Problem:
Fades are not smooth, channels intermittently black-out for a second or more.
Cause 1 (most likely):
The RC4 system depends on RF signals getting from the transmitter to the receivers. An antenna is under the top cover of each RC4 wireless device — one at the transmitter, and one in each receiver. (This, by the way, is why we use tough ABS plastic enclosures: they are transparent to radio waves; metal cases are not.)
RC4Magic operates in the 2.4GHz band using spread-spectrum digital radio. Although output power is quite low, high frequency signals bounce easily and receivers are very sensitive. This means that receivers can find good data most of the time.
The system will not work, however, if the tops of the plastic enclosures are blocked with batteries or metal coverings. Signals must be able to get in and out of the top of each box, both at the transmitter and at each receiver.
Solutions:
Make sure the top area of each plastic enclosure — usually marked on the label as the RF Hot Spot — is not blocked by batteries or metal obstructions. These block radio signals.
Small clusters of wiring, gridwork, bars across the top of the enclosures, etc. generally DO NOT cause problems. Make sure there is a path for SOME signal to get through and the system should work fine.
Where quasi-line-of-sight is attainable:
- Position the transmitter overhead, above the stage or other area where receivers are positioned. The top of the transceiver should be facing down, towards the receivers.
- Position receivers facing up, towards the transmitter tranceiver.
Where line-of-site cannot be acheived, or there are numerous obstructions between transmitter and receiver:
- Position the transmitter transceiver so the top of the box is facing the ceiling above the stage, or the back wall if it is largely clear. Signals will bounce back and flood the stage. Avoid metal obstructions or large harnesses of wiring in the signal path.
- Position receivers so the top of each box is facing the same way as the transmitter. Reflected signals will bounce directly into the receiver antennas.
RC4 technology is VERY tolerant of signal degradation and electrical noise. Most users have no problems… in fact, at the time of this writing only a handful of radio interference problems have ever been reported with an RC4 system. If you think you’re suffering radio interference problems, FIRST be absolutely certain your batteries are good and you are within the 200 – 300 foot operating range.
Cause 2 (less likely):
In early 2011 it came to our attention that a firmware bug was inadvertently released. If you are experiencing choppy dimming and/or very long connect times when a receiver is first powered on, please contact RC4 for free update. This update is free. If your unit is out of warranty, all you pay is shipping. If it is in warranty, we pay the shipping both ways. We apologize for this inconvenience.