What equipment do I need to create a laser show?
A: There are many different ways to configure laser systems, we select the appropriate technologies based on the individual application. The 3 basic elements are Content, Control, and Projection. In its simplest form you need a laser projector, a PC, and show programming.
How are laser shows projected?
The laser projector(s) are what actually display the laser show onto the screen or into theatrical haze in the air. The type of projector is specified depending on variables such as venue, screen surface, ambient light, graphics or beam effects, colors, and budget. The main difference between graphics projectors and beam projectors is where they are placed, where they are pointed, and what type of imagery is sent to them. Standard ethernet signal cables are used to connect the control system to the laser projectors.
How are laser shows controlled?
Computer Control – Using a PC as the interface in conjunction with a Pangolin laser output device such as a QM2000 or FlashBack 3 or 4, gives the user the ability and flexibility change programming and perform live effects.
Alesis ADAT HD24 – We’ve stopped using HD24’s for installations, but continue to support clients who still use them.
How are laser shows delivered?
Computer files – These files contain the digitized laser animation frames and instructions for playing the scenes in sync with music or another control system. We use various tools to create our programs, we currently distribute shows in Pangolin Beyond format.
What about music licensing?
ASCAP, BMI, SEASAC, and Global Music rights offer music licensing categories for live laser shows. Yearly fees are few hundred dollars, and vary based on the specifics of each venue. ASCAP and BMI cover the majority of our catalog.
Are lasers safe?
Our lasers are bright enough that there is the possibility of causing eye damage through misuse. Our installations are designed to be safe, and we train our clients for safe operations. It’s important to treat high powered lasers like power tools, and respect the safety protocols.
Are there regulations I need to follow?
Yes, Laser shows in the U.S. are regulated by the CDRH under the FDA. As part of our system sales we set up your paperwork. There is yearly reporting required, it’s not difficult or expensive and we can assist.
Do you have an "all dome" product?
We prefer not to use wide angle optics on our graphics projectors for image quality and theatrical staging. It is an option for those who require it. It is also possible to incorporate the beam projectors into dome filling projection zones.
How long do the lasers last?
Our laser projector warranty covers 24 months parts, 48 months labor. Limited to 5,000 operating hours. Most lasers lifetimes double or triple the 5,000 hours, and then gradually dim. They rarely die without an external cause like lightning or misuse.
How hard is it to make my own shows?
Playing live cues, and displaying scrolling text is easy.
Programming quality graphics is easier than animating for video, but learning to create full length pro quality shows can take time.
Why is your system better than others?
Designed from the ground up to be a professional level theater show system. Not for cheap night club effects.
Elegant high quality design, reliability, simple to use.
Best beam quality and color balance.
No beam distorting wide angle lenses.
Largest and highest quality show catalog.
Can you project on the clouds in the sky at night?
Technically it is possible. It requires a thin layer of very dense clouds located high overhead, with no significant winds and very clear skies between earth and the cloud layer. Unfortunately, the conditions need to be so specific to be effective, we don’t offer it as a service.