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A standard VSFX system consists of:
In addition, a range of accessories are available to solve particular projection problems. |
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| Source Four PAR MCM A surprising new lightsource option, but one which has proven to work very well, is the ETC Source Four PAR MCM, which gives a remarkable light output while being more compact than a conventional effects projector. The dichroic reflector in the MCM version of the Source Four PAR ensure that heat is kept away from the projected effect. Adaptor plates to allow VSFX drive units to fit Source Four PARs are available. |
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| VSFX Drive Unit The VSFX drive unit consists of a spun aluminium case fitted with a turntable backplate allowing an effect to be rotated 360 degrees about the optical axis of the effects projector. A glass effect disc is fitted inside the case and rim-driven, ensuring compatability with existing effect discs from the older Strand Patt 252 projector range. The unit requires an independent, non-dim power supply, and the speed and direction can then be set using controls on the side of the casing. Current VSFX units also offer direct DMX512 control, with 5-pin XLR DMX In and Out connectors. Older VSFX units can have their speed and direction remotely controlled using an analogue 0-10V signal, or can be coverted to DMX control using the FX/DMX which bolts to the side of the VSFX housing, is powered from the VSFX drive unit and has 5-pin XLRs for DMX In and Out. The front of the casing contains a double runner. The front runner is normally used for the objective lens, while the rear runner can contain colour or accessories such as an adjustable mask, used to cut an image to a particular shape. A safety retaining spring secures the lens as the effect is rotated The WaveFX is similar to the VSFX, but creates linear ripple type effects, for creating waves or effects such as fluttering flags. |
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| Glass Effect Disc A wide range of glass effect discs are available. The standard range of discs includes storm and fleecy clouds, flames, smoke and several new cloud designs. A wide range of more esoteric, older designs (including ghosts, planets and falling leaves) are available and custom discs can be created if required. VSFX drive units will also accept disks from older Strand Patt 252 moving effects without any modification. |
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| Lens A lens is required to focus the moving image onto the desired projection surface. A range of lenses are available to suit different throws; please consult the lens reference guide for guidance with selecting the correct lens. An adaptor plate is now available to allow the full range of fixed-focus Source Four lenses to be used with the VSFX system. These present a useful alternative to the standard VSFX lenses, particularly where an effect needs to be in sharp focus. The 10 degree and 5 degree Source Four lenses are also useful where effects are to be used over long throws. |
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