Every lighting programmer should have an understanding of the common types of windows and their uses. One of these is the Patch Window. All automated lighting consoles must provide a method for the programmer to assign DMX addresses and universe assignments to console specific fixture numbers. Typically it is one of the first windows that must be used, as it is required to properly configure the console to communicate with the luminaires. Once the fixtures are patched, this window is rarely used again during the show programming and operation. The patch window will contain various fields including fixture number, fixture type, DMX universe and DMX address. Often, console software provides additional settings per fixture in the patch window. These can include pan/tilt swap or invert, dimming curves, fixture modes and more. Be sure to understand the various parameters that your console provides you access to in the patch window, as they often have ramifications that can affect data throughout your entire show.
— From “Feeding the Machines” by Brad Schiller, PLSN, March 2014
