SnowBlind - Effects machine Blizzard - Free user manual and instructions

Product Type	LED Strobe Light
Dimensions (L x W x H)	12.59 x 5.51 x 3.54 inches (32 x 14 x 9 cm)
Weight	3.52 lbs (1.6 kg)
Power Supply	AC 100-240V, 50/60 Hz
Power Consumption	19W, 0.24A
Light Source	18x 1W cool white LEDs, 100,000 hours lifespan
Beam Angle	15 degrees
Luminous Intensity	2,497 Lux @ 2.5m
DMX Channels	3 channels
DMX Connectors	3-pin XLR male input, 3-pin XLR female output
Control Protocols	DMX-512, Master/Slave, Sound Active
Operating Modes	DMX, Master/Slave, Sound Active, Standalone
Key Features	Variable electronic strobe, dimmer, microphone sensitivity adjustment, WiCICLE wireless DMX compatible, 4-button control panel with LED display, aluminum mounting bracket with locking knobs, safety cable attachment
Fuse	Replaceable, same type and rating
Maximum Ambient Temperature	104°F (40°C)
Cooling	Fan-cooled with ventilation slots
Mounting	Any safe position with adequate ventilation; use safety chain
Cleaning	Clean optics with glass cleaner; keep fans free of dust
Spare Parts & Repairability	No user-serviceable parts; contact Blizzard support for repairs
Warranty	2-year limited warranty (does not cover LED damage)

Frequently Asked Questions - SnowBlind Blizzard

How do I set the DMX address on the SnowBlind?

Press the MODE button to navigate to d--, then press SETUP. Use UP/DOWN to select the desired DMX address (001-255) and press MODE to confirm.

How do I use sound active mode?

Navigate to SE in the menu using the MODE button, press SETUP, then use UP/DOWN to set microphone sensitivity (0-9, 0=off). Ensure the rear sensitivity knob is turned up for the sound sensor to work.

How do I link multiple SnowBlinds in master/slave mode?

Set the first fixture as master by choosing any mode other than SLA. Set subsequent fixtures to slave by navigating to SLA in the menu and pressing SETUP. Connect DMX cables from master output to slave input, daisy chaining.

Can I use the SnowBlind with the WiCICLE wireless DMX system?

Yes, the fixture is certified for WiCICLE without external power. Plug a WiCICLE receiver into the DMX IN of the fixture. Ensure the fixture is set to slave or DMX mode (not master) before connecting. Use cables that separate chassis ground from cable shielding.

What should I do if the fixture has no power?

Check the AC power cord and circuit. Verify the fuse is intact; if blown, replace with an identical fuse. Ensure the fixture is not connected to a dimmer pack. If the problem persists, open a support ticket at blizzardpro.com/support.

Why is my fixture not responding to DMX?

Check DMX cable connections and ensure they are secure. Use proper DMX cables (not microphone cables). Verify the DMX address is set correctly. Install a DMX terminator (120-ohm resistor between pins 2&3) on the last fixture. Ensure the fixture is in DMX mode.

How do I clean and maintain the SnowBlind?

Clean the optics regularly with a suitable glass cleaner to maintain light output. Keep fans and ventilation slots free of dust and debris to prevent overheating. Store the fixture in a case when not in use.

How do I mount the SnowBlind safely?

Mount the fixture using a C- or O-clamp rated for at least 10 times the fixture's weight. Always attach a safety cable to the fixture's rigging point. Ensure adequate ventilation (at least 20 inches from adjacent surfaces) and do not mount to surfaces of unknown strength.

What is the beam angle and brightness of the SnowBlind?

The beam angle is 15 degrees. Luminous intensity is 2,497 Lux at 2.5 meters. The fixture uses 18x 1-watt cool white LEDs with a lifespan of 100,000 hours.

What is the warranty coverage for the SnowBlind?

Blizzard Lighting provides a 2-year limited warranty. It does not cover malfunction caused by damage to the LEDs. For warranty service, open a support ticket at blizzardpro.com/support to obtain a Return Authorization (RA).

USER MANUAL SnowBlind Blizzard

Black LED light fixture with multiple illuminated buttons and a handle (no visible text or symbols)

blizzard

Blizzard Lighting, LLC http://www.blizzardpro.com Waukesha, WI USA Copyright (c) 2021

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. Getting Started 3

What's In The Box? 3

Getting It Out Of the Box 3

Powering Up! 3

Getting A Hold Of Us 3

Safety Instructions 4

2. Meet the Snowblind 5

Main Features 5

DMX Quick Reference 5

Control 5

Snowblind Pin-Up Picture 6

The Rear Connections 6

3. Setup 7

Fuse Replacement 7

Connecting A Bunch of UVonix™ Blackstars 7

Data/DMX Cabling 7

Using This Fixture with the WiCICLE® Wireless DMX System 8

Cable Connectors 10

3-Pin??? 5-Pin??? Huh?!? 10

Take It To The Next Level: Setting Up DMX Control 10

Fixture Linking (M/S Mode) 11

Mounting & Rigging 11

4. Operating Adjustments 12

The Control Panel 12

Control Panel Menu Structure 12

DMX Values In-Depth 13

Troubleshooting 13

Keeping Your Snowblind As Good As New 14

Returns (Gasp!) 14

Shipping Issues 14

Tech Specs! 15

1. GETTING STARTED

What's In The Box?

• 1 x SnowBlind™
• 1 x Power Cord
  • This Lovely User Manual

Getting It Out Of the Box

Congratulations on purchasing one way cool, way flexible, way original LED strobe light! Now that you've got your SnowBlind™ (or hopefully, Snow Blind's!), you should carefully unpack the box and check the contents to ensure that all parts are present and in good condition. If anything looks as if it has been damaged in transit, notify the shipper immediately and keep the packing material for inspection. Again, please save the carton and all packing materials. If a fixture must be returned to the factory, it is important that the fixture be returned in the original factory box and packing.

Powering Up!

All fixtures must be powered directly off a switched circuit and cannot be run off a rheostat (variable resistor) or dimmer circuit, even if the rheostat or dimmer channel is used solely for a 0% to 100% switch.

Warning! All fixtures must be connected to circuits with a suitable Ground (Earthing).

Getting A Hold Of Us

If something happens to go wrong, visit blizzardpro.com/support and open a support ticket. We'll be happy to help, honest.

Disclaimer: The information and specifications contained in this document are subject to change without notice. Blizzard Lighting™ assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions that may appear in this user manual. Blizzard Lighting™ reserves the right to update the existing document or to create a new document to correct any errors or omissions at any time. You can download the latest version of this document from www.blizzardpro.com.

Author: Date: Last Edited: Date:
J. Thomas 2/25/2013 J. Thomas 11/8/2021

Please read these instructions carefully. They include important information about the installation, usage and maintenance of this product.

• Please keep this User Guide for future use. If you sell the unit to someone else, be sure that they also receive this User Guide.
• ALWAYS make sure that you are connecting to the proper voltage, and that the line voltage you are connecting to is not higher than that stated on the decal or rear panel of the fixture.
• This product is intended for indoor use only.
• To prevent risk of fire or shock, do not expose fixture to rain or moisture.
• Make sure there are no flammable materials close to the unit while operating.
• The unit must be installed in a location with adequate ventilation, at least 20in (50cm) from adjacent surfaces. Be sure that no ventilation slots are blocked.
• ALWAYS disconnect from the power source before servicing or replacing fuse and be sure to replace with same fuse size and type.
• ALWAYS secure fixture using a safety chain. NEVER carry the fixture by its head. Use its carrying handles.
• DO NOT operate at ambient temperatures higher than 104^ (40°C).
• In the event of a serious operating problem, stop using the unit immediately. NEVER try to repair the unit by yourself. Repairs carried out by unskilled people can lead to damage or malfunction. Please contact the nearest authorized technical assistance center. Always use the same type spare parts.
• NEVER connect the device to a dimmer pack.
• Make sure the power cord is never crimped or damaged.
• Never disconnect the power cord by pulling or tugging on the cord.
• Avoid direct eye exposure to the light source while it is on.

Caution! There are no user serviceable parts inside the unit. Do not open the housing or attempt any repairs yourself. In the unlikely event your unit may require service, please open a support ticket at www.blizzardpro.com/support.

2. MEET THE SNOWBLIND™

Main Features

• 18x 1-watt cool white LEDs
• Variable electronic strobe
• Variable electronic dimmer
- Controlled via 3-channel DMX and master/slave
• Sound active mode in standalone and DMX modes
- Microphone sensitivity adjustment in standalone and DMX modes
- 4-button easy to use LED control panel menu
• Aluminum mounting bracket with locking knobs
- Able to directly power the wiCICLE® wireless system via DMX
• Lightweight and Compact (It kept its New Years' resolution!)

Control

• Protocol: USITT DMX-512
  • DMX channels: 3-channel
• Easy-to-use 4-button control panel with LED display
• Operating modes: DMX-512, M/S, and Sound Active

DMX Quick Reference (3-Channel Modes)

3CH What It Does

1 Dimmer (Low <--> High)

2 Flash Speed (Slow <--> Fast)

3 Microphone Sensitivity Adjustment (Low <--> High)

Figure 1: SnowBlind™ Pin-Up Picture

Figure 2: The Rear Connections

3. SETUP

Before replacing the fuse, disconnect the power cord. ALWAYS replace it with the same type and rating.

Fuse Replacement

Remove the fuse holder from of its housing. Then take out the damaged fuse from its holder and replace with exact same type of fuse. Reattach the fuse holder, and then reconnect power.

Connecting A Bunch of Snowblinds

You will need a serial data link to run light shows using a DMX-512 controller or to run shows on two or more fixtures set to sync in master/slave operating mode. The combined number of channels required by all the fixtures on a serial data link determines the number of fixtures the data link can support.

Fixtures on a serial data link must be daisy chained in one single line. Also, connecting more than 32 fixtures on one serial data link without the use of a DMX optically-isolated splitter may result in deterioration of the digital DMX signal. The maximum recommended cable-run distance is 500 meters (1640 ft). The maximum recommended number of fixtures on a serial data link is 32 fixtures.

Data/DMX Cabling

To link fixtures together you'll need data cables. You should use data-grade cables that can carry a high quality signal and are less prone to electromagnetic interference.

For instance, Belden© 9841 meets the specifications for EIA RS-485 applications. Standard microphone cables will "probably" be OK, but note that they cannot transmit DMX data as reliably over long distances. The cable should have the following characteristics:

• 2-conductor twisted pair plus a shield
• Maximum capacitance between conductors - 30 pF/ft.
- Maximum capacitance between conductor & shield - 55 pF/ft.
• Maximum resistance of 20 ohms / 1000 ft.
- Nominal impedance 100 - 140 ohms

USING THIS FIXTURE WITH THE wiCICLE® WIRELESS DMX SYSTEM

In addition to the unbridled thrill you already received the first time you plugged in your fixture, you'll be delighted to know that This fixture also works seamlessly with our wiCICLE® Wireless DMX system, without additional power.

• ONLY fixtures bearing this logo are certified for use with the wiCICLE® without external power.
• Unauthorized modification and/or using the wiCICLE® with unapproved fixtures may cause damage to the wiCICLE® or fixture. UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES IS BLIZZARD LIGHTING RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY DAMAGE FROM SUCH OPERATION.
• Fixtures bearing the above logo MUST only use cable and connectors which separate chassis/case ground from cable shielding. Cabling with the shield connected to the connector's case/chassis may cause malfunction and damage to the wiCICLE® or fixture.

Each wiCICLE® acts as both a transmitter and a receiver, depending on whether a DMX source is applied to the integral XLR connector. This is an extremely powerful feature of the system, however, it also requires 1 piece of due diligence, and that is the removal of extraneous DMX signals from your lighting rig BEFORE proceeding.

SO: BEFORE DOING ANYTHING ELSE, YOU SHOULD DISABLE ANY BUILT-IN PROGRAMS IN THE FIXTURES YOU WISH TO CONNECT AND/OR SET THEM AS SLAVES PRIOR TO RETURNING THEM TO DMX MODE (IF APPLICABLE). Most fixtures contain a built-in automatic, sound active or custom program which is designed to operate with the fixture NOT connected to a DMX chain.

Some of these programs will automatically run unless the fixture is set to slave mode. These fixtures typically sense DMX automatically and switch to DMX mode upon receiving DMX signal (our Pucks do that!)

If you plug a wiCICLE ^® “receiver” into an autosensing fixture set as a “master,” chances are good that the wiCICLE ^® “receiver” will begin transmitting the master program. Most times, this is undesirable, and taking the two seconds to switch these programs off will solve a lot of aids.

Got that done? Good! Then let's proceed!

1. Plug the wiCICLE ^® Receiver into the "DMX IN" connector of the fixture and verify it is receiving power (the STATUS LED should illuminate.)
2. Connect the AC/DC adaptor to the wiCICLE® Transmitter and verify it is receiving power (the STATUS LED should illuminate.)
3. Press the RECESSED SELECTOR BUTTON on the Transmitter to select the operating channel group. (The system will store this setting for future use)

The 7-Color Status LED will change color to indicate the current channel group:

· GROUP 1: RED
- GROUP 2: GREEN
· GROUP 3: YELLOW
· GROUP 4: BLUE
· GROUP 5: VIOLET
· GROUP 6: CYAN
· GROUP 7: WHITE

NOTE: "GROUP" number also corresponds to the "GROUP" setting on our LightCaster™ wireless DMX Transceiver.

1. Follow the same procedure on the Receiver to select the channel group.
2. Once both the transmitter and receiver(s) are both set to the same channel group, connect the transmitter to the DMX controller or the DMX out of a fixture on your DMX chain.
3. Once a DMX signal is provided to the transmitter, the status LED will blink RED slowly until communication is established with the receiver. The status LED on the receiver(s) will flash GREEN slowly until communication is established.
4. Once the clearest channel is auto-selected, the status LEDs will blink quickly on both the transmitter and receiver. NOTE: The color of the LED DURING operation does not indicate channel group, instead it indicates whether the unit is transmitting or receiving. That's It!

Cable Connectors

Cables must have a male XLR connector on one end and a female XLR connector on the other end. (Duh!)

A Word on Termination:

DMX is a resilient communication protocol, however errors still occasionally occur. Termination reduces signal errors, and therefore best practices include use of a terminator in all circumstances. If you are experiencing problems with erratic fixture behavior, especially over long signal cable runs, a terminator may help improve performance.

To build your own DMX Terminator:

Obtain a 120-ohm, 1/4-watt resistor, and wire it between pins 2 & 3 of the last fixture. They are also readily available from specialty retailers.

CAUTION: Do not allow contact between the common and the fixture's chassis ground. Grounding the common can cause a ground loop, and your fixture may perform erratically. Test cables with an ohm meter to verify correct polarity and to make sure the pins are not grounded or shorted to the shield or each other.

3-Pin??? 5-Pin??? Huh?!?

If you use a controller with a 5 pin DMX output connector, you will need to use a 5 pin to 3 pin adapter. They are widely available over the internet and from specialty retailers. If you'd like to build your own, the chart below details a proper cable conversion:

Conductor 3-Pin Female (Output) 5-Pin Male (Input)
Ground/Shield Pin 1 Pin 1
Data 1- (Primary Data Link) Pin 2 Pin 2
Data 1+ (Primary Data Link) Pin 3 Pin 3
Data 2- (Optional Secondary Data Link) -- Pin 4 - Do Not Use
Data 2+ (Optional Secondary Data Link) -- Pin 5 - Do Not Use

Take It To The Next Level: Setting Up DMX Control

Step 1: Connect the male connector of the DMX cable to the female connector (output) on the controller.

Step 2: Connect the female connector of the DMX cable to the first fixture's male connector (input).

Note: It doesn't matter which fixture address is the first one connected. We recommend connecting the fixtures in terms of their proximity to the controller, rather than connecting the lowest fixture number first, and so on.

Step 3: Connect other fixtures in the chain from output to input as above. Place a DMX terminator on the output of the final fixture to ensure best communication.

Fixture Linking (M/S Mode)

1. Connect the male connector side of the DMX cable to the output female connector of the first fixture.

1. Connect the end of the cable coming from the first fixture which will have a female connector to the input connector of the next fixture consisting of a male connector. Then, proceed to connect from the output as stated above to the input of the following fixture and so on.

A quick note: Often, the setup for Master-Slave and Standalone operation requires that the first fixture in the chain be initialized for this purpose via either settings in the control panel or DIP-switches. Secondarily, the fixtures that follow may also require a slave setting.

Check the "Operating Adjustments" section in this manual for complete instructions for this type of setup and configuration.

Mounting & Rigging

This fixture may be mounted in any SAFE position provided there is enough room for ventilation. The fan or vent pathway must never be obstructed.

IMPORTANT: Regardless of the rigging option you choose for your fixtures, always be sure to secure your fixture with a safety cable.

Mount the fixture using a suitable "C" or "O" type clamp. The clamp should be rated to hold at least 10x the fixture's weight to ensure structural stability. Do not mount to surfaces of unknown strength, and ensure properly rated rigging is used when mounting fixtures overhead.

Overhead mounting requires extensive experience, which includes calculating working load limits, knowledge of the installation material being used, and periodic safety inspections. If you lack these qualifications, do not attempt the installation yourself.

4. OPERATING ADJUSTMENTS

The Control Panel

All the goodies and different modes possible with the SnowBlind™ are accessed by using the control panel on the side of the fixture. There are 4 control buttons below the LED display which allow you to navigate through the various control panel menus.

MODESETUPDOWN

Is used to navigate the various modes.

Is used to enter into the selected mode setup.

Scrolls through menu items and numbers in ascending order.

Scrolls through menu items and numbers in descending order.

The control panel display shows the menu items listed. Pushing the button repeatedly will scroll through the menu settings. To edit one, push the button. Then use the buttons to scroll through your choices (if applicable). Push the mode button to confirm your choice.

Control Panel Menu Structure

Brightness Control (Low <--> High)

Sets the Strobe Speed (Slow <--> Fast)

Sound Active, Mic Sensitivity (0-9, 0=off)

*Note: The rear sensitivity knob must be turned up (clockwise) for the control panel settings will function.

Also, for the knob to function, the menu settings must not be set to off (SE.0).

SLA Sets Fixture to Slave Mode

d-- 001→255 Selects the Starting DMX Channel

DMX Values In-Depth (3 Channel Mode)

Ch. Value What It Does
1 000	<--> 255 Dimmer (Low <--> High)
2 000	<--> 255 Flash Speed (Slow <--> Fast)
3	000 <--> 009010 <--> 255	No FunctionMicrophone Sensitivity (Low <--> High)

Troubleshooting

Symptom Solution
Fixture Auto-Shut Off	Check the fan in the fixture. If it is stopped or moving slower than normal, the unit may have shut itself off due to high heat. This is to protect the fixture from overheating. Clear the fan of obstructions, or return the unit for service.
Beam is Dim Check	Check optical system and clean excess dust/grime. Also ensure that the 220V/110V switch is in the correct position, if applicable.
No Light Output	Check to ensure fixture is operating under correct mode, IE sound active/auto/DMX/Etc., if applicable.
Chase Speed Too Fast/Slow	Check to ensure proper setup of speed adjustment.
No Power Check	Fuse, AC cord and circuit for malfunction.
Blown Fuse Check	AC cord and circuit for damage, verify that moving parts are not restricted and that unit's ventilation is not obstructed
Slow Movement	Verify that 220V/110V switch is in the correct position, if applicable. Also check that speed channels are set appropriately.
No Response to Audio	Verify that the fixture is in "Sound Active" mode. Adjust Audio Sensitivity, If Applicable.
Fixture Not Responding / Responding Erraticly	Make sure all connectors are seated properly and securely. Use Only DMX Cables and/or check cables for defects Install a Terminator. Reset fixture(s).
Intermittant Lamp	Check lamp for properly installation. Relamp, lamp may have reached end of life.

Keeping Your SnowBlind™ As Good As New

The fixture you've received is a rugged, tough piece of pro lighting equipment, and as long as you take care of it, it will take care of you. That said, like anything, you'll need to take care of it if you want it to operate as designed. You should absolutely keep the fixture clean, especially if you are using it in an environment with a lot of dust, fog, haze, wild animals, wild teenagers or spilled drinks.

Cleaning the optics routinely with a suitable glass cleaner will greatly improve the quality of light output. Keeping the fans free of dust and debris will keep the fixture running cool and prevent damage from overheating.

In transit, keep the fixtures in cases. You wouldn't throw a prized guitar, drumset, or other piece of expensive gear into a gear trailer without a case, and similarly, you shouldn't even think about doing it with your shiny new light fixtures.

Common sense and taking care of your fixtures will be the single biggest thing you can do to keep them running at peak performance and let you worry about designing a great light show, putting on a great concert, or maximizing your client's satisfaction and "wow factor." That's what it's all about, after all!

Returns (Gasp!)

We've taken a lot of precautions to make sure you never even have to worry about sending a defective unit back, or sending a unit in for service. But, like any complex piece of equipment designed and built by humans, once in a while, something doesn't go as planned. If you find yourself with a fixture that isn't behaving like a good little fixture should, you'll need to obtain a Return Authorization (RA).

Don't worry, this is easy. Just open a support ticket at www.blizzardpro.com/support, and we'll issue you an RA. Then, you'll need to send the unit to us using a trackable, pre-paid freight method. We suggest using USPS Priority or UPS. Make sure you carefully pack the fixture for transit, and whenever possible, use the original box & packing for shipping.

When returning your fixture for service, be sure to include the following:

1.) Your contact information (Name, Address, Phone Number, Email address).
2.) The RA# issued to you
3.) A brief description of the problem/symptoms.

We will, at our discretion, repair or replace the fixture. Please remember that any shipping damage which occurs in transit to us is the customer's responsibility, so pack it well!

Shipping Issues

Damage incurred in shipping is the responsibility of the shipper, and must be reported to the carrier immediately upon receipt of the items. Claims must be made within seven (7) days of receipt.

Tech Specs!

Weight & Dimensions
Length 12.59 inches (32 cm)
Width 5.51 inches (14 cm)
Height 3.54 inches (9 cm)
Weight 3.52 lbs (1.6 kg)
Power
Operating Voltage AC100V/240V 50/60Hz
Power Consumption 19W, .24A
Power Factor .67
Light Source
LED 18x 1-Watt LEDs (Cool White), 100,000 hours.
Optical
Beam Angle 15 degrees
Luminous Intensity 2,497 Lux @ 2.5m, 432 Lux @ 2m
Thermal
Max. Operating Temp. 104 degrees F (40 degrees C) ambient
Control
Protocol	USITT DMX-512
DMX Channels	3 Channel
Input	3-pin XLR Male
Output 3-pin XLR Female
Operating Modes	Sound Active, Master/Slave, DMX
Warranty	2-year limited warranty, does not cover malfunction caused by damage to LEDs.

Black LED light fixture with multiple illuminated LEDs mounted on a black tray (no text or symbols visible)

Enjoy your product! Our sincerest thanks for your purchase! --The team @ Blizzard Lighting