Creating a Map File
Creating a Map File
What is a Map File?
If you are new to Commissioner software and map file creation, the most important high-level concept to understand is that the map file provides a means for LightRules to identify individual fixtures based on serial number:
- The map file stores each fixture's serial number, assigns settings to that fixture, and associates the fixture with a specific location on the map. LightRules requires the map file in order to communicate with, take command of, and retrieve data from each fixture.
- The position of each fixture in the map file must correspond to the actual physical location of the fixture as it is installed in the facility. Otherwise, LightRules will be dimming or activating a fixture that it thinks is located in one area of the building when that fixture is actually located in another area altogether.
- A "fixture" may refer to a Digital Lumens light fixture or a DLA control module.
Note: To create the map file, you will need a completed serial number sticker book and a copy of the completed pre-installation worksheet (see Project Planning for details).
Map File Creation Methods
To accommodate a wide range of installation scenarios, there are two main methods for creating a map file:
- Configure-then-Hang: The map file is built before the fixtures are installed. Once onsite, the fixtures are installed in the locations specified by the map.
- Hang-then-Configure: The fixtures are installed prior to map file creation. Later, the map is built to match the installed fixture locations.
Additional Map Setup Options
In addition to creating the map file, you may need to perform the following tasks: