Sorry if this sounds stupid, but I'm curious...

[AuraWolf]

I would like to know how the Rock-a-fire works exactly, and if someone could tell me, maybe try to explain it somewhat simply since I have no tech backround whatsoever. I know a little bit, but not much. Thanks in advance.

[VegaNova]

My tech knowledge is pretty low too, so I might be able to explain it perfectly for ya. One of these days (years) when I get my show set up I'll get some hands on experience, but here's the super quick rundown.

The show runs off 4-track synchronized audio. Two of the tracks go to the sound system for stereo sound (left and right speakers), and the other two audio tracks contain the programming signals. These signal tracks are fed into the graybox computer - one to the top drawer and one to the bottom drawer, and that controls the two sides of the show.

The signals tracks are also passed through the DBX box that converts the analog audio into a square wave that the computer can understand. The signals are routed inside the graybox by the playback boards, and sent to each character board, which then sends the signals to the individual mac valve banks telling them when to pneumatically fire off each movement.

That's the super generic explanation anyways....

[pizzacam]

Nice... Now think of the valve bank as a big flute or trumpet that's getting constant air pressure from the compressor...only certain movements on the character will move when that particular valve is open to let air though.... So once you have a nice programming set up like a few of my compadres on this site... You can have them play or do anything you want... ;)

[lildook]

Wow good job Travis! :) I thought I could catch something wrong in there but you did damn good :-P

[YoungCaliHottie]

One of these days (years) when I get my show set up

ya, when ARE u going to do that? lol :P just messin