Zero 88 says that the Frog 2 is designed to be used in the most demanding lighting control environments and will appeal to users looking for ease of programming, comprehensive playback choices, live busking, theatrical or stand-alone control of architectural type events. In terms of out put the Frog 2 will run up to eight universes, four via DMX or up to eight via Ethernet (Artnet). All the facilities needed for future RDM and ACN compatibility are included in the hardware. To allow for effective control the Frog 2 offers multiple cue stack playback, comprehensive palette selections and effects libraries, while the use of macros allows users to automate programming and playback of shows.
For busking in live environments there are user-definable buttons and faders that can be assigned to control anything from a single channel to a group of fixtures to a complete memory. Using macros these controls can be loaded from a memory or from a cue stack as part of the running of a show. Comprehensive feedback is also provided by two monitors and an onboard touch-screen, allowing a variety of screens to be displayed simultaneously. Specific user views can be set up to suit users' needs. Storing shows is possible on either a USB memory stick or using the built-in CD writer. There are three USB ports on the Frog 2, making it possible to use a variety of USB accessories including touchscreen monitors.
The mechanical design of the Frog 2 has ensured that it has the smallest footprint possible while ensuring all the controls are ergonomically accessible. It is also possible to operate the console while it is in its flightcase base without damaging any connectors.
(Lee Baldock)
