Generic Fixture Rigging

A generic fixture is a lighting fixture that does not have any additional functions. This distinguishes it from an intelligent, or moving light, which has additional functions such as movement and colour.

Generic fixtures are not connected to DMX directly, instead they are powered by a dimmer through 15 A cable with round-pin plugs. The dimmer is connected to DMX and controls the brightness of the fixture by varying the voltage/current of the supply.

Before Rigging

Before rigging the fixture, ensure the fixture and rigging point are prepared.

Check Area

Check the area you will be rigging the fixture in. Ensure there are no obstructions or hazards that could make rigging difficult or dangerous. If you are rigging the fixture close to other fixtures, be aware that these may be hot if they have been switched on recently. Take extra care when rigging around intelligent fixtures, as these will move when in use so require addition clearance around the fixture.

Prepare Fixture

Ensure the fixture is ready to be rigged. The fixture should be fitted with the appropriate size/type of clamp for the rigging point.

G clamps are the most commonly used within Venue 1, as these allow quick, easy and safe rigging onto all trussing and lighting bars, including the stage rig, octagon, and LX1/2/3 bars. There are a number of different lengths of G-clamps available, and the correct length for the rigging point/desired fixture position should be chosen.

Fixtures to be rigged on the space frame should be fitted with a smaller size of G-clamp, commonly referred to (within Ents) as a space-frame clamp. These smaller clamps should only be used for rigging fixtures to the space frame, and cannot be used to rig fixtures onto trussing or lighting bars.

Whichever type of clamp is used, it should be checked to ensure it is fitted with a bolt to allow it to clamp onto the rigging point and hold the light safely. This should be a wingbolt, which has a large, flattened head allowing it to be easily tightened by hand.

The clamp should be attached to the yoke of the fixture using a bolt. The correct size bolt should be used, which should slide easily through the hole in the clamp and yoke, but should not give any play when tightened. It is desirable to use a wingnut, as this allows easy adjustment of the fixture when rigged. Note that the clamp should be attached as shown in the image, as this allows full rotation of the fixture when rigged.

Ensure that that clamp is attached to the yoke correctly. Failure of the attachment when the fixture is rigged could result in damage and/or injury.

A safety chain appropriate to the fixture is also required. If the fixture is to be rigged at height, it is useful to attach the safety chain to the yoke for ease of transport.

All rigged fixtures MUST be fitted with an appropriate safety chain. Failure to do so could result in damage and/or injury

Test Fixture

It is a good idea to flash test the fixture on the ground before rigging. This ensures that the fixture functions correctly, and any maintenance can be performed. It is much easier to change a lamp on the ground than up a ladder!

Final Check

Make sure that anyone controlling the lights is aware that you're rigging, and they don't shine lights in your face while you're up a ladder. Ensure the UV cannons and strobes are switched off if you're working at height.

Rigging

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