Just as you would park your car to leave it in a location for a while, you might park the parameters of a light to leave them at a specific value. The park function of a lighting console is used to lock the parameter(s) for an undetermined amount of time. Once parked, the parameter(s) cannot be altered by any programming, playback, faders, or other console functions. You must unpark the values before they will be allowed to change again…The park command on automated lighting consoles serves an extremely useful function. By locking parameters to specific values, a programmer has the power to create very high priority settings. It is important to understand the process of parking as well as the possible problems that could develop. With a little practice, you should be parking like a pro in no time.
—Brad Schiller, from “Feeding the Machines,” PLSN, July 2011
