Question about LSX version differences

Looks like I am going down the path of getting LSX as my first forray into laser show creation.... but I am a little confused about the differences between the versions.

So obviously there is a difference in the number of projectors each version supports, however anyone care to explain what the following bullet points mean:

Basic: 8 target worlds per scanner, 4 Optimization parameter sets per scanner
Pro: 32 Target worlds per scanner, 32 Optimization parameters per scanner

I will not have multiple projectors any time soon (famous last words, huh) , but am wondering what the limitations are for Basic when dealing with a single scanner?

I noticed the shipping price from innolasers web site is unnaturally expensive - something like $40 to ship the software plus an EtherDream to the east coast. But, getting the Pro version plus an EtherDream would put me in the free shipping category... what to do....

here are the breakdowns:


Version Feature Breakdown:

Lite:

1 Scanner, 1 Target world, 1 Optimization parameter set

Basic:
2 Scanners, 8 Target worlds per scanner, 4 Optimization parameter sets per scanner, MIDI control input, MIDI keyboard view, Quick Runtext Messages, Export show encryption options, external PicEdit, Save animator presets

Pro:
8 Scanners, 32 Target worlds per scanner, 32 Optimization parameters per scanner, MIDI and DMX control input MIDI keyboard view, Quick runtext messages, edit old LDS shows, Full export show encryption options with user locking, 3D pong minigame, External Picedit, Save animator presets.

i'm not sure where/why you're seeing shipping cost differences. Are you looking here:

https://innolasers.com/shop/index.ph...roller=product

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Originally Posted by BlueFang

Looks like I am going down the path of getting LSX as my first forray into laser show creation.... but I am a little confused about the differences between the versions.

So obviously there is a difference in the number of projectors each version supports, however anyone care to explain what the following bullet points mean:

Basic: 8 target worlds per scanner, 4 Optimization parameter sets per scanner
Pro: 32 Target worlds per scanner, 32 Optimization parameters per scanner

I will not have multiple projectors any time soon (famous last words, huh) , but am wondering what the limitations are for Basic when dealing with a single scanner?

I noticed the shipping price from innolasers web site is unnaturally expensive - something like $40 to ship the software plus an EtherDream to the east coast. But, getting the Pro version plus an EtherDream would put me in the free shipping category... what to do....

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A target world is a projection zone. For example, if you are in a situation where you use your laser projector mainly for beams at full angle, but occasionally want to project some text or logos on a screen in the back of the venue (maybe at an angle of some sorts), you can assign your beam effects to use the "Full" target world, while the text and graphics use the "Screen" target world. Each world can have its own size and geometrical correction. Also, bounce and mirror ball effects use target worlds.

An optimization or scanparameter is the same but for scanning optimisation. Using the same example, you can use different scanparameters for beams (slower kpps to allow larger angles), graphics (slightly higher kpps and more blanked points at the corners), rasters (very high kpps with special blanking offset settings), etc.

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Originally Posted by swamidog

here are the breakdowns:


Version Feature Breakdown:

Lite:

1 Scanner, 1 Target world, 1 Optimization parameter set

Basic:
2 Scanners, 8 Target worlds per scanner, 4 Optimization parameter sets per scanner, MIDI control input, MIDI keyboard view, Quick Runtext Messages, Export show encryption options, external PicEdit, Save animator presets

Pro:
8 Scanners, 32 Target worlds per scanner, 32 Optimization parameters per scanner, MIDI and DMX control input MIDI keyboard view, Quick runtext messages, edit old LDS shows, Full export show encryption options with user locking, 3D pong minigame, External Picedit, Save animator presets.

i'm not sure where/why you're seeing shipping cost differences. Are you looking here:

https://innolasers.com/shop/index.ph...roller=product

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So I am aware of the bullet point differences of each version, just not really what they mean in real world terms. Just wondering if only have 8 target worlds is a real limitation or not?

As far as shipping, free shipping (ground USPS) is offered for any order over $500 - which is great, but if the order is less than that, then what I saw was that I was only offered one shipping method of with a price of $41 (USPS Express), and this seemed quite expensive.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by colouredmirrorball

A target world is a projection zone. For example, if you are in a situation where you use your laser projector mainly for beams at full angle, but occasionally want to project some text or logos on a screen in the back of the venue (maybe at an angle of some sorts), you can assign your beam effects to use the "Full" target world, while the text and graphics use the "Screen" target world. Each world can have its own size and geometrical correction. Also, bounce and mirror ball effects use target worlds.

An optimization or scanparameter is the same but for scanning optimisation. Using the same example, you can use different scanparameters for beams (slower kpps to allow larger angles), graphics (slightly higher kpps and more blanked points at the corners), rasters (very high kpps with special blanking offset settings), etc.

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Ok, thanks - good information there. I guess it won't really be understandable until I start diving into the program.

I guess I should probably just start with the Basic version, and upgrade to Pro if I feel limited (if that's even possible)?

Upgrading shouldn't be a problem.
I don't think you'll feel limited, it's LSX ;)

By the way, are you married? You said you were a computer programmer, so that's already one requirement to be succesful in LSX...

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Originally Posted by colouredmirrorball

Upgrading shouldn't be a problem.
I don't think you'll feel limited, it's LSX ;)

By the way, are you married? You said you were a computer programmer, so that's already one requirement to be succesful in LSX...

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Ha... nope, not married... I've been told that women just don't fall out of the sky and into your bedroom... well maybe if I get a powerful enough laser, I can shoot them out of the sky as they fly overhead.

Kidding aside (I really am kidding - I really do not plan on shooting people out of the sky), I don't really need another hobby, but this stuff is just too dang awesome and i've got a bit of a break before my next large work milestone, so now seems as good of a time as any to dive in.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by BlueFang

So I am aware of the bullet point differences of each version, just not really what they mean in real world terms. Just wondering if only have 8 target worlds is a real limitation or not?

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In my opinion, a limitation of 8 target worlds is not much of limitation. I have pro so I can't be positive, but I believe the limitation in the Basic version means you can't load more than 8 target worlds into a single show. You should be able to create as many worlds as you'd like as they are just files that you then load and use in shows. Just because you loaded 8 target worlds in one show (e.g. using a bunch of bounce mirrors) doesn't mean the next show you create is limited to those same target worlds.

Personally, I have 6 projectors permanently installed in my environment with lots of potential targets (worlds) to hit, but I've currently only defined 18 worlds and 8 scan parameters after 18 months with the software and rarely use more than 10 worlds and 4 scan parameters in a single 4-6 projector show. Unless you have more than 6 bounce mirrors, you shouldn't feel restricted with a single projector.

<edit> Just for example, this show uses 10 target worlds and 3 scan parameters https://vimeo.com/61387416 Note that this isn't a great show, but as I am neither unmarried (currently) nor a computer programmer (also currently), my LSX prowess is limited. ;)

All of this said, Pro and Basic both provide significant functionality and flexibility. Even with Basic you still can create complex multiprojector shows without color limitations and such that other programs choose to limit.

Just my two cents.

-David

While talking lsx, Any time frame for the DMX build release? Thanks.

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Originally Posted by polishedball

While talking lsx, Any time frame for the DMX build release? Thanks.

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Support for the DMX King (Enttec USB Pro) is added to the next update, that's all we know. No word on a release date yet...

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Originally Posted by colouredmirrorball

Support for the DMX King (Enttec USB Pro) is added to the next update, that's all we know. No word on a release date yet...

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Do you know of anything else added or improved.

Andrew told me that there would be additional joystick capabilities. Specifically support for 32 joystick buttons. Not sure if that is going to help anyone out or not. It sort of sounds like I am the only user that is using Joystick commands.

that would be an awesome way to control live scan through effects and beam tables.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by SaltyRobot

Andrew told me that there would be additional joystick capabilities. Specifically support for 32 joystick buttons. Not sure if that is going to help anyone out or not. It sort of sounds like I am the only user that is using Joystick commands.

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Quote:

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Originally Posted by SaltyRobot

Andrew told me that there would be additional joystick capabilities. Specifically support for 32 joystick buttons. Not sure if that is going to help anyone out or not. It sort of sounds like I am the only user that is using Joystick commands.

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This is what is great about LSX. Drlava will accommodate even the little guy. He has added TTL support before for a need I had.

not only that, but he proactively adds features.

he pinged me a while back and said: "i watched one of your shows and added function XXXX to LSX because i think it will make this part of your show a little smoother."

he was right.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by polishedball

This is what is great about LSX. Drlava will accommodate even the little guy. He has added TTL support before for a need I had.

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Yeah I was having trouble getting my Joystick encoder recognized by LSX so Andrew and I had a few PMs back and forth to get it up and running. In the course of things I asked if there was button button support and a few days later he said it would be in the next update. I agree that it will be great for beam tables. I am also going to try to use it for some Live Graphics control.

Have I ever said how much I love LSX. Just wish I had more time to play with it. Using expressions has me hooked.

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Originally Posted by SaltyRobot

Have I ever said how much I love LSX. Just wish I had more time to play with it. Using expressions has me hooked.

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It seems I'm not the only one then ;)

i've heard it's pretty good!

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Originally Posted by Galvonaut

It seems I'm not the only one then ;)

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Quote:

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Originally Posted by SaltyRobot

Have I ever said how much I love LSX. Just wish I had more time to play with it. Using expressions has me hooked.

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Now you got me curious what you can do with it?

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Galvonaut

It seems I'm not the only one then ;)

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+1 (and 15 characters)

for starters 8 target worlds are enough i guess, i personally never used more than 3 but i don't create such sophisticated shows yet

Thanks for all the great responses...

My copy of LSX just arrived along with an EtherDream - also my projector has been ordered... Woot! Exciting stuff. So much too learn - the 3 day weekend coming up will help.

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Originally Posted by colouredmirrorball

Now you got me curious what you can do with it?

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The video isn't great but you can at least get an idea of what i'm working on.

http://youtu.be/58RfVR68Hc0

This is with 20Kpps and a Chi Brick Laser for those wondering.

that is seriously awesome. you guys are really raising the bar.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by SaltyRobot

The video isn't great but you can at least get an idea of what i'm working on.

http://youtu.be/58RfVR68Hc0

This is with 20Kpps and a Chi Brick Laser for those wondering.

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Quote:

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Originally Posted by swamidog

that is seriously awesome. you guys are really raising the bar.

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The craziest part for me is that a good majority of these patterns (Like 80%) start as a single line drawn in the Z axis and then are manipulated by expressions and clones.

Ok, so I've had my first day with LSX, and it's both awesome and overwhelming. It seems there are some rough edges associated with the process of purchasing/activating the software that are related to the intended market - but I can deal with that.

I do have a couple of questions right off the bat...

1) It seems that many of the shows that are included are "protected", i.e., you can't double click on the events or elements on the timeline to investigate the inner workings. Is that correct, or am I doing something wrong? Is there a way to "unprotect" these shows or do the authors truly consider this intellectual property not worthy of sharing?

2) All of the shows I have tried out include audio, however the audio files have been butchered to supposedly prevent copyright violations, which I understand - however it would be nice to have a reference page somewhere which lists the actual songs used so if we were so inclinded we could go purchase the songs used and enjoy the complete experience without the abrubt silence.

3) Are there any shows included which have the complete audio included?

1) Protection settings depend on the show. For example, the Demo show is protected, but you can have a look at the events. Not sure why.

2) and 3) No, because distributing copyrighted material is forbidden. In the Audio folder in Global LSX Files, there is a .xls document with some audio tracks.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by colouredmirrorball

1) Protection settings depend on the show. For example, the Demo show is protected, but you can have a look at the events. Not sure why.

2) and 3) No, because distributing copyrighted material is forbidden. In the Audio folder in Global LSX Files, there is a .xls document with some audio tracks.

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That .xls file is exactly what I was looking for... Thanks for pointing me in the right direction!

Quote:

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Originally Posted by colouredmirrorball

A target world is a projection zone. For example, if you are in a situation where you use your laser projector mainly for beams at full angle, but occasionally want to project some text or logos on a screen in the back of the venue (maybe at an angle of some sorts), you can assign your beam effects to use the "Full" target world, while the text and graphics use the "Screen" target world. Each world can have its own size and geometrical correction. Also, bounce and mirror ball effects use target worlds.

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Colouredmirrorball,

Thanks for clarifying this, I've been trying to understand this part of LSX for quite some time. Seems like a good time to ask a pretty dumb question. :rolleyes: I'm struggling with understanding how to project a simple beam using the beam tool in LSX. The only way I have been able to do it is to use picedit and draw a small circle or a simple point, then project that frame...I think by pulling it from the catalog. But someting tells me I am missing something.

Is there something I'm missing with the beam tool ?

Thanks!

-Jason

Quote:

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Originally Posted by colouredmirrorball

A target world is a projection zone. For example, if you are in a situation where you use your laser projector mainly for beams at full angle, but occasionally want to project some text or logos on a screen in the back of the venue (maybe at an angle of some sorts), you can assign your beam effects to use the "Full" target world, while the text and graphics use the "Screen" target world. Each world can have its own size and geometrical correction. Also, bounce and mirror ball effects use target worlds.

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Colouredmirrorball,

Thanks for clarifying this, I've been trying to understand this part of LSX for quite some time. Seems like a good time to ask a pretty dumb question. :rolleyes: I'm struggling with understanding how to project a simple beam using the beam tool in LSX. The only way I have been able to do it is to use picedit and draw a small circle or a simple point, then project that frame.... But someting tells me I am missing something.

Is there something I'm missing with the beam tool ?

Thanks!

-Jason

The Beam event will produce an intense static beam at the position determined by its target world. You need to assign a target world in the Beam event, then move it around in the setup. The size and geometrical correction sliders won't affect the beam as it is just a dot, but the position sliders can move it around. This way you can have a lot of bounce beam effects while not having to change position in all of them each time you move the projector half a millimeter :) Just adjust the target world settings and it's good.
This is where you are limited with Basic as you only have 8 target worlds, so one for full size and one for graphics leaves you at 6 bounce beam locations...

colouredmirrorball, thank you for the clarification! I can't wait to try this.