SUGAR 8 CHANNEL DEVICE INTERFACE



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SUGAR provides an intelligent interface between SPICE Automation cues from the THYME II and many common analog devices, such as slide projectors, special effect, and the BASIL II. A powerful microcomputer gives SUGAR the ability to execute sophisticated control routines without burdening the host computer.

User-updatable internal firmware ensures that SUGAR will never go out of date. Updates can be loaded into SUGAR's nonvolatile memory directly from the Host computer; no need to open the box and change chips.

One SUGAR can control any combination of up to eight devices, including:

Slide Projectors - requires a CINNAMON Slide Projector Controller, providing Fan Power On/Off, Tray Forward and Reverse, Lamp Dimming (a high-resolution "stepless" fade curve), "Traylock" (positive feedback of tray motion),and "Home" (forces trays to zero-position reset). Multiple slide projectors can be chained to a single SUGAR channel by means of an inexpensive breakout box.
Lamps - through a standard TRIAC dimmer, provides high resolution (over 4,000 steps) fade curve. Wide variety of rates and levels.
Relays - our MINT Level/Relay Controller provides four relays (plus a variable DC voltage output). The relays can be individually latched or pulsed.
Special Effects - attach a BASIL II 10-Channel Special Effects Controller for multiplex control of up to 10 special effects projectors, or a SPEARMINT Special Effect Controller for control of a single projector. SUGAR also controls our Universal Special Effects Control System for large theaters.
X-Y Slews - our High Precision X-Y Mirror Slew and our Conic Projector Tilt Platforms come complete with direct interfaces to the SUGAR. Use one SUGAR channel for each slew axis.
Zooms/Rotators - acceleration rates, speeds, and running times for DC motors are easily programmed. A "Home" reference point makes for precise sync at the beginning of a sequence.

Manual Control is available for all SUGAR functions. Sky-Skan can furnish rack-mountable panels, or the information you need to make your own. Custom panels to fit your console are also available.

SPECIFICATIONS

INPUT/OUTPUT CONNECTIONS

DATA (2 connectors, RS485, 25-pin) links THYME, SUGARs, NUTMEGs, and other controllers. These two connectors are wired in parallel to allow daisy-chaining of SPICE Automation controllers on a common data line.
MANUAL CONTROL - manual control panel connect (50-pin centronics)

DEVICE 1 - (9-pin D-shell)
DEVICE 2 - (9-pin D-shell)
DEVICE 3 - (9-pin D-shell)
DEVICE 4 - (9-pin D-shell)
DEVICE 5 - (9-pin D-shell)
DEVICE 6 - (9-pin D-shell)
DEVICE 7 - (9-pin D-shell)
DEVICE 8 - (9-pin D-shell)

Pinout for Device Connections above:

1-circuit ground
2-tray forward, I/O#2
3-lamp/var DC level 0-12VDC
4-fan, I/)#1
5-+12VDC in
6-tray lock
7-home
8-tray reverse, I/O#3
9-aux, I/O#4

PANEL CONTROLS

POWER - Main Power (on back panel)
INTERFACE SELECT - used when downloading device configuration
RESET - resets internal Z-8 microcomputer

PANEL DISPLAYS

POWER SUPPLIES: +5VDC, +15VDC, +12VDC, -12VDC - operational
DEVICE ON-LINE: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 - device connected
READY - microcomputer ready
ON-LINE - data being received

MAXIMUM CABLE RUNS

RS485 - 4000 ft. (total daisy chain)
MANUAL CONTROL PANEL - 100 ft.
DEVICE CONNECTIONS - 150 ft.

POWER REQUIREMENTS

110V/60Hz or 220V/50Hz (specify when ordering); 1 amp quick-blow fuse

DIMENSIONS

Height: 3.47", Depth: 8.35", Width: 16.82", Front Panel: 19"
Fits standard 19" rack, 2 rack units high
Requires minimum 3" rear clearance for connections

SS 268 SUGAR 8 Channel Device Interface
SS 268 E - international version