The Series 400 system combines power, DMX and Ethernet data through a single custom-designed trunk cable. The data system includes Ethernet switches with the ability to route any DMX universe to any DMX output connector in the system, along with complete electrical isolation. As a result, lighting systems can better accommodate the growing need for data and use less cable and technicians can re-route signals from the user menus without making physical changes to the system.
"The Series 400 opens a new world for both designers and technicians," notes Jere Harris, chairman and CEO of PRG. "It is an example of PRG's commitment to innovation and to developing new products and services that add demonstrable value for our customers."
The PRG Series 400 is modular and flexible and consists of a rolling rack unit that accepts 120V or 208V 12-channel breaker modules, 120V or 208V breakout boxes, and custom-designed trunk cables available in 25', 50' and 100' lengths. One rolling rack supports up to 72 fixtures and is available in three different power service models for use in the U.S./Canada, Japan and Europe.
"Increased safety was one of the primary motivations for creating the PRG Series 400 system," explains James Bornhorst, engineering manager for PRG. "It is an extremely safe system because no power is provided to the breakout boxes until all of the connections are made - and if the connections are not made correctly, no energy will flow through the system."
The system is modular and user configurable to meet the particular needs of each show. "If you have to change from a 120V fixture to a 208V fixture, you simply plug in a different breakout box, insert a different breaker module and you have 208V power in the truss," Bornhorst explains. "There is no need to touch the fixture or the trunk cable feeding power and data up to the light."
Ethernet cable standards call for a maximum working length over copper of 300 feet, but the Series 400 custom trunk cable extends the working length to 500 feet. "The requirements for data have gone through the roof and Ethernet is the best way to meet those needs," Bornhorst explains. "At the same time, touring systems have grown. Rigs are bigger and cable has to be run over trusses, across gaps, out to the front pipe and so on. It's not unusual to have a light at the end of 500 feet of cable and people need to get the power and data out there to it."
(Jim Evans)
