Show Control

Understanding Show Control

Show control is the discipline of integrating multiple production technologies so they operate as a coordinated system. For LED wall installations, show control enables complex multi-element cues that would be impossible to execute manually.

Show Control Architecture

**Centralized Model:** One master system (often the lighting console or dedicated show controller) triggers all other systems.

**Distributed Model:** Systems communicate peer-to-peer based on shared references (usually timecode).

**Hybrid Model:** Combination of central control and timecode-based synchronization.

Common Protocols

**MIDI:**

• Musical Instrument Digital Interface
• Note and program change messages
• Widely supported
• Simple triggering

**OSC (Open Sound Control):**

• Network-based messaging
• Flexible addressing
• Rich data types
• Modern replacement for MIDI

**SMPTE Timecode:**

• LTC (audio signal) or MTC (MIDI)
• Continuous synchronization
• Frame-accurate triggering
• Industry standard

**Art-Net/sACN:**

• DMX over network
• Lighting protocol extended to LED
• Brightness and color control
• Architectural integration

LED Wall Integration

**Content Triggering:**

• Media server cues from controller
• Playlist selection commands
• Layer opacity control
• Source switching

**Brightness Control:**

• DMX/Art-Net to processor
• Dynamic level changes
• Coordination with lighting
• Environment response

**Color Adjustment:**

• CCT control for lighting match
• Tint correction
• Color effects via DMX

System Examples

**Concert Production:** Timecode from audio playback triggers:

• Video content on media server
• Lighting cues on console
• Laser effects
• Pyrotechnics
• Automation moves

**Corporate Event:** Show controller triggers:

• Walk-in video start
• Lighting preset
• Audio playlist
• Speaker support graphics
• Session transitions

**Theme Park:** Integrated control of:

• Audio tracks
• Lighting scenes
• Video playback
• Animatronics
• Special effects

Planning Show Control

**System Documentation:**

• Network diagram
• Protocol assignments
• IP addresses
• Cue structure

**Backup Strategy:**

• Manual override capability
• Backup trigger paths
• Isolated operation mode
• Documented recovery

**Testing:**

• Individual system tests
• Integration testing
• Full run-throughs
• Failure scenarios

Best Practices

**Network Isolation:** Keep show control network separate from:

• Venue IT networks
• Production internet
• Streaming systems

**Latency Accounting:** Different systems have different response times:

• Video processing latency
• Network transmission time
• Mechanical response (automation)

**Documentation:** Maintain complete records of:

• Protocol settings
• IP configurations
• Cue structure
• Integration points