Troubleshooting

If a firmware update stalls or the fixture displays 'Update Wait' and doesn't progress, start with a full power cycle: disconnect power completely, wait 30 seconds, then reconnect. In many cases, the fixture will either resume the update or boot into its previous firmware version. Do not attempt to power-cycle repeatedly in quick succession — give the fixture time to complete any pending write operations.

If the fixture remains unresponsive after a power cycle, verify you're using the correct upload tool for your fixture (see the firmware upload tool FAQ). Re-attempt the update using a known-good USB cable or Ethernet connection. For USB updates, try a different USB port and avoid hubs. For Ethernet updates, ensure a direct connection to the fixture without switches or routers in between.

If the fixture will not boot or accept a new update attempt, it may need recovery via the service USB port — contact Elation Technical Support at FIRMWARE@ELATIONLIGHTING.COM or call 866-245-6726. Provide your fixture model, serial number, and the firmware version you were attempting to install. Important: some updates (notably on the Proteus Rayzor 760) can clear calibration data — always check the firmware release notes before updating.

LED flickering on Elation fixtures can have several causes, ranging from simple settings issues to hardware faults. Start with the most common and work down:

**DMX signal issues (most common):** A noisy or interrupted DMX signal causes visible flickering. Check all DMX cables for damage, verify proper DMX termination at the end of the chain, and test with a known-good DMX source. Try the fixture in standalone mode — if flickering stops, the issue is in your DMX chain, not the fixture.

**Dimming curve and refresh rate:** Some dimming curves can produce visible flicker, especially on camera. Access the fixture's menu and try a different dimming curve. If shooting video, increase the LED refresh rate to match or exceed your camera's shutter speed. The KL Series and Fuze line both offer adjustable refresh rates specifically for this purpose.

**DMX mode interaction:** Some fixtures exhibit color artifacts in certain DMX modes. The KL Fresnel 8 FC, for example, has been reported to show blue tint in 1-channel mode — switching to a higher channel mode resolves this. Check if your flickering occurs only in a specific DMX mode.

**Firmware:** Check forums.elationlighting.com for firmware updates — several flickering issues (KL Panel periodic flicker, Fuze Par Z175 green LED flicker at full power) have been addressed in firmware updates.

**Hardware fault:** If flickering persists across all modes, in standalone, and after firmware update, the LED driver board may need replacement. Contact Elation service: RMA@ELATIONLIGHTING.COM or 866-245-6726.

If your fixture's colors appear inaccurate — wrong hues, shifted whites, or color presets that don't match expected values — a color calibration reset often resolves the issue. The procedure varies by fixture family:

**General approach:** Access the fixture's service or calibration menu through the onboard display (usually under Settings → Calibration or Service → Color Cal). The most common fix is setting all color channels (R, G, B, W, and any additional channels like Mint or Amber) to their maximum value (255) in the calibration menu, then saving. This resets the calibration reference point.

**Fuze series specific:** Fuze SFX and other Fuze models have been reported to exhibit color and gobo preset drift — colors shifting to incorrect values over time. After recalibrating, update to the latest firmware, as several Fuze firmware releases include improved color stabilization. If drift recurs frequently, the fixture may need service.

**After firmware updates:** Some firmware updates (particularly on Proteus Rayzor 760) can clear calibration data. If colors look wrong immediately after a firmware update, re-run the calibration procedure. Check the firmware release notes — they will note if recalibration is required post-update.

**Factory reset as last resort:** A full factory reset via the fixture menu restores all parameters including calibration to factory defaults. This will also reset DMX address, mode selection, and all custom settings.

A fixture that stops responding to DMX commands, gets stuck in a position, or appears locked up needs a hard reset. Follow these steps in order:

**Step 1: Power cycle.** Disconnect power completely (not just DMX). Wait 30 seconds. Reconnect power. The fixture should go through its homing/reset sequence (pan/tilt to home position, lamp strike if applicable). This resolves the majority of lock-up situations.

**Step 2: Check DMX.** If the fixture homes correctly but doesn't respond to DMX, the issue may be in the signal chain. Disconnect DMX and test in standalone mode via the fixture's onboard menu. If the fixture responds to standalone control, the problem is upstream (console, cable, splitter).

**Step 3: Factory reset.** If the fixture is responsive but behaving erratically, perform a factory reset through the onboard menu (typically Settings → Factory Reset or System → Reset). This restores all parameters to factory defaults — you'll need to re-set your DMX address and mode.

**Step 4: Circuit breaker reset.** Some freeze conditions (particularly reported on the Fuze Z350 Wash under heavy strobe from touring consoles) require a full breaker reset — not just unplugging the fixture but cycling the circuit breaker that feeds it. This ensures a complete power discharge.

If the fixture repeatedly freezes during the same type of operation, check for firmware updates — several freeze conditions have been resolved in firmware releases. If the issue persists, contact Elation service.

In most cases, firmware updates preserve your fixture's calibration data, DMX address, and mode settings. However, there are important exceptions:

**Updates that clear calibration:** Some major firmware updates reset calibration data as part of the update process — this has been documented on the Proteus Rayzor 760 (where calibration and time data were cleared upon updating) and occasionally on other fixtures during major version jumps. Always read the release notes before updating — they will explicitly state if recalibration is required.

**DMX address and mode:** Most updates preserve these settings, but a factory reset (which some troubleshooting procedures recommend after updating) will clear them. Note your current DMX address and mode before updating.

**Best practice for fleet updates:** Before updating a fleet of fixtures, update one unit first and verify all calibration, color accuracy, and functionality before proceeding with the rest. Use C-Loader II's batch update feature for efficiency, but monitor the first few units to complete before walking away.

**Version branches:** Some fixtures have multiple firmware version branches (e.g., V1.5.x and V1.6.x for Proteus Hybrid) corresponding to different hardware revisions. Installing the wrong branch can cause unpredictable behavior. Verify your fixture's hardware revision and install the correct branch.

A fixture that won't power on or fails to complete its boot sequence can have several causes. Work through this diagnostic sequence:

**Check power supply:** Verify the outlet is live (test with another device). Check the power cable and connectors for damage. If the fixture uses TRUE1 or powerCON connectors, ensure they're fully seated and locked. Try a different power cable if available.

**Check the fuse:** Most Elation fixtures have a user-accessible fuse near the power inlet. Inspect for a blown fuse and replace with the exact same rating. A blown fuse may indicate a deeper issue — if the replacement fuse blows immediately, do not continue replacing fuses; contact service.

**Battery button test (Fuze series):** Some Fuze fixtures (Fuze Max Profile, Fuze SFX) have a battery-powered display that activates with a button press even when mains power is off. If pressing this button shows a display (possibly showing 'software update'), the fixture's control board is alive but may have a power supply or boot issue. This narrows the diagnosis.

**Boot sequence observation:** If the fixture partially boots — fans spin, display activates, but it hangs — note exactly where it stops. A fixture stuck on a splash screen or 'Homing' may have a motor obstruction or sensor failure. A fixture that shows a display but won't proceed past a certain point may need firmware recovery.

**If no signs of life at all:** Power supply failure. Contact Elation service: RMA@ELATIONLIGHTING.COM or 866-245-6726.

Noise is a critical factor for houses of worship, small theatres, and any venue where spoken word is amplified. Here are the quietest options in Elation's lineup: **Quietest profile fixture: KL Profile Compact** — This is the go-to for noise-sensitive environments. Its dedicated Mute Mode drops fan noise to inaudible levels at typical fixture-to-congregation distances. At 225W and 15.4 lbs, it's designed specifically for the throw distances common in worship spaces (15-40 feet). CRI 94.9 means excellent skin tones under camera for livestreaming. **Quietest automated fixture: Fuze Teatro** — Offers motorized pan/tilt/zoom with selectable fan modes including a quiet theatre mode. More versatile than the KL Profile Compact (higher output, motorized features) but not quite as silent in its quietest mode. A strong choice for worship spaces that also host concerts and events. **Paragon S and M** — Both offer five fan modes including near-silent operation. The Paragon's TruTone variable CRI is valuable for worship spaces that livestream (dial up CRI for camera). However, at 50-70 lbs and higher price points, these are typically for larger venues. **General tip:** Access fan settings through the fixture's onboard menu or via DMX. Set to the quietest fan mode during services/performances. Most Elation fixtures have thermal protection that will manage output automatically if cooling is insufficient — you won't damage the fixture by running quiet mode.

These three types of atmospheric machines produce fundamentally different effects, and choosing the wrong one for your application is a common mistake. **Haze machines (Therma Tour)** use oil-based fluid heated to produce an ultra-fine mist that hangs in the air for extended periods. The output is nearly invisible to the eye but makes light beams visible — the signature look of concert and theatre lighting. Haze is the standard choice for any production where you want to see beams without visible 'clouds' of atmosphere. Oil-based haze has the longest hang time. **Fog machines (Magma Fog, Sidewinder, Javelin)** heat water-based fluid to produce thick, visible clouds of fog. The output is dramatic and opaque — used for entrances, reveals, ground effects, and atmospheric scenes. Fog dissipates faster than haze and doesn't provide the same even beam visibility. Water-based fog is also used for low-lying fog effects when combined with a chiller. **Fazer machines** (Magma Prime, Magma Prime Tour)are a hybrid — they use water-based fluid but produce a finer output that approximates haze without requiring oil-based fluid. Fazers are a compromise: thinner output than fog, less hang time than oil-based haze, but they avoid the oil residue that oil-based hazers can leave on surfaces and equipment. Fazers are popular in venues that want haze-like effects but have concerns about oil residue on floors or sensitive equipment. **Critical rule:** Never mix fluid types. Oil-based fluid in a water-based machine (or vice versa) will damage the heating element and pump system. Always use Atmosity fluids matched to your machine type.

It depends on what you're doing inside. Elation fixtures are designed with certain user-serviceable components that can be accessed without voiding your warranty:

**User-serviceable (warranty safe):** Fuse replacement, discharge lamp changes (Proteus Hybrid MAX, Excalibur), HEPA filter replacement (Paragon M/S), field-replaceable lens swaps (KL Core IP, KL Par), and cleaning accessible optics per the user manual's maintenance instructions.

**Potentially warranty-voiding:** Replacing or modifying PCBs, LED driver boards, LED arrays, motors, power supplies, or any component that requires soldering or disassembly beyond what the user manual describes. If a component failure requires internal repair beyond user-serviceable items, Elation recommends submitting an RMA.

**Best practice:** Before opening your fixture for anything beyond documented user-serviceable maintenance, contact Elation service first (RMA@ELATIONLIGHTING.COM). Describe the issue — they may provide a quick fix that doesn't require opening the fixture, or they'll advise whether your intended repair is warranty-safe. If the fixture is out of warranty, self-repair is at your discretion, and Elation's parts department (PARTS@ELATIONLIGHTING.COM) can supply replacement components.

For RMA/warranty repairs, email RMA@ELATIONLIGHTING.COM with your fixture model, serial number, purchase date, and a description of the issue.

Regular maintenance prevents the most common Magmatic machine failures — clogged heating elements and gummed-up fluid paths. Follow this schedule:

**After every use:** If the machine won't be used for more than a few days, run the cleaning cycle (available on DMX-controllable models) or flush the fluid path with the recommended cleaning solution. Drain remaining fluid from the tank to prevent stale fluid from degrading.

**Monthly (for regularly used machines):** Inspect the fluid pickup tube and nozzle for buildup. Run a full tank of cleaning solution through the system. On oil-based hazers (Magma Prime, Magma Prime Tour), residue buildup is slower but can eventually restrict the heater block.

**Fluid rules:** Use only Atmosity-branded fluids matched to your machine type. Never substitute third-party fluids — incorrect fluid formulation is the #1 cause of premature clogging and heating element failure. Never mix fluid types (oil-based in a water-based machine or vice versa). Store fluid in sealed containers away from direct sunlight.

**Storage:** For extended storage (weeks or months), drain all fluid, run a cleaning cycle, and store with the fluid cap sealed to prevent debris entering the tank. Store the machine upright and in a temperature-controlled environment.

**If already clogged:** Contact Elation service for heater block cleaning or replacement. Attempting to force fluid through a severely clogged heater can damage the pump.

When a fixture passes DMX signal to the next fixture in the chain but doesn't respond itself, the most common cause is a DMX address or mode mismatch. The fixture's DMX receiver is working (it's forwarding signal), but it's not seeing commands on the channels it's listening to.

**Check 1: DMX address.** Verify the fixture's starting address matches what your console is sending to. If your console is patched to address 1 and the fixture is set to address 100, it will appear unresponsive. Check the fixture's onboard display for its current DMX address.

**Check 2: DMX mode/personality.** The fixture must be set to the same DMX mode that your console's fixture profile expects. If the console is sending 24 channels (extended mode) but the fixture is set to 12-channel basic mode, parameters will be mapped incorrectly — some channels may produce no visible response while others behave unexpectedly.

**Check 3: DMX universe.** If using Art-Net or sACN, verify the fixture's universe assignment matches the console's output universe. A fixture on Art-Net Universe 2 won't respond to commands sent on Universe 1.

**Check 4: Master dimmer.** Many Elation fixtures have a master dimmer channel that defaults to 0 (off) in extended DMX modes. If you haven't brought up the dimmer channel, the fixture may appear unresponsive even though it's receiving commands. Check your console's patch — ensure the dimmer channel is mapped and set above 0.

**Check 5: DMX termination.** While a missing terminator usually causes erratic behavior rather than complete non-response, try adding a 120-ohm DMX terminator to the last fixture in the chain.

Elation fixtures with RJ45/etherCON ports support Art-Net and sACN network control. Here's the setup process:

**Step 1: Connect.** Use a standard Ethernet cable (or IP-rated etherCON cable for outdoor IP fixtures) to connect the fixture to your network switch or directly to your console/computer. Most Elation fixtures support daisy-chaining Ethernet via dual RJ45 ports (In/Out).

**Step 2: Set the fixture to Art-Net mode.** Access the fixture's onboard menu and navigate to the network/protocol settings. Select Art-Net as the input protocol (rather than DMX). Set the Art-Net universe and subnet to match your console's output configuration. Set the fixture's IP address — Art-Net standard uses the 2.x.x.x range with a 255.0.0.0 subnet mask.

**Step 3: Configure your console.** On your console or lighting software, add an Art-Net output targeting the same universe number. Ensure the console's network adapter is on the same subnet as the fixture. For ONYX, select the correct network interface in the Network Manager. For third-party consoles, refer to their Art-Net output configuration.

**Step 4: DMX address.** The fixture still uses a DMX starting address within the Art-Net universe — set this on the fixture's menu just as you would for standard DMX.

**Troubleshooting:** If the fixture shows no response, verify IP addresses are on the same subnet. Use the fixture's onboard network status display (if available) to confirm Art-Net data is being received. Try Art-Net broadcast mode on your console if unicast isn't connecting.

Low-lying fog (the dense, ground-hugging fog seen in theatrical productions, weddings, and concert stage effects) requires cooling standard fog output so it stays close to the ground rather than rising. There are several approaches with Magmatic products:

**Method 1: Fog machine + chiller/cooling system.** Use a water-based fog machine (Magma Fog series or THERMA TOUR) with an external fog chiller. The chiller cools the fog output using ice or a refrigeration system, making it denser than ambient air so it hugs the ground. Elation and third-party fog chillers are available. Use Atmosity Low Fog Fluid for optimal density.

**Method 2: Direct low-fog machine.** Dedicated low-fog machines heat water-based fluid and pass the output through an integrated cooling chamber. The result is fog that immediately stays at ground level.

**Method 3: Ducting and fans.** For either method, use flexible ducting (like dryer vent hose) to direct the cooled fog output to specific stage positions. The MAGMAFAN 1 can help distribute fog across wider areas.

**Practical tips:** Low-lying fog dissipates much faster outdoors due to air movement. For outdoor events, increase fluid output and position machines upwind. Even indoors, HVAC systems will disperse low fog — reduce air handling during fog cues. Room temperature affects hang time: cooler venues keep fog low longer. Use Atmosity Low Fog Fluid specifically — standard fog fluid won't produce the same ground-hugging density even when chilled.