How to Create a GDTF Lighting Fixture: A Six Part Video Series

The General Device Type Format (GDTF) creates a unified data exchange definition for the operation of intelligent luminaires, such as moving lights. By creating a manufacturer-supported, unified standard, customers/users of lighting control systems, CAD systems, and pre-visualizers benefit by knowing the tools they use to perform their job will work consistently and dependably. The file format is developed using open-source formats, and luminaire manufacturers in the entertainment design, production, and performance industries are welcome to use this open-source technology. (Learn more at https://gdtf-share.com/)

If a manufacturer hasn’t provided a GDTF data for a fixture you can use the GDTF Builder to create a GDTF file yourself. To help you get started, the GDTF group has posted training materials on the GDTF & MVR channel on YouTube. Ready to start building your own GDTF lighting fixtures? GDTF’s 6-part video series will walk you through the process step-by-step. Here is a link to the YouTube playlist of all six parts.  https://www.youtube.com/playlist…

Also below this are links to each individual video part of the GDTF video series: How to Build a Fixture.

PART I: This is the first video of a six-part series. In this video, look at the initial steps involved in the process of creating a GDTF lighting fixture. You’ll discover the resources you will need, whether to use a template, and how to fill in the device description of The Builder.

PART II: Learn how to set up the geometries of a light and how they link to each other, and the physical attributes of a light.

PART III: Defines the spectral color behavior of the light and any of the color filters it has.

PART IV: Most lights now include some form of color or effects wheel and in many cases, both. Let’s take a look at how these wheels are set up and defined in a GDTF.

PART V: Now that your fixture has the basic physical, photometric, and spectral aspects of the light defined. This video will dive into how the lights are controlled.

PART VI: This chapter covers the final steps of creating your GDTF – setting up macros, the fixture summary, and testing your file.