Most of the time I go through Syracuse Scenery, Stage, and LightingIf money is an issue I have seen a bunch of used Ions on Solaris and other reseller sites. Also unless I stripped every piece of unneeded bloatware on a windows machine, ripped out anything that would allow a user to get to the internet and make sure no one could add a program, I would never use a PC for a show. Wait, not even then. But that's me. There are some good dealers in upstate NY that could help you find out a good replacement, where are you located?
I am in Syracuse, so actually not too far away.I too, am a believer in the viability of a PC as a lighting controller. As JChenualt says, the drawback is the lack of sliders. But for a fixed cue based show, that is no issue. We've run on a PC for years at Blackfriars and never had a Windows crash or issue. To be sure, I keep the PC up-to-date and don't use anything else on it. How Upstate are you? If you're near Rochester, stop on by.
I am currently building a complete hog4pc system. I just purchased a nano hog and am about to buy a Microsoft surface pro, touchscreen, and other peripherals. The entire system will fit into a pelican case. All told it cost me $5500, $5k less than a road hog with all the capabilities. Biggest thing is to get reliable hardware and keep extraneous software off your computer. I chose the Microsoft surface since it's all solid state and has its own battery so I don't need to carry a big UPS.
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I was actually planning on using a pro for the system if that is the route I take.
Send me a PM if you're in town. You can see some pics of the setup 'in action' if you go to the sites in my signature.I am in Syracuse, so actually not too far away.
I was actually planning on using a pro for the system if that is the route I take.
I would be dubious about using a surface pro just because of screen size. All of the PC solutions I am aware of use the screen instead of a panel of sliders and buttons. The better ones make extensive use of screen real estate. I just think you will be happier programming with a full size display.
Also the surface keyboard is less than awesome. Very good for what it does, not as good as a 'real thick' keyboard.
The surface has plenty of horsepower and works great as a focus tool, but I would want more for my primary control.
Are there cons when going the pc route when dealing with theatrical shows? What PC software gives the best bang for your buck as well?
Thanks for any help. My local school district is looking to replace their very old ETC light board and price is def. an issue.
-Jason
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