Robe Ethernet Access Portal (REAP)
This user manual provides comprehensive information on the Robe Ethernet Access Portal (REAP), covering its setup, features, and operational screens.
1. Connecting and setting of computer and fixtures
To ensure communication between your computer and ROBE fixtures via the network, your computer must be connected through an Ethernet wired network and a network switch. Configure your computer's network settings, including a manual IP address (typically in the 2.x.x.x range, e.g., 2.0.0.10) and a Netmask of 255.0.0.0. Ensure no other device on the network uses the same IP address. ROBE fixtures typically use default 2.x.x.x IP addresses. The Ethernet Mode setting within the fixture's menu does not require specific configuration for Art-Net mode.
Network Setup Diagram:
A diagram illustrates the connection: ROBE fixtures are connected via Ethernet cables to an ETHERNET SWITCH, which is also connected to the REAP device.
2. REAP menu screens
Access the REAP interface by typing the fixture's IP address into your web browser (e.g., http://2.247.92.33). Log in using the username 'robe' and password '2479'. The interface may vary slightly depending on the specific ROBE device model and its DMX modes.
2.1 Status screen
The Status screen provides a quick overview of the fixture's settings and operational status. It displays:
- Device status: Indicates if the fixture is ready for operation, not communicating with the computer, or has error messages. The background color of the top row (with the fixture name and RDM label) reflects its state: blue for the server fixture, white for ready, yellow for no communication, and red for errors.
- DMX/RDM settings: Shows DMX address, DMX preset, DMX input status (e.g., wired), RDM UID, and RDM label.
- Device times: Displays Power on time, LEDs on time, and Air filters status (total/resetable).
- Device temperatures: Shows temperatures for various components like LEDs boards and Base, with current/maximum/resetable values.
- Software versions: Lists the versions of the fixture's internal modules (Display System, Module M, L1, L2, L3, L4, O, F-A, F-B).
- Status messages: Records any error messages encountered during fixture reset and operation.
Icons ⚙️ allow modification of values in corresponding tables. Tables include 'DMX/RDM settings', 'Reset timers', 'Reset temperatures', 'Wireless settings', and 'Software versions'.
2.2 Personality screen
The Personality screen allows for detailed fixture configuration. Key sections include:
- DMX/RDM settings: Configure DMX address, preset, input, and RDM label.
- Ethernet settings: Set Ethernet mode (ArtNet, sACN, etc.), Ethernet to DMX, ArtNet universe, MANet/I/II universe, and MANet session ID.
- Pan/Tilt settings: Adjust Pan reverse, Tilt reverse, Pan/Tilt feedback, Pan/Tilt mode, and Pan/Tilt EMS.
- Blackout settings: Configure Blackout DMC and active blackout during Pan/Tilt or Gobo wheel movement.
- Screen settings: Adjust display intensity, screensaver delay, touchscreen lock, and display orientation.
- Color settings: Configure color calibration, chromatic white, color mixing mode, tungsten effect simulation, and dimmer curve.
- Date & time settings: Set the fixture's date and time, with an option to use local date & time.
- Other settings: Configure follow spot mode, microphone sensitivity, theatre mode, frequency settings, fan mode, and temperature unit.
Changes are saved using the 'Save' button within each section.
2.3 Logs screen
The Logs screen displays saved operating information and errors from the fixture. The 'Logs filter' option enables users to select specific recorded errors and operating values. Filtering options include 'all must pass' (logs must contain all selected errors) and 'single groups' (logs must contain at least one selected error).
Log Tools:
- Download log file: Allows downloading the log file to a computer. The filename format is 'file-abcd.log', where 'abcd' is the fixture ID.
- Start DMX sniff: Initiates saving of incoming DMX values to a file named 'DMX_sniffer.log'.
2.4 Discovery screen
The Discovery screen lists all connected fixtures on the network. Clicking the 'Discover' button populates this list. Fixtures are displayed with their DMX address, preset, RDM UID, and IP address. The background color of each fixture's row indicates its status: blue for the server fixture, white for ready, yellow for no communication, and red for errors. The 'Move devices with warning to top' option prioritizes fixtures with errors. Icons ⚙️ allow sorting of displayed values.
2.5 Settings screen
This screen is used to change the REAP password. Fields include 'Old password', 'New password', and 'New password check'.
2.6 Identification icon
The eye icon ?️ serves to identify a specific fixture within a group. Clicking this icon will cause the fixture's head to move or light up, aiding in its identification.
3. ChangeLog
This section summarizes changes made to the user manual. The current version is 1.1, updated on 27/02/2023, with the addition of 'DMX sniff' functionality.