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Subject: Stagecraft Digest #204
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---------------------------------------------------

Stagecraft Digest, Issue #204

 1. Re: 12v
    by "Paul Guncheon" <paul.guncheon [at] verizon.net>
 2. Re: 12v
    by "Michael J. Banvard" <mbanvard [at] sapsis-rigging.com>
 3. Re: Surtitles,,, again
    by FrankWood95 [at] aol.com
 4. Re: Surtitles,,, again
    by Boyd Ostroff <ostroff [at] operaphilly.com>
 5. AutoCAD question
    by Michael Heinicke <mheinicke [at] sbcglobal.net>
 6. Re: Dimmer and transformer question
    by Ron Cargile <rcargile [at] uci.edu>
 7. Re: Dimmer and transformer question
    by FrankWood95 [at] aol.com
 8. Re: Surtitles,,, again
    by FrankWood95 [at] aol.com
 9. FW: References
    by Luis Ramirez <lramirez [at] sfasu.edu>
10. Re: FW: References
    by David Marks <dave [at] davidmarks.cc>
11. Re: Surtitles,,, again
    by John McKernon <stagecraft2004 [at] mckernon.com>
12. Re: References
    by Herrick Goldman <Herrick [at] HGLightingDesign.com>
13. Help!  ETC soft patch question
    by patrick_kevin [at] colstate.edu
14. Re: Help!  ETC soft patch question
    by John McKernon <stagecraft2004 [at] mckernon.com>
15. Re: Help!  ETC soft patch question
    by Greg Persinger <gregpersin [at] comcast.net>
16. Re: FW: References
    by "Sean Culligan" <slc193 [at] email.com>
17. Re: Help!  ETC soft patch question
    by "John Vink" <jvink [at] johnsonsystems.com>
18. Re: USITT Workshop: Let's Get the Show on the Road
    by William McLachlan <willy [at] wmld.com>
19. Re: USITT Workshop: Let's Get the Show on the Road
    by Wood Chip-P26398 <Chip.Wood [at] motorola.com>
20. Re: FW: References
    by Stephen Litterst <slitterst [at] ithaca.edu>
21. Re: Surtitles,,, again
    by FrankWood95 [at] aol.com
22. Wanted - S4 26 degree lenses.
    by "Tony" <deeming.tony [at] btinternet.com>
23. Electric Cooler Suitable for Touring
    by "Andy Leviss" <Andy [at] DucksEchoSound.com>
24. Re: Electric Cooler Suitable for Touring
    by "Jonathan S. Deull" <jdeull [at] clarktransfer.com>
25. Re: Electric Cooler Suitable for Touring
    by "Andy Leviss" <Andy [at] DucksEchoSound.com>
26. Theater selling equpment. Including the walls.
    by Scott Parker <scparker [at] gmail.com>
27. Re: Dimmer and transformer question
    by Stuart Wheaton <sdwheaton [at] fuse.net>
28. Re: Electric Cooler Suitable for Touring
    by Greg Bierly <gbierly [at] dejazzd.com>
29. Re: 45-pct Proportional Patch - CAUTION
    by DanSLDME [at] aol.com
30. Re: 45-pct Proportional Patch - CAUTION
    by David Duffy <david [at] audiovisualdevices.com.au>
31. Re: 45-pct Proportional Patch - CAUTION
    by DanSLDME [at] aol.com

*** Please update the subject line of your reply to use the subject
*** line of the message you are replying to! Please only reply to
*** one message subject in each reply.

----------------------------------------------------------------------

Message-ID: <006101c4d09e$a04b8310$0202a8c0 [at] MyLastPC>
From: "Paul Guncheon" <paul.guncheon [at] verizon.net>
References: <list-5193196 [at] prxy.net>
Subject: Re: 12v
Date: Mon, 22 Nov 2004 04:21:56 -1000

I sent this in a few days ago but I've not seen it posted... but then I
didn't receive #201...

<<I called Makita and asked them how many amps a 12v impact driver pulls.
After a few days, the rep emailed me that:

"Amp (Output) is not a good guide to a comparison of Impact tools.   To
judge the capability of Impact tools, we should use the max fastening
torque.   For 6916D it would be 100Nm (887in.lbs)"

...which I interpreted to mean "we don't know".

I asked again, this time telling them that I really wanted to know.

The rep responded:

"When we asked Makita Japan what the Amperage was on the tool, they said
they could not give us an accurate rating based on it being an impact tool.
It is typical for this type of tool to draw between 5-10 amps under no load,
and between 20-30 amps during impact."

Using my tired old brain to do the math, I get that a 3 amp hour battery
will run the tool under load for (3 ah / 30 amps =.1 x 60 min. =) 6 minutes.
Is that
right?  30 amps is a rather too big number methinks.

Something tells me that I'm not looking at this correctly or something...

Eh?

Laters,

Paul

"My clothes are pressed," Tom said ironically.


------------------------------

From: "Michael J. Banvard" <mbanvard [at] sapsis-rigging.com>
Subject: RE: 12v
Date: Mon, 22 Nov 2004 08:38:40 -0600
In-Reply-To: <list-5203870 [at] prxy.net>
Message-Id: <E1CWFL9-0002GH-00 [at] granger.mail.mindspring.net>

Well, on the Rep/Makita's behalf, it is very hard to determine the max load
on an impact drill, because the resistance of that being driven factors very
highly.  The more the drill just spins, the less draw on the battery.  If
the impact has to kick in to get things moving, then the draw has to
increase.

Note that an impact wrench never runs "full out."  The impacts are for split
seconds, with a small interval between them.  Under full load I would GUESS
that full draw is achieved no more than 40% of the time, and that number is
likely lower still.

Consider that reaching full load on an impact drill would mean that the
thing being driven would not move under force, and your wrist would likely
get torqued all to hell.  Since this is the point to stop using the tool
suggests that you will never run the tool under full load for more than a
second, unless you are indeed stronger than the drill.

So, since Makita can't come up with a rating, ask for a usage time after a
full battery charge.  I'll guarantee that it is longer than 6 minutes, but
if you could hold an impact drill under load for 6 minutes, you'll probably
be ready for a break almost as long as the charge time.

Hope this helps,
- Michael

Michael J. Banvard
SRI Midwest
Saint Louis, Missouri
(866) 773-1174
(314) 629-3644
(314) 773-1174 fax
http://www.sapsis-rigging.com


------------------------------

From: FrankWood95 [at] aol.com
Message-ID: <158.44696425.2ed37f52 [at] aol.com>
Date: Mon, 22 Nov 2004 12:43:46 EST
Subject: Re: Surtitles,,, again

In a message dated 22/11/04 02:33:02 GMT Standard Time, slitterst [at] ithaca.edu 
writes:

> I've had just about enough this time, Frank.  The technique he "proposed"
>  is not nonsense.  It is a real, working solution that many of us on the
>  list have used in real-world applications.

Perhaps I should have said "at best, unsatisfactory". This would have been 
more diplomatic. 
>  
>  You have acknowledged that you have never done surtitle projection, so
>  it's about time you accepted the results of those of us who have done it
>  repeatedly.  We've all been quite patient and accepting of the RP
>  technique your propose.  I believe the worst any of us have said is that
>  it takes more work than the technique that we use.  You've answered us
>  with arrogance, disdain and a distinct lack of respect for our accumulated
>  PROFESSIONAL experience.

You do what you have to do, as a professional, with the gear available. A 
professional opera house uses its surtitle facility all the time: every night 
that there is an opera. They can't afford the time to rig and focus a front 
projection rig. Certainly, I have never seen one, and you know as well as I do that 
the beams from distant FOH fixtures, are always visible if you look for them, 
be they follow spots or projectors.

It takes work to build the device I proposed, yes. Once. After that, you fly 
it in and forget it. For a one-off, I should do it your way. Not that I can, 
with a 270 degree audience wrap. Bend your agile mind to solving that problem.
>  
>  I know this concept doesn't exist in your world, but please try, just this
>  once, to acknowledge there are more things on heaven and earth than are
>  dreamt of in your philosophy.

I seem to remember a proverb about a pot and a kettle. Just because you have 
found a partial solution to a problem does not mean that you should stop 
looking for a better one.
>  
>  Just had to get that off my chest.  Now to go get some 18 yr old Scotch
>  into my gullet.

Send me some. What I have in my glass is only five years old! BTW, I saw a 
recipe for a fruit punch made with Lagavulin. Criminal!



Frank Wood

------------------------------

Date: Mon, 22 Nov 2004 13:02:14 -0500 (EST)
From: Boyd Ostroff <ostroff [at] operaphilly.com>
Subject: Re: Surtitles,,, again
In-Reply-To: <list-5214373 [at] prxy.net>
Message-ID: <Pine.LNX.4.61.0411221250000.4937 [at] maestro.operaphilly.com>
References: <list-5214373 [at] prxy.net>

Frank, I am not going to waste the time to argue with you since you're 
just too stubborn and (sorry) clueless. Front projection is used by all 
the companies I'm aware of in the US. It works just fine. It is extremely 
simple to setup, focus and maintain. The equipment is usually in a 
projection booth which provides very easy access. Opera America runs a 
mailing list for opera production people where you could affirm this, but 
personally I'd be embarrased to even pose the question.

In the meantime, I wish you continued success as a projection system 
designer, along with all your other innovative ideas which have provided a 
constant source of amusement for the rest of us on the stagecraft list.

| Boyd Ostroff
| Director of Design and Technology
| Opera Company of Philadelphia
| http://tech.operaphilly.com
| ostroff [at] operaphilly.com


------------------------------

Message-ID: <20041122180039.70508.qmail [at] web81705.mail.yahoo.com>
Date: Mon, 22 Nov 2004 10:00:39 -0800 (PST)
From: Michael Heinicke <mheinicke [at] sbcglobal.net>
Subject: AutoCAD question

Ok, I have an AutoCAD question (probably only the
first of several over the next month or so). Is there
any way to easily print out the layer information
chart? I know I can do a screen capture through
Windows and print that, but I didn't know if there
might be a more elegant way to print out the
information I would like. BTW, I'm working with 2004,
full version.

TIA,
Mike H

------------------------------

Message-Id: <6.0.0.22.2.20041122101551.01b7e438 [at] pop.uci.edu>
Date: Mon, 22 Nov 2004 10:17:16 -0800
From: Ron Cargile <rcargile [at] uci.edu>
Subject: Re: Dimmer and transformer question

The ghost loads were lekos, so pure resistance.
....Ron


 >> So I put 575 watt
 >> ghost loads on the dimmers and had no more transformer problem.
 >>
 >Is this ghost load a pure resistance? Or is is inductive like the dimmers.
 >It could be that the R/I has changed so much as to make the inrush to the
 >transformers much smaller.
 >Just a thought
 >
 >Daryl Redmon
 >Resounding Light
----
Ron Cargile
ME, Univ of CA, Irvine


------------------------------

From: FrankWood95 [at] aol.com
Message-ID: <126.50ac5261.2ed38a37 [at] aol.com>
Date: Mon, 22 Nov 2004 13:30:15 EST
Subject: Re: Dimmer and transformer question

In a message dated 22/11/04 05:43:09 GMT Standard Time, 
jonathand01 [at] sbcglobal.net writes:

> Is this ghost load a pure resistance? Or is is inductive like the dimmers. 
>  It could be that the R/I has changed so much as to make the inrush to the 
>  transformers much smaller.

If it's a lantern, it's pretty well a pure resistance. SCRs need a certain 
minimum current to hold themselves in conduction. An inductive load may not 
provide this when it is needed. Hence, the ghost load.


Frank Wood

------------------------------

From: FrankWood95 [at] aol.com
Message-ID: <1e6.2f04bb74.2ed38f3e [at] aol.com>
Date: Mon, 22 Nov 2004 13:51:42 EST
Subject: Re: Surtitles,,, again

In a message dated 22/11/04 18:01:11 GMT Standard Time, 
ostroff [at] operaphilly.com writes:

 Front projection is used by all 
>  the companies I'm aware of in the US. It works just fine. It is extremely 
>  simple to setup, focus and maintain. The equipment is usually in a 
>  projection booth which provides very easy access.

If you say so. All I can say is that I have seen no evidence of front 
projection in Europe. It always shows.

 Opera America runs a 
>  mailing list for opera production people where you could affirm this, but 
>  personally I'd be embarrased to even pose the question.

Please tell me where to find them.
>  
>  In the meantime, I wish you continued success as a projection system 
>  designer, along with all your other innovative ideas which have provided a 
>  constant source of amusement for the rest of us on the stagecraft list.

Thank you. I am delighted to serve as the court jester. At the same time, has 
anyone tried to implement any of my ideas, and found it to work?

Sorry for the double negative, but none if them will NOT wiork. There may be 
better ways to do it, that's all. And these are not neccessarily the 
entrenched methods.



Frank Wood

------------------------------

Date: Mon, 22 Nov 2004 14:01:44 -0600
From: Luis Ramirez <lramirez [at] sfasu.edu>
Subject: FW: References
Message-id: <001801c4d0ce$1723d080$50d06090 [at] sfasu.edu>


We teach a portfolio preparation class in our BFA design/tech program, =
and a
divergence of opinion has come up re: letters of recommendation and
references for our students. Some of us think recommendation letters =
should
be included in the portfolio, and contact info for references should be
included on the one-page resume. Other opinions are that letters should =
not
be in the portfolio, and that references should be on a separate sheet, =
with
a note on the resume that they are available. What is your primary
observation in current professional practice?=20
=A0
Luis Ramirez
Scenic and Lighting Designer=20
Associate Professor of Theatre
Stephen F. Austin State University
P.O. Box 9090, SFA Station
Nacogdoches, TX 75962-9090
Phone: 936-468-1112
Email: lramirez [at] sfasu.edu
=A0


------------------------------

Message-ID: <41A248F2.9090107 [at] davidmarks.cc>
Date: Mon, 22 Nov 2004 15:15:46 -0500
From: David Marks <dave [at] davidmarks.cc>
Subject: Re: FW: References
References: <list-5220906 [at] prxy.net>

Luis Ramirez wrote:

>Some of us think recommendation letters should
>be included in the portfolio, and contact info for references should be included on the one-page resume. Other opinions are that letters should not be in the portfolio, and that references should be on a separate sheet, with a note on the resume that they are available. 
>

I am in the middle of a job search, after 25 years running my own business.
My "feeling" is that "references are available upon request".  Now
my resume says a lot with 25 years on it but I don't want every tire kicker
talking to my best clients, bugging them with phone calls that don't 
help me.
The job leads that turn serious get the references and the contact info.
That's my thinking.

Dave Marks
Sound guy
currently in Pennsylvania



------------------------------

Date: Mon, 22 Nov 2004 15:26:00 -0500
Subject: Re: Surtitles,,, again
From: John McKernon <stagecraft2004 [at] mckernon.com>
Message-ID: <BDC7B588.E2AE%stagecraft2004 [at] mckernon.com>
In-Reply-To: <list-5217813 [at] prxy.net>

> If you say so. All I can say is that I have seen no evidence of front
> projection in Europe. It always shows.

Ah, you're right, Covent Garden isn't in Europe! And neither are any of the
other opera houses in countries east of the English Channel where Stan
Pressner reported last week that surtitles are commonly front projected.

I can also report that in Japan I've seen them use LED sign towers on either
side of the stage for "sidetitles". It's an excellent solution, particularly
given the low proscenium heights over there.

"Basta", as it were. Can the List Mom terminate this thread? I suspect many
of us think it's outlived its usefulness.

- John


------------------------------

Date: Mon, 22 Nov 2004 15:28:17 -0500
Subject: Re: References
From: Herrick Goldman <Herrick [at] HGLightingDesign.com>
Message-ID: <BDC7B611.E2E%Herrick [at] HGLightingDesign.com>
In-Reply-To: <list-5221603 [at] prxy.net>

My resume says "References available upon request"

Similarly it has the name of well known directors listed with the show as
well as the theater or producers so if the potential employer knows these
folks well enough they can just call.

Also my work and photos tend to speak for themselves so the website
portfolio works very well in that sense.

_H


-- 
Herrick Goldman
Lighting Designer, NYC
www.HGLightingDesign.com

"To the scores of silent alchemists who wreak their joy in darkness and in
light bringing magic to life, we bow most humbly. "-CDS


------------------------------

Date: Mon, 22 Nov 2004 15:30:06 -0500
From: patrick_kevin [at] colstate.edu
Subject: Help!  ETC soft patch question
Message-id: <27631426fde7.26fde7276314 [at] colstate.edu>

I have a problem that needs to be fixed through software today.  Getting to the instruments by 5pm today is not possible!  Hope someone can help.

I have an ETC Express 24/48, and I'm using NSI and ETA dimmer packs (4x1200watt).  One of the channels is going to strip lights with too much wattage.  I can run the dimmer up to 45% or so before the fuse breaks.  Can't I reprogram the dimmer to define 'full' at 45% so it can't go higher?

Tomorrow, I can fix the problem the right way.  Today, I need to fix it with software.

Thanks for your help.
\<


Kevin Patrick
Assistant Professor of Theatre
Columbus State University
706.568.0248
patrick_kevin [at] colstate.edu
theatre.colstate.edu



Kevin Patrick
Assistant Professor of Theatre
Columbus State University
706.568.0248
patrick_kevin [at] colstate.edu
theatre.colstate.edu


------------------------------

Date: Mon, 22 Nov 2004 15:36:25 -0500
Subject: Re: Help!  ETC soft patch question
From: John McKernon <stagecraft2004 [at] mckernon.com>
Message-ID: <BDC7B7F9.E2BA%stagecraft2004 [at] mckernon.com>
In-Reply-To: <list-5222328 [at] prxy.net>

> I have a problem that needs to be fixed through software today.  Getting =
to
> the instruments by 5pm today is not possible!  Hope someone can help.
>=20
> I have an ETC Express 24/48, and I'm using NSI and ETA dimmer packs
> (4x1200watt).  One of the channels is going to strip lights with too much
> wattage.  I can run the dimmer up to 45% or so before the fuse breaks.  C=
an't
> I reprogram the dimmer to define 'full' at 45% so it can't go higher?

I downloaded the ETC Express manual from the ETC web site, and on page 38 i=
t
tells how:

Normally, dimmers output with a linear profile at 100 percent unless you
scale them to a lower level. The console allows you to proportionally  scal=
e
the output of an individual dimmer in the Patch display.

For  example, if you enter a dimmer proportional level of 60 in Patch and
set  that channel to full in a cue or submaster, the dimmer will output at
60  percent. =20

Follow these steps to assign a proportional dimmer output level:

1. Press [Patch]. Selects Patch display

2. If the [Dim] LED is unlit, press [Dim] to indicate that the next number
entered  will be a dimmer.

(Prompt reads:  Select dimmer numbers, then press  ENTER to assign to a
channel, or  press AT to assign a proportion, or  press PROFILE to assign a
profile)

3. Use the keypad to enter the desired dimmer number(s). Use [And],  [Thru]
or [Except] for  multiple selections.

4. Press [At] Prompt reads:  Select dimmer proportion

5. Use the keypad to enter  the desired maximum  output level for the
dimmer(s). Full is displayed  until a new level is entered.  Enter a zero
before single digit levels (i.e., 08).  Dimmer=B9s proportional level is set.


Note:

If a dimmer is doubled (see Setting dimmers to Dimmer Doubling, page 48, fo=
r
an explanation) Use [S2], A, and [S3], B, along with the numeric keypad, to
enter dimmer numbers as you create your patch. If you select a doubled
dimmer without specifying A or B, the system defaults to A.

- John


------------------------------

Date: Mon, 22 Nov 2004 14:41:25 -0600
Subject: Re: Help!  ETC soft patch question
From: Greg Persinger <gregpersin [at] comcast.net>
Message-ID: <BDC7AB15.8435%gregpersin [at] comcast.net>
In-Reply-To: <list-5222328 [at] prxy.net>

Kevin,

Go to patch mode and select the dimmer that you want to "limit"  and

Ohhhhhhhh! John beat me to the answer so do what he said.

:-)


Greg Persinger
Vivid Illumination

Greg [at] Vividillumination.com






------------------------------

Message-ID: <027a01c4d0d4$76b47a80$5cf78482 [at] culliganf4gxvn>
From: "Sean Culligan" <slc193 [at] email.com>
References: <list-5220906 [at] prxy.net> <list-5221603 [at] prxy.net>
Subject: Re: FW: References
Date: Mon, 22 Nov 2004 15:47:20 -0500


----- Original Message ----- 
>
> I am in the middle of a job search, after 25 years running my own 
> business.
> My "feeling" is that "references are available upon request".  Now
> my resume says a lot with 25 years on it but I don't want every tire 
> kicker
> talking to my best clients, bugging them with phone calls that don't help 
> me.
> The job leads that turn serious get the references and the contact info.
> That's my thinking.
>
> Dave Marks
> Sound guy
> currently in Pennsylvania
>
>

This is true for someone who has a lot of experience. But for someone just 
coming out of school (as would likely be the case this thread was started 
on), they are most likely looking for lower level positions. Comments on the 
list in the past have mentioned that when managers/supervisors are looking 
for that level of skill, they are going through a rather large stack of 
resumes. Are they going to want to take that extra step, or is said resume 
going to be too much of a hassle?

IMO, if one does not have a lot of experience out of school and/or is going 
for a lower level position, then include the references on the resume. If 
one is like Dave w/ a lot of experience, then one can afford to be more 
selective and can make references available upon request. There, the resume 
speaks for itself for how much experience one has.

Sean Culligan


------------------------------

From: "John Vink" <jvink [at] johnsonsystems.com>
Subject: RE: Help!  ETC soft patch question
Date: Mon, 22 Nov 2004 13:50:44 -0700
Message-ID: <001801c4d0d4$ef690d60$6501a8c0 [at] canadiansales>
In-Reply-To: <list-5222328 [at] prxy.net>

You can do this in the patch screen on the Express console.
Press "PATCH" to get to that display.  Now Enter "DIMMER" dimmer
number "AT" "45".  That should do it. It is under the
proportional patching section of the manual.

John Vink


> -----Original Message-----
> From: Stagecraft [mailto:stagecraft [at] theatrical.net]On Behalf Of
> patrick_kevin [at] colstate.edu
> Sent: November 22, 2004 1:30 PM
> To: Stagecraft
> Subject: Help! ETC soft patch question
>
>
> For info, archives & UNSUBSCRIBE, see
> <http://stagecraft.theprices.net/>
> ---------------------------------------------------
>
> I have a problem that needs to be fixed through
> software today.  Getting to the instruments by 5pm
> today is not possible!  Hope someone can help.
>
> I have an ETC Express 24/48, and I'm using NSI and ETA
> dimmer packs (4x1200watt).  One of the channels is
> going to strip lights with too much wattage.  I can
> run the dimmer up to 45% or so before the fuse breaks.
>  Can't I reprogram the dimmer to define 'full' at 45%
> so it can't go higher?
>
> Tomorrow, I can fix the problem the right way.  Today,
> I need to fix it with software.
>
> Thanks for your help.
> \<
>
>
> Kevin Patrick
> Assistant Professor of Theatre
> Columbus State University
> 706.568.0248
> patrick_kevin [at] colstate.edu
> theatre.colstate.edu
>
>
>
> Kevin Patrick
> Assistant Professor of Theatre
> Columbus State University
> 706.568.0248
> patrick_kevin [at] colstate.edu
> theatre.colstate.edu
>
>



------------------------------

In-Reply-To: <list-5124155 [at] prxy.net>
References: <list-5085461 [at] prxy.net> <list-5124155 [at] prxy.net>
Message-Id: <8F8643C5-3CCA-11D9-B701-000393B61EC2 [at] wmld.com>
From: William McLachlan <willy [at] wmld.com>
Subject: Re: USITT Workshop: Let's Get the Show on the Road
Date: Mon, 22 Nov 2004 13:07:47 -0800

I remember this truck and truck driver story from a tour I was on way 
back in 1990...

The first truck due in the morning (we were in Cleveland that day) was 
about an hour late.  Of course that meant the road crew and local crew 
were all milling about casually on and around the dock.

The #1 truck comes up, hastily wheels in and backs into place, and the 
driver jumps out to open the doors cursing and nearly spitting 
blood...weaving a tapestry of invective the likes of which even 
stagehands haven't seen.  Oddly enough, his hands and forearms are 
greasy.

He finds the rigger and the crew chief and says "come here you 
-blankety blankety blank- little -blanks- who don't listen to a 
-blank'in- thing I -blank'in- told you...I need your help...and grab a 
-blank'in- loader, too".

A minute or two later, back come the driver, the rigger, the 
electrician, and a loader each CARRYING a 1 ton motor and dragging it's 
requisite 60' of chain, amongst many silent mouth-agape gazes.

As we tip the first few boxes, we find 2 empty motor cases and are just 
plain confused.  Did we FORGET 4 motors???  How would we have missed 
the fact that the boxes didn't weigh anything when they were tipped and 
locked in with the final load bar! It was kind of surreal (we were all 
tired ... it was after all day 5 of a five-in-a-row) until we learn 
later that about 4 or 4:30am the driver encountered a weigh station 
somewhere on the way into Ohio with a scale attendant that INSISTED he 
needed to reduce the tail axle load by about 300 pounds or something 
like that.  Apparently as much as the driver protested, the guy stood 
firm and wouldn't release him until he did it.  The driver was forced 
to tip down the last two motor boxes (thank god they weren't 
stacked...), remove 4 motors, and put them in his cab.  There were 
apparently only two guys working the weigh station that morning, and as 
a small line of trucks formed while the driver begged his case, the 
attendants wouldn't help him either.

He was NOT happy.

The pack was reworked and 8 motors found a new home on the dance floor.

Cheers,

Willy
On Nov 21, 2004, at 6:44 AM, Barney Simon wrote:

> For info, archives & UNSUBSCRIBE, see 
> <http://stagecraft.theprices.net/>
> ---------------------------------------------------
>
> Back in the old days, Production arts always loaded the instruments
> first.... they were on the first floor.  The cable and dimmers were on
> the tail.  Everytime I went, I had to make them load the heavy stuff up
> front to balance the load.  And still once or twice I was caught at a
> weigh station and fined for not having the axles properly weighted.
>
> Barney Simon
> JC Hansen Co, Inc.
> Drapes, Drops, and Dance Floors
>
>
>
>
>
>
--
William McLachlan
willy [at] wmld.com, http://www.wmld.com
"a) faster  b) cheaper  c) better.  Choose any two."
--


------------------------------

Message-ID: <E4A88E2C1A02D943A0B743C2B253669C0477FA74 [at] az33exm27.corp.mot.com>
From: Wood Chip-P26398 <Chip.Wood [at] motorola.com>
Subject: RE: USITT Workshop: Let's Get the Show on the Road
Date: Mon, 22 Nov 2004 14:28:42 -0700

Is that possible?

On Behalf Of William McLachlan
...weaving a tapestry of invective the likes of which even 
stagehands haven't seen.  

------------------------------

Date: Mon, 22 Nov 2004 17:15:42 -0500 (EST)
From: Stephen Litterst <slitterst [at] ithaca.edu>
Subject: Re: FW: References
In-reply-to: <list-5220906 [at] prxy.net>
Message-id: <2799.172.209.103.63.1101161742.squirrel [at] 172.209.103.63>
References: <list-5220906 [at] prxy.net>


> ---------------------------------------------------
>
>
> We teach a portfolio preparation class in our BFA design/tech program, and
> a
> divergence of opinion has come up re: letters of recommendation and
> references for our students. Some of us think recommendation letters
> should
> be included in the portfolio, and contact info for references should be
> included on the one-page resume. Other opinions are that letters should
> not
> be in the portfolio, and that references should be on a separate sheet,
> with
> a note on the resume that they are available. What is your primary
> observation in current professional practice?

We instruct our students to include their references on their resume, but
we don't have them include actual letters in their portfolio.

Personally, I still list references on my resume.  I can't conceive of a
situation where someone would be willing to hire me without checking
references, so I save them that step.  It costs me four lines of text, but
I think it's worth it.

Steve Litterst


------------------------------

From: FrankWood95 [at] aol.com
Message-ID: <144.396258c2.2ed3cf36 [at] aol.com>
Date: Mon, 22 Nov 2004 18:24:38 EST
Subject: Re: Surtitles,,, again

In a message dated 22/11/04 20:27:29 GMT Standard Time, 
stagecraft2004 [at] mckernon.com writes:

> Ah, you're right, Covent Garden isn't in Europe! And neither are any of the
>  other opera houses in countries east of the English Channel where Stan
>  Pressner reported last week that surtitles are commonly front projected.
>  
>  I can also report that in Japan I've seen them use LED sign towers on 
either
>  side of the stage for "sidetitles". It's an excellent solution, 
particularly
>  given the low proscenium heights over there.

I must have missed Stan Pressner's post. My mail server had a hiccup, last 
week. I'll look for it. But do bear in mind the enormous depth of classic opera 
houses. Perhaps 200' from a possible site for a projector to the pros line.

With a low pros height, and a Japanese character set, this sounds like a good 
idea. I think that Japanese reads from top to bottom, so it would be logical. 
Chinese certainly does.

Frank Wood

------------------------------

Message-ID: <001501c4d0fa$4a8cf650$0800000a [at] Tony>
From: "Tony" <deeming.tony [at] btinternet.com>
Cc: jason [at] tollefsondesigns.com
References: <list-5030878 [at] prxy.net>
Subject: Wanted - S4 26 degree lenses.
Date: Tue, 23 Nov 2004 01:18:05 -0000

Wanted - 3 or 4 26 degree lens barrels for S4 profiles. Anyone got any they
don't want/need?

UK located, please as I don't fancy the overseas shipping costs!

Cheers
Ynot



------------------------------

From: "Andy Leviss" <Andy [at] DucksEchoSound.com>
Subject: Electric Cooler Suitable for Touring
Date: Mon, 22 Nov 2004 19:51:57 -0500
Organization: Duck's Echo Sound
Message-ID: <007601c4d0f6$a2fe8d20$a19afea9 [at] AndyLeviss>

Hey gang,
So, I bought myself a cheap little $30 electric cooler/warmer at a
Walgreens to keep drinks and snacks (some three-show days I've sustained
myself primarily on "pudding in a tube"!) cool out at FOH while I'm on
tour. After a month or so, the power supply has up and died (it's
definitely not built for anywhere near the amount of use I put on it--it
warms up pretty fast, and finally burnt through one of the components on
the circuit board; then again, running 24-7 for four days out of the
week (five on split-weeks) will do that to an el-cheepo AC-DC adapter).
I'm debating whether to get a beefier power supply for it, or to search
for a new cooler/mini-fridge built to work harder than this one was. Or
to find a Walgreens and just replace the whole thing, since that'll cost
less than a power supply.

So, does anybody have any recommendations for an electric
cooler/mini-fridge that will hold up to such use (not to mention being
packed into a road box and travelled on a 53-footer)? The key here is,
of course, size. It doesn't have to be big. Just big enough to hold a
few bottles of Fruit2O or iced tea (Honest Tea Peach Oo-la-long is some
good stuff, even if it does have a slightly silly name!), and a few
squeeze tubes or cups of pudding/jello. I've got space that I could fit
a slightly larger one (typical cooler size, say) in one of my other
crates if I had to (although I'm slightly afraid of shipping costs at
the end of the tour, LOL). Any pointers would be appreciated!

--Andy Leviss
Sound engineer, Sesame Street Live: Elmo's Coloring Book
This week: Dubuque, IA and Milwaukee, WI
Next week: I honestly can't remember! Check back later...

---
Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free.
Checked by AVG anti-virus system (http://www.grisoft.com).
Version: 6.0.786 / Virus Database: 532 - Release Date: 10/29/2004
 


------------------------------

From: "Jonathan S. Deull" <jdeull [at] clarktransfer.com>
Subject: RE: Electric Cooler Suitable for Touring
Date: Mon, 22 Nov 2004 21:03:58 -0500
In-Reply-To: <list-5235540 [at] prxy.net>
Message-ID: <auto-000005235909 [at] prxy.net>

Andy:

Try stopping at a truck stop.  They have units designed to run 24/7 which
might do the trick.

Jonathan

-----Original Message-----
From: Stagecraft [mailto:stagecraft [at] theatrical.net] On Behalf Of Andy Leviss
Sent: Monday, November 22, 2004 7:52 PM
To: Stagecraft
Subject: Electric Cooler Suitable for Touring

For info, archives & UNSUBSCRIBE, see <http://stagecraft.theprices.net/>
---------------------------------------------------

Hey gang,
So, I bought myself a cheap little $30 electric cooler/warmer at a
Walgreens to keep drinks and snacks (some three-show days I've sustained
myself primarily on "pudding in a tube"!) cool out at FOH while I'm on
tour. After a month or so, the power supply has up and died (it's
definitely not built for anywhere near the amount of use I put on it--it
warms up pretty fast, and finally burnt through one of the components on
the circuit board; then again, running 24-7 for four days out of the
week (five on split-weeks) will do that to an el-cheepo AC-DC adapter).
I'm debating whether to get a beefier power supply for it, or to search
for a new cooler/mini-fridge built to work harder than this one was. Or
to find a Walgreens and just replace the whole thing, since that'll cost
less than a power supply.

So, does anybody have any recommendations for an electric
cooler/mini-fridge that will hold up to such use (not to mention being
packed into a road box and travelled on a 53-footer)? The key here is,
of course, size. It doesn't have to be big. Just big enough to hold a
few bottles of Fruit2O or iced tea (Honest Tea Peach Oo-la-long is some
good stuff, even if it does have a slightly silly name!), and a few
squeeze tubes or cups of pudding/jello. I've got space that I could fit
a slightly larger one (typical cooler size, say) in one of my other
crates if I had to (although I'm slightly afraid of shipping costs at
the end of the tour, LOL). Any pointers would be appreciated!

--Andy Leviss
Sound engineer, Sesame Street Live: Elmo's Coloring Book
This week: Dubuque, IA and Milwaukee, WI
Next week: I honestly can't remember! Check back later...

---
Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free.
Checked by AVG anti-virus system (http://www.grisoft.com).
Version: 6.0.786 / Virus Database: 532 - Release Date: 10/29/2004
 




------------------------------

From: "Andy Leviss" <Andy [at] DucksEchoSound.com>
Subject: RE: Electric Cooler Suitable for Touring
Date: Mon, 22 Nov 2004 20:17:37 -0500
Organization: Duck's Echo Sound
Message-ID: <007701c4d0fa$38a86d20$a19afea9 [at] AndyLeviss>
In-Reply-To: <list-5235910 [at] prxy.net>

Jonathan Deull wrote:

> Try stopping at a truck stop.  They have units designed to 
> run 24/7 which might do the trick.


Hmm, will have to check that out (or ask [tip?] one of our truck drivers
to do it for me :o) The question is, though, whether or not the AC
adapter is designed to run that long--it was actually the power adapter
on this cooler, not the cooler itself, that died (although at $30 for
cooler and adapter, I question how much longer the cooler would last).

--A

---
Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free.
Checked by AVG anti-virus system (http://www.grisoft.com).
Version: 6.0.786 / Virus Database: 532 - Release Date: 10/29/2004
 


------------------------------

Message-ID: <90d9c998041122182318e56ec2 [at] mail.gmail.com>
Date: Mon, 22 Nov 2004 21:23:37 -0500
From: Scott Parker <scparker [at] gmail.com>
Reply-To: Scott Parker <scparker [at] gmail.com>
Subject: Theater selling equpment. Including the walls.

I got a note from a theater that they are forced out. Landlord sold
the building....
Here's a list of the stuff:
http://www.hstech.org/WAXfinalsalerev.htm

I'm not connected in any way. Please don't ask me about this stuff.....

-- 
Take care, Scott

Scott C. Parker

------------------------------

Message-ID: <41A2A8D0.4090303 [at] fuse.net>
Date: Mon, 22 Nov 2004 22:04:48 -0500
From: Stuart Wheaton <sdwheaton [at] fuse.net>
Subject: Re: Dimmer and transformer question
References: <list-5156502 [at] prxy.net>
In-Reply-To: <list-5156502 [at] prxy.net>

Ron Cargile wrote:

> My question is this: What is it about small dimmer loads that would 
> cause the transformers to poop out?  Seems to me that that the waveform 
> would be the same regardless of load.  There is no other circuitry in 
> the transformers that gave up other than input wires, the transformer, 
> and output wires.  I found out later that the transformers are not 
> supposed to be dimmable, yet they worked just fine with the ghost load.


I wire a lot of 24 volt loads for dimmers.

Use the big heavy duty Buck/Boost transformers, and make 
sure they are rated for the load.

Try to keep your transformers in free air.

Disable any filament warming, or dimmer trim so that the 
dimmer always goes to off when not actually in use.

That will solve almost any troubles.

Stuart


------------------------------

In-Reply-To: <list-5236545 [at] prxy.net>
References: <list-5236545 [at] prxy.net>
Message-Id: <EA4DE576-3D04-11D9-ADB5-000D936BFA94 [at] dejazzd.com>
From: Greg Bierly <gbierly [at] dejazzd.com>
Subject: Re: Electric Cooler Suitable for Touring
Date: Mon, 22 Nov 2004 23:05:30 -0500

I have not used one but just saw the thingy (technical term) that does 
the heating and cooling for $37 in All Electronics (minus the power 
supply and cooler) so $30 is pretty good in my opinion.  for anyone 
interested allelectronics.com :thermoelectric cooler/heater, peltier 
effect

I almost bought one to play around with... then I remembered I don't 
have time to play around.


Greg Bierly
Technical Director
Hempfield HS


------------------------------

From: DanSLDME [at] aol.com
Message-ID: <1ac.2c217bce.2ed438ab [at] aol.com>
Date: Tue, 23 Nov 2004 01:54:35 EST
Subject: Re: 45-pct Proportional Patch - CAUTION

Hi all

This is a bit late, but here's a caution note:

The original poster (sorry, don't recall the name)
had a problem of a breaker tripping out because
too many lamps were on one dimmer, so
he wanted to limit the dimmer to 45% at the board.

The proportional patch instructions given accomplished that.

However, the worst-case loading condition for a dimmer
is when running at 50% dutycyle timing, which is someplace in the midrange.
I don't know exactly where because I don't know what curve is
built into the dimmer (I think the board is linear);  my first guess is that
50% timing cutoff is a little below 50% apparent power setting.

At this operating point the dimmer is switching right at the peak of the 
sinewave;  the lamp resistance is significantly lower than nominal
because the lamp temperature is low;  and in this case you have too many lamps
on the dimmer.  You won't trip the mains breaker because it
(and the wiring which it is there to protect) 
sees the same integrated heating effect that the lamp sees, 
but the dimmer is getting way more heating 
during the switching transition than it should. 
This transition heating is mostly all in the dimmer, 
not in the lamp and not in the breaker.

The instantaneous peak current is much higher than it would be if the lamps
were running hotter.  A cold lamp has only 10% of the resistance of a lamp
running at its rated power. 

I would not be surprised to have the dimmer fail under this condition,
or shut down due to overheating if so equipped.

Also, if you run at a point just shy of quickly tripping the breaker,
you'll probably trip it after a short while. Breakers come with different
load-vs-trip time curves; a spec might read something like
carry rated load for at least one hour, trip within  ten minutes at 200% of 
rated load,
in between loads will give in between times (numbers are made up,
but this is how they work; they're thermal (at least this part is).

Bottom line is, you can seriously overload the dimmer
without overloading the circuit breaker.
................
Been off list for a while, but finally
got re subscribed (hope it sticks).
Glad to be back.

... Dan S.


------------------------------

Message-ID: <41A2E10B.4050605 [at] audiovisualdevices.com.au>
Date: Tue, 23 Nov 2004 17:04:43 +1000
From: David Duffy <david [at] audiovisualdevices.com.au>
Subject: Re: 45-pct Proportional Patch - CAUTION
References: <list-5251325 [at] prxy.net>
In-Reply-To: <list-5251325 [at] prxy.net>

DanSLDME [at] aol.com wrote:

>This is a bit late, but here's a caution note:
>
>The original poster (sorry, don't recall the name)
>had a problem of a breaker tripping out because
>too many lamps were on one dimmer, so
>he wanted to limit the dimmer to 45% at the board.
>
>The proportional patch instructions given accomplished that.
>
>However, the worst-case loading condition for a dimmer
>is when running at 50% dutycyle timing, which is someplace in the midrange.
>I don't know exactly where because I don't know what curve is
>built into the dimmer (I think the board is linear);  my first guess is that
>50% timing cutoff is a little below 50% apparent power setting.
>
>At this operating point the dimmer is switching right at the peak of the 
>sinewave;  the lamp resistance is significantly lower than nominal
>because the lamp temperature is low;  and in this case you have too many lamps
>on the dimmer.  You won't trip the mains breaker because it
>(and the wiring which it is there to protect) 
>sees the same integrated heating effect that the lamp sees, 
>but the dimmer is getting way more heating 
>during the switching transition than it should. 
>This transition heating is mostly all in the dimmer, 
>not in the lamp and not in the breaker.
>
>The instantaneous peak current is much higher than it would be if the lamps
>were running hotter.  A cold lamp has only 10% of the resistance of a lamp
>running at its rated power.
>  
>

I wouldn't imagine that the filament resistance varies much over
the 10% - 100% rage of supply voltage. The cold figures you
speak about are for when it's very low in level, like just visible.
The lamp resistance is not at all linear with the applied voltage.

>I would not be surprised to have the dimmer fail under this condition,
>or shut down due to overheating if so equipped.
>
>Also, if you run at a point just shy of quickly tripping the breaker,
>you'll probably trip it after a short while. Breakers come with different
>load-vs-trip time curves; a spec might read something like
>carry rated load for at least one hour, trip within  ten minutes at 200% of 
>rated load,
>in between loads will give in between times (numbers are made up,
>but this is how they work; they're thermal (at least this part is).
>
>Bottom line is, you can seriously overload the dimmer
>without overloading the circuit breaker.
>

Aren't dimmer packs designed to handle the worst case dissipation?
I can't believe people don't run their fixtures near 50% for at least
some of the time.
David...

------------------------------

From: DanSLDME [at] aol.com
Message-ID: <bd.4b6bb7ee.2ed43fa9 [at] aol.com>
Date: Tue, 23 Nov 2004 02:24:25 EST
Subject: Re: 45-pct Proportional Patch - CAUTION

Thanks, David Duffy, for the additional info.

You're right, the variation of filament resistance 
isn't linear.  Someplace I have curves provided to me by
a lamp manufacturer which shed more light (oops?)
on this question.

Re
"
Aren't dimmer packs designed to handle the worst case dissipation?
I can't believe people don't run their fixtures near 50% for at least
some of the time.
"
Yes they are designed to run rated lamp load at 50%  level,
but the original problem in this application was
one of  too many lamps, ie well over the rated load.

The dimmer will run hotter at 50% cutoff than near either end.
You can easily demo this with a little $5 600W hardware store dimmer
(you may have some in your house);  with even a modest load,
it will become warm to the touch at mid setting,
remain fairly cool at very low or very high.  Our 20A theatre dimmers
do the same, but they're harder to touch to sense their 
(internal) temperature. 

... Dan S.

------------------------------

End of Stagecraft Digest #204
*****************************