Pixelite is a 16 channel sequencer, capable of driving a 100W / 125VAC lighting loads per channel. It is based on a PIC micro-controller, with programs written in assembly language. The power switching is done through solid-state relays, and the engine is packaged in an aluminum enclosure for high durability in the field. The Pixelite was used inside of
Blade,
Suspension, and has driven the lighting in a number of other (unlisted) projects as well.
Inspiration
I am inspired to work with light. For me it is provides a magic transformation of a piece as day turns to night, and the light becomes visible. I am fascinated by the life it gives a piece, and how it can be animated, sent invisibly across space to play on a remote surface, cast enigmatic shadows, filtered to change color and so much more. It is an element that can be found in most of my work.
Pixelite Is Born
As someone with an electrical engineering background, I wanted to empower myself to use changing, animated light in my artwork, and so I built this repurposeable "Lighting Engine" to facilitate that. It derives its name 'Pixelite' from the film work that I do, manipulating pixels. In this case, I have 16 pixels to work with. The Pixelite Engine will continue to be a resource that I can deploy in my work.
Beyond Pixelite
A new Pixelite II is in the works (now complete, see
The Lighting Engine 2.0), delivering full-color, fully-dimmable lights instead of the single color, on/off of the original Pixelite.
