Quasar Science recently announced the release of a new firmware update for its Double Rainbow (RR) and Rainbow 2 (R2) RGBX linear LED fixtures. The firmware update, version 0.9a, is available for free and includes several new features and improvements to the dimming engine of the fixtures. One of the key features of the update is the introduction of Advanced Routing modes, which allows RR and R2 fixtures to bridge various wired and wireless lighting protocols from within the fixture.
With the new firmware update, RR and R2 fixtures can now act as a CRMX Transmitter, expanding networking options for users. The update also introduces the ability for any RR or R2 fixture to route a wired input signal and send it out as Wireless DMX, providing flexibility in signal routing. In addition, users now have the option to assign a universe color to the wireless status LED for easier identification of linked fixtures in TX mode.
The firmware also includes new features like Latest Takes Precedence (LTP) merging, allowing two control devices on the same local network to send Multicast sACN at the same priority. This enables simultaneous control of different parameters of the same lights by multiple devices. The update also brings improvements to low-end dimming in the 0 – 30% range, optimizing the system to take advantage of the full 16-bit pipeline for smoother dimming.
Other improvements in the firmware update include faster boot times and improved Bluetooth response times. Users can download the firmware update, version 0.9a, for Double Rainbow and Rainbow 2 fixtures for free from the Quasar Science website.