electronic components, digital dimmers literally have less
things to go wrong.
● Smarts – with processing power on board, digital dimmers can perform tasks previ-
ously impossible with analogue techniques. These include diagnostic functions, indi-
vidual dimmer profile and response speed settings, and more.
● Cost – a well designed digital dimmer typically uses fewer electronic components
and is therefore cheaper to manufacture.
The key to the accuracy of digital dimmers is regulation. This means that the dimmer is
constantly measuring the rms voltage of each supply phase (a total of 12,800 times per
second in the case of ETC Smartrack) to build up an accurate picture of the condition of
the mains supply to each dimmer. Using this information, the power devices are pre-
cisely controlled, to compensate for any mains voltage fluctuations and produce a con-
stant voltage output for any given control level.
Of course, in an age where virtually all lighting control consoles output the same inter-
nationally accepted digital control signal (USITT DMX512), another plus with digital
dimmers is that no expensive demultiplexer stage is required. The digital signals from
the lighting console are simply connected directly to the dimmers.
page 1
2. About Smartrack
Smartrack is a revolutionary concept in professional digital dimming equipment, offer-
ing a very wide range of system options in an extremely compact package, with many
significant advantages over its competitors:
● Compact size
● Competitive price
● Easy and economical installation
● Highly flexible configuration options
● Basic or modular variants
● All-digital – high reliability, high accuracy
Smartrack is unique in that it offers competitive system solutions at all levels of the market,
and versions exist to cover all requirements, right up to top level broadcast applications.
2.1 Mechanical
Each Smartrack is a proprietary wall mounting steel cabinet, measuring 85cm
wide, 65cm high and 30cm deep, designed to house up to three power assem-
blies (supplied separately), each of which comprises 30kW of dimming, as either
12 x 2.5kW, 6 x 5kW or 3 x 10kW. A hinged steel front door supports all the
system electronics, and the rack is available in two versions, to accept either
basic (hard-wired) or plug-in modular power assemblies.
Smartrack is primarily intended for wall-mounting, and may be installed up to
three high, side by side, or back to back. Smartrack may also be fitted into flight-
cases with custom rear connector panels, for highly cost-effective mobile dimming
systems.
All power, load and signal cables may enter from top, bottom, or through rear
panels and sufficient space is provided for through wiring in a stack of three
Smartracks. Front access only is required for installation and maintenance, and
all terminal screwheads face forward, for easy re-tensioning in service.
page 2
Power Assemblies are available either with plug-in modules containing power
devices and LED level indicators, or with power devices mounted on a perma-
nent heatsink. Power assemblies of different ratings may be mixed in a rack, but
basic and modular power assemblies may not be mounted in the same rack.
All controls for rack configuration are mounted on the front panel, and the start
address of the rack is normally displayed, along with power, DMX and thermal
status indicators.
Front view of a modular 650

Smartrack, showing key
dimensions. DIGITAL
Note that Smartrack is mcb centre
300mm deep, plus 30mm 496
2.5 2.5 2.5
for dimmer module handles
on the modular version only.
mcb centre
290
2.5 2.5 2.5
smartrack
SmartRack
mcb centre
84
2.5 2.5 2.5
0
0 215
205 630
490 990
850
page 3
2.2 Electrical
Smartrack is designed for operation on single or three phase supplies at 230Vac
±12.5%. Delta versions are also available to special order.
Each Smartrack may optionally be supplied with a 4-pole 125A or 160A circuit
breaker fitted, and earth leakage (RCD) protection may be fitted at power assem-
bly level (single phase to special order).
Power devices are generously overrated solid state switching devices, encapsu-
lated into quad 2.5kW, dual 5kW and single 10kW modules.
Individual dimmer circuits are normally protected by single pole miniature circuit
breakers, rated at 13A (2.5kW), 25A (5kW) and 50A (10kW). Single pole with
neutral disconnect mcbs and double pole mcbs are also available to special
order. See the Smartrack specification for more detailed electrical information.
2.3. Filtering
Smartrack dimmers are designed to conform to the EMC requirements of
EN55014 and EN55022, the usually accepted European norms specifying RFI
interference suppression requirements. In addition, low frequency filtering is
achieved to different levels, depending on the choke specified. Two different
choke styles are available, offering different current risetimes, as required for dif-
ferent types of work. Generally speaking, the higher the risetime the more the
interference generated by the dimmer is suppressed, but it is unwise to specify a
higher risetime than that actually required, since there are weight, thermal and
cost penalties as you go up the scale.
2.3.1 Standard risetime choke

The standard choke is wound on a 2.5” toroidal iron powder core, and
produces a risetime in excess of 200µS. This should be adequate for the-
atre and most video production work, and complies with the BBC’s
PID171 standard for 2.5kW dimmers.
page 4
2.3.2 High risetime choke

The High Risetime choke is wound on a 4” toroidal iron powder core, and
produces a risetime in excess of 400µS. This is a requirement of the
Nordic Television Authorities for 2.5kW dimmers, and complies with the
BBC PID171 standard for 5kW and 10kW dimmers. It is recommended
for front of house lighting circuits in theatres and in concert halls, where
acoustic requirements may be critical.
2.4. Rack control

Smartracks receive USITT DMX512/1990 dimmer drive signals from a very wide
range of lighting controllers, including all ETC Expression, Impression, Insight,
MicroVision, Connection and Reflection systems.
The control panel on each Smartrack enables the user to set and display a start
address for the rack, as well as to select, for each or all dimmers:
2.4.1 Dimmer profile

Any dimmer may be set to any one of 12 preprogrammed curves, includ-
ing three non-dims and a ‘hot’ setting (permanently on). This should take
care of the requirements of the vast majority of entertainment and architec-
tural applications, and custom profiles may be generated if required.
2.4.2 Response speed

A dimmer’s response speed is the time it takes for the dimmer’s output to
arrive at a new level, following the reception of a new level instruction by
the dimmer’s control electronics, and is measured in milliseconds. Don’t
confuse response speed (in milliseconds) with risetime (in microseconds).
Smartrack ships with a default 100mS response speed set for all dimmers,
but allows the user the choice, for any or all dimmers in a rack, of 30,
100, 300 or 500mS.
Thus, a studio with RCDs and a lot of 5kW loads might function happily
with all dimmers set to 300mS response time, while individual circuits for
page 5
chasers or practicals might be set to 30mS for special effects work. A tour-
ing rack used for concert lighting, on the other hand, might be set globally
to 30mS, but with the odd 10kW dimmer at 500mS.
IMPORTANT: A slower response speed will also have beneficial effects on
lamp life, since the shock to cold filaments will be reduced, as the time
period required to ramp them to full brightness is increased.
2.4.3 Dimmer test

Any or all dimmers may be selected and set to a level, using the rotary
potentiometer on the front panel. The dimmers in a rack may be ‘flashed
through’ to a level, by setting the pot to the desired intensity, and stepping
through the dimmers using the ▲ or ▼ buttons.
2.4.4 Reference Voltage

Smartrack needs to know the voltage expected by the user for full on
(100%), to which all other levels are scaled. This reference voltage is set
by the user or installer, using the rack controls.
2.5. Thermal Management

Smartrack runs remarkably cool, and uses computer controlled brushless dc fans
to do so with minimum noise and maximum fan life. One fan is incorporated into
the end of each power assembly, and air is drawn very efficiently over the
chokes and power device heatsinks before being exhausted through the front
panel.
Since Smartrack’s air inlet and exhaust vents are all on the front panel, there is
no problem stacking Smartracks vertically and horizontally, or mounting in sim-
ple flightcases.
page 6
One thermal sensor is provided for each power device, and constantly feeds
back temperature status information to the central processor (CPU). The CPU uses
this information to decide when it is necessary to switch on the fan for any given
power assembly. In the event that a power device should run hot, an amber
warning signal is lit on the front panel. If the device overheats, it will be shut
down, and the warning LED will flash red.
The thermal indicator LED may be wired to a remote panel, or incorporated in
control room furniture, to provide a simple (geographic) dimmer room mimic
panel, showing rack power and temperature status.
page 7
3. Getting started – what’s in the box

3.1. Smartrack
Smartrack systems are shipped broken down into racks and power assemblies
(up to three per rack). Please check carefully to verify that you have everything
you need before starting the installation.
3.1.1 Rack
Each rack is shipped separately as an empty enclosure, with separately
wrapped door assembly and a number of internal fittings kits, namely:
Metalwork Kit
2 x power cable entry cover
2 x load cable entry cover
Hardware Kit
Door Kit
2 x M4 black washer
1 x M4 shakeproof washer
1 x M4/10 Pan Posi Screw
1 x graphics layer number sheet
Entry Cover Kit
32 x M4/6 taptite screw
32 x M4 spring washer
Fan Kit
3 x M5/10 Pan Posi screw
3 x M5 nylon washer
Foot Kit
4 x plastic feet
4 x M5/16 csk screws
4 x plastic plugs
Power Terminal Safety Cover Kit
1 x Plastic Safety Cover
3 x M5/12 taptite screw
Remove the door assembly from the carton and store it separately while
the racks are installed and wired. It’s not needed until the installation of
the wiring and power assemblies is complete.
page 8
3.1.2 Power assemblies

Power assemblies are packed individually, and are of two main types –
basic or modular. Basic power assemblies come with the power devices
permanently mounted on a single heatsink on the front of the assembly.
Modular power assemblies are each provided with three plug-in dimmer
modules containing the power devices and level indicators.
When installing modular power assemblies, first remove the plug-in mod-
ules and store separately in a safe place until ready.
Each power assembly is also shipped with
Power Loom Kit
1 x 2.5mm2 cable. Brown ident L1
1 x 2.5mm2 cable. Blue ident N
1 x 2.5mm2 cable. Yellow/green ident
Hardware Kit
5 x M5/10 Hex head screw
6 x M5 shakeproof washer
1 x M5/10 Pan Posi screw
2 x 10mm2 uninsulated bootlace ferrules
Note that the power assemblies are not required for the first stages of
installation, and should be left in their packing, especially if there is a risk
of builders’ dust on site.
page 9
4. Installation
Smartracks are intended for mounting either against a wall, back to back in an island
formation or in a flightcase. This section deals with wallmount or island installation –
see the next section for information on flightcasing.
4.1. Environmental considerations

Care must be taken to ensure that the ambient temperature in the dimmer room
stays within the range 0 – 35° Celsius. In some cases, this will require air extrac-
tion or air conditioning.
In order to calculate worst case air handling requirements, you need to know the
thermal losses in the dimmer, as well as estimating the actual maximum continu-
ous load. Since lighting loads vary enormously, it may be reasonable to apply a
diversity factor of between 0.5 – 0.8 to the actual connected load, to represent
worst case.
The formula for calculating the heat generated by the dimmers (in watts) is there-
fore:
Total connected load x diversity factor x (100 – efficiency %)
Or, for example:
250,000 x 0.6 x (100 – 98%) = 3,750 watts
Here, a diversity factor of 0.6 is applied to a 250kW load, assuming 98% effi-
ciency at the dimmers (which is reasonable). The result is that up to 3.75kW of
heat may be anticipated in the dimmer room, which may then need additional
extraction or cooling.
Relative humidity should be kept below 80%, non-condensing.
4.2 Planning and marking out

Smartracks are intended to be mounted up to three racks high, and as wide as
may be required, with no air gap between racks.
Wiring access may be from above, from below or through the rear, and only
front access is required for installation and service.
page 10
We recommend using a large cable duct running across the top of a bank of
Smartracks, carrying power and load wiring. Alternatively, power wires may be
run in from below, and load wires from above, or vice versa.
Note that DMX signal wires should be run in separate cableways from the power
and load cables, outside the racks, though it is permissible to mix them in the
immediate vicinity and inside the racks themselves.
4.2.1 Marking out a wall

Use the dimensions below to mark out a grid on the wall where the
Smartracks are to be installed. Note the height and width of the racks and
the mounting centres:
Two stacks of three 850 850
90
Smartracks, showing posi- 45 760 760
tions of fixing holes. 13mm
has been allowed for the
feet at the bottom of each
Fi ntre
650
560
xi
stack, which are optional.
C
ng s
e
90
650
Stack 1 Stack 2
560
90
Rack:
h 650mm,
560
663
w 850mm
Mounting centres:
h 560mm, 58
w 760mm
page 11
4.2.2 Planning an island installation

Smartracks may be mounted back to back, either in an island, or, with
one end of each bay against a wall, in a peninsula configuration.
On a solid floor, all wiring will normally be taken out through the top
wiring access ports. Where raised computer type flooring is used, some or
all of the wiring may enter through the base of the racks.
Note that the ‘keyhole’ fixing positions in the back of each rack must be
used in back-to-back installations, to provide stability. Use M6 nuts and
bolts to fix back-to-back racks together.
A knockout panel is provided in the centre of Smartrack’s rear panel,
which may be removed if interwiring between back-to-back racks is
required. If using the knockout panels, use a grommet strip around the
inside edges to prevent chafing.
4.3. Wall fixings

Each Smartrack weighs between 75-85kg, depending on version used, and is
fixed to the wall at four points. Making an allowance for cable of 20-25kg per
rack, this means that each fixing has to support no more than 30kg. The actual
fixing used will depend very much on the wall material and condition, but on a
brick or concrete wall, 50 x 5mm woodscrews, used in conjunction with correctly
installed plastic wall plugs, should be more than sufficient.
On uneven surfaces, it may be necessary to mount 50 x 50mm wooden battens
to the wall, and fix the Smartracks to the battens. In this case, ensure that the bat-
ten fixings are sufficient to take the total weight of all the Smartracks to be so
mounted.
Having marked out the wall, drill, plug and fit mounting screws, protruding about
20mm from the wall.
4.4. Assembly and mounting

a) If the bottom Smartrack in a stack will stand on the floor, fit the four plastic
feet provided by screwing them up into the threaded inserts on the base of
the rack.
page 12
Plastic plugs (f)
How to fix two Smartrack

enclosures together. Mounting 'keyholes' (c)
Fit power and load cable

entry cover plates to top and
bottom of the stack as
required, but not in between
Smartracks in a stack.
M5 Fixing screws (d)
Plastic feet (a)

and M5 fixing
screws
page 13
b) If required, fit the bottom cable entry cover plates provided to the base of the
bottom Smartrack, using the taptite screws provided. These plates should be
used if forming or glanding is required, or, unworked, to blank unused cable
entry ports.
c) Hook the bottom Smartrack in each stack onto the four fixing screw heads
already in the wall, locating the four ‘keyholes’ in the rear panel to the
screws in the wall. Partially tighten screws.
d) Fit the upper Smartrack(s) in the stack to the wall fixing screws in the same
way, then, using the M5 screws provided, fix the racks in the stack together
by screwing into the threaded holes in the upper rack(s), through the match-
ing clearance holes in the rack(s) below.
e) Tighten all wall fixing screws.
f) Fit the four plastic plugs provided into the four holes in the top surface of the
top Smartrack in each stack.
g) If required, fit the top cable entry cover plates to the top surface of the top
Smartrack, using the taptite screws provided. These plates should be used if
forming or glanding is required, or, unworked, to blank unused cable entry
ports.
4.5. Power wiring

Smartrack is primarily intended for use on five wire services, where the phase to
neutral voltage is 230Vac ± 12.5%. However, single phase and delta wiring is
also possible, and the various alternatives are dealt with below.
The current draw of any dimmer rack is hard to predict, and is always subject to
major variances. A reasonable way of assessing the current requirement per
phase is:
Total connected load (watts) x Diversity factor (0.5 – 0.8)
(voltage x 3)
Estimating the diversity factor is a matter of judgement, and depends very much
on the type of installation and its working practices. It may also be that the instal-
lation as a whole may have a diversity of 0.5, while individual racks may expect
0.8 or even higher.
page 14
Wiring in power feeder

cables to a standard
Smartrack.
Note that power wiring to
other Smartracks in a stack
should be tied back to the
cable way provided down
the inner left wall of the
enclosure.
L1
L2
L3
page 15
NOTE: If the mains circuit breaker option (MCCB) is not fitted, adequate protec-
tion must be installed upstream of the Smartrack(s).
4.5.1 Standard Smartrack

Standard racks require a five wire supply, terminated in eyelet (ring) lugs,
to fit the M12 terminal screws provided.
a) Run the power wires into the power terminal block, via the top or bot-
tom cable entry on the left side of the rack. Cable tie anchors are pro-
vided just inside the cable entry ports.
Note that a cable way, with slots for cable ties, is provided to lead
power wires up and down the left side of the enclosure to feed other
Smartracks above or below.
b) Trim to length and terminate with M12 clearance lugs. Do not fit the
plastic terminal block cover at this stage.
page 16
4.5.2 Connecting single phase systems

Smartracks (without MCCBs) may be connected to single phase supplies, if
a single phase adapter kit (part number Y2.SR002.0) is used.
The kit comprises two nickel plated copper plates, which replace the exist-
ing L1, L2, L3 & N terminals (single phase use only). See diagram.
One plate is fixed across the L1 & L2 studs with the nine equi-spaced holes
to the right; these are connected to the bottoms of the channel circuit
breakers with the standard set of live cables.
The other plate is fixed across studs L3 & N with the three large holes to
the right. These connect to the neutral terminal block (located to the right
of the channel circuit breakers) with the three heavy cables provided in the
adaptor kit.
Having fitted the plates, installation is as for standard Smartracks (see
above).
Y2.SR002.0 contents:
2 x plates
3 x neutral cables (35mm2)
3 x earth cables (16mm2)
4.5.3 Connecting Delta systems

Power wiring is as for standard Smartracks, except that the neutral termi-
nal is unused.
Warning: only Smartracks supplied to operate on delta
power can be connected to delta power supplies.
4.5.4 Cascading a stack of Smartracks

In a stack of two or three Smartracks, it may be preferred to protect the
whole stack from one offboard circuit breaker or switchfuse. In this case,
wire from the switch to the first rack (top or bottom, as convenient), then
make up short power cables to link from the power terminal block in the
first rack to the second, and so on.
page 17
Wiring a standard Smartrack

for single phase operation,
using the Smartrack single
phase adaptor kit.
L1
L2
L3
page 18
4.6. Load wiring

All load wiring enters the Smartrack(s) by either the top or bottom load entry port
in the large centre section of the rack. Smartrack is primarily designed for load
wiring with single core cables in cableways, but may also be wired with three
core or multicore cables.
4.6.1 Installing load wires

Run in all load wires for each Smartrack or stack of Smartracks through
the top or bottom load cable entry port. Columns of cable tie anchors are
provided, for earth, neutral and phase wires respectively (see diagram).
Bunch wires together and tie bunches to cable tie anchors, peeling off the
wires for each power assembly at the appropriate row of cable tie
anchors. Trim to 33cm from the cable tie anchor to the cable end.
If multicore cables are used, distribute them evenly across the cable tie
anchors provided, and allow enough length at each power assembly level
to strip back the outer sheath sufficient to reach all terminals (allow 80cm).
Ensure that all wires are correctly labelled with circuit number and function
(phase, neutral or earth).
4.7. Identifying and testing power and load wiring

It is essential that all power and load wiring be correctly identified
and tested using a high voltage insulation tester, before installing
power assemblies or Smartrack electronics.
Use a low voltage tester to identify load pairs, and label accordingly, prior to
carrying out a high voltage insulation test.
Inspect for polarity and carry out a high voltage insulation test on all power feed
wiring.
Do not attempt a high voltage insulation test with any Smartrack
assemblies connected as this will destroy electronic components in
either the power assemblies or the control electronics.
page 19
Earth Neutral Phase

P1 P2 P3 P1 P2 P3 P1 P2 P3
Laying in the load wires.
Note the arrangement of
Cut cable to 33cm from cable tie

wires into Earth, Neutral and
Trim insulation 6mm

phase wires, according to
the phase of the load circuit
(P1, P2 or P3). Laying the
wires in this way makes
connection to the load
terminals on the power
assembly easy and quick.
If using three core or L1
multicore cables, spread
them evenly across the nine L2
cable bunches, and strip
back the outer insulation to L3
the cable tie.
Load wiring for other racks N
in the stack should be
bundled with the wires
shown, and passed through
the cable port to the rack
above or below, then laid in
as shown.
4.8. Signal wiring

Smartrack uses the international digital dimmer standard USITT DMX512 (1990)
to receive dimmer drive signals from a controller. DMX wiring requires twisted
pair and overall screen cable (Belden 9841 or equivalent), rated for RS485.
The signal cable loops from rack to rack, and will be terminated to the electron-
ics on the front door. For the time being, run the cable continuously through the
racks, using the power wiring chamber, allowing about 1m of slack for termina-
tion in each rack.
page 20
Note that, while signal cables should be kept away from power and load cables
in cable runs outside the rack(s), no harm will be done by their close proximity
inside the Smartrack enclosure.
4.9. Power assemblies
4.9.1 Installation
a) Unpack the power assemblies. If installing modular power assemblies,
set the plug-in modules aside in a safe place.
b) Remove the fan plate from the Smartrack, by releasing the three fixing
screws and pulling the fan plate towards you.
c) Starting with the bottom position in the Smartrack, slide in the power
assembly, with the circuit breakers to the left. Ensure that all the load
wires to be connected to the power assembly are laid over the top of
the power assembly, and do not fall behind it.
d) Fix the power assembly in place by screwing the left side into the
threaded hole in the back of the rack’s power assembly slot, using the
M5 screw provided. Do not fix the right side for the time being.
e) Repeat steps (b) to (d) for the middle and top power assemblies.
f) Slide the fan plate back into position, ensuring that the tabs on the
three blades of the fan plate locate in the bases of the three power
assemblies. Fix the fan plate back in position with the three fan plate
fixing screws, and plug the fan cable plugs into the receptacles on the
face of each power assembly (in part-populated racks, there is no
need to plug in the fan connector where no power assembly is pre-
sent).
4.9.2 Connecting load wiring

Carry out the following steps for each power assembly. If the wires are
correctly laid in the back of the Smartrack, they should line up well with
the load terminals on the face of the power assembly.
page 21
Please note the following maximum cable sizes:

Earth and Neutral bars: 10 x 10mm2, 3 x 16mm2
2.5kW Phase terminals: 4mm2
5kW Phase terminals: 6mm2
10kW Phase terminals: 35mm2
It is occasionally necessary to use larger cable sizes on the 2.5kW and
5kW dimmers, and an adapter kit is available, with 10mm2 and 16mm2
DIN terminals for oversized cables. See section 10.7 for part numbers.
Note that bootlace ferrules are required to be fitted to the earth and neu-
tral wires if stranded cable is used.
a) Terminate load earth wires into the earth busbar on the left side of the
power assembly. Recommended tightening torque 1.5Nm (2.5mm2
cable) to 2Nm (10mm2 cable).
Terminating load wiring.

Note that numbering is
always from left to right, ie:
Earth 1–12, Neutral 1–12,
Phase 1–12. The same rule
applies to 3x10kW and 2.5 2.5 2.5
6x5kW Power Assemblies.
L1
Tip:
L2 2.5 2.5 2.5
It's easier to fit the L3
bottom Power
Assembly first, N
terminate the load
wiring, then fit the
middle Power 2.5 2.5 2.5
Assembly, and so on.
page 22
b) Terminate load neutral wires into the neutral busbar in the middle of
the power assembly. Recommended tightening torque 1.5Nm
(2.5mm2 cable) to 2Nm (10mm2 cable).
Note that bootlace ferrules are recommended if stranded cable is
used.
c) Terminate the load phase wires into the three groups of output termi-
nals. Recommended tightening torque 1Nm (2.5kW dimmers), 2Nm
(5kW dimmers), 1.2Nm (10kW dimmers).
4.9.3 Connecting power wiring – RCD option fitted

Each power assembly has to be connected to the power terminal block,
using the part-assembled power loom provided. There are slight differ-
ences, depending on whether the power assembly is fitted with RCD pro-
tection or not. If not, skip to the next section.
a) Terminate the five wires to the appropriate terminals on the power ter-
minal block, using the M5 hex-head screws provided. Recommended
tightening torque 2Nm. The colour code is L1 – L3 brown, Neutral
light blue, Earth green/yellow. Form the five wires into a loom, and
run to the top of the power assembly’s RCD.
b) Trim to length and terminate the three phase and one neutral wire into
the RCD’s caged terminals, in sequence (from the left):
L3 – L2 – L1 – N
Recommended tightening torque 2Nm.
c) Trim to length and terminate the earth wire into the left position of the
earth bar, entering from below. Use the bootlace ferrule provided to
protect the stranded cable and ensure good earth contact.
page 23
Wiring the power feeds from

the power terminals to the
Power Assembly RCD. Note
the order of connection to
the RCD.
For the sake of clarity, only
one Power Assembly
connection is shown.
L3 L2 L1 N E
L1
L2
L3
page 24
4.9.4 Connecting power wiring – without RCD option

a) Terminate the five wires to the appropriate terminals on the power ter-
minal block, using the M5 hex-head screws provided. Recommended
tightening torque 2Nm. The colour code is L1 – L3 brown, Neutral
light blue, Earth green/yellow. Form the five wires into a loom.
b) Route the three phase wires around the top of the power assembly
(see diagram) to the bottom of the circuit breakers. Trim to length and
terminate to the inlet terminals of each group of circuit breakers, in
sequence (from the left):
L1 – L2 – L3
c) Trim to length and terminate the earth wire into the left position of the
earth bar, entering from below. Use the bootlace ferrule provided to
protect the stranded cable and ensure good earth contact.
d) Trim to length and terminate the neutral wire into the DIN terminal to
the left of the circuit breakers. Recommended tightening torque
1.2Nm.
Note: routing the phase wires past the neutral terminal ensures that,
should it be necessary to retrofit an RCD to the power assembly later
on, this may be easily done.
4.9.5 The power assembly signal looms

Until the front door is fitted, there is no point in running in the power
assembly signal looms. See 4.10.2 below.
page 25
Wiring the power feeds from

the power terminals to the
Power Assembly. The three
phase wires are terminated
into the caged terminals on
the three blocks of dimmer
circuit breakers.
For the sake of clarity, only
one Power Assembly
connection is shown.
E N L1 L2 L3
L1
L2
L3
N
Tip:
Run the three phase
wires past the neutral
terminal as shown;
this makes it easy to
retrofit RCDs later, if
required.
page 26
4.10 Smartrack door

The door mounts on the left side of the rack, and supports all the rack electronics.
Mounting the Smartrack door is the last part of the installation procedure.
4.10.1 Mounting the door

a) Remove the door from its packaging.
Fitting the hinge screws
and spacers, prior to b) Using the two hinge screws and 3.5mm
mounting the door. spacers provided, mount the door in the
Smartrack chassis.
Tip: Extend the bottom screw fully, slide
on a spacer, and fit into place first. Then,
with the top screw protruding 3-4mm, fit
top spacer, locate top mounting and
screw top screw home.
Note that the fit of the bottom mounting is
deliberately loose. This tightens automati-
door spacer
cally when the door is closed and
hinge screw
screwed shut.
4.10.2 Connecting earth and power wiring

a) Connect front door earthing wire to the adjacent stud in the chassis,
using an M4 nut runner.
b) Route the CPU power loom and terminate to the power terminal block,
following the coding labels on the loom wires.
c) Fix the clear plastic cover of the power terminal block in position,
using the M5 taptite screws provided.
4.10.3 Smartrack CPU jumper settings

Set the three jumpers J1, J2 and J3, according to the power rating of the
power assemblies in the top, middle and bottom positions in the rack:
page 27
Jumper Settings
J1 Top Power Assembly
12 12x2.5kW
CON 1
12
6 6x5kW
6
3
J1
3 3x10kW
J4
J2 Middle Power Assembly
O
R
P
12 12x2.5kW
6 6x5kW
3 3x10kW
J3 Bottom Power Assembly
12 12x2.5kW
CON 2
6 6x5kW
3 3x10kW
12
6
3
J2
J4 CPU Configuration
R Smartrack
CON 3
P Smartpack
O Spare
J6 DMX Termination
U Unterminated
12
6
3
J3
T Terminated
J6 U T
DMX Input/Output Terminal
CON 8
D+ Data +
D+ D– SCR
D– Data –
SCR Screen (ground)
4.10.4 Connecting power assembly signal looms

Using the flat ribbon cable clips mounted inside the Smartrack, run the rib-
bon cable from the top power assembly around the top of the rack, and
terminate to the top position on the Smartrack CPU. Fold any excess cable
flat inside one of the cable clips.
In the same way, run the ribbon cables from the middle and lower power
assemblies around the bottom of the rack, and terminate to the middle and
lower positions on the Smartrack CPU. Fold any excess cable flat inside
one of the cable clips.
page 28
4.10.5 Connecting DMX input/output wiring

Route the DMX in and out wires to the signal terminals on the CPU cover
and trim to length. Terminate both the DMX in and out wires into the same
terminals.
4.10.6 Fitting blanking plates

Depending on the type of power assembly fitted in each position, one or
more blanking plates may need to be fitted to the inside of the front door.
All power assemblies without RCD protection are supplied with a blanking
plate. 5kW and 10kW power assemblies are also supplied with blanks,
to compensate for the smaller width required for their circuit breakers.
Where a power assembly position remains unused, you must fit a power
assembly blanking plate (part no 2000A1500).
To fit blanking plates:
a) Offer blanking plate into position inside door.
b) Using an M3 nut runner, remove the M3 nuts and washers from the
studs required to fit the blanking plates.
c) Fit the blanking plate(s) in position, then replace and tighten the M3
washers and nuts.
Note: if Smartrack is only partially populated with power assemblies, then
blanking plugs must be fitted to unused outputs of the CPU board. These
are supplied with the power assembly blanking plate 2000A1500.
4.10.7 Closing the door

Check that all wiring is properly terminated and that no tools or other
items are left in the rack.
Swing door shut, and adjust line-up. Tighten three fixing screws.
page 29
4.10.8 Fitting dimmer number strips

Self adhesive numbering strips are provided to give smart and permanent
identification of dimmer numbers on the front of the rack. Each Smartrack
is provided with one sheet containing the numbers 1–240. Spare sheets
and higher numbers are available from ETC, under the following part num-
bers:
2000A4000 1–240
2000A4001 241–480
2000A4002 481–720
2000A4003 721–960
a) Simply peel off the numbers required and cut strips to length with a
pair of scissors as necessary.
b) Press into place above the appropriate circuit breakers, in the detent
left by the cutout in the door’s graphic layer.
c) Fill any gaps (to the right of the circuit breakers on 5kW and 10kW
dimmers) with the blank strips provided.
Peel off numbering strips

and press into place on the
front panel.
Spare sheets of numbers 181 182 183 184 185 186 187 188 189 190 191 192
may be obtained from
ETC distributors.
page 30
5. Commissioning and configuration

5.1. Switching on
a) For the first switch-on only, first set all MCBs and RCDs (if fitted) to the off
(down) position.
b) Switch on power to the rack, and check that the three yellow power supply
LEDs L1, L2 and L3 are on, indicating that power from all three phases is
reaching the power supply section. If not, switch off, check wiring and
repeat.
c) If RCDs are fitted, switch them on. If any RCDs trip at this stage, there is an
earth wiring fault in the dimmer rack.
d) Switch on MCBs, one by one. If any RCDs trip at this stage, there is a power-
fault in the power assembly.
Smartrack Control Panel,

L1 DMX ✔
showing default start
address (001)
00 00 1
1 L2
L3
DMX ✘
temp level
dimmer profile speed enter
5.2. Power and signal indicators

The following status indicators are provided on the control panel. Check that
their status is correct before continuing:
page 31
a) Power LEDs L1, L2 and L3 (yellow). Should be on, indicating power from
three phase terminals reaching power supply section of CPU. Note that, in
single or bi-phase installations, all three LEDs should still light, though two or
more may be connected to the same supply phase.
b) DMX good data LED (green) – indicated with a ✔ – on if good DMX data
being received.
If green LED is flashing, DMX data address has not been found.
It is not necessary to receive DMX at this stage in the commissioning process.
c) DMX bad data LED (red) – indicated with a ✘ – on if DMX data is missing or
corrupted, in which case it will be ignored by Smartrack.
If red LED flashing, DMX signal has been lost.
It is not necessary to receive DMX at this stage in the commissioning process,
so, providing the system’s DMX source is not on, a red DMX indicator is fine.
d) Temperature status LED (tricolour). This LED should normally show green, indi-
cating that all power devices are within a safe temperature range, and oper-
ation is normal. The three states of this LED are:
Green Normal operation.
Amber One or more power devices are getting hot, but
operation is safe.
Flashing red One or more power devices are over temperature and
have been closed down. They will resume normal
operation when a safe operating temperature has been
reached.
5.3. Modular Smartrack dimmer level indicators

An advantage of modular Smartracks is that each dimmer is equipped with a
level indicator LED, on the front panel of the dimmer module. This green LED
varies in intensity to approximate to the actual dimmer level. This is most useful in
testing and commissioning, since it proves the entire electronics and control
chain, as far as (but not including) the power device itself.
page 32
5.4. Battery supported memory

Smartrack stores its configuration parameters in battery supported memory,
which will support settings for up to ten years. These batteries will have to be
replaced at approximately ten year intervals.
5.5. Using offline mode

There are two levels of access to Smartrack’s control panel, which is normally
safeguarded from accidental operation. The first level is used for dimmer testing,
plus changes to dimmer addressing, profiles and response speed. The second
level – offline mode – is used for commissioning and service only, and requires a
special entry code, which may be withheld from operational staff if desired.
In offline mode, engineers can:
● Check the rms line voltage
● Set the output voltage scale
● Clear configuration settings
To enter offline mode, it is first necessary to unlock the control panel:

a) Press enter for three seconds. The enter LED lights, indicating that the con-
trol panel is unlocked. Note that the control panel has a three minute time-
out. This means that the control panel will lock up if no buttons are pressed in
normal operating mode, after a period of three minutes. This time-out does
not apply in offline mode.
b) Press the ▲ and ▼ keys simultaneously for one second; three dashes appear
in the display window, indicating that Smartrack is in offline mode.
Note: in offline mode, the current DMX input is set to zero.
c) Use the ▲ and ▼ keys to move around the offline menu. The menu items are:
––– Offline menu header
AC Check rms line voltage
CAL Set output voltage scale
CLr Clear stored values to factory defaults
d) To exit the offline menu, press ▲ and ▼ together from the offline menu.
page 33
e) Then, to lock up the control panel, press enter, or wait three minutes for the
automatic time-out.
5.5.1 Verifying rms line voltage in offline mode

a) From the offline menu, Select AC, and press enter. The display shows
rms voltage for L2, eg 220.
b) To exit, press enter. The display returns to the AC menu header.
5.5.2 Setting the output voltage range in offline mode

a) From the offline menu, Select CAL, and press enter. The display
shows the present rms voltage set for 100% dimmer output, eg 220.
b) Use the ▲ and ▼ keys to change the rms voltage output scale, in
steps of one volt.
c) Press enter to save the new value and exit to the offline menu.
This function has a very useful by-product: for example, in a TV studio
where the dimmers are being fed from their own transformer, it may make
sense to specify, say, a 240V supply, where 220V lamps are to be used
in the studio. Given that a loss in the region of 4V rms can be expected at
the dimmer (dependent on choke type), plus an average cable loss – say
3V rms (dependent on installation), the highest voltage that can be deliv-
ered to the lamp will be around 233V. But by setting the Smartrack refer-
ence voltage to 227V, the dimmers will regulate to provide a constant
220V at the lamp, even though supply voltage may fluctuate at any level
above 227V.
This means that, unlike many digital dimmers, Smartrack is able in these
circumstances to regulate accurately over the full dimming range, not just
at levels below 100%.
page 34
5.6. Testing dimmer circuits with the rotary potentiometer

Using the rotary pot on the control panel, you can test any or all of the dimmers
in a Smartrack, without requiring external dimmer drive signals (DMX). This is the
next stage of commissioning:
a) Check that the level pot is turned anticlockwise (off position). If the control
panel is locked (enter LED off), press enter for three seconds to gain access.
b) Press dimmer, to enter dimmer mode.
c) Use the ▲ and ▼ keys to select the dimmer to test.
d) Turn the level pot clockwise to raise the level of the selected dimmer. In
modular Smartracks, the green level LED on the module face panel mimics
the level set at the level pot. This indicates that control signals are reaching
the power device in the module.
e) If desired, leave the level pot at a level (say around 50%), and step through
the dimmers in the rack, using the ▲ and ▼ keys. As control passes to a new
dimmer, the dimmer previously under control is set to zero.
Important Note:
In Dimmer mode, the display only scrolls through dimmer addresses used in the
rack. This means that a rack with one each 12, 6 and 3 channel dimmer assem-
blies would have a total of 21 dimmers, and, if its starting address were to be set
to 201, would only scroll through the range 201-221 in Dimmer mode.
When selecting dimmers in Dimmer mode, a notional ALL position is inserted
between the highest and lowest number in the rack. Thus, in the example given
above, when incrementing addresses, ALL follows 221 and precedes 201.
When decrementing addresses, ALL follows 201 and precedes 221.
5.7. DMX512 control

Having established that the rack itself is working correctly, the next stage is to verify
DMX512 reception from the lighting control system. USITT DMX512 (1990) is an
internationally accepted digital protocol for dimmer level communications between
lighting consoles and dimmers, and is output from virtually all currently available
lighting control consoles. If you are unsure about the output from your console,
please consult your dealer.
page 35
5.7.1 Terminating the DMX512 line

In order to guarantee correct performance of DMX512, the end of the line
must be terminated with a resistor. This is done in Smartrack by setting the
jumper J6 to the T(erminated) position, in the last rack only in the DMX512
chain. See section 4.10.3 – Smartrack CPU jumper settings.
Important:
It will often be necessary to extend the DMX512 run from the last
Smartrack to other DMX512 devices, such as temporary dimmers, colour
changers and moving lights.
In this case, leave all the Smartracks unterminated (factory default), and
extend the DMX cable from the last rack to a simple socket panel, where
either a DMX extension cable or a terminating plug may be connected.
The terminating plug should be a 5-pin XLR male plug, with a 120Ω 0.25
watt resistor connected between pins 2 and 3. When using other untermi-
nated devices downstream of the Smartracks, the terminating plug should
be connected to the Data Out socket of the last device in the DMX line.
5.7.2 Good/bad data

Check the DMX cable connection to the Smartrack(s), and switch on the
control console. Check that the DMX status LEDs on the Smartrack front
panel(s) change from the red ✘ to the green ✔ indicator, showing that
valid DMX data is being received.
5.7.3 Setting the Rack Address

a) If the control panel is locked (enter LED off), press enter for three sec-
onds to gain access.
b) Press ▲ or ▼ to set the desired start address for the rack. The start
address must lie in the range 1–512. Note that, for example, if a 36
channel rack is set with an address of 501, only the first 12 dimmers
in the rack will be addressed.
page 36
5.7.4 Large installations

Where more than 512 dimmers are required, it will be necessary to use
two or more DMX512 lines. In this case, treat the DMX512 start address
numbering as a number within the DMX512 range (1–512) of each
DMX512 line, and number the rack mcbs with the actual circuit numbers.
For example, a rack starting with dimmer 721 might be labelled
721–756, but have a start address of 209 (dimmer 209 in DMX512
stream 2).
5.7.5 Testing dimmers with DMX512

With DMX512 received and addresses set, check that each dimmer is
responding correctly to its DMX512 control signal by bringing up each
DMX512 output in turn from the console and checking the level indicator
LED (modular Smartracks only) and the actual dimmer output. For this there
is no real substitute for going round the installation with a known good
light and plugging it into each of the (tested) sockets in turn.
5.8. Dimmer profiles
5.8.1 What is a profile?

A dimmer profile is a table of dimmer output levels corresponding to DMX
input levels. Using different profiles allows different types of load to be
connected to the outputs of the Smartrack, and achieve consistent fade
results or safe non-dim operation.
Smartrack is shipped with the factory default IES Square Law profile set for
all dimmers, which results in linear light output in relation to DMX control
input, for most types of filament lamps. In most cases there will be no need
to alter this default setting.
The table overleaf shows Smartrack's range of dimmer profile settings,
which may be applied to all or individual dimmers:
page 37
5.8.2 Smartrack standard profiles

Display Profile Name Characteristics
IES IES Square Law Default setting for most lighting require-
ments – provides linear light output in
relation to DMX512 level for most lighting
loads.
SL ‘S’ Law Used for some early thyristor dimmers in
theatre applications. An unsatisfactory
curve, but may be needed to balance
mixed dimming installations.
FLU Fluorescent Used for four-wire fluorescent circuits.
Note that heater circuits should be run to
a separate dimmer, which should have a
non-dim or hot setting.
C–C Cold Cathode Use for cold-cathode or neon lighting
loads.
Lin Linear Volts Linear rms voltage output in relation to
DMX512 levels.
120 120 volt scale Provides 0–120v output, scaled to
0–100% DMX512 input.
P03 Preheat 3% Any DMX512 level 3% or below results in
3% output. Above 3% as IES square law.
P05 Preheat 5% Any DMX512 level 5% or below results in
5% output. Above 5% as IES square law.
N05 Non-Dim 5% Non-dim – dimmer switches on for 5%
DMX512 level or above. No regulation.
Hot Always On Dimmer always on, irrespective of
DMX512 level. No regulation.
page 38
5.8.3 Dimmer and console set profiles

Many modern consoles, such as the ETC Expression and Obsession, have
the ability to set dimmer profiles themselves, assuming a linear response
from the dimmers. It is certainly more convenient to set dimmer profiles at
the console, where the information can be stored with the other informa-
tion for each show, but there is one important distinction – non-dims.
Please note that, when using non-dim profiles to drive capacitive loads
such as motors or ballasts for discharge lights, it is desirable to pass
through as much of the mains wave-form as possible to the load. In some
cases, particularly where the output scale voltage is significantly below the
supply voltage to the dimmer room, setting a non-dim profile at the con-
sole will result in a significantly chopped wave-form being seen by the
load.
Smartrack does not regulate non-dim or hot profiles, so by setting the non-
dims at the rack, a full output wave-form can be guaranteed for sensitive
loads.
5.8.4 Setting profiles

b) Press dimmer to enter dimmer mode.
c) Select all dimmers by pressing ▼, or select an individual dimmer to
set with the ▲ and ▼ keys.
d) Press profile to display the dimmer profiles menu, and scroll to the
desired profile for the selected dimmer(s), using the ▲ and ▼ keys.
The enter LED flashes, indicating that the profile displayed is not that
recorded in memory for the dimmer(s).
e) Confirm the choice of profile for the selected dimmer(s) by pressing
enter. This sets the control panel back to dimmer mode, for the selec-
tion of the next dimmer to be set.
f) To exit without saving, press dimmer or speed.
page 39
5.9. Response speed

The response speed is the time taken for a dimmer to ramp to a new level
received via DMX. Response speed is measured in milliseconds, and should not
be confused with current risetime, measured in microseconds. Smartrack offers a
range of four response speeds, which are appropriate for different lighting tasks.
30mS Response speed

Very fast response, used with light filaments and where dynamic response
to bump buttons and chases is essential. The downside is that, in certain
circumstances, such a fast response can cause nuisance tripping of MCBs
and RCDs – for example when large cold filaments are suddenly switched
to a high level, in an installation with exceptionally low loop impedance.
100mS Response speed

Factory default setting gives acceptably fast response in most situations,
eliminates nuisance tripping in all but most severe circumstances, and pro-
longs lamp life by reducing thermal shock to cold filaments.
300mS Response Time

Used mainly in TV studios where most loads are 5kW, further prolongs
lamp life by reducing thermal shock to cold filaments. Since 300mS is less
than the thermal response delay of a 5kW filament, no visible delay is
introduced when using such loads. This setting may also be useful for tun-
ing installations with very low loop impedance where RCD nuisance trip-
ping is a problem.
500mS Response Time

Used exceptionally to reduce inrush currents on large loads, and to extend
lamp life. But note that a half second ramp will probably be visible on all
but the largest filaments.
page 40
5.9.1 Setting response speed

b) Press dimmer to enter dimmer mode.
c) Select all dimmers by pressing ▼, or select an individual dimmer to
set with the ▲ and ▼ keys.
d) Press speed to display the response speed menu, and scroll to the
desired speed for the selected dimmer(s), using the ▲ and ▼ keys.
The enter LED flashes, indicating that the speed displayed is not that
recorded in memory for the dimmer(s).
e) Confirm the choice of response speed for the selected dimmer(s) by
pressing enter. This sets the control panel back to dimmer mode, for
the selection of the next dimmer to be set.
f) To exit without saving, press dimmer or profile.
5.10 Important note – Exiting from the user interface

When exiting from the user interface, either following a press on enter or
Smartrack's automatic timeout, it is important that the rack should not be
switched off for at least 2 seconds. When returning to normal operation,
Smartrack sets a temporary response time of 2 seconds, so that any changes in
DMX levels will be implemented gently. If power is lost while this temporary
response time is being used, the next time Smartrack is switched on it will retain
a 2 second response speed, and show 02 in the display window.
If you do get stuck in this situation, simply go into user mode, select ALL dimmers,
and set the desired response speed, using the ▲ and ▼ keys.
page 41
6. Smartrack operational summary
L1 DMX ✔
0 0 11 L2 DMX ✘
L3 temp level
dimmer profile speed enter
6.1. Accessing the control panel

Smartrack's control panel is normally disabled, to prevent unauthorised access,
which could have potentially disastrous results. When the enter LED is off, the
control panel is disabled.
To access control panel user mode:
a) Press enter for three seconds. When the enter LED lights, you are in user
mode, with access to the main control panel functions.
b) To lock the control panel again, press enter any time the enter LED is on,
but not flashing.
NOTE: For security reasons, the control panel will automatically lock up if no key
is pressed for a three minute period.
page 42
6.2. Address setting

Once accessed, the control panel may be used to set a new starting address for
the rack. Note that all dimmers will automatically be numbered in ascending
sequence, starting with the top left dimmer in the rack.
a) Use the ▲ and ▼ keys to select a new start address for the rack. Note that
the enter LED flashes, to indicate that the displayed start address is not that
recorded in memory. By holding down either of the ▲ and ▼ keys, the
selected address will automatically increment or decrement. The longer the
key is held, the greater the rate of change of the address.
b) Confirm the new start address by pressing enter. The enter LED stops flash-
ing, indicating that the new address has been recorded.
6.3. Dimmer mode

In dimmer mode you can:
● test dimmers at levels
● set dimmer profiles
● set dimmer response speeds
Having accessed the control panel, press dimmer to enter dimmer mode. The
dimmer LED is now lit.
In dimmer mode, when using the ▲ and ▼ keys, note that Smartrack limits the
range of dimmer numbers displayed to the dimmers in the rack, plus ALL, where
all dimmers in the rack may be tested, or have profile and speed settings
changed.
ALL dimmers are selected when the dimmer display is taken out of range, in
either direction, using the ▲ and ▼ keys. So, having entered dimmer mode, just
press ▼ to select ALL dimmers.
6.3.1 Testing dimmers at levels

Once in dimmer mode, select all or any dimmers. Now use the rotary
potentiometer to raise the selected dimmer(s) to a level.
page 43
You can flash through the rack by setting the rotary pot to a level, then
using the ▲ key repeatedly, to advance to the next dimmer. When you do
this, the previously used dimmer will go out, and only the currently select-
ed dimmer will be set to the level on the pot.
Warning: if the pot is set to a high level, selecting ALL will
turn on all dimmers.
Note that levels set in this way are lost as soon as dimmer mode is exited.
6.3.2 Profile mode

A full explanation of dimmer profiles is given in section 6.8.
To view or change dimmer profile settings:
a) Press dimmer to enter dimmer mode. The dimmer LED is lit.
b) Select one or all dimmers, using the ▲ and ▼ keys.
c) Press profile to enter profile mode. The profile LED is lit, and the pro-
file for the selected dimmer(s) is displayed.
d) Select a new profile, using the ▲ and ▼ keys. The enter LED flashes,
indicating that the profile displayed is not that recorded for the select-
ed dimmer(s).
e) Press enter to record or dimmer to return to dimmer mode without
changing the profile setting.
6.3.3 Speed mode

For a full explanation of Response Speed settings, see section 6.9.
To view or change response speed settings:
a) Press dimmer to enter dimmer mode. The dimmer LED is lit.
b) Select one or all dimmers, using the ▲ and ▼ keys.
c) Press speed to enter response speed mode. The speed LED is lit, and
the response speed for the selected dimmer(s) is displayed.
page 44
d) Select a new speed, using the ▲ and ▼ keys. The enter LED flashes,
indicating that the speed displayed is not that recorded for the select-
ed dimmer(s).
e) Press enter to record or dimmer to return to dimmer mode without
changing the speed setting.
When ‘Dim-ALL’ is selected, the profile or speed displayed is for the first
dimmer only.
6.4. Offline mode

Smartrack's offline mode is intended for installers and service engineers, and has
a separate security level to user mode.
In offline mode, all dimmer levels received via DMX512 are set temporarily to
zero. Normal DMX512 operation will be resumed upon exiting offline mode.
Note that there is no timeout from offline mode. You have to exit in order to
return to normal operation.
In offline mode you can:
● View rms voltage of the main supply
● Set the output rms voltage scale for the rack
● Clear down all configuration settings to factory defaults
To enter offline mode:

a) Access the control panel by pressing enter for three seconds.
b) Press the ▲ and ▼ keys together for one second. the offline symbol – – – is
displayed.
c) Using the ▲ and ▼ keys, scroll through the offline menu.
To leave offline mode:

a) Return to the offline menu.
b) Press the ▲ and ▼ keys together for one second. The control panel is
returned to user mode.
page 45
6.4.1 Checking line voltage

From the offline menu, select AC and press enter. The display alternates
between L2 and the present rms voltage found on the phase two supply to
the rack, eg 220.
a) To exit, press enter. The display returns to the AC menu header,
press ▲ or ▼, until the offline menu header – – – appears.
6.4.2 Setting the output voltage scale

For a full explanation of this function, see section 6.5.2
a) From the offline menu, Select CAL, and press enter. The display
shows the present rms voltage set for 100% dimmer output, eg 220.
b) Use the ▲ and ▼ keys to change the rms voltage output scale, in
steps of one volt.
c) Press enter to save the new value and exit to the offline menu.
6.4.3 Clearing configuration settings

a) From the offline menu, select CLr, then press enter, to clear all
address, profile, speed and output voltage scale settings back to fac-
tory defaults.
page 46
7. Routine maintenance
The following simple maintenance procedures are recommended to keep your
Smartrack installation in perfect working order throughout its life.
7.1. Torque settings

Following first installation, and at regular intervals in situations where dimmers
are subjected to vibration, we strongly recommend that all terminal screw torque
settings be checked for tightness, using the torque setting table below:
Power Terminal hex-headed screws 2Nm
RCD and Circuit breaker terminals 2Nm
Earth and neutral terminals – 10mm2 2Nm
Earth and neutral terminals – 2.5mm2 1.5Nm
2.5kW load terminals 1Nm
5kW load terminals 2Nm
10kW load terminals 1.2Nm
To retorque terminals, open the front door of the rack, by releasing the three cap-
tive screws on the front panel, and use a torque setting screwdriver. Note that all
terminal screwheads face forwards, for ease of access.
7.2. Cleaning
In average conditions of use, cleaning should be carried out on an annual basis.
a) Using a vacuum cleaner with a soft furniture nozzle, clean the outside of the
Smartrack enclosure. Then use a damp or spirit-soaked rag to remove grease
or stains.
b) Switch off supply power and open the rack. Using an air blower, blow dust
out of the electronics, behind the aluminium protective cover.
page 47
c) For modular racks, unplug each dimmer module, and blow dust from it, then
wipe down with a damp cloth, dry and replace.
d) Using a vacuum cleaner with a soft furniture nozzle, clean the inside of the
enclosure.
7.3. Inspecting dimmer module connectors

a) Switch off supply power, open the rack and remove the dimmer modules.
b) Check that all power contacts are bright and clean, in the modules and in
the power assembly bases. If any evidence of arcing is seen, contact your
ETC authorised service dealer.
c) Check that the earth pins are tightly mounted.
d) Close rack and replace modules.
7.4. Control fuse ratings

1.6amp (T) 20mm
7.5. Battery replacement

It will be necessary to replace the battery on the Smartrack CPU which supports
configuration settings at approximately ten year intervals. This work should be
carried out by an authorised ETC service representative.
page 48
8. Technical support
In the event of difficulty during the installation, commissioning or active life of your ETC
dimming products, technical support is available at no charge, either from your ETC
authorised service agent, or from ETC direct.
8.1. Who to call

To contact ETC Ltd, please send all relevant information, with a sketch if appro-
priate to:
ETC Ltd
Lighting Control Division – Technical Support
Fax no: (+44) 181 896 2000
Or call us on (+44) 181 896 1000
8.2. What to tell them

We need to know:
a) The serial number of the rack or power assembly concerned.
b) Who you bought it from.
c) The software version being run (look for the sticker on the electronics protec-
tive cover).
d) The nature of the fault or difficulty.
We shall then treat the job of solving your problem as our highest priority.
page 49
9. Accessories and options

9.1 RCD protection
Many local authorities and safety conscious employers are now insisting that
earth leakage protection be fitted to all professional lighting dimming systems.
When ordering Smartrack, you can specify Residual Current Device (RCD) pro-
tection as a factory fitted item.
If not supplied as original equipment, RCDs may be easily retrofitted to
Smartracks in service.
Part Number 2000A1520
9.2 Single phase adapter kit

Smartracks are supplied to run on three phase 220/380v or 240/415v sup-
plies. However, with a simple adaptor kit (see section 4.5.3), single phase sup-
plies may also be used.
Part Number 2000A1573
page 50
9.3 Spare numbering sheets

Smartrack numbering sheets are available as spare parts, numbering up to 960
Part Number 2000A4000 1 – 240
Part Number 2000A4001 241 – 480
Part Number 2000A4002 481 – 720
Part Number 2000A4003 721 – 960
9.4 Load terminal extender kits

It will in some cases be necessary to use cable with a larger cross-sectional area
than the capacity of the standard load phase terminals provided, where very
long cable runs are required.
In this case, the following extender kits are available, for 2.5kW and 5kW dim-
mers only. (Note that 10kW dimmers are already provided with terminals for
35mm2 cable).
Part Number 2000A1565 4 x 2.5kW Output terminal extender kit (up to 10mm2)
Part Number 2000A1566 2 x 5kW Output terminal extender kit (up to 16mm2)
page 51
10. Spare parts

Use this part number guide to order spare parts from your authorised ETC service deal-
er, or from ETC Ltd.
Part No Description
2000A1550 Quad 2.5kW plug-in dimmer module
2000A1551 Dual 5kW plug-in dimmer module
2000A1552 Single 10kW plug-in dimmer module
THY.004 Quad 2.5kW power device
THY.005 Dual 5kW power device
THY.006 Single 10kW power device
MCB.022 Single pole 13amp 'C' characteristic circuit breaker
FAN.008 Smartrack Fan
2000A5001 CPU circuit board assembly
2000A5002 Operator interface circuit board assembly
SWI.032 Push-button switch body and cap
POT.006 Rotary potentiometer
KNO.007 Rotary potentiometer knob
KNO.007.1 Rotary potentiometer collet cap
FUS.008 20mm Fuseholder
HDD.001 Dimmer module handle
MDD.023 Dimmer module facia
HDD.003 Dimmer module face panel label – quad 2.5kW
HDD.004 Dimmer module face panel label – dual 5kW
HDD.005 Dimmer module face panel label – single 10kW
ICT.001 Thermal sensor
HDD.014 Thermal sensor clip
page 52
Notes:
page 53
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smartrack

Electronic Theatre Controls Ltd.

We at ETC have done everything we can to ensure that your

This manual contains detailed instructions for installing, using

4.5.4 Cascading a stack of Smartracks ...........................................17

5.7.2 Good/bad data ...................................................................36

8. Technical support ...............................................................49

1. Digital dimming explained

● Easy and economical installation

● Highly flexible configuration options

● Basic or modular variants

● All-digital – high reliability, high accuracy

Front view of a modular 650

2.3.1 Standard risetime choke

2.3.2 High risetime choke

2.4. Rack control

2.4.1 Dimmer profile

2.4.2 Response speed

2.4.3 Dimmer test

2.4.4 Reference Voltage

2.5. Thermal Management

3. Getting started – what’s in the box

3.1.2 Power assemblies

4.1. Environmental considerations

4.2 Planning and marking out

4.2.1 Marking out a wall

Two stacks of three 850 850

4.2.2 Planning an island installation

4.3. Wall fixings

4.4. Assembly and mounting

Plastic plugs (f)

How to fix two Smartrack

Fit power and load cable

M5 Fixing screws (d)

Plastic feet (a)

4.5. Power wiring

Wiring in power feeder

4.5.1 Standard Smartrack

4.5.2 Connecting single phase systems

4.5.3 Connecting Delta systems

4.5.4 Cascading a stack of Smartracks

Wiring a standard Smartrack

4.6. Load wiring

4.6.1 Installing load wires

4.7. Identifying and testing power and load wiring

Earth Neutral Phase

Cut cable to 33cm from cable tie

Trim insulation 6mm

4.8. Signal wiring

4.9. Power assemblies

4.9.2 Connecting load wiring

Please note the following maximum cable sizes:

Terminating load wiring.

4.9.3 Connecting power wiring – RCD option fitted

Wiring the power feeds from

4.9.4 Connecting power wiring – without RCD option

4.9.5 The power assembly signal looms

Wiring the power feeds from

4.10 Smartrack door

4.10.1 Mounting the door