Blackout User Manual

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Link Status ​

Once you have an active account with a plan, are signed into the app, and are connected to your lights through one of the methods in Hardware Setup, you need to configure your output settings within Blackout and that is done through the Link Status button in the top right corner.

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If you are having issues connecting to your Fixtures please checkout the Troubleshooting section.

Overview

The Link Status button shows a quick overview of your connection status:

Connection Type ​

The bottom left shows the connection type:

  • Offline - Blackout is not outputting anywhere as no network can be detected
  • Ethernet - Blackout is outputting through the USB-C/Lightning port as an ethernet interface
  • Wi-Fi (or network name) - Blackout is outputting via Wi-Fi

Location Permission

If you give Blackout access to your location, the button will show you the name of the Wi-Fi network you are connected to.

To enable this: iOS Settings > Apps > Blackout/Blackout Next > Location > While Using the App

Right Side ​


Astera Connection Indicator ​

When the Astera Logo Astera logo appears, you are actively connected to an Astera ART7 WiFi box.

Protocol & Status ​

To the right of the Astera Connection Indicator (if present) shows you an indicator of your output protocol and status. The first letter indicates the protocol you are outputting:

  • S = sACN
  • A = Art-Net
  • B = Bluetooth

The color shows your connection status:

  • 🟢 Green = Good Connection
  • 🟡 Yellow = Connecting
  • 🔴 Red = Not outputting

Overview

When you tap the Link Status button, a popup opens with the following sections:

1. Connection Status (Header) ​

The top middle of the header displays your current connection status along with your IP address (if available).

2. Disable DMX Output Toggle ​

The Disable DMX output button allows you to stop DMX output without disconnecting from your network. This is useful when using Blackout for visualization only (such as with DMX Input).

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This toggle can be mapped to an external controller via Learn Mode for quick access during shows.

3. Sidebar Navigation ​

The left sidebar contains the following categories:

INFO

Some categories may not be available depending on your hardware and network configuration.

4. Content Area ​

The main content area on the right displays the settings and options for the selected sidebar category. This is where you'll configure your specific output settings, connect devices, or adjust advanced options.