MagicFX PART01213 Sparxtar Instruction Manual
- June 13, 2024
- MAGICFX
Table of Contents
USER AND INSTALLATION MANUAL
SPARXTAR® PART01213
rev 01-02
DISCLAIMER
Read this manual carefully before installing and/or using this product. Failure to read the manual and to follow the printed instructions may lead to personal injury and/or damage to the product.
© 2019 MAGICFX®
All rights reserved.
Nothing from this publication may be copied, reproduced and/or published by
means of printing, photocopying or by any other means, without the prior
written approval of MAGIC FX.
MAGIC FX reserves the right to modify specifications stated in this manual.
TRADEMARKS
Any brand names mentioned in this manual are registered trademarks of their
respective owners.
LIABILITY
MAGIC FX accepts no liability for claims from third parties arising from
unauthorised use, use other than that stated in this manual, and use other
than in accordance with the General Conditions registered at the Chamber of
Commerce.
We further refer to the General Conditions. These are available on request,
free of charge.
Although considerable care has been taken to ensure a correct and
comprehensive description of all relevant components, the manual may
nonetheless contain errors and inaccuracies.
Should you detect any errors or inaccuracies in the manual, we would be
grateful if you would inform us. This helps us to further improve our
documentation.
FOREWORD
Congratulations! You have bought a great new product from MAGIC FX.
This manual contains all information required for the intended use of the
equipment.
Deviation from the described intended use can result in a hazardous situation
and/or property damage.
This manual includes notes and warnings on safe operation of the equipment.
These notes and warnings are accompanied by the following icons. Read them
attentively!
| Indicates a hazardous situation that, if not avoided, will result in death
or serious injury. This signal word is to be limited to the most extreme
situations.
---|---
| Indicates a hazardous situation that, if not avoided, could result in death
or serious injury.
| Indicates a hazardous situation that, if not avoided, could result in minor
or moderate injury.
****| Indicates information considered important, but not hazardrelated (e.g.
messages relating to property damage).
LANGUAGE
This document contains the original instructions in English. In case you
require other languages please contact MAGIC FX.
REVISION TABLE
Doc nr| Revision| Date| Description| Author|
Approved
---|---|---|---|---|---
PART01213| 01-00| 8/1/2019| Initial release| TFR| TvA
PART01213| 01-01| 26-3-2019| Software update| TFR| TvA
PART01213| 01-02| 30-09-2020| Cover / Accessories| NvE| LL
MEET THE MAGICFX® SPARXTAR!
The MAGICFX® SPARXTAR is a special effects machine for controlled emission of
sparks into the air.
The machine transports MAGICFX® SPARXTAR Powder from the hopper through an
internal heater and blows the resulting sparks upwards through the output
pipe.
The maximum continuous duration of the effect is 40 seconds. After this period
the effect will stop automatically. With a full hopper a MAGICFX® SPARXTAR can
deliver sparks for a total duration of 9 up to 17 minutes (depending on the
set effect height).
The MAGICFX® SPARXTAR is outfitted for operation:
- with DMX and RDM;
- in sequence with multiple machines.
1.1 MAIN PARTS
1.2 SPARXTAR POWDER
The MAGICFX® SPARXTAR uses MAGICFX® SPARXTAR Powder to create the effect. Fill
the powder hopper of the machine with powder (maximum of two bags).
NOTICE
The powder is packed in vacuum bags. Do not open the bags until right before
use. This will prevent degradation and malfunctioning of the powder.
CAUTION
Do not fill the hopper with anything else than the prescribed powder. Use
of any other powder or substance could lead to injuries and damage.
1.3 TECHNICAL DATA
Product | Product Name | MAGICFX° SPARXTAR |
---|---|---|
Product Code | MFX5001 | |
Product Type | SPARK FX | |
Main Dimensions | Length (mm/in.) | 30012. |
Width (mm/in.) | 31813. | |
Height (mm/in.) | 2440. | |
Weight | Empty weight (kg/lb.) | 11.7 25.8 |
Package | Length (mm/in.) | 41616. |
Width (mm/in.) | 41616. | |
Height (mm/in.) | 33313. | |
Packaged weight (kg/lb.) | 12.5 27.6 | |
Environment | Minimum Temperature (°C/°F) | -1014 |
Maximum Temperature (°C/°F) | 50122 | |
Humidity (Relative) | 20% to 90% (non condensing) | |
Electrical | Voltage Input (Vac) | 220-250Vac |
Voltage Frequency | 50-60Hz | |
Power Consumption (Vac) | 350W | |
Power Connector (Vac) | Neutrik° powerCON TRUE1 (in&out) | |
Controlling | Control Options | DMX |
Control Protocols | DMX512-A (ANSI E1.11) RDM (ANSI E1.20) | |
Control Connectors | Neutrik° 5-pole male/ female XLR | |
Configuring | Configure Options | On Device & RDM |
Usage | Consumable(s) | MAGICFX° SPARXTAR Powder |
Consumable Consumption | < 20 g/min |
1.4 PRODUCT IDENTIFICATION
1.5 ACCESSORIES
Code | Product |
---|---|
MFX0305 | MAGICFX® BASEPLATE II |
MFX3103 | Twenty Clamp (20kg) M10 |
SPR00119 | Safety Steel |
MFX5002 | Powder Removal Funnel |
MFX0313 | SCUKO TO NEUTRIK® POWERCON TRUE1 – CABLE 1.5 m |
Please contact MAGIC FX for additional possibilities.
1.6 DMX CONTROL
The MAGICFX® SPARXTAR is controlled with 1 safety address and 2 operational
addresses:
DMX Address | Address range | Control |
---|---|---|
Safety address | 1 – 512 | Device enable/disable |
Start address | 1 – 511 | Eff ect height |
Start address + 1 | 2 – 512 | Eff ect trigger |
The safety address cannot be the same as (one of) the operational address(es).
Operating of these addresses results in the following:
DMX Address | DMX Value (decimal) | Result |
---|---|---|
Safety address | 0 | 99 |
100 | 154 | Device enabled |
155 | 255 | Device disabled |
Start address (Effect height) | 0 | 255 |
Start address + 1 (Effect trigger) | 0 | 63 |
64 | 127 | Empty heater (only when previously set to ‘no output’ and after a |
delay of 10 seconds)
128| 255| Output effect at set height
NOTICE
The maximum continuous duration of the effect is 40 seconds.
After this period the effect will stop automatically. To start the effect
again you must disable and re-enable the Effect trigger.
NOTICE
Always plug in a DMX Terminator into the DMX output of the final unit in
the control sequence. Using a DMX Terminator improves signal reliability.
1.7 DISPLAY PANEL
The display panel is located on the backside of the MAGICFX® SPARXTAR. Check the following menu structure for all options in the menu. Use the buttons for navigation and selection. The left-hand LED blinks red when DMX is active. The right-hand LED continuously lights red when an error is present.
1.8 RDM CAPABILITY
Remote Device Management Protocol (RDM) is an enhancement of the DMX512
communication protocol. RDM can be used for configuration and status
monitoring while DMX512 takes care of the default controlling.
For RDM you will need a RDM compatible controller.
The following RDM parameters are supported by the MAGICFX® SPARXTAR.
Parameter ID | Discovery | GET | SET |
---|---|---|---|
DISC_UNIQUE_BRANCH | X | ||
DISC_MUTE | X | ||
DISC_UN_MUTE | X | ||
DEVICE_INFO | X | ||
SUPPORTED_PARAMETERS | X | ||
SOFTWARE_VERSION_LABEL | X | ||
DEVICE_MODEL_DESCRIPTION | X | ||
MANUFACTURER_LABEL | X | ||
SLOT_DESCRIPTION | X | ||
DMX_PERSONALITY_DESCRIPTION | X | ||
SENSOR_DEFINITION | X | ||
SENSOR_VALUE | X | ||
DMX_START_ADDRESS | X | X | |
IDENTIFY_DEVICE | X | X | |
DEVICE_LABEL | X | X | |
FACTORY_DEFAULTS | X | X | |
DMX_PERSONALITY | X | X | |
RESET_DEVICE | X |
RDM parameters are subject of change due to software updates. Contact MAGIC FX for the latest information and updates.
SPARK SAFELY!
The MAGICFX® SPARXTAR has been designed and constructed in such a manner that
it can be used safely. This applies to the use, the circumstances and the
regulations as described in this documentation. Reading this documentation
and following the instructions are therefore necessary for everyone who is
authorised to work with the MAGICFX® SPARXTAR.
The MAGICFX® SPARXTAR must be used in surroundings that:
- Have a reasonably stable temperature of between -10 and 50°C.
- Have a relative humidity degree between 20% and 90% (non condensing).
- Are free of dust, corrosive gases and high concentrations of organic vapours.
- Are not situated in the vicinity of a source of vibration.
2.1 GENERAL SAFETY RULES SPARXTAR.
- Do not use the MAGICFX
- Only authorised persons may work with the MAGICFX® SPARXTAR if there are people or animals in the direct output.
- Make sure that children, unauthorised people and animals do not obtain access to the MAGICFX SPARXTAR.
- Do not connect more units to a single electrical circuit than the installed fuse is able to handle. (Calculate the summed load with the electrical data from Chapter 1)
- Do not remove any safeguards, safety caps and safety symbols.
- All required safety devices must be in good condition and function properly.
- Ensure sufficient lighting of the surroundings.
- Keep the workplace clean.
2.2 RIGGING
Please follow the European and national guidelines for safe rigging and
trussing.
2.3 NOISE LEVEL
The measured maximum noise levels of the product are 72 dB(A) at 1 m and 65
dB(A) at 5 m distance away. Please follow the European and national guidelines
regarding hearing protection.
2.4 SAFETY SYMBOLS
Symbol | Meaning | Position |
---|---|---|
Read the manual carefully before use! | Front of the machine | |
**** | Warning: Hot Surface! Do not touch. | Top of the machine, near the |
output pipe.
2.5 SAFETY WARNINGS
| Eye contact with flying sparks and hot particles from the machine can lead
to serious eye injury. Always wear safety goggles when you enter the safety
zone.
---|---
| Always follow the safety instructions from the powder packaging when
handling and working with the powder. Consult the MSDS from our website for
detailed safety instructions.
| Make sure there are no objects near the machine and within the output
distance that can be damaged or catch fire by the emitted powder and sparks
from the MAGICFX® SPARXTAR.
| Make sure there are no substances or gasses present that can be ignited by
the emitted powder and sparks from the MAGICFX® SPARXTAR.
| Using a damaged or an improper installed machine can lead to death, serious
injury or property damage. Always inspect the machine thoroughly before
operation.
| Stop operating the machine immediately when the emitted particles catch fire
or remain glowing. Extinguish any burning or glowing particles with sand or
foam. Consult the MSDS from our website for detailed safety instructions.
| Always create a safety zone with a distance of 3 m around the effect of the
MAGICFX SPARXTAR. Furthermore, keep a clearance of 2 m from the set effect
height. ®
Note that the zone shifts accordingly when the machine is installed in a
tilted position.
Note that overlap of safety zones in a setup with multiple machines is
allowed, as long the air inlets are not obstructed.
---|---
| Missing or obscured safety symbols on the machine can lead to death or
serious injury. Make sure all safety symbols are correctly in place, see
section 2.4.
| The output pipe heats up during operation and causes burns when touched. Do
not touch the output pipe of a (recently) powered machine.
| Any material that blocks the output pipe can result in injuries, fire and
damage to the machine when the machine is used. Always inspect the output
pipe before operating and remove any obstructing material.
| Only open the hopper lid when the machine is not powered.
| Do not obscure the air inlets on the side of the machine.
Obscured air inlets can result in injuries, fire and damage to the machine
when the machine is used.
| Always keep the machine dry and do not let any liquids such as rain or snow
wet the machine.
LET’S SPARK!
NOTICE
The MAGICFX® SPARXTAR will also remain functioning correctly when angled
sideways at a maximum of 45° or -45°. However the greater the angle becomes,
the more powder will remain unused in the hopper. Therefore level
installation is preferred.
3.1 INSTALL THE MACHINE
- Install the MAGICFX® SPARXTAR on a firm and preferably level surface.
- Inspect the machine and remove any foreign objects and material that will block or obscure the output pipe or the air inlets of the machine during operation.
- Take the necessary safety precautions, including:
a) Creating a safety zone with a distance of 3 m around the effect of the MAGICFX® SPARXTAR and a clearance of 2 m from the set effect height.
b) Making sure that the direct output will be free from persons and animals.
c) Making sure there are no objects near the machine and within the output distance that can be damaged or catch fire by the emitted powder and sparks from the MAGICFX® SPARXTAR.
3.2 MOUNT ON A TRUSS
NOTICE
Use a MAGICFX® BASEPLATE II for mounting on top of an upright truss, see
the User and Installation manual of the MAGICFX® BASEPLATE II (PART01575).
-
Screw two clamps into threaded holes on the bottom of the machine. Use two M10 twenty clamps for truss mounting (product code MFX3103) and place the pair in x or in y direction.
-
Mount the clamps firmly on a truss.
-
Secure the MAGICFX® SPARXTAR onto the truss.
-
Inspect if the MAGICFX® SPARXTAR is mounted firmly and secured correctly.
-
Inspect the machine and remove any foreign objects and material that will block or obscure the output pipe or the air inlets of the machine during operation.
-
Take the necessary safety precautions, including:
a) Creating a safety zone with a distance of 3 m around the effect of the MAGICFX® SPARXTAR and a clearance of 2 m from the set effect height.
b) Making sure that the direct output will be free from persons and animals.
c) Making sure there are no objects near the machine and within the output distance that can be damaged or catch fire by the emitted powder and sparks from the MAGICFX® SPARXTAR.
3.3 (RE)FILL THE HOPPER
-
Disconnect the machine from the power supply.
-
Unlock and open the lid of the hopper.
NOTICE
Make sure that the hopper interior is dry and free from foreign material at all times. Do not use the machine when the hopper interior is wet. Remove any moist and/or clumped powder.
Remove any foreign material. -
Open the powder bag(s) and fill the hopper with powder (maximum of two bags).
-
Close and lock the lid of the hopper.
3.4 CONNECT POWER AND SETUP DMX
- Connect a power cable with a PowerCon TRUE1 female connector to the power input.
- Connect the other end of the power cable to a 220-250Vac (50-60Hz) power source. The machine starts heating and the fan starts blowing.
- Connect the female connector of a 5-pole DMX cable in the DMX input.
- Connect the other end of the DMX cable to your DMX controller.
- Use the display and buttons or a RDM controller to assign DMX addresses, see Chapter 1.
- Optionally see Section 3.5 for adding more machines to the same sequence.
NOTICE
Always plug in a DMX Terminator into the DMX output. Using a DMX Terminator
improves signal reliability.
3.5 SETUP MULTIPLE MACHINES IN A SEQUENCE WITH DMX
- Connect a power link cable to the power output.
- Connect the other end to the power input of the next machine.
- Connect a DMX cable to the DMX output.
- Connect the other end to the DMX input of the next machine.
- Use the buttons or a RDM controller to assign DMX addresses, see Chapter 1.
- Repeat step 1 to 5 for each subsequent machine.
NOTICE
Always plug in a DMX Terminator into the DMX output of the final unit in
the control sequence. Using a DMX Terminator improves signal reliability.
-
Power the machine.
NOTICE
Directly after powering the machine the device will check automatically if the output and air inlet are blocked. -
Change the Output height (200-450 cm) in the configuration menu if desired, see Section 1.7. The effect will not exceed the set height.
-
Wait until the device is heated up and ready.
-
Set the DMX value for Effect height to the desired initial height of the output, see Section 1.6.
-
Make sure that the prescribed safety zone is clear.
-
Activate the DMX safety address. Directly after activating the device will check automatically in a few seconds if the output and air inlet are blocked. The FX LED indicator on the machine lights up.
-
When it’s time to spark, set the DMX value for Effect trigger between 128 and 255.
-
Vary the effect height during the effect duration, if desired.
-
Enjoy the view!
-
Set the DMX value for Effect trigger between 0 and 63 if you want to stop sparking.
NOTICE
During a short interval after the effect has stopped, you can create a
flash effect by quickly activating and deactivating the Effect trigger.
NOTICE
The maximum continuous duration of the effect is 40 seconds.
After this period the effect will stop automatically. To start the effect
again you must disable and re-enable the Effect trigger.
3.7 CLEAN UP
-
When finished, set the DMX value for Effect trigger between 0 and 63 to turn off the effect.
NOTICE
During the particle removal by DMX, sparks could be visible that leave the machine.
NOTICE
When particle removal by DMX is not possible, the remaining particles can be removed by the feature Purge powder from the display menu, see Section 1.7 on page 8. This feature can only be activated when the machine is cooled down. Note that particles could leave the machine during purging.
NOTICE
Not removing the remaining particles after use can shorten the machine’s lifetime. -
Make sure the remaining particles will be removed from the heater by setting the DMX value for Effect trigger between 64 and 127. The heater purge will start after a delay of 10 seconds. The purge itself takes 10 seconds and will stop automatically.
-
When all particles are removed, set the DMX value for Effect trigger between 0 and 63 to stop.
-
Deactivate the safety address. The FX LED indicator on the machine dims.
-
Disconnect the machine from the power source. The machine stops heating.
-
Make sure that the machine has cooled down.
-
Disconnect all DMX and power cable(s).
-
Remove any powder residues from the machine and surroundings.
NOTICE
To prevent scratching, clean the machine in the following order:
a. Slightly purging air
b. Using a vacuum cleaner
c. Using a towel -
Unmount the machine if necessary.
-
Open the lid of the hopper.
-
Lift the machine to one side to empty the hopper.
NOTICE
Optionally use a Powder Removal Funnel for emptying of the hopper, see
Section 1.5 on page 7.
NOTICE
Pay special attention to residues and dust inside the hopper. Clean the
hopper interior and lid thoroughly (e.g. with a small brush).
Consult the MSDS from our website for detailed safety instructions for
handling and working with the powder.
TROUBLESHOOTING
In case the display shows one of the following error or alarm codes, act accordingly.
Code | Description | What to do |
---|---|---|
7 | Fan is not running at the expected speed | Fan or inlet possibly blocked. |
Inspect the output pipe and air inlet and remove any foreign objects and
material that will block or obscure the output pipe during operation.
120| Temperature safety| Temperature reached its maximum allowed temperature.
Let the effect inactive for a minute.
121| Orientation of device out of safe bounds| Keep the device within
previously described safe bounds.
Always contact MAGIC FX if any malfunctions or errors occur that cannot be solved with the instructions as described in this manual.
MAINTENANCE
To achieve the maximum service life of the MAGICFX® SPARXTAR you must
regularly clean the MAGICFX® SPARXTAR and test if it is functioning correctly.
Contact MAGIC FX if the MAGICFX® SPARXTAR is not functioning correctly.
DANGER
Do not replace parts yourself; always consult MAGIC FX if necessary.
CORRECT DISPOSAL
This symbol on the product and/or accompanying documents means that used
electrical and electronic products should not be mixed with general household
waste. For proper treatment, recovery and recycling, please take this product
to designated collection points where it will be accepted free of charge.
Alternatively, in some countries you may be able to return your products to
your local retailer upon purchase of an equivalent new product.
Disposing of this product correctly will help save valuable resources and
prevent any potential negative eff ects on human health and the environment,
which could otherwise arise from inappropriate waste handling.
Please contact your local authority for further details of your nearest
designated collection point.
Penalties may be applicable for incorrect disposal of this waste, in
accordance with your national legislation.
EC DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
According to Annex III A Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC
MAGIC FX B.V. declares as manufacturer and composer of the technical
construction file that the product with the following specifications:
Name machine | : SPARXTAR® |
---|---|
Type | : MFX5001 |
Voltage | : 220-250Vac 50/60Hz |
Serial number | : on product |
Year of construction | : on product |
Is in conformity with the minimal safety regulations as stated in the following directive(s):
- LVD (2014/35/EU) Low Voltage Directive
- EMC (2014/30/EC) ElectroMagnetic Compatibility
- RoHS (2011/65/EU) Restriction of the use of certain Hazardous Substances
- WEEE (2012/19/EU) Waste Electrical & Electronic Equipment
The following harmonized standards were applied:
- NEN-EN-ISO 12100:2010 Safety of machinery – General principles for design – Risk assessment and risk reduction.
- NEN-EN-ISO 13732-1:2008 Ergonomics of the thermal environment — Methods for the assessment of human responses to contact with surfaces — Part 1: Hot surfaces.
- NEN-EN-IEC 60204-1:2006, Safety of machinery – Electrical equipment of machines – Part 1: General requirements.
- NEN-EN-IEC 61000-6-3:2007/A1:2011, Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) – Part 6-3: Generic standards – Emission standard for residential, commercial and light-industrial environments.
Original declaration of conformity
Translation of the original declaration of conformity
Name manufacturer | : MAGIC FX B.V. |
---|---|
Address | : Schouwrooij 27, 5281 RE BOXTEL |
Country | : The Netherlands |
CEO | : B. Veroude |
Date | : 17-12-2018 |
Signature