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Your First Show

This guide walks you through the complete workflow from an empty show to triggering your first cue. It takes about 10 minutes.

Step 1 — Import a fixture type#

Before you can patch a fixture, phix needs to know what it is. Fixture types are described using the GDTF format.

From GDTF Share (internet required):

Type in the command line:

gdtf search "Robe Robin"

phix returns a list of matching fixtures. Download one with:

gdtf download <rid>

where <rid> is the revision ID shown in the search results.

From a local file:

gdtf import /path/to/MyFixture.gdtf

Verify the import:

list gdtf

Step 2 — Patch a fixture#

Assign a fixture instance to a DMX address. Replace the values with your actual fixture type, universe, and start address:

patch MyFixtureName 1 "Front Wash 1" Mode1 1 1

This patches fixture with ID 1, named "Front Wash 1", using mode "Mode1", in universe 1, starting at address 1.

Verify your patch:

list fixtures

Step 3 — Configure DMX output#

Start DMX output so values reach your fixtures:

dmx start

By default phix uses ArtNet broadcasting to 255.255.255.255 on port 6454. To switch to a specific IP or use sACN, see DMX Output.

Step 4 — Select a fixture and set a value#

Select your fixture by its ID:

fixture 1

Turn it on by setting the dimmer to full:

set dimmer 1.0

You should see the fixture react. The value is now in the programmer.

Step 5 — Store a preset#

Save this state as a preset in the Dimmer category, slot 1, named "Full":

store preset 1.1 "Full"

Clear the programmer when done:

clear

Step 6 — Create a group#

Make selecting all your wash fixtures easier with a group:

fixture 1 thru 4store group 1 "Front Wash"

Step 7 — Create a cue#

Create a sequence to hold your cues:

store sequence 1 "Main Show"

Select your group, build a look, then record it as cue 1:

group 1set dimmer 1.0store preset 1.1sequence 1 record cue 1

Or use the simplified workflow to add a cue:

seq 1 cue 1 "Full On" fade 2

Step 8 — Assign to an executor and play#

Assign sequence 1 to executor 1:

executor 1 assign seq 1

Trigger the first cue:

go 1

The executor fades to cue 1 over 2 seconds.

What's next?#

Now that you know the basics: