Lighting Consoles

This SOP defines the procedures for handling, preparing, deploying, resetting, and maintaining lighting consoles and control surfaces used by Maryland Productions (MP) and Event Revolution (RV). Lighting consoles are mission-critical control assets and must be treated with heightened care, security, and consistency.

This SOP focuses on the physical console equipment and its readiness. Technical standards for show files, networking, and programming practices are covered in the Lighting Technical SOPs.

Purpose

  • Ensure lighting consoles are reliable, protected, and show-ready.

  • Prevent failures caused by improper handling, power issues, or missing accessories.

  • Standardize console prep, transport, and reset procedures.

  • Protect show files, configuration data, and hardware integrity.

  • Reduce risk during load-in, show operation, and strike.

Scope

This SOP applies to:

  • Lighting consoles (MA, Onyx, Chamsys, ETC, etc.)

  • Control surfaces and wings

  • Playback controllers

  • Touchscreens and external monitors

  • Keyboards, mice, and accessories

  • Console racks and cases

Console Standards

Approved Use

  • Consoles may only be operated by trained personnel.

  • Consoles must be used for their intended purpose only.

  • Unauthorized software, plugins, or configuration changes are prohibited.

  • Consoles must remain under crew supervision at all times on-site.

Consoles are high-value and high-risk assets.

Prep Procedure

1. Physical Inspection

Before power-up:

  • Inspect console body for cracks or damage.

  • Verify faders, encoders, buttons, and screens are intact.

  • Check ports for bent pins or damage.

  • Inspect power supplies and connectors.

  • Verify case hardware and foam are intact.

Any physical damage must be addressed before deployment.

2. Power & Boot Verification

  • Connect console to appropriate power source.

  • Use power conditioning where available.

  • Power on and verify: - Normal boot sequence - No error messages - Screens and LEDs function

Unstable power must be resolved before continuing.

3. Peripheral & Output Check

Verify all required peripherals are present and functional:

  • External monitors

  • Touchscreens

  • Keyboard and mouse

  • USB ports

  • Network ports

  • DMX outputs (if applicable)

Missing or faulty peripherals must be replaced before packing.

4. Configuration Verification

  • Confirm correct system settings: - Date and time - Network configuration (if required) - Output enablement

  • Confirm required software version.

  • Verify fixture libraries are current (if required for the job).

Do not update software without approval.

5. Show File Verification

  • Load the correct show file.

  • Confirm patch and output.

  • Perform a brief output test using: - Node - DMX tester

  • Save a verified backup to: - Console - External USB

Show file standards are covered in the Lighting Technical SOP.

6. Packing for Transport

  • Power down the console completely.

  • Disconnect and secure all cables.

  • Protect screens and controls.

  • Store accessories in designated compartments.

  • Ensure no loose items are inside the case.

  • Close and latch all case hardware.

  • Apply job label and seal.

Never pack a console while powered on.

On-Site Handling & Operation

  • Place consoles on stable surfaces only.

  • Secure consoles to prevent tipping.

  • Keep liquids away at all times.

  • Protect consoles from dust, rain, and impact.

  • Use clean power whenever possible.

  • Maintain clear airflow around vents.

Console issues must be reported immediately.

Strike & Return

  • Save the final show file.

  • Create backups before shutdown.

  • Power down properly.

  • Disconnect peripherals carefully.

  • Inspect for damage or missing accessories.

  • Pack console according to case layout.

Never rush console strike.

Reset & Maintenance

Upon return to the warehouse:

  • Open the case and inspect all components.

  • Clean screens and surfaces.

  • Test: - Faders - Encoders - Buttons - Screens

  • Verify ports and power supplies.

  • Confirm accessories are complete.

  • Recharge internal batteries if applicable.

Consoles are not shelf-ready until reset is complete.

Repair Intake

Route consoles to repair if:

  • Faders or encoders malfunction

  • Screens flicker or fail

  • Ports are damaged

  • Boot errors occur

  • Power is unstable

  • Internal batteries fail

Tag consoles Do Not Use and document symptoms clearly.

Storage Standards

  • Store consoles in climate-controlled areas.

  • Keep cases closed when not in use.

  • Avoid stacking heavy cases on top.

  • Maintain clear labeling and barcodes.

Consoles must remain protected even when idle.

Responsibilities

Warehouse Staff

  • Perform console prep and reset.

  • Verify accessories and cables.

  • Pack and store consoles properly.

Technicians / Programmers

  • Operate consoles responsibly.

  • Protect consoles on-site.

  • Report issues immediately.

Project Managers

  • Verify console requirements per show.

  • Approve software changes.

  • Review console-related incidents.

Quality Control

  • Consoles must boot cleanly before deployment.

  • Accessories must be complete.

  • No liquid damage is acceptable.

  • Backups must exist before and after shows.

  • Reset must be completed before shelving.