Accommodating a diverse range of performances and events requires high levels of flexibility and functionality across all areas of the facility from seating/stage configuration to audio-visual control.

It was imperative that the lighting control system match the flexibility and functionality of the venue by allowing lighting schemes to be quickly and easily reconfigured for different events.

The system includes over 200 dimming controllers, relay controllers and user control panel interfaces, which are linked via the Philips Dynalite sophisticated peer-to-peer communications serial bus network DyNet. A selection of controllers were fitted with dual communication ports allowing for both DyNet & DMX512 communication.

Integrated functionality

Importantly, these technologies can be tailored to the requirements of individual events and performances.

Every dimmable controller is factory set with a top output level of 90 per cent to maximise lamp life and minimise energy consumption.

Using EnvisionManager software, Philips Dynalite has made what is essentially an extremely complex lighting system very easy to operate and manage. The powerful software provides control status and scheduling information with the click of a mouse.

Easy operation

Operated via any one of seven on-site computers, EnvisionManager’s simple graphical interface makes it easy for users to identify every light, circuit and channel across the entire complex and effortlessly manipulate lighting schemes.

Much of the lighting system is automated. In fact, staff can customise the graphic interface to include ‘push buttons’ or lighting macros, which is ideal for routine lighting tasks and setting common exhibition and pre-show lighting schemes.

Staff can also select different lighting schemes via locally mounted user-control panel interfaces.

Areas within the building are fitted with motion sensors to reduce ACC’s electricity consumption, which is part provided by five turbines on the banks of the Mersey, between ACC Liverpool and the Albert Dock.

With staff able to control lighting from any one of seven computers throughout the complex or from a series of user control panel interfaces, the day-to-day management of the complex’s lighting is a simple task.

The Philips Dynalite system has also delivered powerful energy management, which is saving running costs.