Film-Tech Forum ARCHIVE: Isn't DTAC just a sound _reproducer

This is topic Isn't DTAC just a sound _reproducer_ not a show controller? in forum Film Handlers' Forum at Film-Tech Forum ARCHIVE.

To visit this topic, use this URL:
https://ft-forum.com/ft/cgi-bin/ubb/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic;f=1;t=005500

Posted by Douglas Carmichael (Member # 1930) on 10-25-2003, 12:45 PM:

Reading this bit about the Omnitheater in Minnesota:
(http://www.smm.org/visitorinfo/permanent/Omni.php)

"The Sonics DTAC (Digital Theater Audio Controller) master computer controls the theater's sound systems, incorporating all the video and multimedia elements. The DTAC system interfaces with the IMAX projector and the Sky-Skan automation system that runs the dome movement and the lighting systems. DTAC weaves all the complex theater operations into one smooth running presentation."

Isn't DTAC just a sound reproducer that reproduces the sound from the DVD/hard disk in sync with the SMPTE from the projector and not a show controller per se? (I would think that running 'other stuff' would be more the province of a AMX/Crestron/Dataton-type system.)

--Douglas

Posted by Adam Martin (Member # 641) on 10-25-2003, 01:47 PM:

The SR projector outputs SMPTE timecode that both DTAC and SkyScan can chase. The GT projector has a shaft encoder that sends pulses to either SkyScan (which converts the pulses to SMPTE which in turn feeds DTAC), or to both SkyScan and DTAC (some DTACs are equipped with a TIC card to generate SMPTE from the pulses).

For preshow material, DTAC can self-generate SMPTE and feed it to other controllers like DMX recorders that can run pre-recorded SMPTE-driven light and laser shows.

SkyScan modules interface with a laptop and send information to/from equipment such as architectural dimmers and slide projectors. SkyScan is sometimes called Spice automation because each module is named after a spice, like ginseng, thyme, etc.

DTAC can also interface with other equipment with its dry contact board which has 16 contacts out and 8 contacts in. I've used DTAC to interface the Imax equipment in a booth with the 35mm equipment such that DTAC can start the 35mm projector and sit there and wait for the cue detector to pulse back and then DTAC moves on to the next item in the showlist, such as lighting control. This is quite useful for venues that like to run Imax trailers prior to 35mm shows and 35mm trailers prior to Imax shows. These dry contacts may also be used to pulse any other equipment that can take dry contact, such as dimmers and RS232 interfaces for slide and video equipment (AMX/Creston).

DTAC is also capable of receiving 6- and 2-channel audio from other sources such as dubbers.

Theaters that truly kick ass can take a laptop into the auditorium and control DTAC from the room. [thumbsup]

Posted by Gordon McLeod (Member # 33) on 10-25-2003, 06:23 PM:

Theatres that kick as use DDP's and DUBBERS MAG RULES