Introduction
In the world of lighting design, software plays a critical role in creating stunning visual effects and managing complex lighting setups. One of the most well-known lighting control software, Light Jockey, was a favorite among PC-based lighting controllers. However, it has been discontinued and replaced by ONYX, a more advanced platform from Obsidian Control Systems.
ONYX is compatible with Light Jockey USB DMX hardware, making it a seamless transition for those familiar with Light Jockey. In addition to ONYX, several other software solutions are widely used for lighting design and control.
ONYX by Obsidian Control Systems
ONYX is a modern lighting control platform known for its versatility and advanced capabilities. It supports both simple and complex lighting setups and is compatible with DMX systems.
Key Features:
- DMX Control: Manage multiple fixtures with precision using a single controller.
- Intuitive Interface: User-friendly interface for programming lighting effects.
- Hardware Integration: Recognizes Light Jockey USB DMX hardware, ensuring compatibility for existing users.
- Advanced Features: Includes pixel mapping, 3D visualization, and more for professional lighting design.
ONYX is ideal for live performances, theater productions, and large-scale events.
Other Lighting Design Software
1. AGi32
AGi32 is a powerful software for lighting analysis and design. It is widely used in architectural lighting to simulate and evaluate lighting effects.
AGi32 is a powerful software for lighting analysis and design. It is widely used in architectural lighting to simulate and evaluate lighting effects.
Key Features:
- Photometric calculations for accurate light simulations.
- Supports indoor and outdoor lighting projects.
- 3D modeling for visualization of lighting designs.
2. DIALux
DIALux is a free lighting design software popular among professionals for its comprehensive features.
DIALux is a free lighting design software popular among professionals for its comprehensive features.
Key Features:
- Create detailed lighting layouts for architectural projects.
- Integrated catalog from leading lighting manufacturers.
- Real-time rendering for realistic visualizations.
3. Radiance
Radiance is an advanced tool for simulating lighting and daylighting. It is widely used in research and high-end architectural projects.
Radiance is an advanced tool for simulating lighting and daylighting. It is widely used in research and high-end architectural projects.
Key Features:
- High-precision simulations for lighting studies.
- Support for daylighting analysis.
- Open-source, making it accessible to users.
4. Microlux
Microlux specializes in lighting calculations for interior and exterior projects.
Microlux specializes in lighting calculations for interior and exterior projects.
Key Features:
- Accurate lumen calculations.
- Supports various lighting scenarios.
- Simple and easy to use for quick evaluations.
5. Visual 3D
Visual 3D is designed for 3D visualization and lighting simulations, catering to architectural and stage lighting.
Visual 3D is designed for 3D visualization and lighting simulations, catering to architectural and stage lighting.
Key Features:
- Advanced 3D modeling and rendering.
- Photorealistic lighting visualizations.
- Comprehensive tools for professional lighting designers.
DMX Lighting and Its Role
Many of these software solutions support DMX (Digital Multiplex), a protocol for controlling lighting systems. DMX allows a single controller to manage multiple fixtures, adjusting parameters such as:
- Color and intensity.
- Movement and positioning of lights.
- Special effects like strobes and dimming.
DMX integration ensures that these software options can handle complex lighting setups for concerts, theater, and architectural lighting designs.
Conclusion
While Light Jockey was a pioneering software for lighting control, its replacement, ONYX, has raised the bar for lighting design and management. Alongside ONYX, tools like AGi32, DIALux, and Radiance offer specialized capabilities, ensuring that lighting designers have the right tools for any project. Whether for a simple event or a large-scale production, these software options provide the flexibility and control needed to achieve stunning visual results.