The Strand Archive

AMC
Advanced Manual Control for up to 120 channels
AMC Desk

Multi-preset, multi-group desks are based upon 10-channel 3-preset modules, a choice of Master modules both with a dipless crossfader for 9 submaster groups, and an optional Effects module. These various modules, also including selectable inhibit master/independent grouping, combine to form the most comprehensive manual control system for as few as 20 up to a maximum of 120 control channels.

AMC modules are totally self-contained and linked by a common plug-in ribbon cable. This modularity gives great variety in the layout to suit local circumstances. Free-standing desks of polished wood house 5, 7 or 9 module widths. For more than 80 channels, the desk capacity is extended by a matching double-tier wing. AMC modules can also be built into strong, but lightweight cases especially designed for the rigours of touring.

AMC desks are normally used to control permanently installed Permus dimmer racks, or existing STM or JTM racks, but can also be used with Tempus portable dimmer racks.


AMC Channel Module
AMC Channel Module
Each Channel module has 10 consecutively numbered control channels. There is a Red, a White and a Blue preset fader for each channel and a 3-position switch above each fader to select to the A, B or C group for that preset. Each channel has an additional 3-position switch near the top of the module; when this switch is in the top position the channel functions normally, but if changed to the mid position the channel is routed to the overriding control of the inhibitor (INH) master fader which progressively inhibits the response of selected control channels on all groups of all presets. The third position of the upper switch, selects the channel to independent (IND) to allow direct control by the Red preset fader only, independently of all group master faders, even the Grand Master.
AMC Manual Master Module
AMC Manual Master Module
The A, B and C groups for the Red, White and Blue presets each have two group master faders; one bank associated with each end of the long-travel crossfader. Every group also has a Blackout switch and an indicator to highlight which are active. The method of mastering ensures that any group, or groups, can be crossfaded with any others without any unwanted change to channels set to the same intensity in both the incoming and outgoing lighting, but linear for all channels that should change. Groups can be pile-added with the highest intensity level taking precedence. The module also has a power-on Keyswitch, power supply indicators, a Dead Blackout switch and a Grand Master fader to control proportionally all channels except those selected to independent (IND). The inhibit (INH) master fader determines the maximum intensity level of all those channels selected to the inhibit group to simplify the operation of two-part lighting changes.
AMC Timed Master Module
AMC Timed Master Module
This alternative to the Manual Master module has the same facilities, plus an extra Time fader and seconds/minutes switch to electronically delay the effect of the dipless crossfader to take up to 60 seconds or minutes. The progress towards completion of the crossfade is shown by a column of indicator lamps alongside the scale of the crossfader. Timing can be preset, but also acclerated or retarded, on the Time fader.
AMC Effects module
AMC Effects Module
This optional module features two sophisticated effects generators, plus a four frequency band sound to light convertor. The two effects generators each have 7 different modes for variable speed chase and cycle functions, including progression triggered by the bass beat of an external audio signal. The vertical columns of push switches and a flash push select the nine group masters of the AMC master module to any of the effects sources.

AMC


Back to Control Index
History of Strand Memory Control
Back to Strand Archive
Back to home page
Email comments to jon@strandarchive.co.uk