Sometimes it is useful to lock certain parameter values of fixtures independently from programming, playback and the Grand Master. For example, you might want to lock a particular dimmer at a certain level as a working light, or point a fixture to provide light for maintenance whilst a rehearsal or programming is in progress. Park is also helpful for dealing with a fixture malfunction, locking its pan and tilt so that it doesn't make a noise as it tries to move during the show.

Parking holds a fixture's parameters on stage, but still allows you to edit the data in the Programmer or other editors.

To park fixture parameter values:

To unpark fixtures, select the fixtures, set any value for the parked parameters, and hold the Pig key while pressing Park.

Both the park and unpark commands will accept a parameter mask on the command line, for example:

16.6.1 Viewing and Editing What is Parked

You can view which fixtures have parked parameters in the Fixture window and the Output window, and you can view and edit parked parameters in the Parked Output window. Parked parameters are also indicated in the Wheels Toolbar.

The Fixture Window

To view which fixtures have parked parameters in the Fixture window:

• Open + Fixture : the Fixture window opens; see Figure 16.3, “The Parked column of the Fixture window”.

Figure 16.3. The Parked column of the Fixture window

The Output Window

Parked parameters are shown in the Output window with black text on an orange background. When the Output window Source view is selected the word ‘Parked’ is displayed.

The Parked Output Window

You can view and modify the parked settings of fixtures in the Parked Output window; see Figure 16.4, “The Parked Output window”. To open the Parked Output window:

• Open + Parked : the Parked button is on the toolbar that appears when you press the Open key.

Within this window you can edit parameter values in the same way as in any editor. You can knockout fixtures or parameter values to stop them being parked, or add or modify parameter values to park them.

Figure 16.4. The Parked Output window

The Wheels Toolbar

Parked parameters are shown in the Wheels Toolbar with an orange background or hatch pattern.

• Solid orange outline: all selected fixtures have the parameter on this wheel parked.

• Diagonal line orange background: some of the selected fixtures have the parameter on this wheel parked.