Shut Down Procedure

1.0 Introduction

This section provides the standard procedure for safely shutting down the AV system, including servers, network devices, amplifiers, DSPs, lighting systems, and control interfaces. Following the shutdown procedure ensures system integrity, prevents equipment damage, and minimizes potential issues when restarting the system.

2.0 Safety Considerations

• Ensure that all ongoing events, live operations, or recordings are completed before initiating shutdown.
• Notify all personnel that the system will be powered down and ensure no one is actively using the system.
• Avoid abrupt disconnection of power to prevent damage to system components.
• Confirm that backup systems (e.g., UPS) are working to handle shutdown gracefully in case of power loss.

3.0 Pre-Shutdown Checklist

4.0 Shutdown Procedure

4.1 Powering Down Audio Components

1. Mute Audio Zones:
   • Mute or reduce the volume of all audio zones from the control interface to prevent sudden audio cuts during shutdown.
2. Power Off Amplifiers:
   • Sequentially power off amplifiers to prevent surges. Begin with zone amplifiers, followed by the main control amplifier.
   • Use the amplifier’s power button or shut off the power from the distribution board.
3. Shutdown Digital Signal Processor (DSP):
   • Save any unsaved configurations or presets.
   • Shut down the DSP unit via the control software (e.g., Xilica Designer) or the physical power button.
   • If rack-mounted, turn off the power supply at the distribution board.

4.2 Shutting Down Network and Control Systems

1. Shutting Down Network Devices:
   • Power off network switches, routers, or any AV-over-IP devices.
   • Disconnect Ethernet cables or Wi-Fi connections if needed, but ensure the system is properly shut down before doing so.
2. Servers and Control Processors:
   • Save and close any open applications or sessions running on control servers.
   • Initiate a graceful shutdown of the servers using the operating system’s shutdown command or control interface.
   • Wait for confirmation that the server has fully shut down before turning off the power supply.
3. Controllers (e.g., iPads, Control Panels):
   • Ensure that any ongoing control actions are completed or saved.
   • Close the control application and power off the controller device.
   • Store controllers like iPads in a safe place and connect them to their chargers.

4.3 Shutting Down Lighting Systems (DMX, Architectural Lighting)

1. Turn Off Lighting Scenes:
   • From the lighting console (e.g., Chamsys MagicQ), turn off any active lighting scenes.
   • Ensure that all lights are set to their default positions or turned off completely.
2. Power Down DMX Controllers:
   • Save any ongoing configurations or scenes.
   • Shut down the DMX controller (via software or physical power button).
3. Disconnect Power to Fixtures (if needed):
   • For architectural lighting or stage lighting fixtures, ensure they are powered down from the control system.
   • If necessary, turn off the main power supply to the lighting fixtures.

4.4 General Power-Off Procedure

1. Confirm System Inactivity:
   • Verify that no processes are running and that all system components have been properly shut down.
2. Power Off Central AV Rack:
   • Once all components (amplifiers, DSP, servers, network devices) are shut down, turn off the main power switch for the AV rack.
   • Ensure the rack’s power supply is disconnected if the system will not be used for an extended period.
3. Backup Systems (if applicable):
   • If UPS or backup systems are used, confirm they have entered standby mode after the main systems are powered off.

5.0 Post-Shutdown Checks

1. Check Equipment Status:
   • Verify that all equipment, including audio, video, network, and lighting systems, are fully powered off.
   • Check the front panels of devices for any remaining indicator lights to ensure complete shutdown.
2. System Logs:
   • Record the shutdown process in the system log or maintenance report.
   • Note any issues encountered during shutdown for troubleshooting during the next start-up.
3. Secure Equipment:
   • Ensure that all sensitive equipment (e.g., control panels, iPads, laptops) is stored securely.
   • Disconnect any unnecessary external connections, such as USB drives, external hard drives, or network cables.

6.0 Troubleshooting Shutdown Issues

7.0 Additional Notes

• Perform regular system checks and firmware updates to ensure a smooth shutdown and restart process.
• Keep documentation for all AV system components accessible in case troubleshooting is required.
• Make sure to train staff or system operators on the proper shutdown procedure to avoid errors.

8.0 Additional Resources

• User Manuals: [Insert links or reference to manuals for each AV component].
• Technical Support Contact: [Insert support details for system integrators or manufacturers].