Stinger Club Laser

The Stinger Club laser light show system is the most compact, high-powered, full color, laser system built to date. Available in three wattage variants, 3W, 6W, and 8W. This makes it a great choice for clubs, DJs, family amusement centers, hobbyist, house of worship, home use and new laserists. These laser systems are low maintenance, they have a long-life span, easy plug-and-play, and user friendly. Consuming very little power, you won't trip any breakers. You can create aerial beam effects, liquid sky, atmospherics, graphics, text and even logos. Comes preloaded with over 500 Laser GOBOs and beam effects. The laser has DMX control and is compatible with any ILDA software. The system includes an EZ-Stop fail safety switch which is required by law. A variance license is required and provided free of charge for your first laser.

What is ILDA software?

ILDA software for lasers refers to software that allows users to create, edit, and control laser light shows that are compatible with the ILDA (International Laser Display Association) standard.

Here's a breakdown of what that means:

• ILDA Standard: ILDA developed a standardized data transfer format. This format ensures that laser show software from different developers can communicate effectively with laser projectors from various manufacturers. It's like a common language for laser show equipment.
• ILDA Software's Role: This software acts as the creative hub for laser shows. It enables users to:
• Design graphics, animations, text, and abstract patterns.
• Choreograph these elements over time to create laser shows synchronized with music or other events.
• Control various parameters of the laser projector, such as color, intensity, movement, and scanning speed.
• Output the show data in the ILDA standard format (.ild file) or directly to a laser projector via an ILDA interface.
• ILDA Interface (DAC): To send the data from the software to the laser projector, a hardware interface called a DAC (Digital-to-Analog Converter) is often required. This device takes the digital signals from the software and converts them into analog signals that the laser projector's scanners and color systems can understand. Some newer laser projectors have network interfaces that can directly receive control data, sometimes using protocols like ArtNet.
• Compatibility: Software that adheres to the ILDA standard ensures a high degree of compatibility with ILDA-compliant laser projectors. This gives users flexibility in choosing their hardware and software.

In essence, ILDA software is the tool you use to design and manage what the laser projector displays, and it speaks a standardized language (ILDA) that most professional laser projectors understand. Examples of popular ILDA software include Pangolin QuickShow and BEYOND, Laserworld Showeditor, and others. These programs offer a range of features from basic show creation to advanced programming and live performance tools.

What is a variance license?

A laser variance license, in the context of laser light shows and displays in the United States, is an authorization from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) that permits the operation of laser systems exceeding certain power limits (specifically above 5 milliwatts in the visible spectrum) for demonstration or entertainment purposes.

Here's a breakdown of what that means:

• Standard FDA Regulations: Under normal FDA regulations (21 CFR 1040.11(c)), laser products intended for demonstration, display, or entertainment are limited to a Class IIIa hazard level, which corresponds to a maximum power output of 5 milliwatts for visible light.
• The Need for a Variance: Laser light shows often require much higher power lasers (Class IIIb and Class IV) to produce bright and visible effects over a distance. To legally operate these higher-powered lasers in public or commercial settings, a variance is required.
• Permission to "Vary": The term "variance" signifies permission to deviate from the standard power limitations set by the FDA. It allows the operator to use more powerful lasers under specific conditions and safety measures outlined in the approved variance.
• Who Needs a Variance? Anyone producing a laser light show for public or commercial purposes in the U.S. using lasers above 5 milliwatts needs to obtain a laser light show variance. This includes individuals, companies, and venues.
• How to Obtain a Variance:
  • Application: You must apply for a variance using FDA Form 3147, "Application for a Variance from 21 CFR 1040.11(c) for a Laser Light Show, Display or Device." This form requires detailed information about the laser equipment, the intended use, and the safety measures that will be implemented.
  • Laser Light Show Report: In addition to the variance application, you'll also need to submit a Laser Light Show Report (FDA Form 3640), which provides a more comprehensive overview of how the laser will be used and the safety protocols in place.
  • Manufacturer Reporting: The manufacturer of the laser projector also has responsibilities, including reporting the laser product to the FDA using FDA Form 3632. Often, pre-made laser projectors will already have an "Accession Number" from the FDA, which is sometimes referred to as a variance number.
• Importance of Compliance: Operating a laser light show with lasers above the legal power limit without an FDA variance can lead to significant fines and legal issues.

In simpler terms, if you want to put on a laser light show with bright, powerful lasers in the US, you need to get permission (a variance license) from the FDA to use those higher-powered lasers safely. This involves paperwork detailing your equipment and safety plans.