[SML] Opinions on Strand C21 dimmers?

[Riter, Andrew]

My venue (3 spaces, 3 dimmer rooms, 6 racks total, 1997 install) came with Strand CD 80 Supervisor racks.

5+ years ago we replaced all the brains to the C21 system.

We bought 7 (6 plus 1 spare processor and full drawer unit).

Once installed, the processors have been solid. That being said, of the 7 units, 2 or 3 units shipped from the factory in a failed state.  Units replaced quickly, but wasn’t encouraging.  But again, once they got working they’ve been fine.

I choose these over the Johnson system retrofit kits due to the programming options which I wanted (not all of which were supported by Johnson).

I can’t speak for the quality of the dimmer modules, since I’m still running (happily) the 20year modules of the CD80 variety.  But generally the Strand Dimmers are bullet proof.

But I will say, buy more modules than you need, of every flavour.  I have a few non-dim contactors left, and am looking to expanding my LED collection, but need to consider the non-dim inventory.

Whatever brand you do buy, buy an extra of everything.  While ETC may keep a stock of parts to service their electronics for decades, Strand hasn’t.  That’s why I was forced to upgrade:  fear of losing a rack due a (reasonable) component failure, and that component not being manufactured by _______ anymore.  (Strand couldn’t supply parts anymore).  Electronics have come a long way since then, and will continue to go a long way in the future.

Good Luck.

Andrew M. Riter
Assistant Technical Director, Head Lighting Technician
Chan Centre for the Performing Arts

604-822-2372
andrew.riter at ubc.ca<mailto:andrew.riter at ubc.ca>

From: Stagecraft [mailto:stagecraft-bounces at theatrical.net] On Behalf Of Joe Wilson via Stagecraft
Sent: Tuesday, May 23, 2017 12:30 PM
To: Stagecraft
Cc: Joe Wilson
Subject: [SML] Opinions on Strand C21 dimmers?

Hi gang!

Anyone have experience with the C21 line of dimmers from Strand?  They are being suggested by the engineering consultants our college has hired to spec out an overhaul of our lighting system.

We've never used them, and are looking for opinions / experiences.

Thanks!
~joe
--
_________________________
Joe Wilson, ATD/Sound
Indian River State College

Adding one more "me too" to the
collective internet consciousness.
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