Documentation · v1.14
PROMIN Controller User Guide
Browse the PROMIN controller user guide with structured chapters, commissioning workflow, troubleshooting notes, and quick on-page navigation.
1. Introduction: how the interface is organized
The Promin interface consists of working pages where the engineer builds and checks the project, and the Settings screen where the basic controller, network, calibration, and service parameters are configured.
This guide first describes the main working pages of the interface: where to check status, how to place fixtures, perform patching, configure scenarios, schedules, and user screens. The Settings screen is moved to the end of the document so it can be used conveniently as a separate service section.
- Use Dashboard for a quick check of controller status, logs, output signal and RDM status.
- Layout and Patch are used for fixture placement and address assignment.
- Timeline, Triggers, and Calendar are responsible for launch logic and scheduling.
- User interface is used when you need to prepare an operational control screen.
- Open Settings when you need to configure the controller itself, the network, calibration, users, or firmware.
2. What should be prepared before you start
Before working with the Promin interface, it is advisable to collect all initial site data in advance. This greatly speeds up commissioning and reduces the risk of repeated setup.
- The name of the controller or site under which the device should appear in the system.
- LAN network parameters: DHCP or static IP, IP address, subnet mask, gateway.
- Art-Net network parameters.
- The site's time zone and whether daylight saving time is required.
- The fixture type and RGB channel order.
3. First start
3.1. What pages and sections are available in the interface
| Page / tab | Purpose | When the engineer usually goes here |
|---|---|---|
| Dashboard | Quick diagnostics: overall controller status, logs, live DMX / Art-Net monitoring, RDM configuration, and service actions. | During site verification, troubleshooting, or the final check. |
| Layout | Editing the fixture map: layouts, groups, placing fixtures on the grid, and selecting their type and basic properties. | When you need to create or modify the fixture layout. |
| Patch | Assigning addresses and output parameters for groups: DMX / Art-Net, universe, broadcast, IP address, and the actual fixture placement within channels 1–512. | When patching by channels is required after the layout has been created. |
| Timeline | Preparing and checking playback scenarios: launching the timeline, clips on tracks, media library, effects, layout, and sync mode. | When you need to configure or check playback of a show, scenes, or media content. |
| Triggers | Configuring automatic reactions to events: launching timelines, button logic, digital inputs, RS232, TCP/UDP, and manual testing via the Run button. | When external signals or internal events on the site must be linked to controller actions. |
| Calendar | Configuring schedules and calendar events: one-time and recurring events, links to soft triggers and UI buttons, and manual testing via Run. | When the site must launch scenarios by time, date, week, or astronomical events. |
| UI | User interface builder: screens, buttons, trigger bindings, appearance, and previewing the result in Preview. | When you need to prepare the operational control screen or link interface buttons to project logic. |
| Settings - Controller | Controller name, audio output, timeline FPS, location, time zone, time, DST, backup, and project import. | On almost every new site. |
| Settings - Users | Adding, blocking, and deleting users, and changing passwords. | Usually only during site handover or when responsible staff changes. |
| Settings - Network | LAN, Art-Net, RS232, and additional UDP/TCP sockets. | At the start of commissioning or when the network design changes. |
| Settings - RGBW Calibration | RGBW and RGBCW calibration, test preview, checking correct addresses and RGB order. | When fixtures are connected and you need to achieve the correct white. |
| Settings - Firmware | Checking for updates, running an update, or rolling back firmware. | After initial startup or for a service task. |
| Settings - Cloud | Connection to cloud and configuration rules | When you need connect controller to cloud system |
3.2. License Agreement
When logging in for the first time, you must review and accept the License Agreement before accessing the controller interface. Read the agreement, select the confirmation checkbox, and click Accept and continue. This confirmation is required only during the initial login.
4. Recommended commissioning sequence
To avoid returning to the same points repeatedly, it is convenient to proceed in this order:
- Open Settings - Controller and set the site name, location, time zone, and time.
- Go to Settings - Network and configure LAN and Art-Net.
- If the fixture map needs to be changed, go to the Layout page and bring the layout up to date.
- Then open the Patch page and assign addresses and output parameters for groups.
- If external serial equipment is used, configure RS232.
- If the project works with RGBW or RGBCW fixtures, go to RGBW Calibration and perform calibration.
- If playback scenarios are used on the site, open the Timeline page, select the required layout, check the clips, and run Bake after major changes.
- If buttons, digital inputs, RS232, TCP/UDP commands, or automatic start chains are used on the site, open the Triggers page and configure the required events and actions.
- If the site should work on a schedule, open the Calendar page, create events, check recurrence rules, and verify related bindings.
- If an operational user screen is needed, open the UI page, configure screens and buttons, and then check the result in Preview.
- Open Dashboard and check the controller status, and if necessary view the live DMX / Art-Net monitor.
- Check the Firmware tab and decide whether an update is required before site handover.
- Create a project backup via Save backup.
- If necessary, create or verify users in the Users tab.
5. Dashboard page
The Dashboard page is intended for quickly checking the current status of the controller and troubleshooting. It is the main diagnostic screen that is useful to return to during commissioning and site handover.
5.1. Status tab
The Status tab is suitable for a quick verification that the correct basic data is recorded on the controller.
- Check the controller name, location, time zone, and DST status.
- Verify the coordinates if the site uses geographic parameters.
- Review the time of the last settings update.
- Check the Notes block if it stores service notes for the site.
Working actions are available on the right or at the top of the tab:
- Refresh refreshes the status data.
- Reboot sends the controller for reboot.
- Schedule on / Schedule off enables or disables execution of the calendar schedule.
The Schedule off button is useful during commissioning when you need to temporarily exclude the effect of the schedule on the site. Before handover, make sure the schedule is returned to the required state.
5.2. Logs tab
The Logs tab helps you understand what happened on the controller: events, messages, and possible errors. You can also use filters to quickly find the required log entry.
Use it if something on the site is operating unstably and you need to review the latest events.
The filter panel allows you to narrow down the log list by:
- Search — searches by message text, UID, PID, device, or error details.
- Source — shows entries generated by a specific controller subsystem.
- Level — filters logs by severity, such as information, warning, or error.
- Event Type — shows only entries related to a specific operation or event.
- Actor — filters events performed by a particular administrator, user, or system process.
- From / To — limits results to a selected date and time range.
Click Apply filters to update the list. Click Reset to clear all selected filters.
Refresh reloads the log list.
The First / Previous / Next / Last navigation lets you move through journal pages.
Clear logs permanently clears the journal.
5.3. DMX Out tab
The DMX Out tab shows a live output monitor. It is one of the most useful engineering screens for quickly checking whether the controller is actually outputting data right now.
- Select the required output in the Output field.
- Check the Runtime: Live / Offline indicator.
- Review the number of active channels, peak level, and the time of the last update.
- In the Selected Output block you can verify which output and which scope the signal is going to.
- The 512 Channels grid shows the actual levels of all channels on the selected output.
This tab is especially useful when you need to understand:
- whether there is any outgoing DMX / Art-Net signal at all;
- whether transmission is going to the correct universe or output;
- whether the required channels show activity;
- whether the problem is in the controller or farther down the communication line / inside the fixture.
5.4. RDM tab
The RDM tab provides tools for monitoring, discovering, configuring, and diagnosing RDM-compatible lighting devices connected through Art-Net gateways or the controller’s native DMX outputs.
The summary at the top displays the current RDM status, Controller UID, last update time, and the number of gateways, RDM ports, responders, project devices, stale devices, devices requiring attention, and protocol errors. Click Refresh snapshot to reload the current information. This action does not start device discovery.
The navigation tree contains:
- Project devices — responders registered in the current project.
- Discovered gateways and responders — available gateways, output ports, and detected RDM devices.
Select an object in the tree to view its details and available actions.
For a gateway, the tab shows its connection status, IP address, firmware, RDM capability, compatibility information, output ports, and transport errors. Use Refresh all ports to update the Table of Devices (TOD) for all available ports.
For an output port, you can review its discovery state, responder count, RDM status, and communication errors. Depending on the transport type, the following actions may be available:
- Refresh TOD or Discover responders — updates the list of connected responders.
- Full rediscovery — clears the cached device list and performs a complete scan.
- Capability scan — updates the supported RDM parameters for detected devices.
- Incremental discovery override — controls background discovery for Art-Net ports.
- Broadcast SET — sends a parameter value to multiple responders. Broadcast commands do not return confirmation from individual devices and must be used with caution.
When a responder is selected, the interface displays its manufacturer, model, UID, online status, DMX configuration, supported parameters, sensor information, network settings, and diagnostics. The available sections are Overview, DMX, Parameters, Sub-devices, Status & Sensors, Network, and Diagnostics.
Use Identify to activate or deactivate the device’s identification mode, Refresh capabilities to update its supported parameters, and Add to project to register the responder for configuration monitoring and layout diagnostics. The View RDM logs button opens log entries filtered for the selected device.
Registered project devices retain their expected route and DMX configuration. If the detected configuration changes or the device is moved, the tab highlights the difference between the expected and actual values. You can accept the current configuration, adjust the layout mapping, or remove the device from the project.
Actions that may interrupt DMX output, change network connectivity, or modify multiple devices require confirmation. While discovery is running on a port, responder operations on that port are temporarily unavailable.
5.5. Network tab
The Network tab shows the current network status of the controller and the connected Art-Net environment. It displays the controller’s LAN and Art-Net IP configuration, including whether each interface is using DHCP or a static address. The tab also shows the last update time and allows the user to manually refresh the network overview.
Below the summary, the tab lists all detected Art-Net devices. For each device, it shows the device name, IP address, short name, input and output universes, Net/Subnet values, firmware version, MAC address, bind IP, last seen time, and node report when available.
If no Art-Net devices are found, the tab indicates that no devices are currently reachable and suggests checking that the devices are powered on and connected to the Art-Net interface.
5.6. API tab
The API tab is service-oriented. It contains documentation on how commands can be sent to the controller from other devices, interfaces, applications, and so on using HTTP requests.
6. Layout page
The Layout page is used to create and edit the fixture scheme on a grid. Here the engineer forms or corrects the fixture map: layouts, groups, point positions, and their types.
Open Layout only if you really need to change the fixture map, address layout, or placement scheme. If the layout is already approved and working, it is better not to change it unnecessarily.
6.1. Top layouts panel
The very top of the page contains switching between different layouts.
- The + button creates a new layout.
- You can switch between layouts using the tabs.
- A layout name can be renamed by double-clicking the name.
- An unnecessary layout can be removed by clicking the cross.
- The Layout page should be viewed as a way to create new control zones, allowing scenes in each zone (Layout) to be switched independently.
6.2. Left Groups panel
- Search filters groups and pixels by group name and by x and y coordinates.
- Add group creates a new group.
- Expand all and Collapse all expand or collapse all group lists.
- Each group name can be changed.
- Each group has a delete button.
- Inside a group you can use Select all, Unselect, or delete the selected pixels in that group.
Groups should be treated as physical DMX bus connection groups. All fixtures are addressed automatically when added; the address can be changed on the Patch page.
6.3. Right Fixtures and Properties panel
The right panel is used to select the fixture type and view / edit the properties of selected pixels.
- In the Fixtures block, the fixture type is selected, for example White, RGB, RGBW, RGBCW, and other channel-order variants.
- In the Properties block, you can view the properties of the selected pixels.
- If one fixture is selected, you can usually change its Name.
- Coord. X and Coord. Y show the coordinates of the selected point.
- Type lets you change the type of the selected fixture or a group of selected fixtures.
- Address is displayed for reference but is edited on the Patch page.
6.4. Central workspace
The center of the page contains the main workspace where the fixture map is drawn.
- Grid sets the size of the working grid.
- Group defines which group new points will be added to.
- Tool switches between Draw (to add fixtures) and Select (to select fixtures).
- Fill, when enabled, automatically fills the selected area according to the pattern chosen on the right. When disabled, fixtures are added according to the mouse cursor position.
- Undo and Redo allow you to revert and restore actions.
- Center centers the workspace.
- Fullscreen expands the workspace to full screen.
- Clear Sel clears the current selection.
- Clear clears the layout.
- Export PNG saves the layout map as a PNG.
- The Channels indicator shows the total channel usage.
- The Image tool is used to move the layout background image on the grid.
- The Background selector adds an image from the File Manager as a layout reference background.
- Reload refreshes the list of available background images from the File Manager.
- When a background image is selected, Visible shows or hides it, and Lock prevents it from being moved accidentally.
- Opacity controls background transparency.
- W, H, X, and Y define the background image size and position on the grid.
- Fit scales and positions the background image to match the full grid.
- Clear Bg removes the background image from the current layout.
- Del Sel deletes the selected fixtures from the layout.
- The Pointer indicator shows the current cursor position on the grid.
6.5. Basic workflow in Layout
- Create a new layout or select an existing one.
- Create one or more groups for different site zones.
- Select the required fixture type in the right Fixtures panel.
- Select the active group in the Group field.
- Switch to the Draw tool and place points on the grid.
- If the placement needs correction, switch to Select, select the fixtures, and move them.
- If necessary, adjust the names and types of selected fixtures in the Properties panel.
- When finished, save the map using Export PNG if you need to share the scheme or keep it in the site archive.
6.6. Practical mouse and keyboard actions
- Mouse wheel or pinch changes the zoom.
- Middle mouse button or a two-finger gesture is used to move the workspace.
- In Draw mode, normal drawing adds fixtures to the grid.
- In Draw mode, deletion is done with Alt + drawing or the right mouse button.
- In Select mode, selecting an empty area creates a box selection.
- Shift helps add new points to the existing selection.
- Dragging selected fixtures moves them on the grid.
- Arrow keys move the selection, and Delete removes the selected points.
- Undo and Redo are best used immediately after a mistaken action instead of trying to restore everything manually.
- In Select mode, dragging an already selected fixture moves the whole selected set.
- In Select mode, dragging a non-selected fixture first selects it and then moves it.
- Shift + Arrow keys moves the selected fixtures by 10 grid cells.
- In Image mode, dragging with the left mouse button moves the layout background image.
- If the background image is locked, it cannot be moved until Lock is disabled.
- Clear Sel removes the current selection without deleting fixtures.
- Del Sel deletes only the selected fixtures.
- Clear deletes all fixtures from the current layout.
6.7. What to pay attention to
- Clear clears the current layout. Use it deliberately.
- Deleting a group is irreversible if you cannot restore it from a backup.
- If the system reports that the channel limit has been reached, reduce the number of active points or revise the layout structure.
- If you edit the layout on a live site, it is better to save a backup of the current project first
7. Patch page
The Patch page is used to patch groups by channels and to select the output parameters of a group. If Layout is responsible for the position of fixtures on the scheme, then Patch is responsible for which channels and which output those fixtures are assigned to.
7.1. What the top bar shows
The top of the page displays short statistics for the current active group.
- Pixels shows the number of fixtures in the group.
- Used shows how many channels are occupied.
- Free shows how many channels are still available in the 1–512 range.
This line is especially useful when you need to quickly understand whether the group fits into a single 512-channel block and how much capacity remains.
7.2. Left Groups panel
The list of all groups available for patching is displayed on the left.
- The search field helps quickly find a group by name.
- Only one group can be active at a time.
- After selecting a group, its patch is displayed in the center and its output configuration on the right.
7.3. Central patching field
The central workspace shows the channel grid from 1 to 512. Each fixture or fixture segment occupies its own channel range in this grid.
- The Zoom slider changes the display scale.
- The blocks in the field correspond to fixtures in the selected group.
- The label on a block helps identify which fixture it is and which address it currently starts from.
- By dragging, a fixture can be reassigned to a different start address.
The easiest way to think about this screen is: you do not draw a layout here; you distribute already created fixtures across DMX / Art-Net channels.
7.4. How to change a fixture address
- Select the required group on the left.
- Find the required fixture or group segment in the field.
- Hold the block and drag it to a new start address.
- Release the block if the new position is correct.
- After that, check that the fixture occupies the expected channel range.
If the new position overlaps with already occupied channels or goes beyond the allowed range, the interface will show a conflict, and that move cannot be considered correct.
7.5. Right Group configuration panel
The right panel defines where the selected group will be output.
- Output switches the output type: DMX or Artnet.
- If DMX is selected, you need to specify the DMX port.
- If Artnet is selected, you can enable or disable Broadcast.
- If broadcast is disabled, you need to fill in the IP address.
- For Art-Net, the Universe is also specified.
7.6. Recommended workflow in Patch
- First prepare the groups and fixtures in Layout.
- Open Patch and select the required group on the left.
- Configure the group's output type: DMX or Artnet.
- If it is DMX, select the correct physical port.
- If it is Art-Net, set broadcast or unicast, IP address, and universe.
- Arrange the fixtures by addresses within the 1–512 grid.
- Check that there are no overlaps and that the number of used channels looks expected.
- When finished, if necessary, go to Dashboard -> DMX Out and verify that the signal is going to the correct channel / output.
7.7. What to pay attention to
- If the group contains many fixtures, it is convenient to first estimate the total channel consumption using the top statistics.
- If the site uses Art-Net unicast, do not forget to disable broadcast and set the IP address.
- If a fixture does not respond after patching, first check the Patch page, and only then move on to the physical line and the fixture itself.
- After changes in the patch, it is convenient to verify the picture on Dashboard -> DMX Out.
8. Timeline page
The Timeline page is used to prepare and check playback scenarios. Here the engineer assembles or controls the sequence of clips, effects, and timing, and then checks how it will be launched on the site.
8.1. Top control bar
The top part of the page is responsible for launching and organizing timelines.
- The current time position is displayed on the left.
- Play/Pause starts and stops playback of the active timeline in the engineer's browser, so you can understand how the effects will work.
- Home returns the playback pointer to the beginning.
- Bake rebuilds timelines after changes.
- Loop enables looping for the active timeline.
- The + button creates a new timeline, and the tabs at the top let you switch between timelines, rename them, reorder them, and delete unnecessary ones.
8.2. Left Library panel
The content library that can be used in the timeline is located on the left.
- Media upload uploads video and audio files.
- Files in the list can be dragged onto tracks in the center area.
- Each file shows its name and duration, so it is easy to verify the required material right away.
- Unneeded files can be removed from the library with the delete button.
- Below is the Effects list, which can also be dragged onto tracks.
8.3. Central Timeline area
The center contains the main time scale with tracks. This is the workspace where you place clips in time.
- At the top there is a time ruler and the current position indicator.
- The Zoom slider changes the scale and helps you work more accurately with short or long clips.
- Below are the video and audio tracks, where you can drag files and effects from the library.
- A clip on a track can be moved in time, and its right edge can be trimmed if you need to change its duration.
- Clicking a clip selects it for precise adjustment on the right in Inspector.
8.4. Right Preview, Properties, and Inspector panel
The right column helps you verify what is currently playing in the engineer's browser and precisely configure the active timeline or selected clip.
- Preview shows the material under the playhead and any overlaid effects.
- The Properties block sets the general timeline parameters: Sync, Layout, Fade in, Fade out, Length, and Auto trim.
- Sync lets you choose internal time or synchronization via Art-Net TimeCode.
- Layout defines which fixture layout the current timeline will work with.
- In the Inspector block for the selected clip, the following fields are available: Kind, Track, File / Effect, Start, Dur, Fade in, and Fade out.
- If an effect is selected, you can also configure Color, Intensity, and Speed Hz here.
- The Delete button removes the selected clip, and Jump quickly moves the pointer to its position on the time scale.
8.5. Recommended workflow in Timeline
- Open the required timeline or create a new one with the + button.
- In Properties, select the correct Layout for this scenario.
- If synchronization with an external time source is needed, configure the Sync field.
- Upload media files via Media upload if they have not yet been added to the library.
- Drag files and effects to the required tracks.
- Check clip positions in time, durations, and fade parameters.
- After changes, click Bake and wait until all timeline files are baked.
- Run a test via Play and make sure that both preview and the real light behave as expected.
8.6. What to pay attention to
- If the site must work by external timecode, do not accidentally leave Internal time enabled.
- If the wrong Layout is selected, the playback result may not match the actual layout on the site.
- After noticeable edits to clips, effects, or timeline order, it is better to run Bake again.
- If it seems during verification that nothing is happening, first check which timeline is active and where the time pointer currently is.
9. Triggers page
The Triggers page is used for automation. Here the engineer links a trigger event to a set of actions, for example launching a timeline, sending a command over the network, outputting a signal, or launching another trigger.
9.1. What the top bar shows
The top of the page displays a short summary of the triggers.
- Total shows the total number of triggers.
- Active shows how many triggers are currently enabled.
- If changes are being saved, the Saving... status may appear at the top.
9.2. Left Triggers panel
The list of all created triggers is located on the left.
- The + button adds a new trigger.
- Clicking a list item opens its configuration in the center and on the right.
- Each trigger in the list shows its name, a short event summary, and the number of actions.
- The Run button allows you to manually test the trigger without waiting for an external event.
- You can drag triggers with the mouse to change the list order.
9.3. Central Event block
The central part of the page is responsible for the condition under which the trigger should fire.
Depending on the selected Event Type, additional setup fields appear.
For Sync Play, the Sync key field is used to match controllers that should react to the same synchronized playback event.
- Name sets a clear trigger name.
- Enable turns the trigger on or off.
- Description is convenient for explaining the logic on the site.
- Event Type defines which event should activate the trigger.
Depending on the selected Event Type, additional setup fields appear.
- Soft: manual or software launch without an external input.
- Controller Start: launch when the controller starts.
- Timeline Started and Timeline Finished: react to the start or completion of the selected timeline.
- Sync Play: react to a synchronized playback signal from another controller with the selected Sync key.
- Ethernet Input: react to incoming TCP/UDP data with socket selection and filters.
- RS232 Input: react to a line received on the selected RS232 port.
- Digital Input: react to the state of a digital input with port and level selection.
The easiest way to think about this block is: first you define what should happen, and then on the right you configure what the controller should do in response.
9.4. Right Actions panel
The right column defines which actions are executed after the trigger fires.
- At the top, the type of a new action is selected, and it is added to the chain with the Add action button.
- Each action can be individually enabled or disabled via Enabled.
- The Delay field sets a delay before the action is executed.
- An unnecessary action is removed with the Delete button.
The following actions are available on the page:
- Start Trigger: launch another trigger.
- Start Timeline: launch the selected timeline.
- Start Sync Timeline: launch the selected timeline in synchronized playback mode using the specified Sync key.
- Pause Layout, Resume Layout, Stop Layout: control the selected layout.
- Send Ethernet: send a command via TCP or UDP, specifying the socket, host, port, and string.
- RS232 Output: send a string to the selected RS232 port.
- Digital Output: output a logic level to the selected digital output.
9.5. Recommended workflow in Triggers
- First prepare what the trigger will refer to: Timeline, Layout, RS232, and network sockets.
- Create a new trigger with the + button.
- Set a clear name and, if necessary, a short description.
- Select the required Event Type and fill in the event parameters.
- In the right panel, add one or more actions via Add action.
- For each action, check the type, enabled state, and Delay.
- Enable the trigger via Enable.
- Run a test with the Run button and make sure the reaction on the site matches the task.
9.6. What to pay attention to
- If a trigger should react to the network, the required TCP/UDP socket must be configured in Network in advance.
- If a trigger starts a timeline, first make sure the timeline itself is prepared and Bake has been executed if necessary.
- If a trigger works via RS232 or Digital Input, verify the correct port selection and level logic.
- The Run button is convenient for commissioning, but after testing it is still worth checking the real external event separately if the trigger is supposed to work automatically.
10. Calendar page
The Calendar page is used for scheduling. Here the engineer creates one-time, recurring, and astronomical events that should start automatically by time.
10.1. Calendar top bar
The upper part of the page helps you quickly switch between view modes and periods.
- View shows the current view mode.
- The Month, Week, and Year buttons switch the calendar display.
- The <<, Today, and >> buttons let you move to the required period.
10.2. Central calendar area
The center displays the calendar grid for the selected period.
- In Month mode it is convenient to see the general picture by date.
- In Week mode it is easier to verify events by time of day.
- In Year mode it is convenient to jump quickly by month.
- Using the day view and edit windows, you can move an event to the required time.
10.3. Right All Events panel
The full list of events is shown on the right, regardless of the selected period.
- The Add Event button creates a new event.
- Clicking an event card opens it for editing.
- The Run button lets you test the event manually.
- The card shows the name, a short description of recurrence, and related bindings.
10.4. Event Settings window
This is the main working window of the calendar. Here you define the event name, trigger logic, recurrence, exceptions, and bindings to soft triggers and UI buttons.
These screenshots already show the main editor scenarios: a one-time event, standard recurrence, quick recurrence presets, advanced rules, and astronomical mode. Each of them is described separately below.
10.4.1. Top of the window
- The window title shows Create Event for a new event or Event Settings for an existing one.
- The Close button closes the editor without separately launching the event.
- The Name field sets a clear name. It is best to immediately use a title that operations staff will understand, for example Evening facade start or Weekday storefront lighting.
10.4.2. Schedule block
The Schedule block defines the basic event model.
- The mode switch lets you choose One-time or Recurring.
- For One-time, you set only the date and time of one run.
- For Recurring, you set the start date, recurrence logic, and end mode.
- If the event is recurring, an end selection appears: Never or On date.
- In On date mode, you must specify the end date, after which the event should no longer run.
10.4.3. One-time event
One-time mode is used for a single launch at a specific date and time.
- Use it for one-time switch-ons, holiday scenarios, or technical launches on the site.
- The Date and Time fields are filled in.
- It is the simplest mode if the event should not repeat automatically.
10.4.4. Recurring event
Standard recurring mode is used for daily, weekly, and other regular launches.
- The Start date field sets the date when the rule becomes active.
- The Time field sets the base execution time if you are not using astronomical mode.
- Below, a Repeat block appears with ready-made presets: Minutely, Every day, Weekdays, Weekly, and Monthly.
- The Minutely preset allows you to set minutes within each hour, for example a launch at 0,15,30,45.
- The Weekly preset allows you to choose specific weekdays.
- The Monthly preset lets you specify the day of the month.
- Under the repeat block, the editor shows a draft rule summary so you can immediately see how the system interprets the current settings.
10.4.5. Astronomical mode
Astronomical mode is enabled only for recurring events via the Astronomical event checkbox.
- Instead of a fixed time, you select an event here: At sunset, At sunrise, At moonrise, At moonset, or Moon quarters.
- The Offset (minutes) field sets an offset from the selected astronomical moment.
- Positive values mean launch after the event; negative values mean before it.
- For Moon quarters, an additional selection appears for a specific moon quarter or Any moon quarter mode.
- Below, the system shows the Selected mode string, which helps verify the resulting launch formula.
10.4.6. Advanced repeat controls
This block is needed when the ready-made repeat presets are not enough.
- The Repeat rules section lets you build additional rules and add them with the Add repeat button.
- You can use the BYMINUTE, BYHOUR, and BYMONTHDAY fields, as well as month and weekday selection.
- If nothing is selected for months or weekdays, it means that no restriction is set for that parameter.
- Each added rule is shown as a separate line and can be removed with the Remove button.
- The EXDATE section is used to exclude individual dates and times from an already configured recurrence. Note that you can exclude only a specific date, and it will not repeat every year.
- The Add exclude button adds an exception, and the list below shows all excluded dates.
- The Combined rule field allows you to manually enter RRULE and EXDATE strings if precise manual configuration in RFC 5545 format is required.
- If the syntax of a manual rule is incorrect, the editor will show an error and will not allow invalid logic to be saved.
10.5. Recommended workflow in Calendar
- First prepare the timelines, triggers, and UI buttons if the event needs them.
- Click Add Event and set the event name.
- Select the schedule type and fill in the date, time, and recurrence.
- If the event should launch something in the system, add the required bindings in the Triggers & UI buttons block.
- Save the event via Create or Save.
- Check the result with the Run button and then wait for the real trigger time.
10.6. What to pay attention to
- Scheduling depends on correct time and time-zone settings in Controller.
- If recurrence is used, make sure the RRULE is correct and does not conflict with EXDATE exceptions.
- If the event is linked to a soft trigger or UI button, the corresponding binding must exist and be configured correctly.
- Manual Run is useful for checking logic, but it does not replace verification of a real calendar-based trigger.
11. User interface page
The User interface page is intended for building the user control screen. Here the engineer configures screens, buttons, their appearance, and their bindings to triggers.
11.1. General tab
The General tab is responsible for the overall appearance of the interface.
- In the Theme section, you can quickly apply a ready-made color preset.
- The Branding block sets the Logo Installer, Logo Customer, and Name Customer.
- The Screen Background field selects the image or video used as the interface background.
- The selected background is shown in the Application and in the Preview window.
- Background media is selected from the File Manager media library.
- The Navigation block sets the Home screen, All zones screen and RDM diagnostic screen.
- In the Colors block, the main interface colors are set.
- The Component styles section configures the global look of action, switch, and zone-card buttons.
- The Refresh all buttons button applies the global styles to the buttons.
11.4. Preview window
On the right, Preview shows the user interface the way operations staff will see it.
- The preview can be switched between different device presets.
- The selected device preset changes the preview size, so you can check how the interface looks on different phone screen types.
- After saving changes, the preview updates, so it is convenient to immediately control the final look and navigation.
11.5. Recommended workflow in User interface
- First prepare the triggers that will be called by the buttons.
- In the General tab, set branding, colors, and global styles.
- In the Screens & Buttons tab, create the required screens.
- Add buttons and choose their type.
- Link the required triggers or target screens.
- Check the result in Preview and run button tests.
11.6. What to pay attention to
- If no trigger is selected for a button, it may not perform the expected action in the user interface.
- For Switch toggles, you need to fill in both On trigger and Off trigger if both states should work.
- If you do not select a Home screen, the initial navigation may be inconvenient for operations staff.
- After major changes, it is useful to check not only the appearance but also the real execution of the buttons using the built-in tests.
12. Settings screen
12.1. Controller
This is the main tab for the initial controller setup. The engineer usually works here first.
12.1.1. Name
The Name field sets the displayed controller name. It is recommended to specify a clear site name, for example the hall, zone, or rack name.
- Use a short and unambiguous name.
- After entering it, make sure the name has updated in the Current Profile panel on the right.
- If the field is left empty, the system will restore the default name.
12.1.2. Audio output
The Audio output field is used only if the project actually uses the controller's audio output.
- If audio is not used, it is usually enough to leave the default option.
- If the required output is not in the list, click Refresh.
- After selection, check that the required device is shown in the profile on the right.
12.1.3. Timeline FPS
Timeline FPS sets the working timeline frame rate. Change it only if required by a specific project.
- If the project documentation has no separate requirement, do not change this value unnecessarily.
- If the project is already built for a certain FPS, an uncoordinated change may affect playback.
12.1.4. Notes
The Notes field is convenient for service notes: site address, installation remarks, schematic version, and network specifics.
12.1.5. Location, Latitude, Longitude
The location block is needed for correct operation of time-based logic and logic tied to the site's geography.
- In the Location field, you can choose a city from the list.
- After selecting a city, the system usually fills in the coordinates, time zone, and DST settings automatically.
- If the site is non-standard or an exact address is required, you can manually correct Latitude and Longitude.
- After manual editing, check that the data in Current Profile on the right looks correct.
12.1.6. Time zone
The Time zone field sets the site's time zone. For stable schedule operation, it is important that it is selected correctly.
- If the site is in a typical city, it is more convenient to select the city first and then verify the time zone.
- If the time zone is changed manually, make sure it matches the actual installation location.
- If the controller works on a schedule, this item is critical.
12.1.7. Automatic sync and Controller time
This block configures the controller's current time and its synchronization.
- Automatic sync enables automatic time synchronization if it is available on this controller.
- When automatic synchronization is enabled, manual time editing is usually blocked.
- If you need to set the time manually, first disable automatic synchronization, then enter the date and time in the Controller time field and click Apply.
- After changing the time, compare it with the right panel: the current clock value is visible there.
12.1.8. DST
The DST block is responsible for switching between daylight saving time and standard time.
- If daylight saving time is required on the site, enable Enable daylight saving time.
- In the DST preset field, choose a suitable template if it fits the installation country.
- If the template does not fit, manually fill in DST start and DST end.
- If the site is located in a region without time changes, leave DST disabled.
12.1.9. Project export and Project import
The bottom part of the tab contains service actions for project backup and import.
- Save backup creates a backup copy of the current project. This is a convenient way to finish commissioning.
- Download latest backup downloads the most recent backup copy.
- Import package uploads a project from a file.
After import, you will need to log in again. Before importing, make sure the correct package is selected.
12.1.10. Reset to defaults
The Reset to defaults button returns the tab parameters to their base values.
12.2. Users
The Users tab is not directly related to light calibration, but it may be needed during site handover when access has to be passed to operations staff.
12.2.1. What can be done here
- View the user list.
- Select a user and change the name, login, role, or status.
- Change the password of the selected user.
- Create a new user.
- Delete a user.
12.2.2. What the engineer should look at
- Role defines the level of access. Usually operations staff receive a role according to the project agreement.
- Status lets you quickly activate or block an account.
- When creating a new user, the login must be unique.
- The password should not be too short. The interface provides a hint about the minimum length.
If your task is only lighting commissioning and access has already been issued, you may not need to use this tab.
12.3. Settings screen: Network
12.3.1. LAN
The LAN block is responsible for the controller's main network connection.
- If the site uses automatic address assignment, enable DHCP.
- If a fixed address is required, disable DHCP and fill in IP address, Subnet mask, Gateway and DNS.
- When DHCP is enabled, the static addressing fields are blocked. This is normal behavior.
- After making changes, click Save network settings.
- The DNS field sets the DNS server used by the LAN interface.
- DNS is needed when the controller must resolve domain names, for example for cloud connection, update checks, or external services.
12.3.2. Art-Net
The Art-Net block is needed if the lighting is routed into a separate lighting network.
- The operating logic is similar to LAN: you can use DHCP or set the address manually.
- If the Art-Net network is separated in the project, specify the parameters of that network specifically.
- After changing the parameters, also click Save network settings.
- The Gateway field is optional for Art-Net. It is usually left empty when Art-Net is used only inside a local lighting network.
- Enable Send Artnet timecode if the controller must send Art-Net timecode to the lighting network.
- After changing the parameters, also click Save network settings.
12.3.3. WiFi Configuration
The controller can connect to an existing wireless network in Wi-Fi client mode. To configure the connection, open Settings → Network and locate the Wi-Fi section.
- Select the required antenna:
- Internal antenna — uses the controller’s built-in antenna.
- External antenna — uses the external antenna connector. Connect the antenna physically before restarting the controller.
- Changing the antenna requires a controller restart. The controller does not restart automatically.
- Enable Wi-Fi.
- Click Search networks to scan for available wireless networks. The list displays each network’s SSID, signal strength, and security type. Select a network to copy its name into the SSID field. For a hidden network, enter the SSID manually.
- Enter the Wi-Fi password. The password is required when applying an enabled Wi-Fi configuration.
- Configure the IP settings:
- Leave DHCP enabled to obtain the IP address, subnet mask, gateway, and DNS settings automatically.
- Disable DHCP to configure a static IPv4 address. Enter the IP address, Subnet mask, Gateway, and DNS servers manually.
- Click Save Wi-Fi settings to apply the configuration.
After a successful connection, the interface displays the active Wi-Fi network or assigned IP address. The controller’s web interface can then be opened using its Wi-Fi IP address.
The Wi-Fi regulatory region is selected automatically based on the Location configured for the controller. If the location cannot be identified, the controller uses the safe World regulatory mode.
12.3.4. RS232
The RS232 block is needed only in projects where external devices are connected via a serial interface.
- For each port, the following are set individually: Baud rate, Data bits, Parity, Stop bits, and Flow control / Handshaking.
- If RS232 is not used on the site, this block can be left untouched.
- After editing, click Save RS232 settings.
12.3.5. Sockets
The Sockets section more often relates to integration tasks and is not always needed by a lighting engineer. But if the project includes exchange via UDP or TCP, configuration is done here.
- An already created socket is selected on the left.
- Its parameters are edited in the center: name, port, timeout, UDP type, and enabled state.
- On the right, a new socket can be created via Add Socket.
- The Delete socket button removes the selected socket.
12.4. RGBW Calibration
This is the key tab for setting the correct white for RGBW and RGBCW fixtures. It is best to work with it once the network is already configured, the fixtures are connected, and you understand the addressing scheme.
12.4.1. What to check before calibration
- Calibration should be performed in a dark environment; if it is a facade, then at night. Fixtures should illuminate the same surface on which they will later operate. This helps avoid problems caused by different light reflection from different surfaces.
- Make sure the fixtures are actually connected to the output you are going to test.
- Understand the fixture format: RGBW or RGBCW.
- Know the starting RGB address and the white-channel addresses.
- Understand the fixture color order: RGB, RBG, GRB, and so on.
- If you use Art-Net unicast, know the IP address of the target device.
12.4.2. Output source
In both blocks, the path for the test signal output is selected first.
- Use Output source = DMX if you want to output the calibration via the controller's local DMX port.
- Use Output source = Art-Net if the test goes to an Art-Net network.
- For DMX, choose DMX OUT1 or DMX OUT2.
- For Art-Net, the Universe is specified.
- If Broadcast is enabled, the address is sent by broadcast.
- If Broadcast is disabled, make sure to fill in the IP address.
12.4.3. RGBW calibration
The RGBW Calibration section is used if the fixture has one white channel.
- Select the output source: DMX or Art-Net.
- Specify the RGB start address.
- Select the correct RGB order.
- Specify the White address.
- In the Reference Color block, set the Red, Green, and Blue values.
- Click Preview RGBW white.
- Evaluate the white tint and, if necessary, adjust the RGB values.
- Set the Confidence coefficient from 0 to 1. It affects how much of the white channel will be added to the overall color. By reducing this coefficient, you increase contrast and color saturation while reducing the CRI of the white color.
- When the result is satisfactory, click Save calibration.
The calibration idea is simple: using two fixtures, the white channel on the first fixture remains on at full level, and you select an RGB color on the second fixture so that the resulting RGB white looks as similar as possible to the white channel of the first fixture. Then, when recalculating color, the controller will use your RGB color as the reference and mix in the white channel to output the final color. If you want to use only the white channel, then the content color should match the RGB calibration color.
12.4.4. RGBCW calibration
The RGBCW Calibration section is used if the fixture has two white channels: cold and warm.
- Select the common output source.
- Specify the RGB start address.
- Select the RGB order.
- Specify the Cold white address and Warm white address.
- In the Cold White Reference block, adjust the RGB mix for cold white and verify it with Preview cold white.
- In the Warm White Reference block, similarly adjust the RGB mix for warm white with Preview warm white.
- After verification, save the configuration via Save calibration.
- Set the Confidence coefficient from 0 to 1. It affects how much of the white channel will be added to the overall color. By reducing this coefficient, you increase contrast and color saturation while reducing the CRI of the white color.
12.4.5. Stop preview, Save calibration, Reset defaults
- Stop preview stops the current test output.
- Save calibration saves both calibrations: RGBW and RGBCW.
- Reset defaults returns the form to its initial values.
After finishing the setup, it is recommended to always stop the preview and verify once more that the save operation completed successfully.
12.4.6. Right Preview Status panel
The panel on the right helps you quickly understand what is actually happening.
- Preview shows whether a test is currently running.
- Mode shows the test type: RGBW, RGBCW cold, or RGBCW warm.
- Runtime shows whether execution is connected.
- Output shows exactly where the signal is going.
- RGB address, White, Cold white, and Warm white help you quickly verify addresses without returning to the form.
Typical reasons why preview does not give the required result
- The wrong output is selected, for example DMX instead of Art-Net.
- The Universe or IP address of the Art-Net device is incorrect.
- The RGB order is mixed up.
- The white-channel address overlaps with the RGB range.
- The fixture type is wrong: RGBW and RGBCW are mixed up.
- The controller physically cannot see the execution side or the line.
12.5. Firmware
The Firmware tab is used for service verification of a new firmware version and to start an update or rollback.
12.5.1. When to use this tab
- After starting a new controller, if the procedure requires checking whether the version is current.
- Before site handover, if all devices must be brought to one version.
- For a service task involving an update or rollback.
12.5.2. Checking for an update
- Open the Firmware tab.
- Click Check update.
- Wait for the check to finish.
- Compare the Current version and Available version in the right panel.
- If there is a description of changes, review the Available changelog block.
12.5.3. Update or rollback
- If a newer version is available, the button will show an action such as Update to ....
- If the installed version is newer than the offered one, the system may offer Rollback.
- During the update, the controller may reboot. Take this into account when working on the site.
12.6. Cloud
- Pairing Code is entered when connecting the controller to a cloud account.
- The Pair button links the local controller with the cloud using the entered pairing code.
- Cloud URL shows the cloud server address.
- Customer UI Sync controls whether the local customer ui configuration can be updated automatically from the cloud.
- Calendar Sync controls whether the local calendar can be updated automatically from the cloud.
- Conflict Rule defines what should happen when the cloud calendar and local controller calendar have different versions.
- Cloud wins automatically uses the cloud calendar version.
- Controller wins automatically keeps the local controller calendar version and sends it to the cloud.
- Ask when versions differ shows a conflict warning and lets the user choose which version to keep.
- Pull cloud to local replaces the local controller calendar with the cloud calendar.
- Push local to cloud replaces the cloud calendar with the local controller calendar.
- Disable pairing disconnects the controller from the cloud and stops cloud synchronization.
13. Installing the application on the customer’s device
13.1. About PWA Technology
The PROMIN customer application is a Progressive Web App (PWA). A PWA is opened through a web browser but can be installed on the phone and used like a regular mobile application.
After installation, the application:
- Appears as a PROMIN icon on the Home Screen.
- Opens in a separate full-screen window.
- Does not require installation from the App Store or Google Play.
- Receives interface updates automatically.
- Provides quick access to the controller’s customer interface.
The phone must have network access to the controller for monitoring and control functions to work.
You can watch a video on how to make it on the Promin youtube channel. https://www.youtube.com/@promincontrol
13.2. Installation on iPhone
- Connect the iPhone to a network that provides access to the controller.
- Open Safari.
- Enter the customer interface address provided by the installer using this format: http://<controller-ip-address>/customer/ (replace <controller-ip-address> with the actual address).
- Wait until the customer interface opens completely.
- Tap the Share button in Safari.
- Scroll down and select Add to Home Screen.
- Enable Open as Web App, if this option is displayed.
- Check the application name and tap Add.
- Return to the Home Screen and tap the PROMIN icon to open the application.
If Add to Home Screen is not displayed, scroll to the bottom of the Share menu, select Edit Actions, and add it to the available actions. These steps follow Apple’s current procedure for installing web apps on iPhone. Apple Support
13.3. Installation on Android
- Connect the Android phone to a network that provides access to the controller.
- Open Google Chrome.
- Enter the customer interface address provided by the installer using this format: http://<controller-ip-address>/customer/ (replace <controller-ip-address> with the actual address).
- Wait until the customer interface opens completely.
- Tap the three-dot menu in Chrome.
- Select Add to Home screen and then tap Install. On some Chrome versions, the command may appear directly as an Install app.
- Confirm the installation.
- Return to the Home Screen or application list and tap the PROMIN icon.
The installed PWA can be opened and managed similarly to a regular Android application. Google Chrome Help
13.4. Installation on Windows
The customer application can be installed on a Windows computer using Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome.
13.4.1. Using Microsoft Edge
- Connect the computer to a network that provides access to the controller.
- Open Microsoft Edge.
- Enter the customer interface address provided by the installer using this format: http://<controller-ip-address>/customer/ (replace <controller-ip-address> with the actual address).
- Wait until the interface opens completely.
- Click the App available icon in the address bar and select Install. If the icon is not displayed, open the three-dot menu and select Apps → Install this site as an app.
- Check the application name and click Install.
- If required, select Pin to taskbar, Pin to Start, or Create Desktop shortcut.
- Open the application using the PROMIN icon.
Installed Edge applications can be managed by entering edge://apps in the address bar. Microsoft Support
13.4.2. Using Google Chrome
- Open Google Chrome.
- Enter the customer interface address provided by the installer using this format: http://<controller-ip-address>/customer/ (replace <controller-ip-address> with the actual address).
- Wait until the interface opens completely.
- Click the Install icon in the address bar. Alternatively, open the three-dot menu and select Cast, save, and share → Install page as app.
- Confirm the application name and click Install.
- Open the application from the desktop shortcut, taskbar, or Windows Start menu.
The application opens in a separate window and functions like a regular Windows application. The computer must remain connected to a network that provides access to the controller. Google Chrome Help
14. Final check after configuration
After all changes are complete, it is convenient to go through a short checklist:
- In the Controller tab, check the controller name.
- Check the correct Time zone and current time.
- In the Network tab, make sure LAN and Art-Net are set correctly and communication has not been lost.
- If the fixture map was edited, on the Layout page check that the layout, groups, and fixture types match the site.
- If patching was performed, on the Patch page check the group output, port / universe / IP, and the absence of address conflicts.
- If playback scenarios are used, on the Timeline page check the active layout, Sync mode, presence of the required clips, and run Bake after the latest edits.
- If automatic events are used, on the Triggers page check that the required triggers are enabled, the correct Event Type is selected, and the actions work via Run or a real external signal.
- If the site works on a schedule, on the Calendar page check the dates, time, recurrences, bindings, and perform a test launch via Run.
- If a user screen has been prepared, on the User interface page check the home screen, screens, buttons, trigger bindings, and the final appearance in Preview.
- On the Dashboard page, make sure the controller status is correct, and if necessary verify the output signal in the DMX Out tab.
- If calibration was used, in the RGBW Calibration tab stop the preview and make sure the calibration is saved.
- If required by procedure, in the Firmware tab verify that the firmware version matches the work plan.
- Create a project backup via Save backup.
15. Common issues and what to check
For solutions to common issues and step-by-step troubleshooting guides, visit our YouTube channel and watch the available support videos.
https://www.youtube.com/@promincontrol
| Situation | What to check |
|---|---|
| The schedule fires at the wrong site time | Check Time zone, the Automatic sync state, the current Controller time value, and the DST settings. |
| Access to the controller was lost after changing the network | Check whether DHCP was enabled instead of a static address, whether the IP, subnet mask, and gateway are correct, and whether the interface must now be opened via the new address. |
| There is no activity in Dashboard -> DMX Out | Check whether the correct output is selected, whether the runtime is working, whether the required timeline or project logic is running, and whether there is any data that should be output right now at all. |
| The timeline does not start as expected | Check that the correct Timeline is open, the playhead is at the correct point, the Loop mode is set properly, and Bake has been run after the latest changes. |
| The timeline does not follow external time | Check the Sync field in Timeline -> Properties. If external synchronization is required, Art-Net TimeCode must be selected, and the external timecode source must actually be present in the system. |
| An event in Calendar does not fire on time | Check the date, time, recurrence mode, correctness of RRULE and EXDATE, and the time and time zone settings in Controller. |
| An event exists in Calendar but does not launch the required action | Check the Triggers & UI buttons block in Event Settings: the required binding must be added, and the soft trigger or UI button itself must exist and be configured correctly. |
| A button is visible in User interface but does nothing | Check the button type, the selected Trigger or On/Off trigger, and then run a test via Test, Test ON, or Test OFF. |
| Navigation in User interface leads to the wrong place | Check the Home screen setting, the All zones setting, and the Target screen field for buttons of the Zone card type. |
| The trigger does not fire | Check that the trigger is enabled, the correct Event Type is selected, all event fields are filled in, and the required source is available: socket, RS232 port, digital input, or timeline. |
| The Run button works, but the external event does not | Check not the Actions list itself, but the event source: TCP/UDP socket, RS232, digital input, selected timeline, or the type of external signal. |
| The trigger fires, but the action is not performed | In the right Actions panel, check that the required action is enabled, has no incorrect Delay, and refers to an existing timeline, layout, trigger, or port. |
| The fixture does not respond to preview | Check the correct output, Universe, IP address, physical connection, and whether communication with the execution side is available. |
| The white color has a tint | Check the RGB order, the starting RGB address, and the correctness of the selected RGB values in the calibration. |
| The fixtures are positioned differently after changing Layout | Check the active layout, selected group, fixture type, the Draw / Select mode, and whether the selected points were accidentally moved. |
| The fixture does not respond after patching | Check the Patch page: the correct group, start address, output type, DMX port or Art-Net universe, broadcast / unicast, and IP address. |
| The address is not assigned when dragging | Check whether there is a conflict with already occupied channels and whether the block goes beyond the 1–512 range. |
| There is a signal after patching, but not on the expected output | Check the Output field in Patch, the DMX port or Art-Net parameters, and then confirm the result on the Dashboard -> DMX Out page. |
| It is impossible to add new points in Layout | Check the channel-limit message and the total Channels value. The current configuration may already be at its limit. |
| Old project data disappeared after import | This is normal behavior. Import replaces the project data on the controller. Always create a backup before importing. |
| It is not possible to change the time manually | Check whether automatic time synchronization is enabled. |
| It is not possible to launch Art-Net unicast preview | Check that broadcast is disabled and that a correct IP address has been filled in. |
| Can not connect to the cloud | The controller cannot connect to cloud: check LAN, gateway, DNS, internet access, pairing code, firewall. |