Search This Supplers Products:Stage LightingLaser lightsmoving head lightsPar lightspattern lightslaser projectors
Which control protocols should broadcast studios use for laser systems?
Direct answerUse ILDA, DMX, Art-Net and SMPTE timecode synchronisation together. Cues are pre-programmed offline, then triggered or adjusted in real time to match live scripts, transitions and host segments.
Protocol Roles in a Studio
| Protocol | Main role in the studio |
|---|---|
| ILDA | Graphics, text and animation playback from the laser software |
| DMX512 | Integration with the studio lighting console and cue stack |
| Art-Net | Network-based control across multiple fixtures and nodes |
| SMPTE timecode | Frame-accurate sync with video playback and broadcast automation |
Working Practice for Live Broadcasts
- Pre-program graphic animations, text logos and beam cues offline, then rehearse on the real set
- Keep a trigger list that maps every cue to a script point, camera cut or music bar
- Leave manual override available so the operator can pull effects back if a segment changes
- Lock unused effects out of the console during live transmission
Timecode sync is what keeps laser cues aligned with video playback across repeated takes and live transmission.