Hire grandMA3 processing unit M for Your Next Production
Essential system expansion for demanding MA lighting rigs
When your MA lighting system needs more capacity, the grandMA3 processing unit M provides the solution. Whether you're expanding a grandMA3 system or extending an existing grandMA2 installation through Mode2, this processing unit delivers the parameters your production demands. Here's why it should be part of your system planning.
Understanding Parameter Requirements
Modern fixtures consume parameters at remarkable rates. A single high-end moving head might use 50+ DMX channels. LED walls and pixel-mapped fixtures can require hundreds or thousands of addresses. What seems like a modest rig on paper can quickly exceed console capacity when parameter counts are totalled.
The processing unit M adds 4,096 parameters - enough to significantly extend system capabilities. For most productions, one or two processing units provide all the expansion needed. Larger shows can deploy multiple units to reach any required capacity.
The Mode2 Advantage
The processing unit M's Mode2 capability deserves attention. Many productions still operate grandMA2 systems - the platform remains excellent, and programmers know it intimately. The processing unit M works within grandMA2 networks through Mode2, providing expansion without forcing a complete system change.
This compatibility also future-proofs your investment. Equipment purchased for grandMA2 expansion continues to provide value when you eventually move to grandMA3. The same hardware serves both generations.
System Architecture Planning
Processing units work best when properly integrated into system architecture. They connect via MA-Net3 networking and output DMX, Art-Net, or sACN as required. Proper network design ensures the processing unit contributes effectively to overall system performance.
We can advise on system configuration, helping you determine how many processing units your production needs and how to integrate them with your console and network infrastructure. The goal is a system that handles your show's requirements with appropriate headroom for programming flexibility.
Redundancy and Reliability
Beyond simple expansion, processing units contribute to system reliability. A processing unit running in the network can take over show playback if the primary console fails. This redundancy provides insurance against equipment problems that could otherwise disrupt a performance.
For productions where show reliability is paramount, including processing units in the system design represents sensible risk management.
The CEG Approach
When you hire processing units from CEG, we ensure they're properly configured and tested for your specific system requirements. We'll discuss your console setup, network architecture, and output requirements to ensure the processing units integrate smoothly.
We can supply processing units as part of larger system packages or as standalone additions to existing setups. Our team understands MA system architecture and can advise on optimal configurations.
Hire Rates and Availability
The grandMA3 processing unit M is available at £400 per day. For productions requiring multiple units, we can discuss package rates that make larger deployments more cost-effective.
To hire processing units for your production, contact us on 020 3603 0179 or email [email protected]. We'll discuss your requirements, advise on quantities and configuration, and put together a system package that meets your needs.
