Auto-mode

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Quick overview

Auto mode – also called stand-alone mode, is a feature where you create customized content you want the laser to project using software like QuickShow or BEYOND, and then upload that content to the FB4 media server inside your laser (or external to it). Then you set the day, date, and time, you want it to project, and the laser content will run automatically, at the day, date, and time you specified. No triggering from a console, PC, or external device is needed. It is truly stand alone. This sort of workflow is often used for permanent installations, where clients want a “set it, and forget it” workflow.

Important note

Be aware, many manufacturers use the term “auto mode or sound active mode” in a misleading content. When they say auto mode or sound active mode, they mean the laser will run a loop of pre-made animations, saved on the laser. These animations cannot be controlled, edited, or changed. And these types of lasers generally do not work well in sound active mode, as the laser’s input does not pick up the real audio signal. Just be aware that these sorts of designations are often very misleading. True “auto mode” is one where you can create content, and then control it automatically from the laser, based on the inputs you desire. This is what we offer.

General information

If you are using a laser with FB4 integrated inside, your workflow is as such:

  • Create the content you want in software (QuickShow or BEYOND)
  • Upload to the FB4 inside your laser and set the day, date, and time you want it to project
  • The laser then only needs power connected (and in some countries estop safety) and it will run that content automatically for you, at the day, date and time you set
  • No triggering, PC, console, etc. is required for show playback

If you are using an ILDA based laser, you would need the FB4 External device, to control it in true auto mode. Here is what the workflow is like:

  • Create the content you want in software (QuickShow or BEYOND)
  • Upload to the FB4 External system, connected to your laser via an ILDA cable
  • Set the day, date, and time you want content to project
  • The laser then only needs power connected (and in some countries estop safety) and it will run that content automatically for you, at the day, date, and time you set
  • No triggering, PC, console, etc. is required for show playback

The video below walks you through the steps of a laser system with an integrated FB4, however the process is nearly the same besides the inclusion of the ILDA cable.

You can also control a laser show in auto mode, from software. Pangolin QuickShow and BEYOND give you a variety of tools to synchronize the show’s playback to an automated input such as the BPM of music, or an external event.

Once simple tool to do this, is called Virtual Laser Jockey. Where you set the content in your workspace to playback automatically, based on the BPM you want. Learn more about Virtual Laser Jockey on the Pangolin Wiki by clicking the button below:

Visit Wiki

Another way to control a laser show in auto mode, from software, is to use the playlist tools in the software, and create a playlist that runs automatically for you, when you want it to. You can see tutorials on how to do this here:

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Direct connection to PC

With direct connection to both our QuickShow and BEYOND laser software, we give you the power to design, customize, and create unique laser content. Allowing your creative freedom, to shine through.

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Complete console control

Prefer control from a lighting console? We've got you covered. All of our lasers with integrated FB4 provide direct console control over DMX, ArtNET, or sACN. And when you desire creative freedom or need to interface into a larger multimedia setup, our QuickShow and BEYOND software is there to provide you a suite of tools, to customize your show.

Standalone autoplay

Need your show to run automatically at a set day, date, and time? We've got you covered. The stand-alone playback feature on our FB4-based lasers, give you the ability to run completely automated laser shows, at your desired date, and time. Ideal for permanent installations.

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Questions? We're here to help

Work hand in hand with our team of laser experts, to find the laser system that suits your needs.