Chauvet MiNSpot User Manual

Snapshot Features

• OK on Dimmer: ❌
• Outdoor OK: ✔️
• Sound Activated: ✔️
• DMX512: ✔️
• Master/Slave: ✔️
• 115V/230V Switch: ✔️
• Replaceable Fuse: ✔️
• User Serviceable: ❌
• Duty Cycle: ❌

Introduction

The Chauvet MiNSpot is a compact and versatile LED moving head fixture designed for dynamic lighting effects. It offers 5 or 13 DMX channels for control, allowing for features like pan (540°) and tilt (270°) movement, RGB color mixing, a gobo wheel with 9 gobos plus open, variable strobe, electronic dimming, and built-in movement macros.

Product Overview: The fixture consists of a Projector Head containing the lens and focus mechanism, a Control Panel with an LED readout for settings, and a base unit housing the IEC power connector (with fuse holder), voltage selector switch, and a CA-9 controller input. DMX In and DMX Out ports are also present on the rear for data linking.

Setup

Fuse Replacement

To replace the fuse, disconnect the power cord. Locate the fuse holder on the rear of the unit. Use a flat head screwdriver to gently wedge the fuse holder out. Remove the old fuse and replace it with one of the exact same type and rating. Reinsert the fuse holder and reconnect power.

Fixture Linking

Fixtures can be linked for synchronized shows using a DMX-512 controller or in Master/Slave mode. For DMX linking, use a serial data link, daisy-chaining fixtures. Adhere to the EIA-485 standard, connecting no more than 32 devices per data link without an optically-isolated splitter. The maximum recommended serial data link distance is 500 meters (1640 ft).

Data Cabling

Use data-grade cables, such as Belden© 9841 or equivalent, for reliable DMX data transmission. Standard microphone cables are not suitable for long-distance DMX. Cables should have two conductors twisted pair plus a shield, with specific capacitance and resistance characteristics. For DMX connections, use cables with male XLR connectors on one end and female XLR connectors on the other.

DMX Connector Configuration

The DMX connector configuration typically involves pins for COMMON (Pin 1), DMX - (Pin 2), and DMX + (Pin 3). A 120-ohm 1/4W resistor is recommended between Pin 2 and Pin 3 of the last fixture in a chain to reduce signal errors. Ensure the common is not grounded to the chassis to avoid ground loops.

3-Pin to 5-Pin Conversion

If using a controller with a 5-pin DMX output, a 5-pin to 3-pin adapter (e.g., Chauvet DMX5M or DMX5F) is required. The conversion maps Ground/Shield from Pin 1 to Pin 1, Data (-) from Pin 2 to Pin 2, and Data (+) from Pin 3 to Pin 3.

Setting up a DMX Serial Data Link

Connect the male 3-pin connector of the DMX cable to the female 3-pin output connector of the controller. Then, connect the female 3-pin connector of the cable to the male 3-pin input connector of the next fixture. Continue this daisy-chain process for all fixtures.

Master/Slave Fixture Linking

To link fixtures in Master/Slave mode, connect them in a daisy chain using DMX cables. The first fixture in the chain acts as the Master, and subsequent fixtures are set as Slaves. Consult the operating instructions for specific setup procedures for Master/Slave and Standalone modes.

Mounting

Orientation

The fixture can be mounted in any position, provided adequate ventilation is maintained.

Rigging

Ensure ventilation pathways are not obstructed. Mount the fixture using a suitable clamp (e.g., C-clamp or O-clamp). Adjust the fixture's angle by loosening and retightening knobs. Consider accessibility for lamp replacement and maintenance when choosing an installation location. Always use safety cables. Avoid mounting in damp, humid, or extreme temperature environments, or where ventilation is restricted.

Operating Instructions

Navigating the Control Panel

The control panel features four buttons: MODE/ESC (access menu/return), UP (scroll up), DOWN (scroll down), and ENTER (select/store). The LED display shows menu items. Use MODE/ESC to navigate to functions, UP/DOWN to select options, and ENTER to confirm.

Menu Map

The menu map outlines the navigation structure for accessing various settings and functions within the fixture's control panel.

User Configurations

Pan/Tilt Inverting: Set pan or tilt movement to invert or non-invert by navigating to the relevant menu option (e.g., 'PAn' or 'rPAn' for pan) and selecting the desired setting.

LED Readout Inverting: Invert or non-invert the LED display by selecting 'd.5' or 'rd.5'.

DMX Channel Configuration: Choose between 13-channel ('13CH') or 5-channel ('5CH') DMX modes.

Maximum Pan Angle: Set the maximum pan angle to 540° ('PASY'), 360° ('PA36'), or 180° ('PA18').

Maximum Tilt Angle: Set the maximum tilt angle to 270° ('t.27'), 180° ('t.18'), or 90° ('t.9').

Service Functions

Reset Fixture: Navigate to 'rEst' and press ENTER to reset the fixture.

Restore Factory Defaults: Navigate to 'LoRd' and press ENTER to restore all settings to factory defaults.

Operation Modes

Stand-Alone Mode (Auto Mode)

Allows a single unit to run a factory-installed program at two speeds. Select 'NAFA' for fast speed or 'NASL' for slow speed.

Master/Slave Mode

Connect up to 32 units without a controller. Designate one unit as Master (select 'NAFA'/'NASL' or 'NStS') and chain the others as Slaves (select 'SLAU' which becomes 'Son').

DMX Mode

Control the unit with any universal DMX controller. The default mode is DMX, indicated by 'd001' on the LED readout.

DMX Channel Values

13 Channel Mode

5 Channel Mode

Setting the Starting Address

In DMX mode, each fixture requires a unique start address (1-512). This address indicates the first channel the fixture reads from the controller. To set the start address, use the DIP switches on the fixture. Determine the largest value switch less than the desired address, turn it ON, and subtract its value. Repeat this process with the remainder until it reaches zero. For example, to set address 10: Turn ON Switch #4 (value 8), remainder is 2. Turn ON Switch #2 (value 2), remainder is 0. The address is 10.

DIP Switch Values: 1=1, 2=2, 3=4, 4=8, 5=16, 6=32, 7=64, 8=128, 9=256.

Example Address 233: DIP switches 8 (128), 7 (64), 6 (32), and 4 (8) are turned ON (128+64+32+8 = 232). A small adjustment might be needed for the exact value, or the example calculation provided in the manual (233-128=105, 105-64=41, 41-32=9, 9-8=1, 1-1=0) indicates switches 8, 7, 6, 4, and 1 should be ON.

Troubleshooting

Technical Support

For assistance, contact Chauvet Technical Support:

Address: Service Dept., 3000 N 29th Ct, Hollywood, FL 33020 (U.S.A.)

Email: tech@chauvetlighting.com

Telephone: (954) 929-1115 (Press 4)

Fax: (954) 929-5560 (Attention: Service)

Website: www.chauvetlighting.com

Appendix

DMX Primer

DMX-512 uses 512 channels per connection. Each fixture requires a start address, which is the first channel it reads from the controller. Fixtures can use one or more sequential channels. Plan addresses to avoid overlap, unless unison operation is desired. DMX fixtures connect in a serial daisy chain (DATA OUT of one to DATA IN of the next). Use shielded, two-conductor twisted pair cable with 3-pin XLR connectors. Pin 1 is shield, Pin 2 is Data Negative (S-), and Pin 3 is Data Positive (S+). Chauvet offers compliant cables like DMX-10 (33'), DMX-4.5 (15'), and DMX-1.5 (5').

General Maintenance

Clean fixtures regularly (at least twice a month) to maintain performance and minimize wear. Dust buildup can reduce light output and cause overheating. Power off the fixture before cleaning. Use a vacuum or air compressor with a soft brush for vents and components. Clean glass lenses with a mild glass cleaner or isopropyl alcohol and a soft lint-free cloth. Clean internal and external optics periodically, with frequency depending on the environment (e.g., damp or smoky conditions require more frequent cleaning). Always dry parts carefully.

Returns Procedure

Returned merchandise must be sent prepaid in original packing. Obtain a Return Merchandise Authorization Number (RA #) from Chauvet before shipping. Products without an RA # will be refused. Provide model number, serial number, and a brief description of the issue. Pack securely to prevent shipping damage, as inadequate packaging is the customer's responsibility. Chauvet may repair or replace products at its discretion.

Claims

Shipping damage is the shipper's responsibility; report damage to the carrier upon receipt. For other claims (missing parts, non-shipping damage), notify Chauvet within seven (7) days of receipt.

Technical Specifications

Weight & Dimensions

• Length: 6.8 in (173 mm)
• Width: 6.8 in (173 mm)
• Height: 9.8 in (249 mm)
• Weight: 8.3 lbs (3.8 kg)

Power

• Power Settings: 120V 60Hz AC or 230V 50Hz
• Fuse: 2A 250V
• Power Consumption: 68.1W (0.60A) Max at 120V
• Inrush Power: 83.6W (1.41A) inrush at 120V
• Power Factor: 0.92

Light Source

• Type: 1 x 14W RGB LED
• Lifespan: 50,000 hours

Photo Optic

• Beam Angle: 13°
• Illuminance at 1M: 100 fc (1,076 lux)

Range

• Pan: 540°
• Tilt: 270°

Thermal

• Maximum Ambient Temperature: 104°F (40°C)

Control & Programming

• Data Input: Locking 3-pin XLR male socket
• Data Output: Locking 3-pin XLR female socket
• Data Pin Configuration: Pin 1 shield, Pin 2 (-), Pin 3 (+)
• Protocols: DMX-512 USITT
• DMX Channels: 5 or 13

Ordering Information

• Product: MiNSpot
• Optional Controller: CA-9

Warranty Information

• Warranty: 2-year limited warranty