EK2 looks great, but will it work with my older EK modules?
Yes, the EK2 is backward compatible with earlier EK designs. The mechanical dimensions, wiring and basic function are exactly the same, but you will only get DMX control and sensing feedback if you use a fully EK2 system.
Can I drop all four strings of modules at once with the new 4-way firing box?
No. The 4-way Basic Firing Box allows you to select each string of modules (up to four) one at a time. In each position of the simple rotary selector switch, you press the fire button to release that string. Then you can switch to and fire the next string of modules – in any order you wish. If you have rigged four drops and sometimes you need to drop them all at once, you could use two standard Basic Firing Boxes – though you would need to hit the fire buttons on both boxes simultaneously. Or you could use two DMX/Sensing Firing Boxes and automated the drops based on the DMX instruction signal.
How many Electro Kabuki modules can I fire from my firing box?
The maximum number of Electro Kabuki modules that you can fire is the same for the basic firing box and the DMX/sensing firing box, which is:
200 on a 230V system
100 on a 110V system
What’s the end-of-line unit for?
The end-of-line unit is only used with the DMX/sensing firing box. It is located at the end of the cable run(s) and provides feedback to the firing box about the status of the cable run (i.e. its electrical continuity). If a splitter box is used, there must be an end-of-line unit at the end of each cable run.
Do the circuit 1 & 2 modules need separate cables?
No, you can mix circuit 1 and circuit 2 Electro Kabuki modules on the same cable run. Depending upon how you set up the firing box, you can fire both circuits together or each circuit separately.
What supply voltages are available?
Electro Kabuki systems are supplied either for 230V AC or 110V AC supplies. There is a wide tolerance on supplies that will work so, if for example your supply is 100V AC, the system should still work perfectly well.
Is voltage drop an issue on long cable runs?
Electro Kabuki is designed to work on a wide tolerance of supply voltage, so it functions perfectly well on very long cable runs. But there is a limit to the length of cable run that will allow the system to function reliably. It depends upon a number of factors, so a definite answer is not possible. If you’re in any doubt, the best answer is to test the system.
Do I need a minimum load to make sure the Electro Kabuki module releases properly?
No, the Electro Kabuki modules will release with no load at all. They incorporate a remanence spring which ensures that the load hook is fired every time, regardless of load.
Can I use my Electro Kabuki system outside?
The Electro Kabuki modules and cabling are weatherproof, providing connections are properly made. The basic firing box is also weatherproof, but the DMX/sensing firing box is not, due to the design of the DMX connectors.
Why do Electro Kabuki instructions talk about ‘dynamic’ load on the hook being 50Kg maximum?
Static loads can be easily determined. Dynamic loads arise from movement of the suspended load and can be very much higher than the associated static load. It’s important that dynamic loads are considered when installing Electro Kabuki modules and safety bonds.
What can I fit in the Electro Kabuki flight cases?
There are two flight case options for your EK system. Flight Case (15) and Flight Case (30). The numbers denote the maximum quantity of EK modules the case will hold, with additional space reserved for mounting clamps, cables and a firing box.