How Do I Computerize My Lights With Music for Halloween?
Halloween continues to be a bigger and bigger holiday every year...from overflowing yard décor, elaborate costumes and endless television specials. You might have seen some impressive and elaborate yard scenes in local neighborhoods, prompting you to want to create something similar at your own home or party. One way to make your Halloween display stand out and be memorable is to computerize your Halloween lights with music. With a few simple tips and supplies, you should find that computerizing your Halloween lights with music is a simple and rewarding task. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Determine the size of your display. Your lights will be broken up into numerous strands of lights. These strands will be your different channels. A channel is a unit of light that can be controlled individually.
Imagine each branch on that hanging tree in the front yard as a channel. Each branch will contain a strand of lights, making up the channel. Anything between 32 to 64 channels is a good starting size for your display.
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Obtain a lighting controller to run your light show. The easiest way to computerize your lights with music is to use a lighting controller to run your musical light show. Many different controllers are available, such as those featured on websites like Lightorama.
If you are uncomfortable with tasks such as soldering or building circuit boards, this approach will allow you to create your display with having to perform actual electric work. Sites like Lightorama sell the software that you will need to computerize your lights with your music. The interface is generally self-explanatory and easy to use.
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Begin developing the more detailed elements of your display. Some common display techniques involve creating a lighted graveyard (complete with pumpkins, ravens, skeletons and string and strobe lights) or a haunted tree, with animated faces, hanging lights and moving birds. Be sure to consider that you will need to reach grounded outlets and your lighting controller box using outdoor extension cords.
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Add music. By using music for your Halloween lighted set-up, you can enhance the mood you are trying to achieve. Choose the music and use the time grid on your computerizing software to set it up. The process should be easy; if you have problems, contact the software manufacturer.
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Set up your speakers. You will need speakers that you can hook up to your computer. Wireless speakers are the best way to go but you can also use an adapter to hook up your stereo speakers to your computer. (Be mindful that you will need a lot more cords and wires if you go this route.) You can use anything as small or large as you like--just be sure to consider your neighbors and those around you when you start setting up the speakers.
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Tips & Warnings
Because not all of the lights run at once, operating a computerized light display can result in a lower electric bill than a static display.
Be sure your location can support the display without draining your power source.
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- Photo Credit halloween image by alpha-omega from Fotolia.com
