Syncing Lights with video

[ThemeParkPenguin]

Hi! How would I be able to sync a preprogrammed lightshow to a video that will play on my laptop screen. My goal is to push a button and have the lights and video play in sync. Any suggestions?

 

[cpf]

If it's a short video, you could probably get away with just pressing the "Go" buttons simultaneously (or using MIDI from one to trigger the other) and hoping the systems stay relatively in sync.

 

[techieman33]

You need to program to time code.

 

[FACTplayers]

You need to program to time code.

There is the option listed above, or depending on the lighting software you use, why not just import the video into the software? We use Light Factory and it includes the option to embed sound and video directly into the program. Then when the cue for the lights goes, it also starts the video and everything works the way you want it to. Just be aware that you are putting all of your "eggs" in one basket meaning the computer will have a lot of processing to do during this time. Most computers should be able to handle it, but if you are using an older system you may want to test it a few times.