Sensor3

CEM3

User Manual

Version 1.7.0

Part Number: 7140M1200-1.7.0 Rev: B

Released: 2018-08
ET C ® a n d S e n s o r ® ar e eit h er r egist er ed tr ade ma rk s or t ra d em ar ks of E l ec tr onic T he a tr e Cont rols,
I n c . i n t h e U n it e d S t a t e s a n d o t h e r c o u n t r i e s .

Al l ot h e r t ra d e ma rk s , b o t h ma r ke d a n d n o t m a r k e d , a r e t h e p r o pe r t y o f t h ei r r es p e c t iv e ow n er s .

E T C i n t e n d s t h i s d o c u m e n t , w h e t h er p r i n t e d o r e le c t r o n i c , t o b e p r o v i d e d i n i t s e n t i r e t y . T h i s
p r o d u c t i s i nt e n de d f o r p r o f e s s i o n a l u s e o n l y . R e a d t h i s e n t ir e do c u m e n t b e f o r e u s i n g t h i s p r od u c t .
Table of Contents
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Using this Manual. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
Text Conventions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1

Help from ETC Technical Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2

Chapter 1 Getting Started . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

The User Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
CEM3 Face Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
Navigation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3

Performing a Quick Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

Other Setup Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

Table of Contents i
Chapter 2 System Reference. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Important Concepts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
Advanced Features (AF) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
Circuit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
Dimmer Doubling (UL/ 120V 60Hz Systems Only). . . . . . . . . . .6
Latch-Lock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
Lug . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
Panic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
Patch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
Preset Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
Redundant Tracking (ESR and FDX Racks Only) . . . . . . . . . . .10
Variable Speed Fan (ESR Series Racks Only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

Menu Structure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
About . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

UI Preferences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
Dimmer Property Definitions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
Rack Property Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20
Dimmer Curves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
Linear. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
Modified Linear (Mod-Linear) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
Square Law (Square). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
Modified Square Law (Mod-Square) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
Sensor 2.0 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23
Stage 1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23
Stage 2. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24
Fluro1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24
Fluro 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24
ANDI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25
VIP 90. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25
Custom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25

Dimmer Output Diagram . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26

ii CEM3 User Manual

Chapter 3 Common Tasks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Replacing the CEM3 Processor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27
Configuration Selection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27
Incorrect Version. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27

Recording and Playing Presets. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27

Preset Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28

Recording and Playing Sequences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29

Sequence Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29

Saving or Uploading Files and Firmware . . . . . . . . . .30

Saving Configurations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30
Loading Configurations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30
Loading CEM3 Software. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31

Setting Up Panic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32

Patching . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34
Automatic Patching . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34
Manual Patching. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34

Setting Data Loss Behavior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35

Setting Up CEM3 on the Network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35
Network Setup for Redundant Tracking Racks. . . . . . . . . . . .36
Working with Net3 Conductor Over FTP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36

Setting Rack DIP Switches and Termination . . . . . . . .36

DIP Switch Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37
DMX Termination Switches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37

Maintaining and Cleaning the Rack . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38

Cleaning Rack Air Filters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38
Vacuuming Dimmer Modules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39

Replacing AF Cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40

Restoring Rack Defaults . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41

Chapter 4 Web Access and Mobile App . . . . . . . . . . 42

Using the CEM3 Web Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42
System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42
Dimmers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42
Set Levels. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43
Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43
Presets and Sequences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43
Files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44

Using the Sensor3 TPSR App . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44

Table of Contents iii

Appendix A CEM3 Menu Flow Chart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Boot Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46
Normal Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46
Rack Type or Backplane Mismatch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46
Configuration File Conflict. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46

Home Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47

Normal Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47
Panic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47
AF Card Upgrade . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47
Battery Backup or RideThru Active . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47
Redundant Tracking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47

Quick Setup and Info . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48

Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49
About . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51
Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52

Appendix B Error Messages. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Appendix C Redundant Tracking Systems . . . . . . . . . . 60

Redundant Tracking Switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .60
Automatic Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .60
Loss of network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61
Loss of DMX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61
Power errors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61
Total processor loss. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61

Display Status . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61

Configuration Management in Redundant Tracking
Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62
Firmware Upgrades in Redundant Tracking Systems .62

iv CEM3 User Manual

Appendix D FDX 3000 Dimmer Racks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
Hardware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .63
Front Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .63
Rear Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64

Regulatory Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .65

Initial Setup. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .65
Module Count. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .65

Module Types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .65

Advanced Features in FDX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .65
Feedback Modes and Module Types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .66
Roasting Short Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .66

FDX2000 vs. FDX3000 Dimmer Curve Comparison . . .67

Table of Contents v
Introduction
Welcome to your new CEM3 Power Control system.
This manual is designed to introduce you to the CEM3 user interface and the primary features
and functions available to you in the setup and use of your CEM3 power control system.
Using this Manual
The following graphics and conventions are used throughout this manual to convey
important information.

Note: Notes are helpful hints and information that is supplemental to the main text.

CAUTION: A Caution statement indicates situations where there may be undefined or

unwanted consequences of an action, potential for data loss or an equipment
problem.

WARNING: A Warning statement indicates situations where damage may occur, people
may be harmed, or there are serious or dangerous consequences of an action.

WARNING: RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK! This warning statement indicates situations where
there is a risk of electric shock.

Text Conventions
• Bold is used to indicate something in the CEM3 user interface, such as a parameter or button.
• [Brackets] are used to indicate a tactile button on the face of the CEM3 (such as [Setup], [Test],
and [Enter]).
Please email comments about this manual to: [email protected].

Introduction 1
 Help from ETC Technical Services
If you are having difficulties, your most convenient resources are the references given in this
user manual. To search more widely, try the ETC website at etcconnect.com or the Dimming
and Networking Systems page at community.etcconnect.com.
If none of these resources are sufficient, contact ETC Technical Services directly at one of the
offices identified below. Emergency service is available from all ETC offices outside of normal
business hours.
When calling for help, please have the following information handy:
• Product model and serial number (located on the bottom of the CEM3)
• Installation type
• Other components in your system (Unison®, other consoles, etc.)

Americas United Kingdom

ETC, Inc. ETC Ltd
Technical Services Department Technical Services Department
3031 Pleasant View Road 26-28 Victoria Industrial Estate
Middleton, WI 53562 Victoria Road,
800-775-4382 (USA, toll-free) London W3 6UU England
+1-608 831-4116 +44 (0)20 8896 1000
[email protected] [email protected]

Asi a German y
ETC Asia ETC GmbH
Technical Services Department Technical Services Department
Room 1801, 18/F Ohmstrasse 3
Tower 1, Phase 1 Enterprise Square 83607 Holzkirchen, Germany
9 Sheung Yuet Road +49 (80 24) 47 00-0
Kowloon Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong [email protected]
+852 2799 1220
[email protected]

2 CEM3 User Manual

Chapter 1
Getting Started
The User Interface
This section explains the physical features of the hardware interface and their general functionality
with the software.

CEM3 Face Panel

The diagram below shows the components of the hardware interface. These terms are used
throughout this manual.

CAUTION: Power down the rack before removing the CEM3.

LEDs identify current states of:

Reset Power DMX Ports Network Panic Eject
Eject: Pull
both levers
forward from
the top edge.
Grasp and pull
to remove
face panel.

Net3 USB Display Navigation Scroll Keypad

Ethernet Load Software and window Buttons wheel
configurations

Navigation
Scroll Wheel
Use the scroll wheel and up/down arrows to move the selection cursor on any menu screen until the
desired item is highlighted. Menus that do not fit on one screen will have a scroll bar on the right side
of the display window, and additional menu options can be accessed with the scroll wheel. You can
also tap the top or bottom of the scroll wheel to move the display cursor up or down.
The scroll wheel also lets you scroll through number fields (such as circuit number) or through the
available options for a selected item (such as Module Type).
The center button of the scroll wheel functions as [Enter]. Press [Enter] to select the highlighted item on
the display window or to commit entered data.

Keypad
Use keypad to enter values for any value fields in the display window. When setting levels you can
select individual dimmers or ranges of dimmers using the [and] and [thru] buttons.
Both the center button of the scroll wheel and the bottom right keypad button function as [Enter].
Press [Enter] to select the highlighted item on the display window or to commit entered data.

Getting Started 3
 Navigation Buttons
The navigation buttons ([Test], [About], [Setup]) and the [Back] button are used to navigate menus in
the display window (see Menu Structure on page 11). Press [Back] to return to the previous screen on
any menu.

Performing a Quick Setup

Quick Setup is used to set up your rack using a minimum amount of data to achieve a basic
configuration.

Note: Prior to performing a Quick Setup, make sure that your rack DIP switch settings are
set appropriately for your rack type. See Setting Rack DIP Switches and Termination
on page 36.

CAUTION: Quick Setup will overwrite some of the data in your rack. Only perform a
Quick Setup when you want to reconfigure your system or are instructed to
do so by ETC Technical Services.

You can begin a Quick Setup by selecting Quick Setup from the main screen or by navigating to
[Setup]>Quick Setup>[Enter].
From this screen you can use the CEM3 interface to enter data in up to four screens to quickly establish
your rack configuration: Module, Circuit, Dimmer Double, and Patching (see below for screen
descriptions).
Once you have entered data in the screens, select OK and press [Enter] to save the setup changes.

Module
The current Rack Type is listed. To change the module type select Module. Select a module type and
model from the list, then select Next. The rack will be configured as filled with the selected module
type. If you don’t need to change the module types, leave the type as Unchanged.

Circuit
Set Numbering to either Renumbering or Unchanged to indicate whether to renumber the rack. If you
select Renumbering, set these two additional parameters:
• Set the Starting At value to the number for the first circuit in the rack. If this is your first or only
rack, this number is typically 1. If this rack is one of many in your system, this number typically
continues the numbering sequence from the previous rack. Default is 1.
• Set the Balance type: Straight, 1-Phase, or 3-Phase. The CEM3 processor defaults to the balance
type that is appropriate for the detected power source, but you can change this value if desired.
- Straight results in circuit numbering that will proceed sequentially straight through the entire
rack.
- 1-Phase or 3-Phase results in circuit numbering that distributes the circuits evenly across the
different power phases so that neighboring circuits do not place an uneven load on any phase.

4 CEM3 User Manual

 These tables compare the circuit numbering of an SR3-6 filled with D20 modules when set to Straight
numbering, 3-Phase numbering, or 1-Phase numbering:

SR3-6 SR3-6 SR3-6

Straight 3-Phase Phase 1-Phase
Phase Circuit Numbering Circuit Numbering Circuit Numbering
1 1 1
2 2 2
A
3 7 5
A
4 8 6
5 3 9
6 4 10
B
7 9 3
8 10 4
9 5 7
B
10 6 8
C
11 11 11
12 12 12

Dimmer Double (120V SR and SP Type Racks Only)

Choose between Yes and No to activate or deactivate dimmer doubling for the rack. Default is No. See
Dimmer Doubling (UL/ 120V 60Hz Systems Only) on page 6.
You can also set a DMX Offset (default = 256) or sACN Offset (default =10000), which determines the
start address of the B side of the dimmer doubled dimmers.

Patch
Select an automatic patching method to patch the entire rack sequentially.

Note: Automatic patching is only available for racks with one space. For racks with more
than one assigned space, see Patching on page 34.

There are three automatic patching methods:

• Simple: This patching method specifies the same starting address for all three data ports (DMX
A, DMX B, and sACN) at once. Enter the starting address for the patch. If the patch count exceeds
512, the patch will “wrap” and start numbering again at 1.
• Independent: This method allows you to specify different starting addresses for each data port in
the patch (DMX A, DMX B, and sACN). Select a data port and assign the desired starting address
for the rack. If the rack count then exceeds 512 (for DMX ports) the remainder of circuits in the
rack will be patched to zero for that DMX port.
• Universe Split: This patching method should be used when a DMX universe will end midway
through the rack’s patch. Enter the starting address for the patch. If the patch sequence exceeds
512 (256 if dimmer doubling is enabled) DMX A will patch the rest of the circuits to 0 and DMX B
will restart the patch addresses at 1 for those remaining circuits.

Other Setup Functions

Once you have completed the quick setup, you may wish to proceed to these other common setup
tasks:
• Setting the module type in Circuit Assignment on page 15
• Setting Up Panic on page 32
• Setting Up CEM3 on the Network on page 35

Getting Started 5
Chapter 2
System Reference
This chapter includes the general concepts behind the features of your CEM3, the general menu
structure of the software, definitions of all dimmer properties, and illustrations of the various dimmer
curves available in your system.

Important Concepts
This section introduces some of the primary concepts. Topics are listed alphabetically.

Advanced Features (AF)

Advanced Features (AF) allow you to receive feedback from your dimmer modules about their current
state, including the amount of current being drawn on each circuit, whether the module is installed or
not, and whether the circuit breaker on the module has tripped. This information is available both at
the front panel of the rack and at remote devices, including ETC Eos® and Cobalt® control systems and
other ACN-capable devices.
Advanced Features also allow you to monitor circuit loads by recording and running a rig check (see Rig
Check on page 10).
In order to use Advanced Features, you need AF-capable modules (modules with AF in the module
name, such as D20AF or ED15AF) and AF cards installed in the rack.

Circuit
A circuit is a user assignable number between 1 and 99999. The circuit is the reference number for that
dimmer in the rack. Circuit numbers must be unique per space; it is possible to have multiple circuits of
the same number, but they must be in different spaces.

Configuration
The rack configuration is a collection of all of the data stored about the rack and all of its circuits. The
configuration is stored automatically in the CEM3 whenever you make a change (for example,
changing a circuit from switched to dimmed).
The configuration of any rack is automatically stored on both the CEM3 module and the CEM3
backplane. Therefore, you can remove a CEM3, replace it with a new, unconfigured CEM3, and the
configuration from the backplane will be loaded to the new CEM3.
You can save and load rack configurations by connecting a USB removable media device to the USB
port on the front of the module, by connecting to a computer on the network (using the CEM3 web
interface), or by connecting to an FTP server. Saving and loading are performed from the File
Operations menu. See Saving or Uploading Files and Firmware on page 30.

Dimmer Doubling (UL/ 120V 60Hz Systems Only)

ETC’s Dimmer Doubler™ technology allows you to double the number of controllable circuits in your
system without adding dimmer modules or running additional cable. The key to this feature is the
Dimmer Doubler two-fer.
The Dimmer Doubler two-fer is installed between a Sensor dimmer module and two ETC Source Four
77-volt fixtures. It splits the output of a single dimmer into two separately controlled outputs.

6 CEM3 User Manual

 Latch-Lock
Latch-Lock is a control mode available to any dimmer circuit (see Control on page 17). Similar to
switched mode, Latch-Lock features an additional safeguard so that circuits cannot be turned on or off
as easily. The circuit only turns on when a defined control level range is held for a specified amount of
time, and only turns off when a different control level range is held for another amount of time.
Latch-Lock is useful for avoiding accidental dowsing of arc lamps during shows (often caused by
running the grandmaster down). By requiring a level range and time, most master fades will not hover
in a given range for long enough to trigger on or off.
The level ranges and times can be edited on a per dimmer basis (see Dimmer Property Definitions on
page 17). On and Off level ranges may not overlap.
Diagram of How Latch-Lock is Applied to a Circuit
Level

Control Level
Latch-Lock off range

Latch-Lock on range

Latch-Lock During this time interval the Latch-Lock Time

On Time control source can go to any level Off Time
and the circuit will stay on (relay
closed) as long as the control
source level does not stay in the
Latch-Lock off range longer than
the Latch-Lock off time value.
relay closed
(circuit on)

relay open
(circuit off)

Time
relay closes relay opens
(circuit turns on) (circuit turns off)

Lug
“Lug” refers to a physical position in the rack. Lugs are always numbered counting downwards from
the top of the rack, starting at 1. Some modules may take up multiple lug positions in the rack.

System Reference 7
 Panic
CEM3 offers a panic capability that complies with the UL 924 standard.
When a properly connected and enabled CEM3 has a panic “look” stored, it will automatically play the
recorded look when it receives a signal over the panic circuit.
Panic can be enabled when a maintained (normally open or normally closed) contact closure is properly
wired to the backplane. For more information, see the data termination guide or installation guide that
was supplied with the rack.
For information on how to configure panic on your CEM3, see Setting Up Panic on page 32.

Note: To configure panic mode through an electrical override without using the CEM3
module software, order the Hardwired Panic Accessory (7140K1002). Contact your
local dealer for more information.

Patch
Patching governs the relationship between control input sources (DMX A, DMX B, and sACN) and the
control of circuits in the rack. This relationship can be edited to match the needs of your control
sources and rack constraints. For information on patching, see Patching on page 34.

8 CEM3 User Manual

 Preset Functions
CEM3 supports a built-in preset control system allowing the recording and playback of preset looks.
Once recorded, preset looks can be played back either from the CEM3 face panel, connected Echo
preset stations, or the web interface. For more information on recording and playing back presets see
Recording and Playing Presets on page 27.
CEM3 allows the circuits within the rack to be divided up into spaces (performed in Circuit Assignment
on page 15) with up to 64 presets available per space. Each space can only have one active preset at a
time.
CEM3 includes default presets that include all circuits in the space. The default presets for any space
start with level at 100% and then cycle through 75%, 50%, 25%, 100% and so on.
The built-in EchoConnect® power supply on a Sensor3 rack is limited to powering 6 racks or panels and
6 stations. However, you can expand the system with external equipment. For more information about
Echo systems, visit etcconnect.com.

EchoConnect® - Belden 8471 + (1) 14 AWG ESD Ground Wire

CAUTION: Do not activate

®
station power on more than one CEM3 on the same
EchoConnect bus. Doing so may cause undesirable station function.

When you activate a preset, this action is propagated across the Net3 network. For example, if you
activate a given preset for space 1, all CEM3 modules on the network will activate that preset for
space 1.

System Reference 9
 Rig Check
In Sensor3 racks with Advanced Features (see Advanced Features (AF) on page 6) you can record a
special preset called Rig Check, which includes both circuit levels and the amount of load (current)
expected on each circuit.
Once recorded, the Rig Check can be played back, either from the CEM3 face panel or remotely, and
the CEM3 will post load high, load low, or no load messages based on how the load of the circuit has
changed since you recorded the Rig Check preset. These messages will be available on the CEM3
display or on a connected console that monitors AF feedback.
You can record, run, and clear a rig check on the Test menu (see Test on page 12).

Spaces
Spaces are logical divisions within a system (such as different rooms) that isolate station control (preset
and sequence control) to the defined group of controllable outputs in that division. CEM3 supports
separation of its controllable circuits into spaces.

Station Functions
Presets can be played back from preset stations in the system.
• Press a preset station button to activate a preset.
• Press it again to deactivate the preset.
• Stations can be configured with an Off button. This option is performed at the station and should
only be done by a qualified technician.
• The group of presets controlled by any station can be altered at the station. This should only be
done by a qualified technician.
For more information see the Echo Preset Station Installation Guide available at etcconnect.com.

Redundant Tracking (ESR and FDX Racks Only)

Redundant tracking provides extra security in the event of system failure, allowing a secondary CEM3
control module to immediately take control of the rack. For more information, see Redundant Tracking
Systems on page 60.

10 CEM3 User Manual

 Variable Speed Fan (ESR Series Racks Only)
The variable speed fan reduces the amount of noise generated by a Sensor3 rack, specifically when the
rack is lightly loaded. The variable speed fan (where available) is supported in the following product
models:
• ESR24
• ESR36
• ESR48
The fan operates at two speeds: High and Low. The fan uses the AF Features of the rack to run more
slowly when less current is being drawn.

Operation in an Advanced Features Rack

In an Advanced Features (AF) rack, the modules are equipped with current feedback. The processor
uses the feedback data from the modules to determine the speed to run the fan.
If all modules have a measured current of 10 amperes or below, the fan will run in low speed mode. If
the current rises above the 10A threshold, the fan will increase to the higher speed.
If the rack or any modules have errors that might lead to increased heat, including the loss of
communication to AF cards, module over-temperature warnings, or ambient over temperature, the fan
will run in the higher speed mode.

Operation in a Non-Advanced Features Rack

In a non-AF rack, the fan speed is determined by the modules in the rack. If all modules are of a 10A
or below rating (e.g., all ED10 or below), the fan will run at the lower speed. The presence of any
higher current modules will cause the fan to run at higher speed.

Menu Structure
This section describes the menu structure of the software. Press the desired button to access the menu
items below. Use the standard navigation method to select and enter options in the menus (see
Navigation on page 3).

System Reference 11
 Test
Field Description
Set levels for outputs from this rack only. This will present a table-style view
of the outputs in this rack and allow setting and releasing of levels. To set
levels:
• Select a circuit by numeric entry or scrolling with the wheel
• To select a range of circuits, use [thru] and [and].
- Press [Last/A] or [Next/B] on the keypad to set a level for the A or B
Set Local Levels
side of dimmer doubled circuits. See example below.
• Press [at].
• Use numeric entry or scroll to select a level. 0–100 is the valid range.
100 will display as "FL".
• Press [Enter]. The selected circuits will be set to the specified level or
released if you did not enter a level.
Set levels for chosen circuits in a space. See Example on the next page. If
necessary, double press [Back] to clear the command line during any of the
following steps.
1: Use the keypad to enter a circuit number between 1 and 99999.
2: Press [and] to enter multiple circuits or press [thru] to enter a range of
circuits.
• Press [Last/A] or [Next/B] on the keypad to set a level for the A or B
side of dimmer doubled circuits. See example below.
Set System Levels
3: Press [at] or [Enter]. The command line ends with "at".
4: Use the keypad or scroll wheel to enter a level if desired. 0–100 is the
valid range. 100 will display as "FL".
5: Press [Enter]. The selected circuits will be set to the specified level or
released if you did not enter a level. The command line ends with "*".
6: If you selected a single circuit, press [Next] or [Last] on the keypad to
increment or decrement the circuit number to set the level of another
circuit, if desired.
Quickly run through all lugs or all circuits in a space to test their output at a
Dimmer Check
given percentage.
Release Systm Lvls Release any active levels for a given space at once.
Presets Record or play back presets. See Recording and Playing Presets on page 27.
Record or play back sequences. See Recording and Playing Sequences on
Sequences
page 29.
Release all architectural control such as presets, sequences, and set zone
Release All Arch
levels.
Record a rig check preset to facilitate AF reporting. Rig Check features are
only available if the rack property AF Enabled is set to Yes. See Rig Check
Record Rig Check
on page 10, Advanced Features (AF) on page 6, and Rack Property
Definitions on page 20 for more information.
Run a rig check preset. You will be notified of any load inconsistencies
Run Rig Check
found during the rig check.
Clear Rig Check Clear the recorded rig check from all racks for a given space.

12 CEM3 User Manual

 Example: Setting the A and B sides of one dimmer doubled circuit at a time is straightforward using
the A and B keys. It is possible to set ranges of dimmer doubled circuits. The following are
valid examples:
A side only
• 1 at 100 or 1A at 100 sets 1A to full
• 1 thru 6 at 100, 1 thru 6A at 100, 1A thru 6 at 100, or 1A thru 6A at 100 sets the A
sides of 1 through 6 at full
B side only
• 1B at 100 sets 1B to full
• 1B thru 6B at 100 sets B sides of 1 through 6 at full
Some A and some B sides
• 1 thru 6B at 100 or 1A thru 6B at 100 sets the A and B sides of 1 through 6 to full
• 1B thru 6 at 100 or 1B thru 6A at 100 sets 1B and the A sides of 2 through 6 to full

System Reference 13
 About
Field Description
View all properties for any circuit in a space or in any rack on the network.
Dimmers
See Dimmer Property Definitions on page 17.
View all properties for the host Sensor rack. See Rack Property Definitions
on page 20.
Rack • Status: displays "Rack OK" or "Errors Exist"
• Panic State: displays "Ready" when not in a panic condition and
"Active" when in a panic condition.
View any current errors or other status messages. See Error Messages on
Errors
page 57.
View the current control source (Highest-Takes-Precedence or “HTP”) and
related output level being received by all dimmers in a space.
• "DMXA" is DMX Port A
• "DMXB" is DMX Port B
• "sACN" is Streaming sACN
• "AF" means Advanced Features is using the dimmer for load
recording
Source Info
• "SetLevels" means Set Levels or Dimmer Check is in use on
the dimmer
• "ACNDirect" is ACN Direct Control
• "Preset" followed by a number means a preset is running on
the dimmer
• "Panic" means the panic settings are in effect
• "--" means no control of the dimmer
Displays the current software version on your CEM3 processor. You can
About CEM3
also save a copy of the CEM3 User Guide to a USB drive.

14 CEM3 User Manual

 Setup
Commonly used features found here include:
• changing dimmer, rack, and network settings
• enabling control ports
• changing operating mode
• upgrading software or backing up the rack configuration
• changing curve and firing mode

Field Description
View and adjust the settings for any circuit in any rack connected to the
Dimmers
network. See Dimmer Property Definitions on page 17.
View and adjust the settings for the host Sensor3 rack. See Rack Property
Rack
Definitions on page 20.
Assign the space, circuit number, and module type for any circuit slot in the
rack. You can auto assign or manually edit the options for any circuit.
Circuit Assignment
For single and half-density modules such as the D20F, select Edit Circuit
Layout to adjust circuit numbering before you perform final patch updates.
Edit the patch and functionality for any port (DMX or sACN). See Patching
Patching
on page 34.
Set up and edit network properties for the CEM3. See Setting Up CEM3 on
Network
the Network on page 35.
Save configurations, load configurations, or upgrade CEM3 software using
File Operations either a USB memory device or an FTP server. See Saving or Uploading Files
and Firmware on page 30.
Record a panic look and set the specific details (such as fade and delay
Panic
times) for when a panic look is executed. See Setting Up Panic on page 32.
Set the rack’s time and date, or switch between automatic or manual time
Time/Date
setting.
Quickly set up the rack configuration. For more information see Performing
Quick Setup
a Quick Setup on page 4.
Adjust various settings regarding the user interface. See UI Preferences on
UI Preferences
page 16.

System Reference 15
 UI Preferences
Adjust various settings regarding the user interface. Edit these settings in the UI Preferences Setup
screen [Setup]>UI Preferences.

Field Description
Adjust the settings of the backlight behind the display window. Choices are
Backlight Mode On, Off, and Auto. Auto will illuminate the window after a button press or
boot up for the time specified in Backlight Time. Default is Auto.
Appears only when Backlight Mode is set to Auto. Specify the time in
Backlight Time minutes and seconds (between 0:10 and 9:59) for the backlight to stay lit
after a reboot or button press. Default is 3:00.
Set the contrast of the display window. This can also be done from the
Contrast
home screen by holding the back arrow and using the scroll wheel.
Language Set the display language for the display window. Default is English.
Set the units used for the temperature display, Celsius (C) or Fahrenheit (F).
Temp Locale
Default is F.
Set the method of displaying sACN addresses: Universe/Channel (Uni/Ch) or
sACN
absolute address (Abs). Default is Uni/Ch.

16 CEM3 User Manual

 Dimmer Property Definitions
Each dimmer has specific properties that dictate how the dimmer functions and how CEM3 will control
it. Edit these properties in the Dimmer Setup screen [Setup]>Dimmers.

Dimmer Setup Submenu

Definition
screen (if applicable)
Circuit Number. A user-assigned number for a unique circuit
Ckt within a space. Typically the circuit number matches the labelling
at the corresponding power outlet.
The type of module controlling the circuit. Defines module
Module density, ratings, and features to ensure proper function of the
connected equipment and power devices in the module.
Set the control mode of the dimmer.
• Off: Circuit ignores incoming levels and will not turn on even
with local overrides.
• Switched: Circuit operates as a relay with output unregulated
AC voltage when the control level is above the control
threshold level.
• Always-On: Circuit ignores incoming levels and will not turn off
even with local overrides.
• Latch-Lock: Similar to switched mode, Latch-Lock functions as
a relay but features an additional safeguard so that circuits can
not be turned on or off so easily. See Latch-Lock on page 7.
• Dimmable: Circuit dims according to curve within the
minimum and maximum scaled voltages.
• Smoothing: The dimmer adds a deliberately slow reaction time
Control to changes in control level to “smooth out” dimming
performance with loads that react quickly such as LEDs or low
wattage lamps.
• TPAuto: Allows control of ThruPower behavior using one single
DMX address, where full (DMX value 255) closes the relay and
any other level is dimmed.
• TPDMX: Allows control of ThruPower behavior using two DMX
addresses:
- Configured address, e.g. 105 - Control Address
- Subsequent configured address, e.g. 106 - Mode
Address
When Mode Address is set to a DMX value of 0–127, the
ThruPower Circuit acts as a switched circuit. If the Mode
Address is set to a value of 128 or above, the ThruPower Circuit
acts as a dimmed circuit.
The firing mode of the dimmer module. Options are: Normal,
Firing Dimmer Double, or Fluorescent. Specific module types will also
offer respectively: Reverse Phase and Thru-Power.

System Reference 17
 Dimmer Setup Submenu
Definition
screen (if applicable)
The current operating curve for the dimmer. Options are: Square,
Mod-Square, Linear, Mod-Linear, and more. See Dimmer Curves
Curve
on page 21 for a complete listing of curves and their
descriptions.
In switched mode the threshold value defines the control
percentage at which the output turns on. In dimmed mode, the
Threshold% threshold defines the level at which preheat is applied. See
Dimmer Output Diagram on page 26 for an illustration of how
threshold works with other dimmer properties.
Latch-Lock only. The control level range (as percentage) that
Control Settings On Level% causes the On Time to start counting down. Ranges available in
10% increments. Default is 41–50%. See Latch-Lock on page 7.
Latch-Lock only. The control level range (as percentage) that
Off Level% causes the Off Time to start counting down. Ranges available in
10% increments. Default is 81–90%. See Latch-Lock on page 7.
Latch-Lock only. The time that a level must be maintained before
On Time (sec) a circuit is switched on. Available range is 1–360 seconds.
Default is 5 seconds. See Latch-Lock on page 7.
Latch-Lock only. The time that a level must be maintained before
Off Time (sec) a circuit is switched off. Available range is 1–360 seconds.
Default is 5 seconds. See Latch-Lock on page 7.
DMX A The DMXA channel to which the circuit is patched.
Control whether the circuit receives 16-bit data from DMX A.
DMX A 16-Bit
Options are Yes or No (Default = No).
DMX B The DMXB channel to which the circuit is patched.
Control whether the circuit receives 16-bit data from DMX B.
Patching DMX B 16-Bit
Options are Yes or No (Default = No).
The sACN channel to which the circuit is patched. Displayed as
sACN either universe/channel or absolute, based on UI Preference
settings (see UI Preferences on page 16).
Control whether the circuit receives 16-bit data from sACN.
sACN 16-Bit
Options are Yes or No (Default = No).

18 CEM3 User Manual

 Dimmer Setup Submenu
Definition
screen (if applicable)
Set the minimum scale voltage of the circuit. See Dimmer Output
Min Scale (VAC)
Diagram on page 26 for an illustration relating to this property.
Set the maximum scale voltage of the circuit. See Dimmer
Max Scale (VAC) Output Diagram on page 26 for an illustration relating to this
property.
Set whether voltage regulation is enabled for the circuit (Yes/No).
Regulation
Default is Yes.
Set whether the Preheat setting is on (Yes = On). Default = No
Preheat
(off).
Preheat Time value allows the preheat level to ramp back in after
a blackout to allow rapid snap blackouts. This property specifies
Time (sec)
the length of time for the ramp back to preheat level.
Default = 2 seconds.
Dimming Settings If enabled, ensures that both positive and negative half-cycles of
the dimmer output are always equal. This setting is typically used
DC Out Prevent
for loads sensitive to DC (for example, transformers and
electronic loads). Default is No (No = Off, Yes = On).
Provides a soft-start feature when lamps are turned on from 0 by
Inrush Protect ramping up the level over three mains cycles. Default is No (No =
Off, Yes = On).
The scale load setting allows hyper-accurate regulation of the
voltage of the dimmer output. The scale load allows the CEM3
dimming engine to compensate for power losses occurring in the
choke of the dimmer. The scale load is calculated as the load on
Scale Load
the channel divided by the channel’s capacity (in amperes) and is
expressed as a percentage. For example, a 5A load on a 20A
channel would have a scale load of 25% (5A/20A x 100% =
25%).
Allow in Panic Control whether this circuit is included in the panic look.
Control whether this circuit is included in any presets that may be
Allow in Preset
Panic/Arch Settings recorded in the future.
Number of the zone for which you are setting the Panic/Arch
Arch Zone
parameters.
Enable or disable advanced features for this circuit. Yes = AF
AF Enabled enabled. This field is not available for circuits set to Dimmer
Double.
Set the load reporting mode for this circuit. Options are: Off,
No-Load, and Load Change. Default for AF modules is Load
AF Mode Change. This field is only available if the rack property
AF Enabled is set to Yes. and the Dimmer property AF Enabled is
set to Yes.
Advanced Features
Set the length of time for an AF reaction to occur. Default = 5
seconds. This field is only available if the rack property
AF Reaction
AF Enabled is set to Yes. and the Dimmer property AF Enabled is
set to Yes.
Set the threshold a load can be within before triggering a load
error. Available in 0.5A increments. 2A is default. This field is
Sensitivity
only available if the rack property AF Enabled is set to Yes. and
the Dimmer property AF Enabled is set to Yes.

System Reference 19
 Rack Property Definitions
Each rack has specific properties that dictate how the rack is identified and functions. Edit these
properties in the Rack Setup screen ([Setup]>Rack).

Rack Property Definition

Rack Number Select a rack number between 1–999.
Select a system number between 1–999. Default is 1. Changing the
System Number
system number will require a reboot.
Enable or disable the DMX A port. When Disabled the respective Priority
DMX A field is not visible, and Off is displayed on the home screen. Default for
DMX A is Enabled.
Visible only when DMX A output is Enabled. Configure the priority of the
Priority (DMX A) DMX A output signal from the rack. Range is between 1–200
(200 = highest priority). Default is 100.
Enable or disable the DMX B port. When Disabled the respective Priority
DMX B field is not visible, and Off is displayed on the home screen. Default for
DMX B is Disabled.
Visible only when DMX B output is Enabled. Configure the priority of the
Priority (DMX B) DMX B output signal from the rack. Range is between 1–200
(200 = highest priority). Default is 100.
Enable or disable the sACN port. When Disabled, Off displays on the
sACN
home screen. Default for sACN is Enabled.
Set the priority used for preset playback. Range is between 1–200
Arch Priority
(200 = highest priority). Default is 100.
Select Yes to revert from architectural preset control to DMX or sACN
Off as Release console control when the Off preset is activated. Select No to maintain
preset control and play the Off preset until you select Release All Arch.
The length of time (in minutes) the rack fan will stay on after the last load
Fan in the rack has reached 0%. Select a time between 30–180 minutes or
Always-On. Default is 30.
Set whether Advanced Features (AF) are enabled (Yes/No). Default is
AF Enabled
based on the backplane DIP switch setting.
If Enabled and the rack is rebooted when a preset (or presets) are active,
Presets on Boot
those same presets will be reactivated when the rack reboots.
Set whether Quick Setup is displayed on the home screen. Default is Yes
Setup at Home
for portable racks and No for install racks.
Set the threshold voltage to report an "over voltage” condition. Default is
Volt High Warn 140VAC for 100–120VAC systems and 250VAC for 230–240VAC
systems.
Set the threshold temperature to report an “over temperature”
Temp High Warn condition. The range is between 32–158°F (0–70C). Default is 149°F
(65C).
Set whether the preset station power supply for this CEM3 is turned on.
Station Power
Default is Off (see Preset Functions on page 9 for more information).
Set whether presets can be remotely recorded from preset stations.
Remote Record
Default is No.
Opens the Data Loss Behavior submenu (see Setting Data Loss Behavior
[Data Loss Behavior]
on page 35).

20 CEM3 User Manual

 Dimmer Curves
Dimmer curves determine voltage output in response to control signal input. To accommodate
designer preferences and load response variations, Sensor3 offers several dimmer curves, which can be
applied to individual dimmers (see Curve on page 18).
The available curves in CEM3 are as follows.

Linear
The linear curve matches the control input percentage to Root Mean Squared (RMS) voltage output.
Each percent increase in control level increases dimmer voltage output by the same amount.

100

80

60
Dimmer Output (%)

40

20

0
0 20 40 60 80 100
Control Input (%)

Modified Linear (Mod-Linear)

A modified linear curve reduces the voltage change at low control levels for better performance in
low-wattage fixtures.

100

80

60
Dimmer Output (%)

40

20

0
0 20 40 60 80 100
Control Input (%)

System Reference 21
 Square Law (Square)
At low control levels, much of a traditional incandescent fixture’s light output is in the invisible infrared
spectrum. This results in poor visible response to low control levels. A square law curve applies a
multiple derived from the square root of the control level (with full output equal to 1.00) to increase
voltage response at low control levels to compensate for the infrared loss.
100

80

60
Dimmer Output (%)

40

20

0
0 20 40 60 80 100
Control Input (%)

Modified Square Law (Mod-Square)

A standard square law curve may overcompensate for infrared loss, resulting in “steppy” response to
incremental control changes at low levels. The ETC modified square law curve applies a second
multiple to the standard square law curve for more uniform response to control levels changes across
the entire range of dimmer output.
100

80

60
Dimmer Output (%)

40

20

0
0 20 40 60 80 100
Control Input (%)

22 CEM3 User Manual

 Sensor 2.0
The Sensor 2.0 curve is the previous version of the ETC modified square law curve. It provides
backwards compatibility for shows created using earlier versions of ETC equipment and familiar
response for designers who prefer the earlier version.
100

80

60
Dimmer Output (%)

40

20

0
0 20 40 60 80 100
Control Input (%)

Stage 1
This curve matches the stage curve of the Transtechnik PM90 dimming system.
100

80

60
Dimmer Output (%)

40

20

0
0 20 40 60 80 100
Control Input (%)

System Reference 23
 Stage 2
This is a traditional German stage lighting curve.
100

80

60
Dimmer Output (%)

40

20

0
0 20 40 60 80 100
Control Input (%)

Fluro1
This curve is specifically for Nesys fluorescent devices.
100

80

60
Dimmer Output (%)

40

20

0
0 20 40 60 80 100
Control Input (%)

Fluro 2
This curve is tuned to work with common 3-wire fluorescent ballasts.
100

80

60
Dimmer Output (%)

40

20

0
0 20 40 60 80 100
Control Input (%)

24 CEM3 User Manual

 ANDI
This curve is tuned to match the curve of Strand ANDI dimmer systems.
100

80

60
Dimmer Output (%)

40

20

0
0 20 40 60 80 100
Control Input (%)

VIP 90
VIP90 is a curve specifically tuned to produce good dimming performance with the VIP-90 fluorescent
ballast from SE Light management AG, commonly used in European theatrical fluorescent luminaires.
100

80

60
Dimmer Output (%)

40

20

0
0 20 40 60 80 100
Control Input (%)

Custom
You can use ETC’s Concert software to configure up to five custom curves.

System Reference 25
 Dimmer Output Diagram
This diagram illustrates the relationship between min scale, max scale, curve, threshold, and preheat
for the dimmer output from a CEM3 channel.

Threshold(%)
100%
Output Voltage Max Scale Voltage

Min Scale Voltage

Control Level

With Preheat Disabled With Preheat Enabled

Output is at min scale

Output goes to zero below threshold

26 CEM3 User Manual

Chapter 3
Common Tasks
Replacing the CEM3 Processor
When you remove a CEM3 processor from a rack the CEM3 configuration is stored in the backplane.
If you replace the processor with a different CEM3 processor you will be prompted to select the desired
configuration.

Configuration Selection
When a CEM3 processor that contains an existing configuration is moved to a different rack, the CEM3
will detect that it has been moved and prompt you to select the rack configuration to use. A timer
counts down from 15 seconds before defaulting to [Use the Rack Config]. Within 15 seconds you can
choose to [Abort] the operation.
• If the rack type is suited to work with the backplane configuration or the CEM3 configuration,
you can choose to use either configuration.
• If the rack type is not suited to work with the backplane configuration, you will be given an option
to select the backplane configuration or to clear the configuration and generate a new
configuration.

Incorrect Version
When switching CEM3 processors, the software version of the backplane may not match the software
version of the CEM3. This results in a backplane version mismatch. You can either [Generate New
Config] or [Use CEM3 Config].
When switching CEM3 processors, the rack type configuration may not match the configuration set on
the backplane switches. If this occurs the CEM3 processor will display a rack mismatch. Select
[Generate New Config] to generate a new default configuration.

Recording and Playing Presets

CEM3 has the ability to record and play back snapshot looks called “Presets.”
Presets can be recalled from the CEM3 or from any compatible Echo preset stations or the web
interface. For information on wiring preset stations, see the Sensor3 CEM3 Data Terminations Guide
and the Echo preset Station Installation Guide.
Up to 64 presets can be recorded for each space, numbered from 1–64. Only one preset can be active
at a time in the same space.

Common Tasks 27
 Preset Menu
Presets are recorded by taking a snapshot of the current levels for all circuits assigned to the space that
are set to be included in presets (see Allow in Preset on page 19). If a circuit is not set to be included
in presets, any level it is currently using will be withheld from the record action.

To record or play back a preset:

1: Set the desired output levels for any dimmers in your rack using any method (methods include
[Test]>Set Local Levels and [Test]>Set System Levels on a CEM3 module, using a DMX source,
or using a sACN source).
2: Using the CEM3 face panel, navigate to [Test]>Presets. The Select Space screen will appear (if
multiple spaces exist).
3: Select the space for which you want to record the preset (if applicable) and then select OK. The
Preset screen will open.
4: Select the preset (1–64), and then choose the appropriate options:
• [Activate/Deactivate]: [Enter] toggles the preset between on and off.
• [Record]: [Enter] records the current levels for the space to the selected preset.
• Fade Time(s): Set the desired time (in seconds) for the preset to fade in when activated and
fade out when deactivated. Range is from 0–360 seconds. Default is 2 seconds.
5: After you have recorded the preset, release the output levels ([Test]>Release Set Levels) or turn
off the control source data.

28 CEM3 User Manual

 Recording and Playing Sequences
CEM3 has the ability to record and play back a series of steps called Sequences.
Sequences can be recalled from the CEM3 or from any compatible Echo preset stations or the web
interface. Only one sequence can be active at a time in the same space.

Sequence Menu
Sequences are recorded by taking a snapshot of the current levels for all circuits assigned to the space
that are set to be included in a step. If a circuit is not set to be included in a step, any level it is currently
using will be withheld from the record action.

To record or play back a sequence:

1: Set the desired output levels for any dimmers in your rack using any method (methods include
[Test]>Set Local Levels and [Test]>Set System Levels on a CEM3 module, using a DMX device, or
using a sACN device).
2: Using the CEM3 face panel, navigate to [Test]>Sequences. The Select Space screen will appear
(if multiple spaces exist).
3: Select the space for which you want to record the sequence (if applicable) and then select OK.
The Sequence screen will open.
4: The Sequence screen displays your selected space and whether the sequence is active or
deactivated. From this menu you can now perform the following actions:
• [Activate/Deactivate]: [Enter] toggles the sequence on or off.
• [Edit Steps]: [Enter] opens the Edit Step menu:
- Step: Set the number of the step that you want to edit (maximum of 6 steps).
- Fade Time(s): Set the desired time (in seconds) for the sequence to fade in when activated.
Range is from 0–360 seconds. The default is 0 seconds.
- Hold Time(s): Set the desired time (in seconds) for the sequence to hold when activated.
Range is from 0–360 seconds. The default is 5 seconds.
- [Record]: [Enter] records the current levels of the space to the selected sequence step.
- [Delete Step]: [Enter] deletes the current selected step.
- [Insert Step After]: [Enter] adds a new step to the sequence.
• [Auto Setup]: Select Auto Setup to create a sequence to turn on all switched mode circuits.
Set the number of steps in the sequence. The maximum is 6.
5: Release the output levels ([Test]>Release All Arch) or turn off the control source data.

Common Tasks 29
 Saving or Uploading Files and Firmware
CEM3 allows you to save configurations to USB removable media, a computer connected to the
network (using the CEM3 web interface), or an FTP server on the network. Before you can use an FTP
server, you must configure it on the CEM module. See Working with Net3 Conductor Over FTP on page
36.
You can also upload a configuration or update the CEM3 software using the same methods.

Saving Configurations
To USB Media
1: Navigate to [Setup]>File Operations>Save to USB. The Save As screen will appear.
2: If desired, edit the name of the configuration using the scroll wheel and keypad.
a: Select the file name using the scroll wheel and press [Enter]. The first character of the rack
name will be highlighted.
b: Use the keypad to alter the selected character. Keypad numbers have standard keypad text
input letters. Multiple presses of any key will cycle through the number, lowercase letters, and
then uppercase letters for that key.
c: When the desired character is displayed, use the scroll wheel to move to the next character
in the rack name. If you want the name to be longer, press [Next] to add another character.
d: Repeat steps b–c until the desired rack name is displayed.
e: When the rack name is correct, press [Enter].
3: Select OK and press [Enter]. The configuration will be saved to the device.

To a Computer
To save a configuration to a computer on the system network, see Using the CEM3 Web Interface on
page 42.

To an FTP Server
Navigate to [Setup]>File Operations>Save to Server. You can edit the file name prior to saving using
the scroll wheel and the keypad to enter letters.

Loading Configurations
From USB Media
1: Navigate to [Setup]>File Operations>Load from USB. The Load File screen will appear.
2: Use the scroll wheel to navigate the file structure to the desired configuration file (the file name
will end in “.etc”) and press [Enter]. The configuration will load.

From a Computer
To load a configuration from a computer on the system network, see Using the CEM3 Web Interface
on page 42.

From an FTP Server

Navigate to [Setup]>File Operations>Load from Server and choose the desired file from the list that
appears (CEM3 configuration file names end in “.etc”).

30 CEM3 User Manual

 Loading CEM3 Software
You can upgrade your CEM3 software using the same methods as loading configurations (see above).
CEM3 software can be obtained by contacting ETC Technical Services (see page 2).

From USB Media

1: Back up the rack configuration using the steps outlined in Saving Configurations on page 30.
2: Navigate to [Setup]>File Operations>Upgrade from USB. The Software Upgrade screen will
appear.
3: Use the scroll wheel to navigate the file structure to the desired configuration file (CEM3
software file names will end in “.bld”) and press [Enter]. A confirmation screen will appear.
4: Select Yes to continue, or select No to cancel the upgrade. The software upgrade process will
take several minutes.

From a Computer
To load a configuration from a computer on the system network, see Using the CEM3 Web Interface
on page 42.
You can also use ETC UpdaterAtor software to upgrade your CEM3. UpdaterAtor can be downloaded
from the ETC website at etcconnect.com.

From Net3 Conductor or an FTP Server

Navigate to [Setup]>File Operations>Load from Server and choose the desired file from the list that
appears (CEM3 software file names end in “.bld”). See Working with Net3 Conductor Over FTP on
page 36 or contact ETC Technical Services for assistance with setting up an FTP Server for use with
CEM3.

Common Tasks 31
 Setting Up Panic
To fully enable panic functionality for your CEM3, the following criteria must be met:
• A maintained contact closure from a UL924-Listed triggering device has been wired to the panic
circuit on the CEM3 backplane (for more information, see the Sensor3 CEM3 Data Terminations
Guide that ships with the Sensor3 rack).
• The Emergency Contact switch on the CEM3 backplane is the correct position for the contact
closure type, either normally open (NO) or normally closed (NC).
• A snapshot of the desired panic look has been recorded in the CEM3 software.

Note: A panic look can be recorded regardless of whether you have a wired panic circuit.

Note: To configure panic mode through an electrical override without using the CEM3
module software, order the Hardwired Panic Accessory (7140K1002). Contact your
local dealer for more information.

To set the Emergency Contact switch on the CEM3 backplane:

WARNING: Power must be turned OFF when you perform this procedure. Before
removing dimmer or control modules for service, de-energize main feed to
dimmer rack and follow appropriate Lockout/Tagout procedures as described
in NFPA Standard 70E. It is important to note that electrical equipment such
as dimmer racks can present an arc flash safety hazard if improperly serviced.
This is due to available large short circuit currents on the feeders of the
equipment. Any work on energized equipment must comply with OSHA
Electrical Safe Working Practices.

1: Remove the CEM3 control module.

2: Move the switch labeled EMERGENCY CONTACT to the appropriate setting:
• NC: Use this setting if the emergency contact closure is a Normally Closed contact closure.
• Disabled: This setting disables the panic function for this CEM3 control module.
• NO: Use this setting if the emergency contact closure is a Normally Open contact closure.

To record a panic look:

1: Set the desired output levels for any dimmers in your rack using any method (methods include
[Test]>Set Local Levels and [Test]>Set System Levels on a CEM3 module, using a DMX device, or
using a sACN device).
2: Using the CEM3 face panel, navigate to [Setup]>Panic>Record Panic Look>[Enter]. If a panic look
was already recorded, a confirmation screen will appear asking you if you wish to overwrite the
panic look.
• Select Yes/Save to overwrite the old panic Look. The new look will be saved.
• Select No/Cancel to cancel overwriting the old panic look.
After a panic look is recorded, the panic look will be activated when the emergency contact closure is
triggered. When the contact closure is returned to its normal state, the panic look will be deactivated.

32 CEM3 User Manual

 Other Panic Settings
In the Panic Setup menu ([Setup]>Panic) you can configure the following panic settings:
• In Delay (sec): Length of time (in seconds) for the panic look to delay before activating (default
is 0)
• Out Delay (sec): Length of time (in seconds) for the panic look to delay before deactivating
(default is 0). To require manual intervention to turn off panic from the face panel or via ACN,
press [Last] when Out Delay is set to 0 or use the scroll wheel to select Man.
• Fade In (sec): Length of time (in seconds) for the panic look to fade in when activated (default is 2)
• Fade Out (sec): Length of time (in seconds) for the panic look to fade out when deactivated
(default is 2)
• Shed Other Loads: This Yes/No setting determines if active levels at the moment of the panic
trigger should remain active or be forced off. Default is N (No).
The following image illustrates how these settings affect panic function.

Panic Fade Diagram

Level In Delay Fade In Out Delay Fade Out

0–360s 0–360s 0–360s 0–360s

Panic Levels Steady State

until contact changes

Off
Time

Indicator turns on Indicator turns off

Panic Panic
Activated Deactivated

Common Tasks 33
 Patching
Patching governs the relationship between control sources (DMX A, DMX B, and sACN) and the rack’s
circuits, and is editable from the CEM3 face panel. Typically, repatching is used in portable rack
situations where the dimmer rack must adapt to different control sources and lighting systems. For
permanent rack installs, repatching is rarely needed.
You can patch racks that have only one assigned space using one of two methods: manual or
automatic. Racks with multiple assigned spaces can only be edited manually. For racks edited using an
automatic method, circuits will be numbered sequentially from the specified starting address following
the designated Balance setting (Straight, 1-Phrase, or 3-Phase) in Quick Setup. See Performing a Quick
Setup on page 4.
Any circuit set to a patch of 0 cannot be controlled from the data source specified.

Automatic Patching
Automatic patching is the final step in the Quick Setup utility. See Performing a Quick Setup on page 4.

Manual Patching

Note: Module density can affect patching. Prior to patching, make sure you set up the
module type in [Setup]>Circuit Assignment.

Manual patching allows you to patch on a circuit-by-circuit basis. There are two independent options
for manual patching: DMX and sACN. Both can be set individually for your needs.
1: Navigate to [Setup]>[Patching], and then select either Edit DMX Patch or Edit sACN Patch.
2: Press [Enter]. The Select Space screen will appear (if multiple spaces exist).
3: Select the desired space (if applicable) and then select OK. The Patch Table will open.
4: Use the scroll wheel or keypad to select the DMX port (A or B) or sACN universe and channel for
the desired circuit.
5: Press [Enter]. The field will become editable.
6: Scroll to or enter the desired channel from the keypad.
7: Press [Enter].
8: Repeat steps 4–7 for all desired circuits in the space.
9: Press [Back] when done. A confirmation dialog will open.
10: Select the appropriate option:
• [Yes/Save]: Save the changes
• [No/Cancel]: Cancel the changes
• [Continue Editing]: Edit additional circuits
11: Repeat steps 2–10 for any additional spaces.

34 CEM3 User Manual

 Setting Data Loss Behavior
You can designate the rack’s reaction to a loss of data from any of the three data ports (DMX A,
DMX B, or sACN). For each of the ports you can select one of the following behaviors:
• Crossfade: On loss of data, the look will transition to a specified internal preset (DMX only).
• Wait & Fade: On loss of data, the rack will wait for a specified amount of time and then fade to
black over another specified time.
• Hold Last Look: On loss of data, no transition occurs. The levels will stay at the last known look
until data is restored to the port. Resetting the processor will release the levels.
• Hold Last Source: On loss of data, if other sources are available the rack will switch to them.
Otherwise, the levels will switch to whichever source was most recently lost.

To set the data loss behavior for any port:

1: Navigate to [Setup]>Rack>Data Loss Behavior. The Data Loss Behavior screen displays.
2: Use the scroll wheel to highlight the desired port behavior (DMX A, DMX B, or sACN) and press
[Enter]. The behavior will be highlighted.
3: Use the scroll wheel to select the desired behavior (see above) and press [Enter].
a: Select Fade Time (if applicable) and set the desired time (range is 0–360 seconds).
b: Select Wait Time (if applicable) and set the desired time (range is 0–360 seconds).
c: Select Preset Space (Crossfade only) and select the space that contains the desired crossfade
preset.
d: Select Preset Number (Crossfade only) and select the desired preset (1–64) for the crossfade.
4: Repeat for the remaining data ports if desired.

Setting Up CEM3 on the Network

Network setup allows editing of the CEM3 network properties to establish the rack’s IP address. Three
options for setting network characteristics are available: Link Local, DHCP, and Custom. The default is
DHCP.
You can access this menu by navigating to [Setup]>Network>[Enter]. After the desired method is set,
a confirmation window will open asking you to confirm or cancel the changes.

Link Local
Choose Link Local if you work in a touring system where equipment changes frequently.
Link Local automatically assigns a randomly generated IP address within a given range.

DHCP
Choose DHCP if your system includes a DHCP server (for example, an Eos console).
This setting will attempt to acquire an IP address from a DHCP server. If the request fails, CEM3 will
acquire its address through Link Local (see above) for this boot cycle only. If rebooted, the rack will
attempt a DHCP request again.

Custom
With this method you can set the IP address (IP), Subnet (SN), and Gateway (GW) using the keypad. The
ETC convention for IP addressing is 10.101.xxx.yy (“x” varies by ETC product line, “y” is an incremental
value for products of the same type).

Common Tasks 35
 Network Setup for Redundant Tracking Racks
The Redundant Tracking option is only available for ESR and FDX systems.
In a redundant tracking system, each processor has a separate network connection to which a separate
IP address may be assigned. When working in a redundant tracking system CEM3 will prompt you to
select the processor (A or B) for which you want to change the IP settings.

Working with Net3 Conductor Over FTP

CEM3 supports automatic or manual backup of the dimmer rack configuration to a server on an
Ethernet network using the FTP (File Transfer Protocol) standard. See Saving or Uploading Files and
Firmware on page 30. By default, CEM3 is configured to interact with Net3 Conductor.
Before you can save to Conductor, you must set up the server from the CEM3 face panel.

To set up a Net3 Conductor server from CEM3:

1: Navigate to [Setup]>File Operations>Setup Server.
2: Press [Enter] to change Enabled to Yes.
3: Specify the IP address of the Net3 Conductor.
4: Specify the file name in Filename.
5: Set the AutoSave option:
• Yes: Every time a change is applied to the configuration, it will be saved to the server.
• No: You must manually save configuration changes to the server.
Upgrades and CFG Path display the upgrade file path and configuration path where files will be stored
on Conductor.
Contact ETC Technical Services for assistance with configuring an FTP Server for use with CEM3.

Setting Rack DIP Switches and Termination

WARNING: To avoid the possibility of electric shock, power must be turned OFF when you
perform this procedure. Before removing dimmer or control modules, de-
energize main feed to dimmer rack and follow appropriate Lockout/Tagout
procedures as described in NFPA Standard 70E. It is important to note that
electrical equipment such as dimmer racks can present an arc flash safety
hazard if improperly serviced. This is due to available large short circuit
currents on the feeders of the equipment. Any work on energized equipment
must comply with OSHA Electrical Safe Working Practices.

On the CEM3 backplane, located in the rack behind the CEM3 control module, there is a small bank of
8 DIP switches. These switches were set when your system was commissioned by an ETC technician to
match the specific size, features, and desired behavior of your dimmer rack. Generally, you will not
need to alter these settings after commissioning. However, in the event that you must replace your
CEM3 control module or backplane, you will need to ensure these settings match the previous
controller.
Use this section to determine the required settings for your dimmer rack. There is also a label on the
underside of the CEM3 that explains the function of each switch.
When setting the DIP switches, you may also need to check the DMX A and DMX B termination
settings for the rack. See the backplane label to determine the appropriate position of the termination
switch.

36 CEM3 User Manual

 DIP Switch Settings
The eight DIP switches relate to behavior, features, or the module size of the rack. In the descriptions
below, switches set in the up position are On and switches set in the down position are Off.

DIP 1 : DBM
This switch disables the backplane memory so that the configuration is not stored on the rack itself.
Default is Off.

DIP 2 : AF
This switch should be set to On if your rack has Advanced Features (see Advanced Features (AF) on
page 6).

DIP 3 : HSR 240V

This switch should be set to On if your rack is an HSR rack intended for use with 240 VAC power feeds.

DIP 4 : ESR 230V

This switch should be set to On if your rack is an ESR rack intended for use with 230 VAC power feeds.

Note: For JSR dimmer racks intended for use with 100 VAC power feeds, both DIP 3 and
DIP 4 should be set to On.

DIP 5 : ND
This switch should be set to On if your rack includes a neutral disconnect.

DIPs 6–8
These DIP switches are used together to determine the number of module slots in your rack. Refer to
the table below to find the desired settings for your rack size.

DIP Number
Rack size
6 7 8
6 module slots Off On On
12 module slots Off On Off
24 module slots Off Off On
36 module slots On Off Off
48 module slots Off Off Off

DMX Termination Switches

DMX signal requires a a signal termination at the end of a data run. If your rack is the last device on the
data run for either DMX A or DMX B, set the termination switch for the appropriate run to ON. The
switches are labeled B or A on the backplane label.
If the rack is not the last device on either data run, leave these set to Off.

Common Tasks 37
 Maintaining and Cleaning the Rack
Proper air flow is necessary for your Sensor3 rack to function properly and consistently. Perform the
following procedures regularly to keep dust and foreign debris from impeding the proper function of
your rack.

Cleaning Rack Air Filters

Clean the air filter in the Sensor3 rack door a minimum of every six months, more often if your system
operates in a dusty environment. This will also provide an opportunity to inspect the dimmer module
air vents and clean them if necessary (see Vacuuming Dimmer Modules on page 39).

To clean your rack air filter:

1: Open the dimmer rack door. The air filter is mounted on the inside of the door, secured by a
metal lip at the bottom of the door frame.

Note: Sensor3 48-module racks have two filters, one stacked on top of the other with a
retention bar in the middle of the rack. Remove the top filter screen before removing
the bottom one.

2: Slide the filter upwards approximately 0.5 in. (1.25 cm) until the base of the filter clears the top
of the metal lip.
3: Pull the bottom of the air filter out and
away from the door far enough to clear the
retaining lip and slide the filter downwards
and out of the door frame.
4: In an area away from your dimmer rack
and other dust-sensitive equipment,
remove all dust or debris from the filter
using either compressed air or a vacuum.

CAUTION: You may rinse the filter

under cold tap water, but it
must be completely dry
before you reinstall it.
Do not use soap or other
chemical cleaners to clean
the filter. They may damage
the filter screen.

5: Slide the top of the filter up into the slot at the top of the door until the base clears the metal
retaining lip at the bottom.
6: Ease the filter back into the door frame and carefully let it drop back into place.

Note: For Sensor3 48-module racks, install the bottom filter first. The top filter rests on the
top edge of the bottom filter.

38 CEM3 User Manual

 Vacuuming Dimmer Modules
As with cleaning the air filters, you should inspect the dimmer module air vents and SCR power cube
inlets every six months and clean if necessary. Clean with greater frequency if your system operates in
a dusty environment.

WARNING: To avoid the possibility of electric shock, power must be turned OFF when you
perform this procedure. Before vacuuming dimmer or control modules de-
energize main feed to dimmer rack.and follow appropriate Lockout/Tagout
procedures as described in NFPA Standard 70E. It is important to note that
electrical equipment such as dimmer racks can present an arc flash safety
hazard if improperly serviced. This is due to available large short circuit
currents on the feeders of the equipment. Any work on energized equipment
must comply with OSHA Electrical Safe Working Practices.
Do not remove dimmer modules when vacuuming. Phase voltages inside the
rack can be deadly, and therefore only qualified technicians should be
allowed to remove modules and expose the inside of the dimmer rack.

To vacuum the dimmer module air inlets:

1: Open the rack door and inspect the air vents on the CEM3 and the air vents and SCR power
cube air inlets on the dimmer modules for any collection of dust or other debris.
2: If necessary, use a vacuum cleaner and nozzle to remove any visible dust or other accumulated
matter from the front of the modules without removing them from the rack. Most dust collects
on the dimmer choke vents and SCR power cube air inlets of the modules (shown below).

CAUTION: Be careful not to push any foreign matter into the module.

5
OFF

6
OFF

11
OFF

12
OFF

Dimmer choke vent SCR air inlet

3: Close the rack door when you are finished vacuuming.

Common Tasks 39
 Replacing AF Cards
AF cards are located on the right side of the dimmer module slot between the copper neutral busses
and the dimming circuitry cards.

WARNING: To avoid the possibility of electric shock, power must be turned OFF when you
perform this procedure. Before removing modules or AF cards de-energize
main feed to dimmer rack and follow appropriate Lockout/Tagout
procedures as described in NFPA Standard 70E. It is important to note that
electrical equipment such as dimmer racks can present an arc flash safety
hazard if improperly serviced. This is due to available large short circuit
currents on the feeders of the equipment. Any work on energized equipment
must comply with OSHA Electrical Safe Working Practices.
Phase voltages inside the rack can be deadly, and therefore only qualified
technicians should be allowed to remove modules and expose the inside of
the dimmer rack.

To replace the AF cards:

1: Note the module types and positions,
and then remove the modules from
the rack.
2: Remove the old AF cards by flipping
the white tab on the cards into the
down position
3: Pull the old cards out of the slots.
4: Set the DIP switches on the new
cards according to the table below.
Only the first two DIP switches are 3
used.
5: Flip the white tab up to prevent it
from interfering with the dimmer
module. 2
6: Slide the new AF cards completely
into the vacant slots starting with
card #1 in the top. The number of
cards depends on rack size (see table
below).

Step 4. AF Card Addressing

S S S S S S S S
1 SR3-6 W W W W W W W W
(E)SR3-12 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Card 1 0 0 00 0 0 0 1 ON
2 (E)SR3-24
0 OFF
Card 2 0 1000 0 0 0
1 0000 0 0 0
3 ESR3-36
Card 3
4 (E)SR3-48
Card 4 1 1000 0 0 0

Note: Only the first two DIP switches are used.

40 CEM3 User Manual

 Restoring Rack Defaults
Restoring rack defaults is a fast way to completely reset all rack settings back to their original state. This
feature is only intended for users with touring or portable racks where a complete reset is a common
requirement.
Restoring defaults on an installed rack is not recommended unless you are expressly told to do so by
ETC Technical Services.

CAUTION: Restoring rack defaults will erase all rack data. Do not perform this procedure
unless you absolutely intend to restore the rack back to its original factory
settings.

To restore the factory defaults to your CEM3:

1: Save a backup of the rack configuration (see Saving Configurations on page 30).
2: Press and hold [Setup].
3: Tap [Reset], found in the upper left corner of the CEM3 interface.
4: Continue holding [Setup] until the Deep Clear screen appears.
5: Select Yes to clear all rack settings and restore the factory defaults, or select No to cancel.

Common Tasks 41
Chapter 4
Web Access and Mobile App
This chapter describes the CEM3 web interface and the Sensor3 ThruPower System Reporter.

Using the CEM3 Web Interface

CEM3 features a basic web interface accessible over the system network using any internet browser
that allows you to view the system status, perform some basic functions, update software, and upload
or download the rack configuration.

To access the CEM3 over the network:

1: Connect an internet browsing device (such
as a computer or mobile device) to the
system network. You can connect using the
network connector on the face of the CEM3.
2: Set the connected device to the proper
IP address range if using a system of fixed
IP addresses. If your system uses dynamically
assigned addresses (DHCP), your address will
be assigned from the system server.
3: Open an internet browser on the connected
device.
4: In the browser address bar, enter the
IP address of the CEM3 you wish to view.
The address can be found by navigating to
[Setup]>Network and noting the digits in
the IP: field.The CEM3 System page will
appear in the browser.
The home page menu provides access to the five
available pages of the interface: System, Dimmers,
Set Levels, Setup, Presets, and Files.

System Web Interface System Page

This page displays the software and power information for the rack, as well as any currently active error
messages.

Dimmers
This page allows you to view the current status of all circuits in the rack.

42 CEM3 User Manual

 Set Levels
This page allows you to set and release levels for any
circuit in the rack.
You can use the displayed keypad or a connected
keyboard to input commands into the green
command window.
Once the command line reaches complete syntax it
will be automatically entered as signified by a “*” at
the end of the command line.
• Select the desired space using the Select Space
field at top (if applicable).
• Use the and button and thru button to select
multiple circuits or ranges of circuits.
• Use the A/B button to specify any dimmer
doubled circuits (if applicable).
• Use the rel button to release channels.
• Use Release All to release all current levels.
• Use Previous and Next to cycle through
successive channels.
Set Levels Page
• Clear clears the command line.

Setup
This page allows you to alter the Control Mode or Curve for any circuit in the rack. Click Apply Changes
when you have completed all the desired changes.

Presets and Sequences

Use this page to activate or deactivate a sequence or activate, deactivate, or record a preset for a
selected space. For more information on presets, see Recording and Playing Presets on page 27, and
for more information on sequences, see Recording and Playing Sequences on page 29.

Presets Page

Web Access and Mobile App 43

 Files
This page allows you to upload CEM3 firmware or configurations as well as download the current rack
configuration.
1: To upload a file, select the file type (Configuration or Firmware) by clicking the appropriate box
at top.
2: Use the Browse button to navigate to the desired file on your connected device.
3: Once the file is selected, click Begin Upload.

Using the Sensor3 TPSR App

The Sensor3 ThruPower System Reporter app allows you to scan QR codes affixed
to distribution using a smart device (smartphone, tablet, etc.) and configure the
relevant dimmer.
The ThruPower app is available for download from the App Store® Store (Apple
iOS) and Google Play™ store (Android devices).
1: Make sure that your device is connected to a wireless network with access
to the racks that you want to configure.
2: Start the ThruPower app. When the app opens, the camera on your smart device becomes active.
3: Center the QR code affixed to the distribution for the dimmer that you want to configure on your
smart device screen. The app identifies the QR code and prompts you to configure the dimmer
or cancel the action.
4: Tap Configure. The app searches for the associated dimmer.
• If only one dimmer is associated with the QR code, the Configure Dimmer screen displays.
• If several dimmers are associated with the search criteria that you entered, the app displays
the dimmer names. Tap the dimmer that you want to configure or type part of the dimmer
name or other information into the filter box at the top of the screen to locate the dimmer
you want to configure.
• If the app cannot find the associated dimmer, tap Search Manually at the bottom of the
screen and enter search criteria to identify the dimmer.
• Choose About at the top right of the screen to display instructions and links to additional
information.
5: Modify the dimmer information as needed. See Dimmer Property Definitions on page 17 for
information on dimmer configuration parameters.

44 CEM3 User Manual

Appendix A
CEM3 Menu Flow Chart
The following screens and menus are covered in this section:
• Boot Screen
- Normal Operation
- Rack Type or Backplane Mismatch
- Configuration File Conflict
• Home Screen
- Normal Operation
- Panic
- AF Card Upgrade
- Battery Backup or RideThru Active
- Redundant Tracking
• Quick Setup and Info menus flow chart. For further information, see Performing a Quick Setup
on page 4.
• Test menu flow chart. For further information, see Test on page 12.
• About menu flow chart. For further information, see About on page 14.
• Setup menu flow chart. For further information, see Setup on page 15.

CEM3 Menu Flow Chart 45

 Boot Screen
Normal Operation
Rack #1 - CEM3 Rack
System OK
ETC CEM3 ETC CEM3

DMX A: Off DMX B: Off 1.7.0

sACN: 1/1
Reading Backplane
[Quick Setup] [Info]

Rack Type or Backplane Mismatch

This boot screen is shown if either of the following occur:
• The rack type in the CEM3 configuration does not match the rack type detected from the
backplane and there is no communication with the backplane processor
• The version of the configuration saved in the backplane does not match the version of the CEM3
and the backplane cannot be read
Rack #1 - Rack
Initial CEM3 Setup
Rack Initial
Rack #1 - Rack
CEM3 Setup
Rack
System
Rack OK
Number: [001] System OK
First Circuit: [99999] Building Rack
Model: [ESR48] Configuration
DMX A: Off DMX
Module: B: Off
[ED15AF] DMX A: Off Wait
Please DMX B: Off
sACN: 1/1
AF: [Enabled] sACN: 1/1

[Quick Setup] [Info]

[Go] [Quick Setup] [Info]

Note:

Available model and module

types depend on rack voltage.

Configuration File Conflict

This boot screen is shown if the CEM3 and the backplane have different configuration files that are
both valid for the detected rack type.
Rack#1
Rack Change Detected
- CEM3 Rack
System
The OK
configuration in
If you do
this CEM3 does not not select an action, the
match the rack. Note: seconds displayed will count
DMX A: Offto DMX
Switching the B: Off
rack down toward zero and the
backplane configuration will
sACN:config
1/1 in 5s be used.
[Use Rack Config]
[Quick Setup]
[Abort] [Info]

Rack#1
Rack Change Detected
- CEM3 Rack Rack #1 - Selection
Config CEM3 Rack
System
The OK
configuration in Systemyou
Would OK like to use
this CEM3 does not the configuration of Shown if rack type in
match the rack. the CEM3 or of the backplane and CEM3
Note: configuration files match.
DMX A: Offto DMX
Switching the B: Off
rack DMX rack
A: Off DMX B: Off
backplane? Select [Backplane Config] or
sACN:config
1/1 in 5s sACN: 1/1 [CEM3 Config].
[Use Rack Config] [Backplane Config]
[Quick Setup]
[Abort] [Info] [Quick Setup]
[CEM3 [Info]
Config]

Config
Rack #1 - Selection
CEM3 Rack
Systemyou
Would OK like to use Shown if rack type in
the configuration of backplane and config
do not match. Select
the CEM3 or of the Note: [Clear Configuration] to
DMX rack
A: Off DMX B: Off
backplane? generate a new default config
sACN: 1/1 or select
[Backplane Config].
[Backplane Config]
[Quick
[ClearSetup] [Info]
Configuration]

46 CEM3 User Manual

 Home Screen
Normal Operation
Notes:
Rack #1 - CEM3 Rack displays rack number and rack name

System OK displays “System OK” if no error state exits. If error states exits, the system status display will scroll through errors.
Highlight an error and press [Enter] to clear it.

Presets Active
10.101.101.101
displays the first DMX A and DMX B patched values by lug or “OFF”
DMX A: Off DMX B:
B: Off
Off
displays the current sACN address in universe/channel or absolute format depending on configuration setting
sACN: 1/1
1/1 (see UI Preferences) or “OFF”

[Quick Setup]
[Quick Setup] [Info]
[Info] [Quick Setup] is shown if the rack property “Setup at Home” is set to Yes. See Rack in the Setup menu flow chart.
Highlight [Quick Setup] and press [Enter] to access the Quick Setup menu (see the Quick Setup menu flow chart).
Highlight [Info] and press [Enter] to access View/Clear Errors (see the Info menu flow chart below the
Quick Setup menu flow chart).

Panic
Rack #1 - CEM3 Rack Rack #1 - CEM3 Rack
System OK System OK Panic operation:
Presets Active Presets Active If Out Delay is set to Manual,
10.101.101.101 Panic is active. following clearing of the
Note: See Setup menu flow chart 10.101.101.101 electrical panic select
DMX A: Off DMX B: Off Note:
for Panic settings. DMX A: Off DMX B: Off [Restore Control] to clear
sACN: 1/1
1/1 sACN: 1/1
1/1 the panic look.
Panic Active! Panic Ended!
[Quick Setup] [Info]
[Info] [Quick Setup]
[Restore [Info]
Control]

AF Card Upgrade
Rack #1 - CEM3 Rack
System OK AF Card #1
Upgrading
Presets Active
10.101.101.101 AF Card is being upgraded.
Note:
DMX A: Off DMX B: Off
sACN: 1/1
1/1

[Quick Setup] [Info]

[Info]

Battery Backup or RideThru Active

Rack #1 - CEM3 Rack
System OK
Presets Active
10.101.101.101 Backup battery or RideThru
Note:
DMX A: Off DMX B: Off is active.
sACN: 1/1
1/1
Backup Power ACTIVE!
[Quick Setup] [Info]
[Info]

Redundant Tracking

Processor A in Control Processor B in Control

Rack #1 - CEM3 Rack Rack CEM3
#1 - Control
CEM3 Rack
System OK System OK
Presets Active Redundant Tracking:
the home screen of Redundant Tracking:
10.101.101.101 Backup Active the home screen of
Note: processor A when Note:
DMX A: Off DMX B: Off processor A is in control. DMX A: Off DMX B: Off processor A when
sACN: 1/1
1/1 sACN: 1/1 processor B is in control.

[Quick Setup] [Info]

[Info] [Quick Setup] [Info]

Rack CEM3
#1 - Control
CEM3 Rack Rack #1 - CEM3 Rack
System OK System OK
Redundant Tracking: Presets Active Redundant Tracking:
Backup Ready the home screen of 10.101.101.101 the home screen of
Note: processor B when Note: processor B when
DMX A: Off DMX B: Off processor A is in control. DMX A: Off DMX B: Off processor B is in control.
sACN: 1/1 sACN: 1/1
1/1

[Quick Setup] [Info] [Quick Setup] [Info]

[Info]

CEM3 Menu Flow Chart 47

 Quick Setup and Info
General Notes: Select [Abort] on any screen to return to the home screen.
[Quick Setup] is shown on the home screen if the rack property
“Setup at Home” is set to Yes. See Rack in the Setup menu flow chart.

Rack #1 - CEM3 Rack Quick Setup: Module Select Module Type Select Module
System OK [Dimmer] [D15]
Presets Active [Relay] [D15AF] Module Types and Modules
10.101.101.101 Rack Type: SR48 [Relay (ND)] [D20J] displayed vary by rack type.
DMX A: Off DMX B: Off Module: [Unchanged] [Thru Relay] [D20AF] Note: Modules with no configurable
sACN: 1/1
1/1 [Fluorescent] [D20AFN] settings (AFM, CC)
are not displayed.
[Low Wattage] [D20AFNJ]
[Quick Setup] [Info]
[Info] [Abort] [Next] [Generic]
About Dimmer 1 [D20AFG]

Quick Setup: Module Quick Setup: Circuit Quick Setup: Circuit

Rack Type: SR48 Numbering:[Unchanged] Numbering: [Renumber]

Module: [Unchanged] Starting At: [1]
Balance: [3-phase]
Space: [1]
[Abort] [Next] [Abort] [Next] [Abort] [Next]

Quick Setup: Circuit

Numbering:[Unchanged]
Quick Setup: DimDbl

Dimmer Double: [No]

[Abort] [Next] DMX Offset: [256] This screen is shown for
sACN Offset: [10000] Note: SR or SP type racks only.

[Abort] [Next]

Quick Setup: Patch Quick Rack Setup

Patch: [Simple] Are you sure?

Start at: [1] This operation will
DMXA: [Off] create a new config
DMXB: [Off] and erase the rack’s
sACN: [On] configuration.
[Abort] [Next] [Abort] [OK]

Quick Setup: Patch

Patch: [Independent]
DMXA: [Off]
DMXB: [Off]
sACN Universe: [1]
sACN Address: [1]
[Abort] [Next]

Quick Setup: Patch

Patch: [UniverseSplit]
DMXA:Ckt1 @ [Off]
Note: Patch mode Universe Split
DMXB:Ckt - @ Off is not available when
sACN Universe: [1] dimmer doubling.
sACN Address: [1]
[Abort] [Next]

Rack #1 - CEM3 Rack View/Clear

Rack Errors
#1 - CEM3 Rack
System OK System
Fan OK
Fail
Presets Active Select an error
10.101.101.101 Note: and press [Enter] to clear
DMX A: Off DMX B: Off DMX A: Off DMX B: Off it. If the error cannot
be cleared, it will stay
sACN: 1/1
1/1 sACN: 1/1 in the list .

[Quick Setup] [Info]

[Info] [Quick Setup] [Info]

48 CEM3 User Manual

 Test
General Note: Rig Check
options are only available
in racks with AF enabled
and are not available in
non-AF and FDX racks.

Rack #1 Set/Override
Dimmer - CEM3 Rack Select Space Set Levels Release Set Levels
System
[Set OK Levels]
Local 1: -- 2: --
[Set System Levels] Space: [1] 3: -- 4: -- Release Set Levels? Set Levels in
[Dimmer Check] Space1 5: -- 6: -- Space 1
DMX A: Off
[Release DMXLvls]
Systm B: Off 7: -- 8: -- Yes have been released
sACN: 1/1
[Presets] 9: -- 10: -- No
[Sequences] 11: -- 12: --
[Quick Setup]
[Release [Info]
All Arch] [Cancel] [OK] 13: -- Dimmer14: 1--
About About Dimmer 1 About Dimmer 1
[Record Rig Check]
[Run Rig Check]
[Clear Rig Check]
Note: Set Levels

Release Set Levels?

Yes
This screen is not shown No
if lugs in the rack are
configured to one space.
About Dimmer 1

Rack
Dimmer
#1 Set/Override
- CEM3 Rack Select Space Set Circuits Set Levels Release Set Levels
System
[Set OK Levels]
Local Enter circuit numbers
[Set System Levels] Space: [1] to set levels Release Set Levels? Set Levels in
[Dimmer Check] Space1 Space 1
DMX A: Off
[Release DMXLvls]
Systm B: Off > Yes have been released
sACN: 1/1
[Presets] No
[Sequences]
[Quick Setup]
[Release [Info]
All Arch] [Cancel] [OK] About Dimmer 1 About Dimmer 1 About Dimmer 1
[Record Rig Check]
[Run Rig Check]
[Clear Rig Check]
Set Levels
Note:
Release Set Levels?

Yes
This screen is not shown No
if lugs in the rack are
configured to one space.
About Dimmer 1

Rack
Dimmer
#1 Set/Override
- CEM3 Rack RackDimmer Check
#1 - CEM3 Rack
System
[Set OK Levels]
Local Systemby:
Check OK [Lug]
[Set System Levels] Lug: [1]
[Dimmer Check] Level (%): [100]
DMX A: Off
[Release DMXLvls]
Systm B: Off DMX A: Off DMX B: Off
sACN: 1/1
[Presets] sACN: 1/1
[Sequences]
[Quick Setup]
[Release [Info]
All Arch] [Quick
<<< Setup] [Next>>>
Prev] [Info]
[Record Rig Check]
[Run Rig Check]
[Clear Rig Check] RackDimmer
#1 - CEM3
Check
Rack
Systemby:
Check OK [Circuit]
Ckt: [1]
Level (%): [100]
DMX A: Off DMX B: [1]
Space: Off
sACN: 1/1

[Quick
<<< Setup] [Next>>>
Prev] [Info]

Rack
Dimmer
#1 Set/Override
- CEM3 Rack Select Space Release Set Levels
System
[Set OK Levels]
Local
[Set System Levels] Space: [All Spaces] Set Levels in
[Dimmer Check] All Spaces All Spaces
DMX A: Off
[Release DMXLvls]
Systm B: Off have been released
sACN: 1/1
[Presets]
[Sequences]
[Quick Setup]
[Release [Info]
All Arch] [Cancel] [OK] About Dimmer 1
[Record Rig Check]
[Run Rig Check]
[Clear Rig Check]
Note:

This screen is not shown

if lugs in the rack are
configured to one space.

CEM3 Menu Flow Chart 49

 Rack
Dimmer
#1 Set/Override
- CEM3 Rack Select Space Space: Space1 Space: Space1
System
[Set OK Levels]
Local Preset: [1] Preset: [1]
[Set System Levels] Space: [1] Preset1 Sp1 Preset1 Sp1
[Dimmer Check] Space1 [Activate] [Deactivate]
DMX A: Off
[Release DMXLvls]
Systm B: Off [Snapshot/Record] [Snapshot/Record]
sACN: 1/1
[Presets] Fade Time(s): [2] Fade Time(s): [2]
[Sequences]
[Quick Setup]
[Release [Info]
All Arch] [Cancel] [OK]
[Record Rig Check]
[Run Rig Check]
[Clear Rig Check]
Note:

This screen is not shown

if lugs in the rack are
configured to one space.

Rack #1 Set/Override
Dimmer - CEM3 Rack
System
[Set OK Levels]
Local
Select Space Sequence Sequence
[Set System Levels]
Space Space1 Space Space1
[Dimmer Check] Space: [1] Sequence Inactive Sequence Active
DMX A: Off
[Release DMXLvls]
Systm B: Off Space1 [Activate] [Deactivate]
sACN: 1/1
[Presets]
[Edit Steps] [Edit Steps]
[Sequences]
[Auto Setup] [Auto Setup]
[Quick Setup]
[Release [Info]
All Arch]
[Record Rig Check] [Cancel] [OK]
[Run Rig Check]
[Clear Rig Check]

Note: Sequence Edit Step

Space Space1 Step [1] of 1
Sequence Inactive Fade Time(s) [0]
[Activate] Hold Time(s) [5]
[Edit Steps] [Record]
This screen is not shown [Auto Setup] [Delete Step]
if lugs in the rack are
configured to one space. [Insert Step After]

Sequence Auto Setup

Space Space1
Sequence Inactive This will auto create
[Activate] a sequence to turn on
[Edit Steps] all switched mode
[Auto Setup] circuits.
Number of Steps: [6]
[Apply]

Rack
Dimmer
#1 Set/Override
- CEM3 Rack Release All Arch
System
[Set OK Levels]
Local
[Set System Levels]
[Dimmer Check] All Arch levels
DMX A: Off
[Release DMXLvls]
Systm B: Off have been released
sACN: 1/1
[Presets]
[Sequences]
[Quick Setup]
[Release [Info]
All Arch] About Dimmer 1
[Record Rig Check]
[Run Rig Check]
[Clear Rig Check]

Rack
Dimmer
#1 Set/Override
- CEM3 Rack Select Space Record Rig Check
System
[Set OK Levels]
Local
[Set System Levels] Space: [1] Recording Rig Check The seconds displayed will General Note: Rig Check
[Dimmer Check] Space1 in 5s count down from the property options are only available
Note: AF Reaction Time set in in racks with AF enabled
DMX A: Off
[Release DMXLvls]
Systm B: Off Setup/Dimmers/Advanced Feat and are not available in
sACN: 1/1
[Presets] toward zero before non-AF and FDX racks.
[Sequences] recording a rig check
look.
[Quick Setup]
[Release [Info]
All Arch] [Cancel] [OK] <back to abort>
[Record Rig Check]
[Run Rig Check]
[Clear Rig Check]
Note:

This screen is not shown

if lugs in the rack are
configured to one space.

Rack
Dimmer
#1 Set/Override
- CEM3 Rack Select Space Run Rig Check Run Rig Check These screens are displayed
System
[Set OK Levels]
Local if a rig check look has been
recorded. The seconds displayed
[Set System Levels] Space: [1] Running Rig Check Running Rig Check will count down from the property
[Dimmer Check] Space1 Please Wait... Please Wait... AF Reaction Time (set in
DMX A: Off DMXLvls]
B: Off Note: Setup/Dimmers/Advanced Features)
[Release Systm toward zero as the look fades up,
sACN: 1/1
[Presets] and the seconds will count down
[Sequences] Fading Look Up: 5s Measuring Loads: 5s again as the loads are measured
while the look is held. Select [Back]
[Quick Setup]
[Release [Info]
All Arch] [Cancel] [OK] <back to abort> <back to abort> to return to the DimmerSet/Override
[Record Rig Check] screen.
[Run Rig Check]
[Clear Rig Check] Note:
Run Rig Check

No rig check look has

been recorded. Select This screen is displayed
This screen is not shown if no rig check look has been
if lugs in the rack are [Record Rig Check] Note: recorded. Select [OK] to return
configured to one space. to save a rig check to Dimmer Set/Override.
look.
[OK]
Note:

Rack
Dimmer
#1 Set/Override
- CEM3 Rack Select Space Clear Rig Check
System
[Set OK Levels]
Local
[Set System Levels] Space: [1] Rig Check Look
[Dimmer Check] Space1 Cleared
DMX A: Off
[Release DMXLvls]
Systm B: Off
sACN: 1/1
[Presets]
[Sequences]
[Quick Setup]
[Release [Info]
All Arch] [Cancel] [OK]
[Record Rig Check]
[Run Rig Check]
[Clear Rig Check]

50 CEM3 User Manual

 About

Rack #1 About
- CEM3 Rack Select Space About Dimmer
System OK
[Dimmers] Circuit: [1]
[Rack] Space: [1] Space 1: Space1 Recorded Load and
Actual Load are only shown
[Errors] Space1 Rack 1: CEM3 Rack for dimmers with Advanced
DMX A: Off
[Source Info]DMX B: Off Lug: 1 Features. See Setup/Dimmers/
Note: Advanced Features. Recorded
sACN: 1/1
[About CEM3] Level: 0% Load and Actual Load are only
Control Src: sACN shown if the dimmer is in the
[Quick Setup] [Info] [Cancel] [OK] Ctrl Mode: Dimmable local rack; they are not shown
Recorded Load: 0.0A if the dimmer is in a network-
connected rack.
Actual Load: 12.0A

Note:

This screen is not shown

if the system has only one
space.

Rack #1 About
- CEM3 Rack About Rack 1
System OK
[Dimmers] Name: CEM3 Rack
[Rack] Rack Type: SR48
[Errors] CPU Temp: 97°F
DMX A: Off
[Source Info]DMX B: Off Temp 1: 34C
sACN: 1/1
[About CEM3] Temp 2: 22C
Status: Errors Exist
[Quick Setup] [Info] SW Ver: 1.7.0.9.0.XX Temp 1 and Temp 2
Note: are only shown in FDX racks.
Frequency: 60Hz See Setup/UI Preferences/
X:118 Y:117 Z:118 Temp Locale.
Patch:
DMXA: 1 ~ 96
DMXB: 1 ~ 96
sACN: 1/1 ~
1/96
Panic State: Ready

Rack #1 About
- CEM3 Rack Rack
View/Clear
#1 - CEM3
Errors
Rack
System OK
[Dimmers] System OK
Fan Fail
[Rack] Select an error
[Errors] Note: and press [Enter] to clear
DMX A: Off
[Source Info]DMX B: Off DMX A: Off DMX B: Off it. If the error cannot
be cleared, it will stay
sACN: 1/1
[About CEM3] sACN: 1/1 in the list .

[Quick Setup] [Info] [Quick Setup] [Info]

Rack #1 About
- CEM3 Rack Select Space Source Information
System OK
[Dimmers] Space: Space1
[Rack] Space: [1] Ckt HTPSource Lvl
[Errors] Space1 1 Preset 33 33% Space name is not shown
DMX A: Off
[Source Info]DMX B: Off 2 sACN FL% Note: if the system has only one
sACN: 1/1
[About CEM3] space.
3 SetLevels 55%
4 ACNDirect FL%
[Quick Setup] [Info] [Cancel] [OK] 5 sACN 45%

Note:

This screen is not shown

if the system has only one
space.

Rack #1 About
- CEM3 Rack About
Rack #1 CEM3
- CEM3 Rack
System OK
[Dimmers] System
ETC OK
CEM3 v1.7.0
[Rack] To save a copy of the [Save Manual] saves a
[Errors] user manual, insert copy of the CEM3 User Manual
Note: to the root of the USB key
DMX A: Off
[Source Info]DMX B: Off DMX A: key
a USB Off and
DMXpress
B: Off with file name
sACN: 1/1
[About CEM3] sACN: 1/1
enter. CEM3_Manual.pdf.

[Quick Setup] [Info] [Quick Setup]

[Save Manual][Info]

CEM3 Menu Flow Chart 51

 Setup

Rack #1 -Setup
CEM3 Rack Select Space Setup Space1 Select Module Type Select Module
System OK
[Dimmers] Ckt [1] [AFM] [D15]
[Rack] Space: [1] Module: [D20AF] [Constant Current] [D15AF]
[Circuit Assignment] Space1 Control: [Dimmable] [Dimmer] [D20J]
DMX A: Off DMX B: Off
[Patching] Firing: [Normal] [Relay] [D20AF]
sACN: 1/1
[Network] Control Settings [Relay (ND)] [D20AFN]
[File Operations] Patching [Thru Relay] [D20AFNJ]
[Quick Setup]
[Panic] [Info] [Cancel] [OK] Dimming Settings [Fluorescent]
About Dimmer 1 [D20AFG]
[Time/Date] Panic/Arch Settings [Low Wattage] [D20AFJ]
[Quick Setup] Advanced Features [Generic] [D20HR]
[UI Preferences]
Note:

Setup Space1 Control Mode Note:

Ckt [1] [Off] Module Types and Modules
This screen is not shown Module: [D20AF] [Switched] displayed vary by rack type.
if the system has only one Control: [Dimmable] [Always-On] Modules with no configurable
space. settings (AFM, CC)
Firing: [Normal] [LatchLock] are not displayed.
Control Settings [Dimmable]
Patching [Smoothing]
Dimming Settings [TPAuto]
Panic/Arch Settings [TPDMX]
Advanced Features

Setup Space1 Firing Mode

Ckt [1] [Normal]
Module: [D20AF] [Dim Double]
Control: [Dimmable] [Fluorescent] Firing Modes displayed
[Reverse Phase] Note: depend on module type.
Firing: [Normal]
Control Settings [Thru Power]
Patching
Dimming Settings
Panic/Arch Settings
Advanced Features

Setup Space1 Control Settings Curve

Ckt [1] Ckt: 7 [Square]
Module: [D20AF] Curve: [Mod-Square] [Mod-Square]
Control: [Dimmable] Threshold%: [1] [Linear]
Firing: [Normal] On Level%: [40-50] [Mod-Linear]
Control Settings Off Level%: [80-90] [Sensor 2.0]
Patching On Time (sec): [5] [Stage 1]
Dimming Settings Off Time (sec): [5] [Stage 2]
Panic/Arch Settings [Fluro 1]
Advanced Features Note: [Fluro 2]
[VIP 90]
[ANDI]
[Custom 1]
On Level, Off Level,
On Time, and Off Time are [Custom 2]
only shown if the Control Mode [Custom 3]
is Latch-Lock. [Custom 4]
Threshold% is not shown in
Latch-Lock mode. [Custom 5]

Setup Space1 Patching

Ckt [1] Ckt: 7
Module: [D20AF] DMXA: [7] sACN will be in
Control: [Dimmable] DMXA 16-Bit: [No] universe/channel or absolute
DMXB: [7] Note: format depending on the
Firing: [Normal] sACN setting in
Control Settings DMXB 16-Bit: [No] Setup/UI Preferences.
Patching sACN: [1]/[7]
Dimming Settings sACN: 16-Bit [No]
Panic/Arch Settings
Advanced Features

Setup Space1 Dimming Settings

Ckt [1] Ckt: 7
Module: [D20AF] Min Scale(VAC): [6]
Control: [Dimmable] Max Scale(VAC): [115]
Firing: [Normal] Regulation: [Yes]
Control Settings Preheat: [No]
Patching DC Out Prevent: [No]
Dimming Settings Inrush Protect: [No]
Panic/Arch Settings Scale Load:(%) [35]
Advanced Features

Setup Space1 Panic/Arch Settings

Ckt [1] Ckt: 7
Module: [D20AF] Allow in Panic: [Yes]
Control: [Dimmable] Allow in Preset: [Yes]
Firing: [Normal] Arch Zone: [3]
Control Settings
Patching
Dimming Settings
Panic/Arch Settings
Advanced Features

Setup Space1 Advanced Features

Ckt [1] Ckt: 7 AF Mode, Reaction Time,
AF Enabled: [Yes] and Sensitivity are only shown
Module: [D20AF] if the rack setting “AF enabled”
Control: [Dimmable] AF Mode: [No-Load] is set to Yes.
Note:
Firing: [Normal] AF Reaction: [00:00] AF Mode: Load Change is not
Sensitivity(A): [0.5] an option in FDX systems.
Control Settings Sensitivity is not shown in FDX
Patching systems.
Dimming Settings
Panic/Arch Settings
Advanced Features

52 CEM3 User Manual

 Rack #1 -Setup
CEM3 Rack Rack #1 - CEM3
Rack SetupRack Rack
Reboot
#1 - CEM3
Required
Rack
System OK
[Dimmers] System
Rack OK
Number: [1] System OK
This operation will
[Rack] System Number: [1] cause your CEM3 to
[Circuit Assignment] Data Ports: reboot.
DMX A: Off DMX B: Off
[Patching] DMX
DMX A:
A:Off[Disabled]
DMX B: Off DMX Do
A: you
Off want
DMX to
B: Off
sACN: 1/1
[Network] sACN:
DMX B:1/1 [Disabled] sACN: 1/1
continue?
[File Operations] sACN: [Enabled] [No]
[Quick Setup]
[Panic] [Info] [Quick
Arch Setup] [100]
Priority: [Info] [Quick Setup]
[Yes] [Info]
[Time/Date] Off as Release:[Yes]
[Quick Setup] Fan: [30]
[UI Preferences] AF Enabled: [Yes]
Presets on Boot: [N]
Temp High Warn
Setup at Home: [Yes] is in Fahrenheit (F) or Celsius (C)
Volt High Warn:[140] Note: depending on the Temp Locale
Temp High Warn:[149] setting in
Setup/UI Preferences.
Station Power: [Off]
Remote Record: [No]
[Data Loss Behavior]

Rack #1 - CEM3
Rack SetupRack Rack
Data#1Loss
- CEM3
Behavior
Rack
System
Rack OK
Number: [1] System OK[Crossfade]
DMXA:
System Number: [1] Fade Time: [2]
Data Ports: Wait Time: [180]
DMX
DMX A:
A:Off[Disabled]
DMX B: Off DMX A: Off
Preset DMX B:
Space: Off
[1]
sACN:
DMX B:1/1 [Disabled] sACN:
Preset1/1Number: [16]
sACN: [Enabled] DMXB: [Wait & Fade]
[Quick
Arch Setup] [100]
Priority: [Info] [Quick Setup]
Fade Time: [Info]
[2]
Off as Release:[Yes] Wait Time: [180]
Fan: [30] sACN: [Wait & Fade]
AF Enabled: [Yes] Fade Time: [2]
Presets on Boot: [N] Wait Time: [180]
Setup at Home: [Yes]
Volt High Warn:[Yes]
Temp High Warn:[Yes]
Station Power: [Off]
Remote Record: [No]
[Data Loss Behavior]

Rack #1 -Setup
CEM3 Rack Circuit Assignment Auto Ckt Assignment Confirmation
System OK
[Dimmers] [Auto Assign...] You have selected to
[Rack] [Edit Circuit Layout] Numbering: [Straight] renumber all dimmers
[Circuit Assignment] First Circuit: [1] in the rack.
DMX A: Off DMX B: Off
[Patching] Space: [1] Are you sure you
sACN: 1/1
[Network] want to do this?
[File Operations]
[Quick Setup]
[Panic] [Info] [Cancel] [Renumber] [No!] [Yes/Renumber]
[Time/Date]
[Quick Setup]
[UI Preferences]
Confirmation
You have selected to
renumber all dimmers
in the rack.
Are you sure you
Auto Ckt Assignment want to do this?

Numbering: [Straight] [No!] [Yes/Renumber]

First Circuit: [1]

[Cancel] [Renumber]

Circuit Assignment Circuit Setup Duplicate Numbers A T T E N T I O N !

[Auto Assign...] Lug Sp Ckt Type Duplicate Space /
[Edit Circuit Layout] 1 - - AFM circuit numbers found Save Network Settings
2 - - AFM Please correct or Before Exiting?
3 1 1 D20AF discard your changes
4 1 2 D20AF [No/Cancel]
5 1 3 D20 [Yes/Save]
6 1 4 D20 [Go Back] [Abort] [Continue Editing]

Note: A T T E N T I O N !

Save Network Settings

Before Exiting?

[No/Cancel]
[Yes/Save]
Module choices vary by
rack type. [Continue Editing]

A T T E N T I O N !

Save Network Settings

Duplicate Numbers Before Exiting?
Duplicate Space /
circuit numbers found [No/Cancel]
Please correct or [Yes/Save]
discard your changes [Continue Editing]

[Go Back] [Abort]

Note:

Duplicate numbers screen is

only shown if there are
duplicate space or circuit
numbers other than 0.

CEM3 Menu Flow Chart 53

 Rack #1 -Setup
CEM3 Rack Patching Select Space Rack #1Patch Table
- CEM3 Rack A T T E N T I O N !
System OK
[Dimmers] [Edit DMX Patch] System OK
Ckt DMX A DMX B
[Rack] [Edit sACN Patch] Space: [1] 1 [ 7] [ 7] Save Patch Table
[Circuit Assignment] Space1 2 [ 8] [ 8] Changes Before
DMX A: Off DMX B: Off
[Patching] DMX A:3Off DMX[ B:
[ 13] Off
13] Exiting?
sACN: 1/1
[Network] sACN: 1/1
4 [ 14] [ 13] [No/Cancel]
[File Operations] 5 [ 19] [ 19] [Yes/Save]
[Quick Setup]
[Panic] [Info] [Cancel] [OK] [Quick 6Setup]
[ 20] [ [Info]
20] [Continue Editing]
[Time/Date]
[Quick Setup]
[UI Preferences]
Note: A T T E N T I O N !

Save Patch Table

Changes Before
Exiting?
This screen is not shown [No/Cancel]
if the system has only one [Yes/Save]
space. [Continue Editing]

A T T E N T I O N !

Save Patch Table

Changes Before
Exiting?
[No/Cancel]
[Yes/Save]
[Continue Editing]

Patching Select Space Rack #1Patch Table

- CEM3 Rack A T T E N T I O N !
[Edit DMX Patch] System OK
Ckt sACN Uni Ch
[Edit sACN Patch] Space: [1] 1 [ 1] [ 7] Save Patch Table
Space1 2 [ 1] [ 8] Changes Before
DMX A:3Off
[ 1]DMX[ B: Off
13] Exiting?
sACN: 1/1
4 [ 1] [ 13] [No/Cancel]
5 [ 1] [ 19] [Yes/Save]
[Cancel] [OK] [Quick 6Setup]
[ 1] [ [Info]
20] [Continue Editing]

Rack #1Patch
- CEM3
Table
Rack A T T E N T I O N !
Note: System OK
Ckt sACN
1 [ 7] Save Patch Table
2 [ 8] Changes Before
DMX A:3Off[ DMX B: Off
13] Exiting?
sACN: 1/1
4 [ 13] [No/Cancel]
This screen is not shown
if the system has only one 5 [ 19] [Yes/Save]
space. [Quick 6Setup]
[ [Info]
20] [Continue Editing]

Note: A T T E N T I O N !

Save Patch Table

sACN will be in Changes Before
universe/channel or absolute Exiting?
format depending on the [No/Cancel]
sACN setting in
Setup/UI Preferences. [Yes/Save]
[Continue Editing]

Rack #1 -Setup
CEM3 Rack Select Processor Network Setup
System OK
[Dimmers] [Main(A) Processor] Type: [Custom]
[Rack] [Backup(B) Processor] IP: [ 10.101.101.101]
[Circuit Assignment] SN: [ 255.255.0.0]
DMX A: Off DMX B: Off
[Patching] GW: [ 10.101.1.11]
sACN: 1/1
[Network]
[File Operations]
[Quick Setup]
[Panic] [Info] [Cancel] [OK] [Abort] [Commit]
[Time/Date]
[Quick Setup]
[UI Preferences] Network Setup
Note: Type: [DHCP]
IP: [ 10.101.101.101]
SN: [ 255.255.0.0]
GW: [ 10.101.1.11]
This screen is only
shown if the CEM3 is in
a tracking backplane. [Abort] [Commit]

Network Setup A T T E N T I O N !
Type: [Link Local]
IP: [ 10.101.101.101] Save Network Settings
Before Exiting?

[No/Cancel]
[Yes/Save]
[Abort] [Commit] [Continue Editing]

A T T E N T I O N !

Save Network Settings

Before Exiting?

[No/Cancel]
[Yes/Save]
[Continue Editing]

A T T E N T I O N !

Save Network Settings

Before Exiting?

[No/Cancel]
[Yes/Save]
[Continue Editing]

54 CEM3 User Manual

 Rack #1 -Setup
CEM3 Rack File Operations
System OK
[Dimmers] [Save to USB]
[Rack] [Load from USB]
[Circuit Assignment] [Upgrade from USB]
DMX A: Off DMX B: Off
[Patching] [Save to Server]
sACN: 1/1
[Network] [Load from Server]
[File Operations] [Upgrade from Server] Save As
[Quick Setup]
[Panic] [Info] [Set up Server]
[Time/Date] [Rack001].etc
[Quick Setup]
[UI Preferences]

File Operations
[Save to USB] [Cancel] [OK]
[Load from USB]
[Upgrade from USB]
[Save to Server]
[Load from Server]
[Upgrade from Server]
[Set up Server]

File Operations
[Save to USB]
[Load from USB]
[Upgrade from USB]
[Save to Server]
[Load from Server]
[Upgrade from Server]
[Set up Server] Load cfg file
Rack001.etc

File Operations
[Save to USB]
[Load from USB] [Cancel] [OK]
[Upgrade from USB]
[Save to Server]
[Load from Server]
[Upgrade from Server]
[Set up Server]

File Operations
[Save to USB]
[Load from USB]
[Upgrade from USB]
[Save to Server]
[Load from Server]
[Upgrade from Server]
[Set up Server] Software Upgrade Software Upgrade
cem3_v1_6_0.bld Are you sure you
want to upgrade the
operating software to
file:
cem3_v1_7_0.bld ?
File Operations
[Save to USB]
[Load from USB] [No] [Yes]
[Upgrade from USB]
[Save to Server]
[Load from Server] Software Upgrade
[Upgrade from Server] Are you sure you
[Set up Server] want to upgrade the
operating software to
file:
cem3_v1_7_0.bld ?

[No] [Yes]

File Operations Server Setup

[Save to USB] Enabled: [Yes]
[Load from USB] IP: [ 10.101.50.60]
[Upgrade from USB] Upgrades:sr/conductor
[Save to Server] CFG Path:sr/conductor
[Load from Server] File [Rack001]
[Upgrade from Server] AutoSave: [No]
[Set up Server]

CEM3 Menu Flow Chart 55

 Rack #1 -Setup
CEM3 Rack Panic Setup A T T E N T I O N !
System OK
[Dimmers] In Delay (sec): [0]
[Rack] Out Delay (sec): [0] Are you sure you
[Circuit Assignment] Fade In (sec): [2] want to overwrite
DMX A: Off DMX B: Off
[Patching] Fade Out (sec): [2] the Panic Look?
sACN: 1/1
[Network] Shed Other Loads: [Y]
[File Operations] [Record Panic Look] [No/Cancel]
[Quick Setup]
[Panic] [Info] [Yes/Save]
[Time/Date]
[Quick Setup]
[UI Preferences]
A T T E N T I O N !

Are you sure you

want to overwrite
the Panic Look?

[No/Cancel]
[Yes/Save]

Rack #1 -Setup
CEM3 Rack Set Time/Date
System OK
[Dimmers] Mode: [Manual]
[Rack] Time Hour: [10]
[Circuit Assignment] Time Minutes: [08]
DMX A: Off DMX B: Off
[Patching] Year: [2017]
sACN: 1/1
[Network] Month: [Jun]
[File Operations] Day: [20]
[Quick Setup]
[Panic] [Info]
[Time/Date]
[Quick Setup]
[UI Preferences] Set Time/Date
Mode: [Automatic]
Offset from UTC: [0]
Time Service: Found
Current Time:
20 Jun 2017 15:08

Rack #1 -Setup
CEM3 Rack
System OK
[Dimmers]
[Rack]
[Circuit Assignment]
DMX A: Off DMX B: Off
[Patching]
sACN: 1/1
[Network] Note: See Quick Setup menu
[File Operations] flow chart.
[Quick Setup]
[Panic] [Info]
[Time/Date]
[Quick Setup]
[UI Preferences]

Rack #1 -Setup
CEM3 Rack UI Preferences
System OK
[Dimmers] Backlight Mode: [Auto]
[Rack] Backlight Time: [05:00]
[Circuit Assignment] Contrast: [29] Backlight Time will
DMX A: Off DMX B: Off
[Patching] Language: [English] Note: only appear if
Backlight Mode is set
sACN: 1/1
[Network] Temp Locale: [F] to Auto.
[File Operations] sACN: [Uni/Ch]
[Quick Setup]
[Panic] [Info]
[Time/Date]
[Quick Setup]
[UI Preferences]

56 CEM3 User Manual

Appendix B
Error Messages
The table below lists all of the possible error/status messages that may be listed on the CEM3 display
followed by the probable cause and any possible corrective action to remedy the error.
If you have any problems resolving errors, or do not feel comfortable performing the corrective action,
contact ETC Technical Services (see Help from ETC Technical Services on page 2).

WARNING: To avoid the possibility of electric shock, power must be turned OFF before
removing dimmer or control modules. Prior to any action that involves
removing any module, de-energize main feed to dimmer rack and follow
appropriate Lockout/Tagout procedures as described in NFPA Standard 70E.
It is important to note that electrical equipment such as dimmer racks can
present an arc flash safety hazard if improperly serviced. This is due to
available large short circuit currents on the feeders of the equipment. Any
work on energized equipment must comply with OSHA Electrical Safe
Working Practices.
Phase voltages inside the rack can be deadly, therefore only qualified
technicians should be allowed to remove modules and expose the inside of
the dimmer rack.

Message Cause Possible Corrective Action

The temperature detected at the
Decrease ambient temperature, or adjust
CEM3 has exceeded the limit set
CPU Temp High temperature warning level. Ensure that fan is
under the Temp High Warn option in
functioning properly.
[Setup]>Rack
The DMX signal on port A is corrupt or
DMX Error Port A Check DMX wiring and termination
invalid
The DMX signal on port B is corrupt or
DMX Error Port B Check DMX wiring and termination
invalid
Check DMX wiring, termination or transceiver
No DMX Port A No DMX signal is detected on port A
chip
Check DMX wiring, termination or transceiver
No DMX Port B No DMX signal is detected on port B
chip
The power frequency is out the Check the incoming power supply to the rack.
Frequency Error
supported range of 47–63Hz Contact a qualified electrician.
Check the incoming power supply to the rack.
Phase A Off No power is detected on Phase A
Contact a qualified electrician.
Check the incoming power supply to the rack.
Phase B Off No power is detected on Phase B
Contact a qualified electrician.
Check the incoming power supply to the rack.
Phase C Off No power is detected on Phase C
Contact a qualified electrician.
The power on phase A is above the
Phase A Volts Check the incoming power supply to the rack.
volts high warning level (in
High Contact a qualified electrician.
[Setup]>Rack)

Error Messages 57
 Message Cause Possible Corrective Action
The power on phase B is above the
Phase B Volts Check the incoming power supply to the rack.
volts high warning level (in
High Contact a qualified electrician.
[Setup]>Rack)
The power on phase C is above the
Phase C Volts Check the incoming power supply to the rack.
volts high warning level (in
High Contact a qualified electrician.
[Setup]>Rack)
Phase A Volts The voltage on phase A is below the Check the incoming power supply to the rack.
Low minimum required value for the CEM3 Contact a qualified electrician.
The voltage on phase B is below the Check the incoming power supply to the rack.
Phase B Volts Low
minimum required value for the CEM3 Contact a qualified electrician.
Phase C Volts The voltage on phase C is below the Check the incoming power supply to the rack.
Low minimum required value for the CEM3 Contact a qualified electrician.
The voltage on phase A is above the Check the incoming power supply to the rack.
Phase A Overvolts
maximum value for the CEM3 Contact a qualified electrician.
The voltage on phase B is above the Check the incoming power supply to the rack.
Phase B Overvolts
maximum value for the CEM3 Contact a qualified electrician.
The voltage on phase C is above the Check the incoming power supply to the rack.
Phase C Overvolts
maximum value for the CEM3 Contact a qualified electrician.
The CEM3 is unable to communicate
Rack Memory Check the CEM3 is seated correctly; Replace
with the memory chip on the
Error backplane
backplane
The CEM3 is unable to detect the rack
Check the CEM3 is seated correctly; Replace the
Rack Detect Error type from the DIP switches on the
backplane
backplane
The CEM3 detects that the rack fan is
Fan Fail drawing current outside the expected Check the rack fan and fan fuse.
value
A config was loaded that contained Regenerate configuration; contact ETC Technical
Config Rejected
invalid data or values Services
Check the AF cards and CEM3 are seated
The CEM3 is unable to communicate
AF Card Error 1 correctly; Check rack hardware for damage.
with AF card 1
Check DIP switch settings.
Check the AF cards and CEM3 are seated
The CEM3 is unable to communicate
AF Card Error 2 correctly; Check rack hardware for damage.
with AF card 2
Check DIP switch settings.
Check the AF cards and CEM3 are seated
The CEM3 is unable to communicate
AF Card Error 3 correctly; Check rack hardware for damage.
with AF card 3
Check DIP switch settings.
Check the AF cards and CEM3 are seated
The CEM3 is unable to communicate
AF Card Error 4 correctly; Check rack hardware for damage.
with AF card 4
Check DIP switch settings.
AF Card 1
AF card 1 is loading software Wait until software load has completed
Loading
AF Card 2
AF card 2 is loading software Wait until software load has completed
Loading
AF Card 3
AF card 3 is loading software Wait until software load has completed
Loading
AF Card 4
AF card 4 is loading software Wait until software load has completed
Loading

58 CEM3 User Manual

 Message Cause Possible Corrective Action
AF Dim Removed AF detects that a dimmer has been
Reinsert dimmer; check dimmer module
<Dimmer Nr> removed
AF Bkr Trip AF detects that a dimmer circuit
Reset circuit breaker; check dimmer module
<Dimmer Nr> breaker has tripped
AF RCD Trip AF detects that a dimmer circuit with Reset circuit breaker; check dimmer module and
<Dimmer Nr> RCD has tripped due to earth leakage load
AF Load High AF detects that the current load on a
Check load/lamps
<Dimmer Nr> circuit is higher than the recorded load
AF Load Low AF detects that the current load on a
Check load/lamps
<Dimmer Nr> circuit is lower than the recorded load
AF No Load AF detects that there is no load on a
Check load/lamps
<Dimmer Nr> circuit
Clear the error from the home screen and see if it
returns.
Dim Overtemp An overtemperature condition has
Check rack cooling fan is running and that room
<Dimmer Nr> been detected on a dimmer module
is in recommended temperature range.
If normal temp, replace module.

Error Messages 59
Appendix C
Redundant Tracking Systems
CEM3 features the ability to support dual redundant controllers in ESR24, ESR36 and ESR48 rack types,
as well as in the FDX3000 rack.
Redundant controllers provide extra security in the event of system failure, allowing a secondary
processor to immediately take control of the rack.

Power DMX A DMX A Network Panic Controller A

abc def at
Reset
Test ghi jkl mno and

Redundant About Back

Enter
pqrs tuv wxyz thru

Tracking Switch Setup Last

A #nav Next
B Enter

Power DMX A DMX A Network Panic

abc def at
Reset
Test ghi jkl mno and
Controller B
Enter
About Back pqrs tuv wxyz thru

Setup Last #nav Next

A B Enter

Redundant tracking in a Sensor ESR Rack

Controller A
Redundant
Tracking Switch

Controller B

Redundant tracking in an FDX3000 Rack

Redundant Tracking Switch

The redundant tracking switch determines which controller runs the output to the dimmers. It has
three positions.
• When the switch is set to A (upper position), the upper controller has control of the dimmers.
• When the switch is set to B (lower position), the lower controller has control of the dimmers.
• When the switch is set to Auto (center position), control is automatically allocated based on the
health of the system (see below for details).

Automatic Control
Typically, in a redundant tracking system, the switch should be left in the auto position. When the
switch is set to auto, the A processor will have control by default. Control will switch to B when any of
the following events occur.

60 CEM3 User Manual

 Loss of network
If network connectivity is lost to one processor but not the other, control will switch to the one which
still has network connectivity.

Loss of DMX
If DMX is lost by one processor but not the other, control will switch to the one still able to receive DMX
(note that the DMX data line is interconnected between both, so this would only occur in the event of
the failure of a DMX transceiver on the processor itself).

Power errors
If one processor experiences power errors but the other does not, control will switch to the one that
does not. Again, note that the same power is connected to both processors so this would only occur
in the event of an internal failure in the processor.

Total processor loss

If communication is completely lost to one processor but not the other, then control will switch to the
processor which is still available.

Display Status
When tracking is active and the A processor is in control, the displays will show as follows:

Rack 1 - CEM3 Rack

System OK
Presets Active
Processor A 10.101.101.101
DMXA: 1 DMXB: Off
sACN: 2/1

[Info]

CEM3 Control

Processor B
Backup Ready

Redundant Tracking Systems 61

 When control switches to the B processor (either by automatic failover or manual control using the
switch), the displays change to the following:

CEM3 Control

Processor A Backup Active

Rack 1 - CEM3 Rack

System OK
Presets Active
Processor B
10.101.101.101
DMXA: 1 DMXB: Off
sACN: 2/1

[Info]

The switchover from A to B for dimming happens instantaneously, so that control of lights is not lost.
However, the switchover of the user interface has built in hysteresis to eliminate bounce in certain
circumstances (for example, when DMX is lost, both processors may not see and account for the DMX
loss at exactly the same time). For this reason it may sometimes appear to take a long time for the user
interface of the backup unit to start up; however, bear in mind that despite this apparent delay,
dimming control always transfers near-instantaneously.

Configuration Management in Redundant Tracking Systems

In a tracking CEM3 system, the two processors automatically communicate and synchronize their
configurations though the backplane. No external Ethernet network is needed for the two processors
to synchronize data.
Once you make a configuration change on one processor, that change is automatically transferred to
the second processor.
When the system boots up, it is assumed that the A processor has the most recent configuration, so
the configuration will be automatically transferred from A to B if B has a different configuration.

Firmware Upgrades in Redundant Tracking Systems

When you upgrade firmware in a redundant system (either via the network or using a USB key), the
firmware upgrade is automatically transferred to both processors. Once the firmware is transferred the
upgrade will occur on both processors simultaneously. Therefore it is not necessary to update both
processors independently in a rack.

62 CEM3 User Manual

Appendix D
FDX 3000 Dimmer Racks
CEM3 may be used as a control module in the ETC FDX3000 dimming system, providing networking
facilities, dual redundant control modules, and precision 16-bit dimming. This appendix provides
information needed to work with CEM3 in an FDX3000 system, as well as outlining the hardware of
your FDX3000 rack.

Hardware
Front Panel
The FDX3000 carrier contains two CEM3 modules in a dual redundant configuration.

PSU Indicators

Redundant
Tracking
switch

PSU Indicators
The PSU indicators show the status of the two internal power supplies that supply the 15 VDC required
by FDX dimmer modules.
The two indicators should be lit at all times. If either is not lit, this could indicate a failure of the internal
power supply. If you see this condition, contact ETC Technical Services (see page 2).

Redundant Tracking Switch

The redundant tracking switch allows you to test the ability to switch from the upper (A) processor to
the lower (B) processor. If it is set to the (A) or (B) position, the A or B processor will preferentially have
control. In normal operation, the switch should be set to the center Auto position. This will ensure that
A has control unless communication is lost to A, or certain hardware failures occur on A but not B (for
example if A does not see DMX but B does).

FDX 3000 Dimmer Racks 63

 Rear Panel

DIMMER OUTPUTS
A B C D E F G H
DMX A DMX B

POWER

Panic Return
Panic Send
NET A NET B

Panic Out
Station +
Station -

+24VDC
Beacon
Grid
FEEDBACK
EXT
FUSES

15VDC

Option Connector

Dimmer Outputs
The dimmer outputs connect from the FDX3000 processor to the dimmer module trays. They should
generally be preconfigured from the factory. They are grouped in blocks of 12 dimmers, from A (1–12)
through H (85–96).

Feedback
The feedback connections allow the FDX3000 to determine the status of voltage and current for
modules that support sensing. The two feedback connections should be made from the factory.

15 VDC
The 15 VDC connection provides 15 V power to the FDX dimmer modules.

Option Connector
The option connector allows field connection of the rack options such as panic (see page 32), stations
(see page 10), and a remote beacon. For information on these connections, see the termination
markings on the rear of the FDX3000 carrier.

DMX Connections
The FDX3000 processor features DMX In and Thru connections on two industry-standard 5-pin
XLR connectors. The two DMX ports, A and B, are fed to both of the redundant processors.

Ethernet Connections
Two Ethernet connections are provided using Neutrik® etherCON® connectors, which may be either
connected to a Neutrik etherCON jack or a standard RJ45 connector. Net A connects to the A (upper)
CEM3, and Net B connects to the lower. The CEM3s feature an internal switch allowing use of the rear
and front panel Ethernet connections at the same time.

Power Input
The power input connector is a three phase supply, fed from the supply in the rack. The FDX3000
processor will function regardless of any phase loss; as long as at least one phase is still active the
processor will still dim any dimmers which still have power.

64 CEM3 User Manual

 Fuses
The power input has three panel-mount fuse holders to protect against internal failure. The fuses
should only be replaced with the same type (2.5 A, 20 mm).

Regulatory Information
The FDX3000 rack is certified to the following CE standards:
• Safety: EN61439-1 (Low voltage Switchgear and Controlgear assemblies)
• Electromagnetic Immunity: EN61547 (EMC Immunity for Lighting Systems)

Initial Setup
Module Count
The FDX3000 controller supports between 1 and 96 dimmers. The number of dimmers is configured
using DIP switches on the backplane of the controller.

To configure or alter the number of modules configured in your FDX system:

1: Turn off power to the rack.
2: Remove the two CEM3 modules from the FDX3000 carrier.
3: Set the DIP switches in binary to the number of modules in your rack. The DIP switches are
counted from left to right as follows:

64 32 16 8 4 2 1

For example, to set up the rack for 96 modules, set DIP switches 32 and 64 to ON.
4: Reinstall the CEM3 modules.
5: Power up the rack.

Module Types
The following module types are supported in FDX:
• Blank : Used where a blank plate is fitted; gives no control and no feedback
• NoV-Nol : A dimmer module with no current or voltage feedback
• V-Nol : A dimmer module with voltage feedback but no current feedback
• NoV-I : A dimmer module with current feedback but no voltage feedback
• V-I : A dimmer module with voltage and current feedback

Advanced Features in FDX

FDX3000 supports all module types available in the FDX series of racks, including the DP90 and DP90S
series of modules.
Advanced Features in an FDX rack allow modules that provide Voltage or Current feedback data to be
monitored and to report errors both at the local UI and at ETC console products and feedback
software.

FDX 3000 Dimmer Racks 65

 Feedback Modes and Module Types
FDX modules may be set to one of the following module types:

Module Type Purpose Error Messages

Module provides no
NoV-NoI No AF Error messages will be produced
monitoring
Module monitors current, No Load messages will be produced if the channel is
NoV-I
not voltage turned
Module monitors voltage, Breaker Trip messages will be produced if the channel
V-Nol
not current is turned on with the breaker turned off.
Both Breaker Trip and No Load messages may be
Module monitors both
V-I produced and the roasting short protecting feature
voltage and current
will be enabled.
To configure the module type see Menu Structure on page 11.

Roasting Short Protection

FDX3000 features a unique method for providing additional safety in the event of a roasting short. A
roasting short can occur when a dimmer is at a low level and driven into a short circuit load with a long
cable.

FDX 3000
Rack

LIVE Short Circuit

NEUTRAL Load

Because the dimmer is at a low level, the roasting short does not draw enough current to trip the circuit
breaker. However, a roasting short is still a dangerous condition as currents can flow at a high enough
amperage to cause heat or, in extreme circumstances, fire.
The FDX3000 rack has the capability to detect this condition. When a roasting short is detected by a
module set to V/I mode, the dimmer is automatically driven to full, allowing the high current of the
short circuit to trip the circuit breaker.
This utility is automatically enabled on any modules set to V/I mode.

66 CEM3 User Manual

 FDX2000 vs. FDX3000 Dimmer Curve Comparison
Curves in FDX3000 reference voltage rather than power. Therefore the following table will help to
show the correlation between FDX2000 curve names and FDX3000 curve names.
.

FDX2000 Curve FDX3000 Curve

Comment
English / German English
Proportional to RMS power output
1 = Linear (default) Square
(FDX2000 Linear)
2 = Stage1 Stage 1 Built to match an old Siemens curve
3 = Stage2 Stage 2 Built to match an old Siemens curve
4 = Log Linear Proportional to RMS voltage output
5 = Fluor1 Fluor 1
6 = Fluor2 Fluor 2
7 = Pow/2 n.a. Obsolete
8 = 10% n.a. Obsolete
9 = VIP90 VIP
10 = ANDI ANDI
n.a Mod-Square (Default)
n.a Mod-Linear
n.a Sensor 2.0 Older mod square law

FDX 3000 Dimmer Racks 67

68 CEM3 User Manual
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Web: etcconnect.com  © 2018 Electronic Theatre Controls, Inc.
Product information and specifications subject to change. ETC intends this document to be provided in its entirety.
7140M1200-1.7.0  Rev B  Released 2018-08