Kelvin Epos 300 User Manual
English Version V 1.0 May 1, 2023
Website: www.kelvinlight.com
1.0 Table of Contents
Refer to headings below for content.
- 2.0 Introduction (Features, Properties)
- 3.0 Precautions
- 4.0 Overview
- 5.0 Setting up Epos 300
- 6.0 User Interface
- 7.0 Intensity and Modes
- 8.0 DMX
- 9.0 Software & Firmware
- 10.0 Warnings & Specifications
- 11.0 3 Years Keep Rolling Warranty
- 12.0 Trademarks
- 13.0 Approved Accessories
- 14.0 Wireless Communication
2.0 Introduction
The Kelvin Epos 300 is an RGBACL LED COB studio light with a full color spectrum, designed for professional use in the film industry. Its lighting technology, developed by Rift Labs, ensures high accuracy and quality of light, providing predictable and continuous quality for creative use. The technology emphasizes user and customer experience, usability, and digital/physical UX, exceeding market standards. It is built for longevity in demanding environments, designed to withstand life on set and beyond.
2.1 Features
The Kelvin Epos 300 offers lighting for professionals with a minimal environmental footprint. It is LED-based, ensuring low power consumption and high light output per watt. The casing assembly is made from highly recyclable materials, contributing to a sustainable footprint. Combined with efficient manufacturing and logistics, the Epos 300 is a high-performance product made in Norway.
2.2 Properties
Featuring the unique Cantastoria Light Engine, the Epos 300 guarantees predictable light continuity across the full color spectrum with precise intensity control (accuracy of 0.01%). Its light and build quality exceed industry standards, offering durability, sturdiness, and a compact design. The materials and construction ensure strength, while its form allows for versatile storage without endangering internal electronics. Kelvin aims to elevate industrial design standards in the film light industry, conveying values of precision, sturdiness, usability, and accessibility.
2.3 Idea
Light is essential for creators, cinematographers, photographers, studios, and filmmakers to define ambiance and enhance visual storytelling. The Epos 300 prioritizes high-quality light and smooth usability for efficiency on set. It offers a compatible app, Kelvin Narrator, for iOS and Android to control the unit via Bluetooth, alongside its touch screen and buttons. Seamless integration with a full lighting kit is possible, controlled either via phone or individual light units. Reliability and power requirements are key design factors.
2.4 Form
The Epos 300's design communicates a high-tech precision device while being robust and practical. Its sturdy casing protects delicate electronics from impacts, rough use, and environmental conditions. The design reflects efficient modular production, smart logistics, and recyclability. Extended use of aluminum ensures a sturdy, long-lasting, and easily recyclable construction, providing superior protection for its sensitive electronics.
2.5 Function
A key benefit of the Epos 300 is the separation of the light head and control unit. The light can be controlled remotely via Bluetooth (Kelvin Narrator App), DMX, Lumen Radio/Wireless DMX, or the separate control unit, which can be used freestanding or suspended. This allows the light unit to be positioned remotely or in hard-to-reach locations. The front of the lamp features a Bowens mount for various accessories.
3.0 Precautions (Important for your safety)
The Epos 300 is for professional lighting use only. All operations must follow relevant safety instructions:
- Read and understand all instructions before use, including transport, installation, and operation.
- Consider the weight of the lamp head and accessories when handling and lifting.
- Check all cable connections before use; ensure cables are labeled to prevent tripping.
- Replace damaged cables and wires with identical types.
- Damaged light sources must be serviced by an authorized Kelvin service center or personnel.
- The lamp head can reach elevated temperatures; operate carefully and wear protective devices to prevent burns.
- Be alert to fire hazards; do not place flammable materials near the lamp.
- Inspect the lamp head's electrical connection, safety isolation, and insulation protection before use.
- Prevent overheating by ensuring light head vents are not blocked or covered.
- Do not operate the lamp head with the protective cap mounted or ventilation closed/covered.
- Perform a visual inspection before each usage and ensure regular electrical inspection (at least every 6 months), recording results.
- Operating in explosive environments is prohibited.
- Do not use in humid or dusty environments, which can cause short circuits and electric shock.
- Do not operate damaged equipment until checked by authorized service personnel.
- Ensure the lamp head and accessories are safely connected or secured to prevent falling.
- Shut down the product and remove the power cable before cleaning, maintenance, or repair.
- Do not immerse the lamp head in water or other liquids to prevent damage and electric shock.
- Unauthorized repair or opening of the lamp head voids the warranty and may cause damage or electric shock. Hand over to qualified personnel.
- Do not place cables, plugs, or contact parts in water to avoid electric shock.
- Radiation and glare can cause damage (sunburn, impaired vision); maintain a minimum distance of 2.5m as specified.
- Do not use non-recommended batteries, cables, or accessories, as this may cause damage, fire, or electric shock.
- Contact authorized maintenance personnel for service; unauthorized removal voids the warranty.
- Ensure the lamp head and controller have necessary protection for safe operation, including placement under protective roofs and unrestricted airflow.
- Verify that the weight of the lamp head, accessories, and cables does not exceed the light bracket's maximum safety load.
- Tighten mounting screws when fixing the lamp head to a bracket and ensure the bracket is balanced to prevent falls.
- This product is certified FCC, CE, RoHS, UKCA, IC, KC, NCC, PSE, BIS, UL. Refer to relevant national standards.
- Limitation of Liability: Kelvin is not liable for indirect, incidental, consequential, special, or exemplary damages arising from product use, errors, or omissions. Aggregate liability shall not exceed one dollar.
⚠️ CAUTION: DO NOT TOUCH LED Light Source Surface.
4.0 Overview
Ensure you have all items listed before use. Note that product variations may occur due to ongoing development.
Included Items:
The Kelvin Epos 300 system includes:
- Epos 300 Lamp Head (1pc)
- Epos 300 Controller (1pc)
- Super Clamp (1pc)
- Reflector 55° (1pc)
- Neutrik Power CON TRUE TOP AC power cable (5 meters / 16.4 ft) (1pc)
- Epos 300 4-pin XLR head cable (5 meters / 16.4 ft) (1pc)
- Epos 300 Rolling Case (1pc)
Image Description: Visuals of the Epos 300 Lamp Head, Epos 300 Controller, Super Clamp, Reflector 55°, Neutrik Power CON TRUE TOP AC power cable, Epos 300 4-pin XLR head cable, and Epos 300 Rolling Case.
5.0 Setting up the Epos 300
5.1 Use of Protective Cap
Remove the protection cap before turning the light on. Always reattach the cap after use when packing the light to keep it protected.
5.2 Use of Bowens Mount Reflector
To install a Bowens Mount reflector, insert it into the Bowens mount and rotate counter-clockwise. Press the release button and rotate the reflector clockwise to release.
5.3 Attaching the Tilt Lock Handle
The tilt lock handle can be attached to either side of the Epos 300. Follow these steps:
- Place the Epos 300 and yoke face down on a flat surface.
- Use the correct hex key to remove a tilt control screw and replace it with the tilt lock handle. Screw in the handle until threads engage, but do not tighten fully yet.
- Use the hex key to tighten the control screw on the opposite side of the yoke until there is some resistance when tilting the Epos 300.
- Tighten the handle until the yoke is locked and secure.
Note: If the yoke feels loose when the tilt lock handle is disengaged, slightly tighten the control screw opposite the handle.
5.3 Mounting the Epos 300 to a Light Stand / Bracket
Loosen the mounting lock and place the receiver over the light stand's 5/8-inch pin (Baby Pin). Tighten the handle until secured with the mounting screw on the Baby Pin Receiver. A Junior Pin (28mm stand) also works. Mount the Lamp Head into the Junior Pin receiver and adjust smoothly with the handle on the stand. Adjust the light's angle using the lock mechanism on the Yoke. If the tilt lock handle cannot turn 360°, pull it out, reposition it, and push it back in until it reengages.
Image Description: The Epos 300 Lamp Head is shown mounted on a light stand via a Baby Pin receiver.
5.4 Connecting Lamp Head and Controller
Use the 4-pin XLR head cable to connect the Lamp Head Fixture with the Controller. Ensure the 4-Pin Head Cable Connector (Fixture) is properly seated.
Image Description: Illustrations show the 4-pin XLR head cable connecting the Lamp Head Fixture and the Controller.
5.5 Powering the Epos 300
AC Power:
- Connect the 4-pin XLR cable to the power supply and the Epos 300.
- Connect the AC cable to the power supply and a power outlet.
Battery Power:
- Connect the 4-pin XLR cable to the power supply and the Epos 300 controller.
- Slide a battery into the power supply's battery plate until it locks. To remove, press the battery release and slide it off.
Important: If connected to both a 26 V battery and AC power, the unit draws from the battery. To preserve battery life, connect the 26 V battery only when intended for use.
5.6 Turn ON and OFF
After connecting power, push the power button on the side of the controller to turn the light ON and OFF.
Image Description: The Epos 300 controller is shown with the Power ON/OFF button clearly labeled.
6.0 User Interface
6.1 User Interface Overview
Function dials control actions and access menus on the LCD screen.
- Left Dial: Controls Intensity (0-100% in 0.1% increments). Pressing the dial toggles between current intensity and 0%.
- Middle Dial: Adjusts CCT or selects CCT presets.
- Right Dial: Adjusts Tint or toggles parameters/menu lines.
- Mode Menu (on touch screen): Located in the top left corner, allows selection of modes: CCT, HSI, Gel, RGB, XY, Effects.
Image Description: The Epos 300 user interface displays intensity, CCT, tint, and mode selection options.
6.2 Main Menu
The main menu navigates between light modes, effects, and settings. Press the top left button to enter.
Knob Interface:
- Right knob: Cycles through modes/settings buttons. The selected button is highlighted.
- Right knob press: Enters the selected mode/setting.
- Left knob: Adjusts intensity.
- Left knob short press: Toggles light output between current intensity and 0%.
- Left knob long press: Toggles between stable and maximum light output.
Touch Interface:
- Menu button: Returns to the previous light mode.
- Mode buttons: Enter the respective mode.
- Settings button: Enters the Epos settings.
Image Description: The Epos 300 main menu screen shows icons for CCT, HSI, RGB, XY, Gel, Effect, and Settings, along with current intensity and navigation controls.
6.3 Settings
Navigation buttons on the left side of the screen select categories:
Categories:
- About: Displays serial numbers (Controller, Lamp Head) and firmware versions (Controller, Lamp Head). Shows "N/A" if no lamp head is connected or communication is bad.
- Bluetooth: Allows setting Bluetooth ON or OFF.
- DMX:
- Sets Controller to Slave/client or Master/host mode. In slave mode, it responds to DMX messages from other hosts. In master mode, it generates DMX messages for connected slaves.
- Allows choosing which profile to receive or send (DMX protocol/profiles are described in a separate document).
- Some profiles are disabled in Master mode.
- Specifies DMX address for receiving/sending commands. Profile and address must match for controllers to communicate.
- Configures dropout mode for controller behavior when master connection is lost (Option 1: remain on, Option 2: turn off light, Option 3: turn off after specified seconds).
- Sets the number of seconds to wait before turning off light when DMX communication is lost (only for Option 3 dropout mode).
- Enables/disables Lumen radio (CRMX radio) mode.
- Links or unlinks from wireless CRMX slave or master.
- Display:
- Adjusts display brightness.
- Selects idle mode (Option 1: Always on, Option 2: Dim display).
- Sets dimming brightness (only for Option 2 idle mode).
- Sets the number of seconds before the display dims (only for Option 2 idle mode).
- Lamp head:
- Sets the fan mode: Silent (low/off), Quiet (up to half speed), Regular (up to 70%), High (full speed).
- In High mode, max light output is reduced to 25% to prevent overheating. Running in Silent or Quiet mode also reduces max light output.
Image Description: The Settings menu displays DMX settings, including Mode, Light mode, Address, and Dropout mode.
7.0 Intensity and Modes
7.1 Intensity
Light intensity is controllable via Bluetooth (Kelvin Narrator App), wired DMX, Lumen Radio/Wireless DMX, or the control unit. The left knob on the controller manages intensity. A touch slider is available on operating screens. Intensity can be set to 'Stable' (caps max output for consistent brightness) or 'Maximum' (removes cap for maximum brightness).
Knob Control:
- Twist knob: Increase or decrease intensity.
- Short press knob: Toggle between current intensity and 0%.
- Long press knob: Toggle between stable and maximum light output.
Touch Control:
- Slider: Adjusts output light intensity.
- Stability button: Toggles between stable and maximum light output.
7.2 Mode CCT
CCT mode sets white light output using color temperature and tint (green-magenta). The Epos 300 supports two CCT ranges: regular (2800-10000K) and extended (2000-20000K).
Knob Control:
- Middle knob: Adjusts color temperature.
- Right knob: Adjusts tint.
- Press right knob: Resets tint to neutral (0.0).
Touch Control:
- Sliders: Adjust color temperature and tint.
- Range button: Toggles between regular and extended color temperature ranges.
- Preset buttons: Set color temperature to preset points (e.g., 3200K, 5600K, 7200K).
- Neutral button: Resets tint to neutral (0.0 Δuv).
Image Description: The CCT mode interface shows intensity, color temperature (e.g., 5750K), and tint values, with sliders and preset options.
7.3 Mode HSI
HSI mode sets light output using hue and saturation. The white point can be set to standardized color spaces (sRGB, Adobe 1988, Adobe Wide/Pro Photo) or the device's color space. When device color space is selected, the white point can be further adjusted.
Knob Control:
- Middle knob: Adjusts hue (0°-360°).
- Right knob: Adjusts saturation (default) or white point (if selected). Pressing the right knob toggles between saturation and white point adjustment.
Touch Control:
- Pressing/dragging the HSI color map: Adjusts hue (horizontally) and saturation (vertically).
- Color space dropdown: Selects color space.
- White point slider: Adjusts white point (if device color space is selected).
Image Description: The HSI mode interface displays intensity, hue (e.g., 72°), saturation (e.g., 70%), and white point (e.g., 6800K), with a color map and controls.
7.4 Mode RGB
RGB mode sets light output by adjusting Red, Green, and Blue channels (0-255). Similar to HSI mode, the white point can be adjusted to standardized color spaces or the device color space.
Knob Control:
- Middle knob: Selects color parameter (Red, Green, Blue) to adjust.
- Right knob: Adjusts the selected color parameter or the white point (if enabled and selected). Pressing the right knob toggles between parameter adjustment and white point adjustment.
Touch Control:
- Color sliders: Adjust respective colors.
- Color space dropdown: Selects color space.
- White point slider: Adjusts white point (if device color space is selected).
Image Description: The RGB mode interface shows intensity, Red, Green, and Blue channel values (e.g., R:208, G:153, B:76), and white point (e.g., 7150K), with sliders and controls.
7.5 Mode XY
XY mode sets light output by adjusting x and y coordinates in the CIE-1931 diagram. The valid coordinate area is indicated by a white border and is unique for each lamp head. The area is set to an arbitrary value by default and updated once a lamp head is detected.
Knob Control:
- Middle knob: Adjusts the X parameter (horizontally).
- Right knob: Adjusts the Y parameter (vertically).
Touch Control:
- Pressing/dragging on the CIE-1931 diagram: Adjusts X and Y parameters.
Image Description: The XY mode interface displays the CIE-1931 diagram with X and Y axis values (e.g., X:0.501, Y:0.332) and intensity.
7.6 Mode Gel
Gel mode sets light output by combining a filter from the library and color temperature. Gels are available from brands Rosco and Lee.
Knob Control:
- Middle knob: Selects gels in the current brand category. Stepping beyond visible gels loads the previous/next page.
- Right knob: Adjusts color temperature.
Touch Control:
- Gel list: Pressing a gel selects it.
- Up/down buttons: Load previous/next gel page. Page indicator shows current/total pages.
- Brand dropdown: Selects the gel brand.
- Category dropdown: Selects the category within the brand.
- Temperature slider: Sets color temperature.
Image Description: The Gel mode interface shows a list of gels with numbers and brands (e.g., 1. Spring Yellow, 100, Brand: Lee), intensity, temperature, and controls for selecting gels and brands.
7.7 Mode Effect
Effect mode offers various effects with their own parameters and functionalities. The menu lists available effects, with a play/pause button to control active effects.
7.8 Fire effect
Simulates fire sources affected by different wind conditions. Parameters include Fire type and Wind type.
7.9 CCT chase effect
Enables transitioning between two CCT points. Parameters: Start CCT and tint, Stop CCT and tint, Duration, and Transition type (No loop, Loop, Back and forth).
7.10 Color chase effect
Enables transitioning between two HSI points. Parameters: Start hue, Stop hue, Saturation, Color space, White point, Duration, and Transition type.
7.11 Pulse effect
Generates continuous pulses of a selected color type. Parameters: Color type (CCT, HSI, RGB, XY), Pulses per minute, and Pulse type (Sinusoid, logarithmic, exponential, triangular).
7.12 Strobe effect
Generates continuous flashes of a selected color type. Parameters: Color type, Strobes per minute, and Flash duration (5%-95% of flash period).
7.13 Knob Control:
- Middle knob: Steps through effect parameters (except Color type in Pulse/Strobe, which requires touch). Selected parameter is highlighted.
- Right knob: Adjusts numeric parameters or steps through dropdown options.
7.14 Touch Control:
- Adjusts sliders.
- Opens dropdowns and selects options.
- Back button: Returns to the effect menu.
- Play/pause button: Sets the effect as active and toggles between play and pause.
Image Description: The Effects mode interface shows icons for Fire, CCT Chase, Color Chase, Pulse, and Strobe, with an indication of the active effect (Pulse) and a play/pause button.
8.0 DMX Operation
Control the Epos 300 remotely using DMX. A detailed overview is available for free download at https://www.kelvinlight.com/support/download/.
9.0 Software and Firmware
9.1 Kelvin Narrator App
Updates for the Kelvin Narrator App are available on the App Store and Google Play Store: https://www.kelvinlight.com/app-narrator/.
9.2 Firmware
Firmware updates are available through the Kelvin Narrator Bluetooth App.
Image Description: Screenshots of the Kelvin Narrator App on a tablet and a smartphone, showing various lighting control parameters like intensity, CCT, HSI, and color selection.
10.0 Warnings and Error Messages
Messages are categorized as INF (information/warning) or ERR (error, causing light output to turn off).
10.1 Controller Messages:
- Controller temperature is too high: Caused by internal temperature. Results in light output being turned off. Ensure controller air intakes are not covered.
- Power failure: Caused by internal power circuit issues. The controller may need inspection.
10.2 Lamp Head Messages:
- Lamp head temperature is too high: Caused by internal lamp head temperature. Results in light output being turned off. Ensure lamp head air intakes are not covered and fans are spinning. Contact customer support if temperature is high and fans are not spinning.
10.3 External Power Messages:
- Front/back battery is low: Indicates low battery charge. Message removed upon battery replacement.
- Front/back battery is empty: Indicates no remaining charge. Light output turns off if only one battery is used or if two batteries are connected and empty. Replace battery/batteries. Tip: Replace one battery at a time to avoid controller shutdown.
- Unknown power source: Caused by invalid power sources, resulting in light output being turned off. Use batteries meeting specifications or a Kelvin-provided power supply.
10.4 Specifications
Detailed specifications, including Photometrics, are available at: https://www.kelvinlight.com/product/epos_300_full_color_spectrum_rgbacl_led_studio_light/.
11.0 3 Years Keep Rolling Warranty
Kelvin's Keep Rolling Warranty is a commitment to the cinema community, ensuring peace of mind for users. The latest updated version is available at www.kelvinlight.com.
11.1 Definitions
- "Solution": Refers to the specified delivery, including Kelvin LED software, control systems, firmware, mobile application, and appurtenant products/services.
- "We", "Us", "Our": Refers to Rift Labs AS, a Norwegian limited liability company (Org. no. 895 734 942).
- "You", "Your", "Yourself": Refers to the party ordering the Solution, including any business, legal entity, or private individual acting on their behalf.
11.2 Warranty
- Kelvin warrants that the Solution will be of good quality, workmanship, and free from material defects.
- A three-year warranty against defects in materials and workmanship is provided under the laws of the country of purchase.
- Refurbished Solutions are warranted for ninety (90) days.
- Lifetime customer support is provided via mail or phone, even after the warranty period expires.
- Kelvin's liabilities cease upon expiration of the specified time periods.
11.3 Repairs and Replacements
- Kelvin will repair or replace the Solution at its discretion with a new, rebuilt, or refurbished product of equal or similar features. Refurbished parts may be used.
- Replacement Solutions may be provided while repairs are underway. Replacement units must be returned undamaged and in original packaging.
- Parts replaced during warranty repair are Kelvin's property and will not be returned.
- Repaired or replaced Solutions are warranted for the balance of the existing warranty period or ninety (90) days after receipt, whichever is greater. Only replaced components are eligible for the 90-day period.
11.4 Refunds
Reimbursements will be made to the card used for the purchase.
11.5 Exclusions
- Warranty agreements extended by third parties are not honored.
- Warranty does not cover maintenance, repair, or replacement due to: alterations, modifications, unauthorized repairs, exposure to weather, water damage, operator negligence, improper power supply, accidents, droppage, improper handling/storage, transportation damage (except initial shipment), third-party products, cosmetic damage, defective batteries, battery leakage, lack of maintenance, or use of third-party cables/accessories.
- Warranty does not apply to merchandise, accessories, or associated software, including firmware.
- All other warranties, conditions, representations, or terms, express or implied, are excluded to the fullest extent permitted by law.
- The sole remedy is repair, replacement, or credit for defective parts.
- This warranty is non-transferable. Kelvin is not liable for property damage, lost time, or lost data resulting from Solution failure or service delays.
11.6 Exercising the Warranty
- To make a warranty claim, provide Kelvin with a notice clearly indicating the desire to do so.
- Ship the Solution to Kelvin according to provided instructions, at your sole risk and cost. You are responsible for shipping costs and are recommended to use traceable and insurable mail.
11.7 Compliance
- Users must comply with all applicable export and re-export restrictions and regulations of government agencies.
- Users agree not to violate local, state, federal, or foreign laws, or transfer materials to prohibited countries.
- Users acknowledge being advised of dangerous goods shipping requirements for lithium-ion batteries and agree to ship them via certified carriers if included in returns. Do not ship physically damaged lithium-ion batteries.
12.0 Trademarks
Kelvin® is a registered trademark of Rift Labs. © 2023 Rift Labs AS. All rights reserved. Product names, logos, brands, and other trademarks are the property of their respective holders.
12.1 Trademarks
13.0 Approved Accessories
13.1 Bowens Mount
The Epos 300 is Bowens mount compatible, meaning most off-the-shelf accessories should fit. Kelvin has tested and approved specific modifiers and designed several diffusers to fine-tune light quality. Latest updates on accessories are available at https://www.kelvinlight.com/products/category/accessories/.
13.2 Kelvin Modifiers
Diffuser D100 has 0% light loss and provides the hardest light source. Diffuser D90 has a 0.1 stop light loss and mixes colors for better fringing control. Diffuser D75 also has a 0.1 stop light loss and is suitable for accessories requiring a wider beam. The Dome Diffuser is ideal for octadomes and softboxes for the softest light, and also works well with umbrellas and parabolic modifiers.
13.3 Other Modifiers
The Epos 300 works with most Bowens mount accessories. The choice of diffusion affects light quality. Kelvin also offers a dome diffuser for a wider and more traditional softbox/tungsten bulb quality of light.
14.0 Wireless Communication
The Epos 300 supports:
- Bluetooth: Communication with the Kelvin Narrator app via Raytac MDBT50 module (Nordic nRF52840 SoC). Frequency: 2.4 GHz, RF output: -20dBm (100mW).
- Lumen Radio Wireless DMX and RDM: Via LumenRadio TimoTwo chip. Frequency: 2.402 ~ 2.480 GHz, RF output: -20dBm (100mW).
For more details, visit www.kelvinlight.com.